Unshaken Faith Amidst Chaos and Persecution
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we explored the theme of remaining unshaken in a world that often feels chaotic and unstable. We began by acknowledging the various forms of turmoil that surround us—whether it's global conflicts, economic instability, or personal struggles. Despite these challenges, we are reminded that we serve an unshaken God who provides us with a secure foundation. Billy Graham once said that following Jesus is easy when life is comfortable, but true faith is revealed when our world shatters. This sentiment underscores the importance of a steadfast faith in Christ, who sustains and holds everything together.
We discussed the increasing persecution of Christians, both globally and locally. From NFL players being criticized for their faith to peaceful protesters being arrested, the hostility towards Christian values is evident. Yet, we are called to stand firm, not with anger or aggression, but with love and truth. We must be examples of Christ in our actions and attitudes, embodying His love even towards those who disagree with us.
The sermon then focused on three key truths to help us remain unshaken: being an example of the Lord, living the Word, and being an example of hope. We are to imitate Christ, not just our spiritual heroes, and let His love and teachings shine through us. Living the Word means not only knowing Scripture but allowing it to transform our lives and sharing it with others. Lastly, we are to be examples of the hope that comes from knowing Christ, eagerly awaiting His return and the fulfillment of His promises.
We concluded by reflecting on the importance of communion, a time to remember Christ's sacrifice and to evaluate our own hearts. As we partake in the Lord's table, we are reminded of the unity we share in Christ and the hope we have in His return.
### Key Takeaways
1. Unshaken Faith in a Shattered World: In times of global and personal turmoil, our faith in an unshaken God provides stability. Billy Graham emphasized that true faith is revealed when our world shatters, urging us to trust in Christ who sustains us. This steadfast faith is crucial as we navigate the uncertainties of life. [17:31]
2. Responding to Persecution with Love and Truth: Christians face increasing persecution, from public criticism to legal challenges. Our response should not be one of anger but of steadfast love and truth. Standing firm in our faith, we must embody Christ's love even towards those who oppose us, showing the world a different way to live. [21:43]
3. Imitating Christ, Not Just Spiritual Heroes: While it's natural to admire and imitate spiritual leaders, our ultimate example should be Christ. As we grow in our faith, we should strive to reflect Jesus in our actions and attitudes, becoming living examples of His love and teachings. [29:06]
4. Living the Word: Knowing Scripture is not enough; we must let it transform our lives and share it with others. The early church received the Word with joy and spread it eagerly, despite persecution. We too should be unashamed of the Gospel, allowing it to naturally flow into our conversations and actions. [40:10]
5. Hope in Christ's Return: Our hope lies in the promise of Christ's return and the fulfillment of His kingdom. This hope should motivate us to live godly lives and share the Gospel, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. As we await His return, we are called to be examples of this enduring hope in a fragile world. [50:07]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[16:15] - Announcements
[16:58] - Billy Graham's Insight on Faith
[17:31] - Trusting in an Unshaken God
[18:18] - The Fragility of Our World
[18:59] - Ignoring the Domino Effect
[19:54] - Persecution in Modern Times
[20:58] - Christian Businesses and Morals
[21:43] - Standing Firm in Love and Truth
[23:08] - Preparing for Persecution
[23:51] - Three Truths for an Unshaken Life
[24:35] - Recap of Last Week's Series
[25:31] - Being Imitators of the Lord
[26:25] - Examples of Faith
[27:26] - Personal Journey in Ministry
[28:38] - Imitating Christ Over Others
[29:06] - The Importance of Being a Copycat of Christ
[30:16] - Changes in Our Lives
[30:59] - Loving Others as Christ Loves
[32:17] - Faith Without Works is Dead
[33:01] - Expecting Tribulation
[33:41] - Joy in Persecution
[34:21] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[35:27] - A Tribute to a Faithful Friend
[36:34] - Living the Word
[37:04] - The Early Church's Response
[38:21] - The Cost of Following Jesus
[39:00] - Spreading the Word
[40:10] - Unashamed of the Gospel
[41:25] - Evaluating Our Church's Impact
[41:58] - The Holy Spirit's Role in Sharing the Word
[43:15] - Deeper Relationship with the Living Word
[44:33] - A Pastor's Story of Hope
[45:54] - Boldness in Proclaiming the Gospel
[46:28] - Examples of Hope to Come
[47:00] - Turning from Idols
[48:11] - Serving a Living God
[48:48] - Eagerly Awaiting Christ's Return
[50:07] - Personal Vulnerability and Idols
[52:12] - The Ascension and Return of Christ
[54:06] - Rescued from Wrath
[56:32] - Living Sensibly and Godly
[57:38] - Enduring Hope in Christ
[58:49] - Following Jesus Wholeheartedly
[59:24] - Being Unshaken in a Crumbling World
[59:57] - Preparing for Communion
[01:04:28] - Jesus' Last Supper
[01:05:29] - The Bread and the Body
[01:08:02] - The Cup and the Blood
[01:09:51] - Dismissal and Announcements
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10
2. John 16:33
3. Titus 2:12-13
### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7, what does Paul commend the Thessalonians for becoming? How did they achieve this? [25:31]
