Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus Only — Olu Talabi — December 31, 2023
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/fixing-our-eyes-on-jesus-only River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is the necessity of keeping one's focus solely on Jesus Christ, who is presented as the author and finisher of our faith. The speaker warns against allowing worldly concerns, such as politics or focusing excessively on specific sins, to distract believers from this primary focus. He urges the audience to guard their hearts and gaze on Jesus alone to walk steadfastly in faith.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Looking to Jesus as the author and finisher of our faithFixing our eyes on Jesus and having the mind of Christ are essential for walking steadfastly as believers without getting distracted.Hebrews 12:2Philippians 2:5
The warning of politics taking over Evangelical ChristianityA secular article highlighting how political figures have heavily influenced modern evangelical circles serves as a sobering reminder of how easily focus shifts away from Christ.
Guarding against subtle drift into other causesEven though movements begin with foundational truths like being born again, believers must watch closely so that politics, specific moral fights, or favorite doctrines do not replace Jesus at the center of their hearts.
The brass snake becoming an idolJust as the bronze serpent made by Moses eventually became an idol that the Israelites burned incense to until Hezekiah destroyed it, anything can take Christ's place if we are not careful.
Having the mind of a servantAs part of having the mind of Christ, believers are called to cultivate the heart of a servant with a lowly mind.Philippians 2:5
Martha rebuking Jesus in Luke 10Martha essentially rebuked Jesus and instructed him in her home, yet Jesus was not offended and responded with gentleness rather than pride.Luke 10:38
Making oneself a servant to all like PaulTrue freedom in Christ involves willingly submitting oneself as a servant to everyone in order to gain more for His kingdom.1 Corinthians 9:19
Avoiding divisions centered on human leadersBelievers in Corinth divided over human leaders, but Paul reminded them that Christ alone was crucified for them and that the focus must never be shifted to men.
Humble yourself under God's mighty handA lowly mind is the secret to true rest, allowing believers to cast all their cares upon God because He cares for them.1 Peter 5:6–7
Remaining at rest amidst upcoming societal turmoilAs the church faces a potentially difficult new year with elections and cultural division, believers must not promote political parties or look to human leaders, but instead stand entirely with the Lord Jesus Christ.
