STANDING FIRM IN THE FAITH: THE STORY OF POLYCARP
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Corinthians 15:58
Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Matthew 10:32-33, Revelation 2:10, Hebrews 10:23, Romans 8:35-39
INTRODUCTION:
The Christian journey is one of faith, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to Christ, even in the face of trials and persecution. Throughout history, many believers have stood firm, refusing to deny their faith regardless of the cost. One of the most remarkable examples of this steadfastness is Polycarp of Smyrna, a disciple of the Apostle John and a respected bishop in the early church. His story continues to inspire Christians to hold on to their faith, no matter the challenges they face.
Polycarp was 86 years old when he was arrested and brought before the Roman authorities. He was given an opportunity to save his life by renouncing Jesus Christ and swearing allegiance to Caesar. However, his response remains one of the most powerful declarations of faith in history: "For eighty and six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King and Saviour?" Refusing to deny Christ, he was sentenced to be burned alive, and though the flames did not immediately consume him, he was eventually killed with a sword. His death became a testimony of unwavering faith.
Polycarp’s story is a reminder that persecution is a reality for true believers. Today, many Christians face opposition, ridicule, and even death for their faith. Yet, like Polycarp, we are called to stand firm. This sermon will explore the importance of faithfulness, the courage to stand for Christ, and the eternal reward that awaits those who endure to the end.
1. FAITHFULNESS TO GOD BRINGS PERSECUTION
a) Persecution is part of the Christian journey (2 Timothy 3:12)
Jesus warned that those who follow Him will face trials. Polycarp’s faithfulness led to his persecution.
b) The world hates those who stand for Christ (John 15:18-19)
As believers, we are not of this world. The world hated Jesus, and it will hate us too.
c) Trials test the strength of our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7)
Faith is refined through trials, just as gold is purified in fire.
d) We must not fear those who can kill the body (Matthew 10:28)
The fear of God should outweigh the fear of man. Polycarp did not fear death because his hope was in Christ.
e) Biblical Example: The Three Hebrew Boys (Daniel 3:16-18)
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol and were thrown into the fire.
2. COURAGE TO STAND FOR CHRIST
a) Boldness comes from knowing Christ (Acts 4:13)
Polycarp was courageous because he had walked with Christ for many years.
b) Our confession determines our destiny (Matthew 10:32-33)
Denying Christ leads to eternal separation, but standing for Him leads to glory.
c) The Holy Spirit empowers us to be bold (2 Timothy 1:7)
God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power.
d) The early Church thrived through persecution (Acts 8:1-4)
Instead of weakening, the Church grew stronger as believers stood firm.
e) Biblical Example: Stephen, the First Martyr (Acts 7:55-60)
Stephen stood boldly for Christ and was stoned to death, yet he saw the glory of God.
3. GOD REWARDS THOSE WHO ENDURE TO THE END
a) The crown of life awaits the faithful (Revelation 2:10)
Jesus promises eternal life to those who endure persecution.
b) Suffering for Christ brings eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
The trials of this world are temporary compared to the eternal reward in heaven.
c) Jesus will acknowledge His faithful servants (Matthew 25:21)
Those who remain steadfast will hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
d) God gives supernatural strength in trials (Isaiah 41:10)
Polycarp received divine strength to endure suffering, just as God strengthens His people today.
e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Unshakable Faith (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
Paul endured trials and persecution but remained faithful to the end, knowing a reward awaited him.
4. ENDURING FAITH IN THE LAST DAYS
a) Many will fall away from the faith (Matthew 24:10-13)
In the last days, some will deny Christ under pressure, but true believers will endure.
b) Deception will test believers (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4)
False teachings and worldly temptations will try to draw us away from Christ.
c) Holding on to God’s promises strengthens us (Hebrews 10:23)
We must hold fast to our confession of faith without wavering.
d) Trials should not weaken our faith but make it stronger (James 1:2-4)
God allows trials to strengthen and perfect our faith.
e) Biblical Example: Job’s Perseverance (Job 13:15)
Despite his suffering, Job declared, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him."
5. HOW TO REMAIN STEADFAST IN FAITH
a) Stay rooted in God’s Word (Psalm 119:105)
The Bible is our guide to standing firm in a world that opposes Christ.
b) Develop a deep relationship with Christ (John 15:4-5)
Just as Polycarp walked with Jesus for 86 years, we must remain connected to Him.
c) Be filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)
The Holy Spirit gives us the power to stand firm in trials.
d) Surround yourself with godly believers (Hebrews 10:25)
Fellowship with other Christians strengthens our faith.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Commitment to Prayer (Daniel 6:10)
Even when facing death, Daniel continued to pray, and God delivered him.
CONCLUSION:
The story of Polycarp reminds us that true faith is tested in the fire of adversity. He could have saved his life by renouncing Christ, but he chose to stand firm because he understood that faithfulness to God is greater than any earthly comfort. His legacy challenges us to remain steadfast in our faith, no matter what we face. As we navigate the challenges of life, we must remember that the same God who sustained Polycarp will also sustain us.
Let us, therefore, make a firm decision to stand for Christ, even in the face of trials. Our faith should not be conditional or easily shaken. Whether we face persecution, hardships, or temptations, we must remain unmovable, knowing that our reward is eternal. If we endure to the end, we will receive the crown of life and reign with Christ forever. Amen!
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to stand firm in my faith, no matter the trials.
2. Father, strengthen me to endure persecution and remain steadfast.
3. Holy Spirit, empower me with boldness to declare Christ in every situation.
4. Lord, deliver me from the fear of man and fill me with the fear of God.
5. Father, help me to remain faithful to You all the days of my life.
6. Lord, let my faith not fail in times of trial and temptation.
7. I receive the grace to endure to the end and receive my crown of life.
8. Father, grant me wisdom to navigate challenges and remain rooted in Christ.
9. Lord, help me to be a shining light in a dark world.
10. Father, may my life glorify You, both in life and in death.
