Waiting for the Lord's Return, Part 2Description of the Church An above average growing faith (verse 3) Above average charity among the members (verse 3) Enduring persecutions patiently and faithfully (verse 4)
What was the catalyst for their growing faith, love, and patience? Their persecutions and tribulations "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecutions." (2 Timothy 3:12) The difference between someone who suffers persecution and one who does not is whether that person is living godly. - A godly person is bearing fruit of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit." (Galations 5:22-25)
- A godly person is sharing the gospel: "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses." (Acts 2:32)
What are the benefits of suffering for your faith? - Suffering makes me counted worthy in God's kingdom and prepares me for future service in Christ's kingdom
- God's goodness is more of a reality in my life
- My faith is empowered as I undergo persecution and I become stronger and grow quickly
- God is glorified in my life
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