August 06, 2017 | Bob Bartlett
Passage: 2 Timothy 2:1-10
My Church – God’s Fulfillment
“My Church – My Army” Matthew 16:18-19, 2Tim 2:1-10
Matthew 16:18-19 “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it….”
Revelations 12:17 “Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring – those who obey God’s commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus.”
Ephesians 6:12-13 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms…”
Truth: God establishes the church as His army.
- There is a war and a real enemy. John 10:10
The Equipped Soldier: 2Timothy 2:1-10
Vs 1: “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”
#1: Is strong in the g_____________ __ that is in Christ Jesus 2Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
- Grace: all encompassing desire and power of God to do His will.
Vs 2: “the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
#2: Is determined to be a r_____________ ___ soldier. Ephesians 6:13 “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.”
Vs 3: “Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”
#3: Does e_____________ __ sacrifice and hardships for the sake of the gospel. Philippians 2:17 “But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.”
- “All gave some, some gave all”
Vs 4a: “No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs”
#4: Is intentional to keep from w_____________ ___ affairs. Hebrews 12:1 “Therefore…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us”
- Focused, trained and equipped to live an intentional life.
Vs 4b: “but rather tries to please his commanding officer.”
#5: Is committed to living a life in s_____________ ___ to Jesus Christ.
- I please Him by plugging in and committing to His army. Romans 12:3 “in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”
There are noble causes and pursuits that others may seek – many can and have made the world a better place. But nothing in life, no cause, no pursuit will ever be greater than that of rescuing a human life from the flames of hell. I know, I once was rescued from that flame!