2. In John 16:33, what does Jesus say about tribulation and how should believers respond to it?
3. What does Titus 2:12-13 instruct believers to do while they wait for the blessed hope?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to be imitators of Christ rather than just our spiritual heroes, according to the sermon? [29:06]
2. How does the sermon suggest Christians should respond to persecution and hostility? [23:51]
3. What does it mean to live the Word, and how did the early church exemplify this? [40:10]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when your faith was tested by personal or global turmoil. How did you respond, and what can you learn from that experience to strengthen your faith in the future? [17:31]
2. The sermon emphasizes responding to persecution with love and truth. Can you think of a recent situation where you faced criticism for your faith? How did you handle it, and what might you do differently next time? [21:43]
3. Identify one way you can be an imitator of Christ in your daily life. What specific actions or attitudes can you adopt to reflect Jesus more clearly? [29:06]
4. Living the Word involves allowing Scripture to transform our lives. What is one Bible verse or passage that has significantly impacted you, and how can you share its message with others this week? [40:10]
5. The sermon calls us to be examples of hope in Christ's return. How can you demonstrate this hope in your interactions with others, especially those who may not share your faith? [50:07]
6. Communion is a time to reflect on Christ's sacrifice and our unity in Him. As you prepare for the next communion, what steps can you take to evaluate and align your heart with Christ's teachings? [59:57]
7. The sermon mentioned the importance of turning away from idols. Is there something in your life that you might be prioritizing over your relationship with God? What practical steps can you take to address this? [50:51]
Devotional
Day 1: Unshaken Faith in a Shattered World
In times of global and personal turmoil, our faith in an unshaken God provides stability. Billy Graham emphasized that true faith is revealed when our world shatters, urging us to trust in Christ who sustains us. This steadfast faith is crucial as we navigate the uncertainties of life. When everything around us seems to be falling apart, it is our faith in God that keeps us grounded. We are reminded that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. This means that no matter what happens, we can remain unshaken because our foundation is secure in Him. [17:31]
Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling."
Reflection: Think of a current situation in your life that feels chaotic or unstable. How can you actively place your trust in God to remain unshaken in this situation today?
Day 2: Responding to Persecution with Love and Truth
Christians face increasing persecution, from public criticism to legal challenges. Our response should not be one of anger but of steadfast love and truth. Standing firm in our faith, we must embody Christ's love even towards those who oppose us, showing the world a different way to live. This means responding to hostility with grace and compassion, not retaliation. By doing so, we reflect the character of Christ and demonstrate the power of His love to transform hearts and minds. [21:43]
1 Peter 3:14-16 (ESV): "But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame."
Reflection: Think of a recent instance where you felt criticized or opposed for your faith. How can you respond with love and truth in a way that reflects Christ's character?
Day 3: Imitating Christ, Not Just Spiritual Heroes
While it's natural to admire and imitate spiritual leaders, our ultimate example should be Christ. As we grow in our faith, we should strive to reflect Jesus in our actions and attitudes, becoming living examples of His love and teachings. This means looking beyond human examples and focusing on the perfect example set by Jesus. By doing so, we align our lives more closely with His will and purpose, allowing His light to shine through us in all that we do. [29:06]
Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV): "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you tend to follow human examples more than Christ. What steps can you take to shift your focus to imitating Jesus in this area?
