Bold Faith: Standing Firm for God's Truth
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we delved into the story of Esther, focusing on the pivotal moment when she was called to act for the salvation of her people. Mordecai's words to Esther, "Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this," serve as a powerful reminder that God places us in specific situations for His divine purposes. Esther's courage to risk her life by approaching the king, despite the law, exemplifies the kind of boldness and faith that God calls us to exhibit in our own lives.
We explored the certainty of death and judgment, emphasizing that our earthly achievements and comforts are fleeting compared to the eternal significance of living for God's kingdom. Jesus' teaching in Mark 8:35-36 underscores this truth: "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it." This calls us to a life of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to the gospel.
The sermon also addressed the importance of standing firm in our faith and speaking out against the moral decay in our society. We are called to be a light in the darkness, relying on the Holy Spirit to empower us. Silence and passivity are not options; we must hold the line of truth, even when it is uncomfortable or costly.
We discussed the dangers of compromising with the world on issues like abortion, sexual immorality, and racial division. The enemy seeks to silence the church and lead us into acceptance of sin, but we must remain steadfast in God's truth. The story of Perpetua and Felicia, early Christian martyrs, was shared to illustrate the ultimate sacrifice of standing for Christ, even unto death.
Finally, we were reminded that while God is not tolerant of sin, He is long-suffering, giving us opportunities to repent and turn to Him. Our mission is to hold the line of truth and extend God's love and grace to those around us, without compromising our faith.
### Key Takeaways
1. Divine Placement and Purpose: God places us in specific situations for His divine purposes, just as He did with Esther. We must recognize and act upon the opportunities He gives us to make a difference, even if it requires great personal sacrifice. [01:22]
2. Eternal Perspective: Earthly achievements and comforts are fleeting compared to the eternal significance of living for God's kingdom. Jesus teaches that true life is found in losing our lives for His sake and the gospel's, calling us to a life of sacrifice and unwavering commitment. [04:32]
3. Boldness in Faith: We are called to stand firm in our faith and speak out against moral decay. Silence and passivity are not options; we must rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to be a light in the darkness and hold the line of truth. [05:46]
4. Rejecting Compromise: The enemy seeks to lead us into acceptance of sin, but we must remain steadfast in God's truth. Issues like abortion, sexual immorality, and racial division require us to stand firm and not compromise our faith, even when it is uncomfortable or costly. [19:32]
5. God's Long-Suffering Nature: While God is not tolerant of sin, He is long-suffering, giving us opportunities to repent and turn to Him. Our mission is to hold the line of truth and extend God's love and grace to those around us, without compromising our faith. [50:50]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:22] - Esther's Courage and Divine Purpose
[02:53] - Certainty of Death and Judgment
[04:32] - Eternal Perspective and Sacrifice
[05:46] - Boldness in Faith and Reliance on the Holy Spirit
[07:02] - True Value Beyond Material Comforts
[09:50] - Consequences of Silence and Compromise
[11:25] - The Authority of Scripture
[13:19] - The Power of God's Word
[16:37] - Subjective vs. Objective Morality
[18:04] - The Misuse of Tolerance
[19:32] - Rejecting Compromise on Moral Issues
[22:22] - The Deception of Abortion Arguments
[25:10] - Historical Context of Child Sacrifice
[28:43] - God's Design for Gender and Sexuality
[30:31] - Cultural Manipulation and Truth
[32:09] - Standing Against Cultural Deception
[33:56] - Unity in Christ Beyond Race
[35:38] - The Deception of Global Warming
[37:14] - Historical Persecution of Christians
[39:44] - The Story of Perpetua and Felicia
[44:16] - Perpetua's Vision and Courage
[46:45] - Holding the Line in Faith
[48:40] - God's Zero Tolerance for Sin
[50:50] - God's Long-Suffering and Call to Repentance
[51:50] - Jesus' Call to Sin No More
[52:28] - The Call to Hold the Line in Our City
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Esther 4:13-16: "And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: 'Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?' Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: 'Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!'"
