Call To Spiritual Progression Series

Introduction:

Thank you all for being here this evening—it is truly a privilege and an honor to join you in Australia, along with our brothers and sisters from around the world. A heartfelt thank you to Brother Tommy for leading this service, to Marvin for guiding us so beautifully in worship, and to our young brother Lionel from Cochin for sharing such an inspiring testimony of how the Lord is working among young people globally.

In recent years, we have witnessed devastating floods across the world, causing immense loss of life and significant damage in many countries. These events serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges we face and the need for unity, faith, and hope in these difficult times.

The world has faced numerous challenges in recent years—massive earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters. Then came the Covid pandemic, which locked us down for two whole years. During that time, many of us were unable to minister or carry out our work as we once did. Personally, it was an especially isolating period for me. Traveling to different places often meant returning home to face strict rules and regulations imposed by authorities and medical systems. As a result, I found myself confined to my room, unable to go out and minister as I had before. Throughout it all, we have been fervently praying for a breakthrough.

I believe this is a wonderful time for us to travel, share the gospel, and reflect on God’s work in our lives. During the pandemic, we had the unique opportunity to minister through digital platforms, and I am grateful for how God used this medium to touch so many lives. Bless Australia has been an incredible tool in this mission, and I want to thank Brother Biju and the leadership team for their dedication to this ministry. It’s truly an honor and privilege to join you this evening.

Main Message: (1 Timothy 4:15) "Let your progress be evident to all"

As we spend this time in God’s presence, meditating on His Word, I encourage you to listen closely, as I believe God desires to speak to us. Let’s turn to the scripture together: 1 Timothy 4:15. I would like to share a message inspired by this passage as we reflect on its meaning and application in our lives.

"Pay careful attention to these matters and immerse yourself in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone." I want to highlight that final phrase from the scripture—"so that your progress may be evident to all." In

1 Timothy 4:6-15, Paul offers Timothy clear and vital instructions, emphasizing seven key points.

First, in verse 6, Paul urges Timothy to be continually nourished by the Word of God and sound doctrine. Constant spiritual nourishment is essential for growth.

Second, in verse 7, he emphasizes the importance of discipline, instructing Timothy to train himself for the purpose of godliness. Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.

Third, In verse 12, we are reminded, "Let no one look down on your youthfulness."

Fourth, Verse 12, be an example to others through your speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Let every area of your life reflect these virtues.

Fifth, Be a role model for others. Paul continues by instructing Timothy to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, as well as to exhortation and teaching. These practices are essential for spiritual growth and leadership.

Sixth, Paul also emphasizes the importance of not neglecting the spiritual gifts within you. These gifts are God-given, and it is our responsibility to nurture and use them effectively.

Finally, as stated in verse 15, "Let your progress be evident to all." Dedicate yourself fully to these principles—sacrifice, discipline, and commitment. Take these instructions seriously, so that your growth in faith and character becomes unmistakable to those around you.

Among these teachings, one of the most well-known verses in the chapter is verse 12: "Let no one look down on your youthfulness." Timothy was appointed as a bishop at the remarkably young age of 30. In the first century, it was uncommon for anyone under 50—often closer to 60—to hold such a significant position. Timothy’s appointment was exceptional, granting him the rare opportunity to oversee churches at such a young age. He stood out as the youngest bishop of his time, a testament to his faith and leadership.

Paul instructed Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because of his youth. Despite being young, Timothy had been entrusted by God with a significant ministry, serving as a bishop over several churches. Paul encouraged him to continue growing and progressing daily, assuring him that his growth would become evident to all. What an inspiring reminder for us all—praise God!

Today, I want to encourage each one of you joining here. God has called us from the very beginning of our Christian journey. If we reflect on where we came from, the circumstances of our lives when God first called us, we can see His hand guiding us for His glory and for His name.