Sermon Central
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My Defender
Contributed by Michael Mays on Aug 27, 2021 (message contributor)
Summary: This world is not our friend, but we have a defender! This is a short Bible study prepared for midweek prayer meeting.
I. Introduction: There have been a number of stories over the past few years regarding freedom of religion: as it intersects with speech (e.g., valedictory addresses), business (e.g., Hobby Lobby), education, gay rights, etc.?
II. This world is not our ally (vv.16-19)
A. We can count on trouble while living on this earth
?“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
B. We are promised to inherit the world’s hatred of Jesus
?“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.” – John 15:18?
III. The real enemy isn’t the people (vv.20-21) – my friend, John Hall’s vision: “These are my people, and I love them”
A. These verses seem to implicate individuals, but Paul makes it clear our enemy is spiritual
?“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” – Eph. 6:12?
IV. God will have the final judgment (vv.22-23)
A. Scripture is replete with promises of God’s due diligence:
1. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Gal. 6:7)
2. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom. 6:23)?
V. Conclusion - We can be sure this world will be difficult for us; more so as followers of God. There is too much evidence that tribulation is the hallmark of being a Christ-follower, and the converse is clear: an easy life is a spiritually dead one. But God’s call is not to suffering for its own sake, but to show His strength in us:?
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9,10)