2. Mark 8:35-36: "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"
3. 2 Timothy 3:16: "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Mordecai's message to Esther about her position and the timing of her actions? ([01:22])
2. According to Mark 8:35-36, what does Jesus say about saving and losing one's life?
3. How does 2 Timothy 3:16 describe the purpose and value of Scripture?
4. What examples of moral decay and societal issues were mentioned in the sermon that Christians are called to stand against? ([19:32])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Mordecai's statement, "Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this," imply about God's sovereignty and our roles in His plans? ([01:22])
2. How does Jesus' teaching in Mark 8:35-36 challenge our understanding of success and sacrifice in the context of our faith? ([04:32])
3. In what ways does 2 Timothy 3:16 suggest that Scripture should influence our daily lives and decisions?
4. How can the story of Perpetua and Felicia inspire modern Christians to stand firm in their faith despite societal pressures? ([39:44])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt placed in a specific situation for a divine purpose. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? ([01:22])
2. Jesus calls us to lose our lives for His sake and the gospel's. What are some practical ways you can live out this call in your daily life? ([04:32])
3. Think about a current societal issue where you feel pressured to compromise your faith. How can you stand firm in God's truth without being passive or silent? ([19:32])
4. The sermon emphasized the importance of not compromising on issues like abortion, sexual immorality, and racial division. How can you engage in conversations about these topics with grace and truth? ([19:32])
5. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to empower you to be a light in the darkness? What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper dependence on Him? ([05:46])
6. Consider the long-suffering nature of God. Is there someone in your life who needs to experience God's love and grace through you? How can you extend that to them without compromising your faith? ([50:50])
7. The story of Perpetua and Felicia shows ultimate sacrifice for faith. What sacrifices might God be calling you to make in your own life to stand for His truth? ([39:44])
Devotional
Day 1: Divine Placement and Purpose
God places us in specific situations for His divine purposes, just as He did with Esther. We must recognize and act upon the opportunities He gives us to make a difference, even if it requires great personal sacrifice. Esther's story is a powerful reminder that our lives are not random; they are orchestrated by God for His glory and the good of His people. When Mordecai challenged Esther with the words, "Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this," he was urging her to see her royal position as a divine appointment.
In our own lives, we may find ourselves in situations where we are called to act courageously for the sake of others. It may be in our workplaces, families, or communities. Recognizing that God has placed us there for a reason can give us the courage to step out in faith, even when it is risky or uncomfortable. Let us be attentive to the divine opportunities around us and be willing to act boldly for God's purposes. [01:22]
Esther 4:14 (ESV): "For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
Reflection: Think of a situation in your life where you feel God is calling you to act. What steps can you take today to respond to that call with courage and faith?
Day 2: Eternal Perspective
Earthly achievements and comforts are fleeting compared to the eternal significance of living for God's kingdom. Jesus teaches that true life is found in losing our lives for His sake and the gospel's, calling us to a life of sacrifice and unwavering commitment. This perspective shifts our focus from temporary gains to eternal rewards.
In Mark 8:35-36, Jesus says, "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it." This teaching challenges us to evaluate our priorities and consider what we are truly living for. Are we seeking comfort, success, and recognition in this world, or are we investing in the eternal kingdom of God?
Living with an eternal perspective means making choices that reflect our commitment to Christ, even when it costs us something. It means valuing spiritual growth, relationships, and acts of service over material possessions and personal achievements. Let us strive to live in a way that honors God and has lasting significance. [04:32]
2 Corinthians 4:18 (ESV): "As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are prioritizing earthly comforts over eternal significance? How can you shift your focus to align more with God's kingdom today?
Day 3: Boldness in Faith
We are called to stand firm in our faith and speak out against moral decay. Silence and passivity are not options; we must rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to be a light in the darkness and hold the line of truth. In a world that often opposes Christian values, it takes courage to stand up for what is right.
Esther's boldness in approaching the king, despite the risk to her life, is an example of the kind of faith and courage we are called to exhibit. She did not remain silent in the face of injustice but took action to save her people. Similarly, we are called to speak out against the moral decay in our society and be a voice for truth and righteousness.
This requires us to be deeply rooted in our faith and reliant on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance. We must be willing to face opposition and discomfort for the sake of the gospel. Let us pray for boldness and be willing to take a stand for God's truth in our daily lives. [05:46]
Acts 4:29 (ESV): "And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to be more bold in your faith? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to empower you to take a stand for truth today?
Day 4: Rejecting Compromise
The enemy seeks to lead us into acceptance of sin, but we must remain steadfast in God's truth. Issues like abortion, sexual immorality, and racial division require us to stand firm and not compromise our faith, even when it is uncomfortable or costly. Compromise can often seem like the easier path, but it leads us away from God's will and truth.