Day 4: Living the Word
Knowing Scripture is not enough; we must let it transform our lives and share it with others. The early church received the Word with joy and spread it eagerly, despite persecution. We too should be unashamed of the Gospel, allowing it to naturally flow into our conversations and actions. This means not only reading and studying the Bible but also applying its teachings in our daily lives. By doing so, we become living testimonies of God's Word, impacting those around us with His truth and love. [40:10]
James 1:22-25 (ESV): "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent Bible passage you read. How can you apply its teachings in a practical way in your life today?
Day 5: Hope in Christ's Return
Our hope lies in the promise of Christ's return and the fulfillment of His kingdom. This hope should motivate us to live godly lives and share the Gospel, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. As we await His return, we are called to be examples of this enduring hope in a fragile world. This means living with an eternal perspective, focusing on the promises of God rather than the temporary challenges we face. By doing so, we inspire others to seek the same hope and assurance that we have in Christ. [50:07]
Titus 2:11-13 (ESV): "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ."
Reflection: How does the promise of Christ's return influence your daily decisions and actions? What changes can you make to live more fully in the hope of His return?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Everything goes crazy in this world and everything goes crazy in your life and things come into your life that want to shake you, we always have to remember that we serve an unshaken God." [16:15] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "But we have to trust in Him no matter what may be going on. There's no doubt our world is shattered. We look around. We can see the wars that are going on across the world. There's relationships which are shattered. You can look around you and in the people in your life, there are relationships that have just gone astray. And you may be sitting there thinking, what in the world happened? The economy's fragile. People are worried about what's going to happen next. What am I going to do? Am I going to be able to find a job?" [18:18] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We need to be, to carry the unshaken hope of Jesus Christ into this hopeless world. So this morning, I want to submit to you three truths in being unshaken in this shaky world. First of all, being an example of the Lord. Being an example of the Lord. Being an example of the word. And being an example of hope." [23:51] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "How do we be examples of Christ? Well the biggest example that we have is the love of Jesus Christ. And you know what? As Christians we're supposed to love other folks. We're supposed to love those who disagree with us. Who are different from us. Who have no knowledge of the Lord. We're supposed to love those who disagree with us. We're supposed to love those who should know the love of the Lord. And who proclaim to know the love of the Lord. That's our brothers and sisters in Christ. We're supposed to love them too." [31:35] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When we have the Word of God hidden in our hearts, it comes out naturally in our conversations. I remember a pastor when I first came down here. He pastored in the northern part of the county. I thought he was old then. I think he was probably in his 70s. But he died like in his 90s. And his story was that he was on a tractor with his young son. And his young son fell off and the tractor ran over him. And as he would talk with people, he would remind them about the hope and the grace of Jesus Christ." [44:33] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "We need to be prepared for the persecution. We need to be prepared in the word of God to know how to react to the persecution. You see, we don't need to be the ones that are out front, angry, slobbering, spitting, holding signs. We need to be the ones out front who are standing firm in a loving way and standing firm in a loving way. We need to be the ones that are out front who are standing firm in truth." [23:08] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We should be conforming to his image as we grow in him each and every day. We should see that in our lives. If the world is overtaking our lives and we're living more like the world then we need to say hey wait just a second folks. That's not who I want to imitate. I don't want to imitate my friends if they're walking in the world. I don't want to imitate this person on TikTok if they're putting out garbage. I don't want to imitate this person who's saying this on Instagram. I want to imitate the one who died for me and who told me that it wasn't going to be easy. I want to be the example that points to him. Not to me but to him." [30:16] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When's the last time you got excited about the Word of God and about following Jesus? When was the last time you received the Word eagerly? When's the last time you stood for the Word eagerly, no matter the cost? And I can tell you, in my own personal experience, that there's a deep cost in following Jesus Christ and the Word. It will cost you friends. It will cost you family members. It will cost you jobs. It will cost you promotions. It will cost you a lot of things. But it's worth it. You might not see the rewards down here, but you will when you stand before the judgment seat of Christ." [38:21] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We have an answer. Answers to the questions. We have the standard of how we're supposed to live that unshaken life in this fragile world. I could name you a lot of folks that I've walked through bad times with who minister to me more than I minister to them. Their faith was so strong. Their love of Christ was so strong in their life that I just sit back and say, wow. I hope when the time comes that I can be that strong in my life. And they don't. They're not ashamed. It's because of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." [42:36] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We need to be examples, church, of an unshaken people in a crumbling world. We've got the answers. We have the one who can provide the security and assurance in our lives. And we should be sounding that trumpet everywhere we go about the hope that we do have." [59:24] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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