A Trustworthy Saying
Introduction:
Read
Luke 2:8-15.
Note that the shepherds did not say, “Let’s go see if
this has happened.” They knew the angels’ announcement was
a trustworthy saying.
Text:
II Timothy 2:11-13
Body:
I.
If We Have Died with Him
·
There is a dying with Christ at baptism. This is a dying to
sin and one’s own selfish desires. One’s heart is filled
with sorrow at the thought of his past sins. (Romans
6:3-8)
·
“Shall live with Him” When baptized, one comes up from the
waters of baptism to walk in newness of life – a new
creature. (Colossians
2:12-13)
·
There is also a looking forward to eternal life in heaven.
(Colossians
3:3-4)
II.
If We Endure
·
The faithful Christian is called upon to endure the
hardships and sufferings of this life. (I
Corinthians 4:11-12)
·
Suffering for being a Christian is a gracious thing in God’s
sight. (I
Peter 2:20, Acts 5:41)
·
Our enduring is to last to the end. (Matthew
10:22)
·
If we do endure, we will reign with Him. (Revelation
3:21)
This reign begins in principle in this life; (Ephesians
2:4-7)
and continues throughout eternity. (Revelation
22:5)
·
A great reward is promised to those who are willing to
suffer with Christ. (Romans
8:17-18)
III.
If We Deny Him
·
It is not a temporary or momentary lapse, but a deliberate
and final choice. (Matthew
10:33)
·
Those who decide not to acknowledge Him as Lord will not be
acknowledged by Him as His own. (II
Peter 2:1, Jude 4)
IV.
If We Are Faithless
·
This passage contrasts God’s faithfulness to His promises
and some men’s unfaithfulness. (Romans
3:3-4a)
·
Even though some may deny Christ, He is still God. He
remains true to His Word. He will not treat the unfaithful
as if he were faithful. (I
Peter 4:17-19)
Conclusion:
These four statements are all promises of God that we can
stake our lives on.
Bobby Stafford
August 18, 2013