ENDURING TO THE END IN FAITH
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 24:13
Supporting Texts: Hebrews 10:35-39, 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Revelation 2:10, Galatians 6:9, James 1:12
INTRODUCTION:
The Christian journey is not a sprint but a lifelong marathon that requires endurance, patience, and unwavering faith. Jesus, in Matthew 24:13, declared that "he who endures to the end shall be saved," revealing that endurance is not optional—it is essential for those who seek eternal life. The road may be narrow and filled with trials, but the crown of life awaits those who do not give up.
Endurance in faith means holding on to God even when circumstances are unfavourable, even when prayers seem unanswered, and even when others fall away. In these perilous end times marked by deception, persecution, and moral decay, only those who endure will be preserved.
In today’s message, we will explore what it truly means to endure to the end in faith, how to cultivate this endurance, and the eternal reward that awaits those who overcome.
1. UNDERSTANDING ENDURANCE IN FAITH
To endure means to remain steadfast and unmovable in your faith, no matter the opposition.
a) Endurance is a mark of genuine faith (Hebrews 10:36):
Those who continue steadfastly in the faith demonstrate that their faith is rooted in Christ and not in convenience.
b) Endurance separates true believers from pretenders (Matthew 13:20-21):
The seed on rocky ground represents those who fall away when trials come, but endurance proves the depth of our conviction.
c) Endurance involves consistency (Galatians 6:9):
We are encouraged not to grow weary in doing good, for in due season, we will reap if we do not faint.
d) Endurance means holding on until the end (Revelation 2:10):
Be faithful unto death, and you will receive the crown of life.
Biblical Example: Job endured unimaginable loss and pain, but he did not curse God. In the end, God restored him and blessed him more than before (Job 42:10-17).
2. CHALLENGES TO ENDURING FAITHFULLY
The enemy seeks to derail our faith through multiple avenues.
a) Trials and tribulations (John 16:33):
Jesus warned that in this world we will face tribulation, but our faith must rise above our troubles.
b) Persecution and opposition (2 Timothy 3:12):
Those who live godly lives will suffer persecution, yet we must not be moved.
c) Spiritual complacency (Revelation 3:15-16):
Lukewarmness is a deadly state that often leads to spiritual death.
d) False doctrines and deception (1 Timothy 4:1):
Many will depart from the faith due to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.
Biblical Example: Demas started well in ministry but forsook Paul, having loved the present world (2 Timothy 4:10).
3. KEYS TO ENDURING TO THE END
Endurance is not automatic; it must be cultivated intentionally.
a) Abide in the Word of God (Psalm 119:11):
Hiding God’s Word in your heart helps you withstand sin and deception.
b) Stay prayerful and watchful (Luke 21:36):
Prayer strengthens the inner man and keeps you alert in the spirit.
c) Maintain fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25):
Community strengthens our resolve and encourages perseverance.
d) Focus on the eternal reward (2 Corinthians 4:17-18):
When your eyes are on eternity, temporary hardships lose their sting.
Biblical Example: Paul endured beatings, imprisonments, and trials, but kept the faith and finished his race (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
4. REWARDS FOR ENDURING TO THE END
God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him and remain faithful.
a) Eternal life (Matthew 24:13):
Those who endure shall be saved—this is the greatest reward of all.
b) Crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8):
Reserved for those who love His appearing and finish their course faithfully.
c) Honour and glory (Romans 2:7):
God will reward those who seek Him with perseverance and patience.
d) Reigning with Christ (Revelation 3:21):
Overcomers will sit with Christ on His throne, sharing in His victory.
Biblical Example: The martyrs in Revelation were given white robes and promised eternal joy with the Lamb (Revelation 6:9-11).
CONCLUSION:
The race of faith is not about how fast you start but how faithfully you finish. In a world filled with distractions, discouragement, and spiritual decay, God is calling His people to stand firm and hold on. Endurance is not a passive waiting but an active, determined commitment to Christ despite the odds.
No matter what you face—loss, rejection, or spiritual dryness—God gives grace to those who endure. He is faithful to strengthen you. The crown of life, eternal glory, and divine commendation await you. Don’t give up. Don’t turn back. Endure to the end!
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to endure every trial with unwavering faith.
2. I reject every spirit of weariness and backsliding in Jesus’ name.
3. Father, renew my strength daily to run my race faithfully.
4. Help me to focus on eternal rewards and not temporary troubles.
5. Let my heart be rooted and grounded in Your Word.
6. Shield me from every deception and false doctrine.
7. Surround me with people that will encourage me in faith.
8. Let my faith remain strong even in adversity.
9. Fill me with joy and hope as I look forward to Your return.
10. I receive the crown of life, in Jesus’ name.