In today's society, there are many pressures to conform to worldly standards and accept practices that go against biblical teachings. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to uphold God's truth and reject compromise. This means being clear about our convictions and not wavering, even when it is unpopular or difficult.
The story of Perpetua and Felicia, early Christian martyrs, illustrates the ultimate sacrifice of standing for Christ, even unto death. Their unwavering commitment to their faith serves as an inspiration for us to remain steadfast in the face of challenges. Let us be vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds against the subtle influences of compromise and stand firm in God's truth. [19:32]
Ephesians 6:13 (ESV): "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."
Reflection: What is one area where you are tempted to compromise your faith? How can you take a stand for God's truth in that area today?
Day 5: God's Long-Suffering Nature
While God is not tolerant of sin, He is long-suffering, giving us opportunities to repent and turn to Him. Our mission is to hold the line of truth and extend God's love and grace to those around us, without compromising our faith. God's patience with us is a testament to His love and desire for all to come to repentance.
God's long-suffering nature means that He gives us time to recognize our sins, repent, and turn back to Him. This is not an excuse to continue in sin, but an opportunity to experience His grace and transformation. As believers, we are called to reflect this same patience and grace to others, while still holding firmly to the truth of God's Word.
Our mission is to be ambassadors of Christ, sharing His love and truth with those around us. This involves speaking the truth in love, offering grace and forgiveness, and encouraging others to turn to God. Let us be faithful in our witness, extending God's love and grace without compromising our commitment to His truth. [50:50]
2 Peter 3:9 (ESV): "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance."
Reflection: How can you extend God's love and grace to someone in your life today, while still holding firmly to His truth? What steps can you take to encourage them to turn to God?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I believe God is calling the body of Christ out of its silence. Out of its passivity. Out of its apathy. Which really has produced atrophy in our function. Just take a stand in this season and hold the line of truth. I believe it. And I think that the world is desperate for a spirit-filled church to stand up and hold the line." [01:22] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Death and judgment are the certain things. And because they're so certain, I think we need to reposition ourselves as the body of Christ and flip the script on what we think is important and most valuable, which for most of us is winning at life, getting ahead, getting the dream job, having the dream marriage. Having the house that I always longed for." [04:32] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "One of the ways in which we die daily is we are going to have courage. Courage to speak the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world around us. And at times it could be intimidating. The forces against us can look formidable, but we have no excuse for the responsibility has been given to us by our Lord." [05:46] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of the soul and the spirit and the joints and the marrow and as the of the thoughts and the intents of the heart. This word gets down to the nitty-gritty. You know what this word does? This brings separation and distinction between your flesh and the spirit, between your will and God's will, between your thoughts and God's thoughts." [14:46] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The devil wants to divide us by race. He wants you to live in your white skin, in your black skin, in your brown skin. He wants your identity to be based upon your skin color. That's what he wants. Why is that detrimental? Because what happens is you create tribes, and you know what tribes do? They fight. Fight for territory, and politics are setting the stage and building." [33:56] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "If this moment costs me my life, then I'm willing to lay it down. If this moment that I was built for doesn't provide me a moment beyond it, then I'm willing to rise to the occasion of the moment that I have." [01:22] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The kingdom of God, losing is really winning. Winning is not winning. Losing at some of those things is the winning. Here's what Jesus said. Mark 8 35 said, whosoever desires to save his life will lose it. But whoever loses his life, here you go, for my sake and the gospels will save it. He joined his sake and the gospels." [04:32] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The choice between winning and losing in this season is on the line. And you and I don't have the luxury of remaining silent. A righteous position must be taken in this season. Men and women of God who stand strong on the word of God and understand that this is my time and I am here for a purpose and I am going to pass my test." [09:50] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable, needful. For number one, doctrine. That's doctrine simply means teachings concerning God. All that we know about God is right here. You don't know anything else about God that's not right here. Everything that you know about Jesus is right there. You don't have a revelation outside of this. This is the revelation that brings transformation." [13:19] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The lifeline to the world is the spirit, the-filled church. Historically, one of the reasons why Christianity is so assaulted is because we only have one Lord, and we're not tolerant. Intoleration, lack of tolerance has been the precipitator of much violence against the Christian community." [37:14] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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