Words of Encouragement — Olu Talabi & David Lane — October 30, 2022
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker addresses the fundamental question of why one is part of the church, drawing parallels from historical testimonies. He concludes that the purpose is twofold: to edify and strengthen the body of Christ, and to participate in the ongoing process of spiritual growth toward the fullness of Christ. This requires mutual support, encouragement, and prayer within the community.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why am I part of this church?The speaker shares that just as A.W. Tozer viewed his church as the best one the Lord led him to and cast his lot with, he feels the same way about River of Life Christian Fellowship.
Equipping and edifying the body of ChristDrawing from Ephesians 4, the speaker explains that even before becoming an elder, his heart's desire was to edify and strengthen the body of Christ so that all believers grow together into the measure of the stature of Christ.
Jesus prays for us so we can strengthen our brothersIn Luke 22, Jesus tells Peter that Satan asked to sift him, but Jesus prayed that his faith would not fail so that he could turn around and strengthen his brothers.Luke 22:31–32
Standing together in the body of ChristThe Christian life cannot be lived in isolation; we need the context of the church where we can strengthen one another, watch, and pray together.
Giving rather than receiving and speaking the truth in loveThe mindset in the church should be about what we can contribute rather than what we can get, which includes speaking the truth in love to help one another mature.
Christ took on humanity to aid the temptedHebrews 2 teaches that Christ did not give aid to angels, but gave aid to the Seed of Abraham, becoming like His brethren so He could be a merciful and faithful high priest who helps those who are tempted.
If God is for us, who can be against us?Romans 8 assures believers that God did not spare His own Son but delivered Him up for us all, meaning He will freely give us all things to help us overcome the gravity of sin.
It is unthinkable that God will not help a seekerIf a person decides in the midst of a fallen world to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, God will certainly come to their aid and fulfill His promise of Christ in us, the hope of glory.
Jesus promises to make His abode with those who love HimJesus said in John 14 that those who love Him and keep His commandments will experience the Father and Son coming to make their home with them and reveal themselves to them.
