Final Exhortation And Encouragement Series

INTRODUCTION

Like a parent giving out final words of caution to their child as they leave the house, the Hebrew writer in chapter 13 closes his letter with some important words of exhortation and encouragement. Just because these words are included last does not mean that we should dismiss them as mere afterthoughts. As last minute parental advice is often those things that are most important, so too we should regard these commands as important.

Our text considers the Christians responsibility to mankind. It also carries one of the most comforting promises in the bible to God’s children.

MAIN BODY

I. The Christians responsibility to love others.

A. As Christians our main responsibility is to each other.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:1

2. Romans 12:10

B. Christians have a responsibility to strangers.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:2

2. The Parable of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10:25—37

C. Christians have a responsibility to those in prison.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:3

2. Matthew 25:31—40

II. The Christians responsibility toward marriage.

A. Marriage is ordained of God and should be honored.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:4

2. Malachi 2:15

B. Any "stepping out" in marriage is sin. 1 Corinthians 13:4

III. The Christians responsibility toward possessions.

A. The love of money has no place in the heart of a Christian

1. 1 Corinthians 13:5

2. 1 Tim. 6:10

B. Christians should be content with what God has given them.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:5

2. 1 Tim. 6:6—9

C. Christians should learn to rely upon God for everything.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:5b—6

2. Matthew 6:25—34

Mitchell Skelton, Minister-Midway church of Christ

http://www.TheLordsWay.com/Midway