Grace & Truth Community Church

Dimensions of Faith - Part 8: Faith is Not Static Review of the Series: Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. (NIV) Ephesians 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one. (ESV) Faith is the entrance or key to salvation. Ephesians 2:8–10 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (ESV) Faith is based on God’s Word. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (ESV) Faith is completed by acting on God’s word. James 2:19–21 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? (ESV) Faith is strengthened through Prayer. Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (ESV) Faith is supported by Patience. Hebrews 6:12 Through faith and patience inherit the promises. (ESV) Faith is targeted by specific enemies. Jude 3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. (ESV) Faith is anchored in Hope in Jesus Christ Hebrews 11:1–2 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2For by it the people of old received their commendation. (ESV) *** Faith is not Static *** 2 Peter 1:3–11 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, 4by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. 5For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. 10Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. 11For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (ESV) 1) Continue to Seek God Seek — The result of such an effort "to inquire" or "investigate" Scripture in order to extract its full implication and meaning was known as Midrash (derived from the Hebrew word darash—to investigate). 2 Chronicles 14:4;7 2 Chronicles 15:1–7 2 Peter 1:3–15 2 Chronicles 15:13 2) Continue to Fight God's Way 2 Chronicles 16:1-10 2 Corinthians 10:4–6 3) Continue to Repent 2 Chronicles 16:11–14

Dimensions of Faith - Part 5: Faith is Supported by Patience Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 1 John 5:4 For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. (ESV) Ephesians 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; (ESV) Faith is the entrance of Salvation. Ephesians 2:8–10 Faith is based on God's Word. Hebrews 11:1 Faith is completed by Acting on God's Word. Hebrews 11:1–2 Faith is strengthened through Prayer. Matthew 26:41 Faith is supported by Patience. Hebrews 6:12 Galatians 6:9–10 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. (ESV) James 5:7–11 Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. 8You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. 10As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. (ESV) Hebrews 6:15 And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. (ESV) Galatians 5:22–23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (ESV) makrothymia — The key New Testament term for God's patience (makrothymia) means literally “long-tempered” and can legitimately be contrasted with our English concept of being short-tempered hypomone — The Greek word for "perseverance" is hypomone. It is the capacity to continue to bear up under difficult circumstances — 'endurance, being able to endure.’ 3-5-7 Principle Proverbs 3:5–7 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. (ESV) Trust — batach — “The Hebrew word batach, meaning "to attach oneself, to trust, confide in, feel safe.” It also mean “be bold (confident, secure, sure).” Lord — Yahweh — The special title Yahweh means master and absolute ruler and is the name God used to reveal himself in His relationship with man. Heart — Leb — All your heart In Proverbs, the Hebrew word predominantly used for heart is leb. It "not only includes the motives, feelings, affections, and desires, but also the will, the aims, the principles, the thoughts, and the intellect.” Acknowledge — Yada — The Hebrew verb yada ("to know") means to encounter, experience, or share relationship in an intimate way. Fear — Yare James 1:2–4 Hebrews 11:39–40

Faith is Strengthened Through Prayer - Dimension of Faith -Part 4- 8-5-23 GTC CoMo Faith is Strengthened through Prayer Ephesians 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one. (ESV) Series Recap: 1) Faith is the entrance to salvation. Ephesians 2:8–10 2) Faith is based on God’s Word. 2 Corinthians 5:7; Psalm 119:105; Hebrews 11:1 3)Faith is completed by acting on God’s word. James 2:14–24 THIS WEEK: Faith is strengthened through prayer. Jude 20–21 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. (ESV) ** PRAYER HELPS US STAND IN FAITH AGAINST TEMPTATION ** ** PRAYER HELPS US STAND IN FAITH TO DO GOD’S WILL ** Matthew 26:38-39 Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” 39And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” Ephesians 6:18–20 Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (ESV) Luke 6:12–16 (ESV) Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV) Acts 4:27–31 (ESV) ** PRAYER HELPS US STAND IN FAITH BY ACCESSING HIS STRENGTH AND RESOURCES ** Matthew 26:41 The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Ephesians 6:10–12 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12For 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. (ESV) 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 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 about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (NIV) Hebrews 1:7–14 Of the angels he says, “He makes his angels winds, and his ministers a flame of fire.” 8But of the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. 9You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions.” 10And, “You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of your hands; 11they will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment, 12like a robe you will roll them up, like a garment they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will have no end.” 13And to which of the angels has he ever said, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet”? 14Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (ESV) Matthew 4:11 Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. (ESV) Daniel 10:2–3;10-14 In those days I, Daniel, was mourning for three weeks. 3I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, for the full three weeks. 10And behold, a hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. 11And he said to me, “O Daniel, man greatly loved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for now I have been sent to you.” And when he had spoken this word to me, I stood up trembling. 12Then he said to me, “Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. 13The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia, 14and came to make you understand what is to happen to your people in the latter days. For the vision is for days yet to come.” (ESV) WHY WE DON’T PRAY: —Perfectionism —Remember its power “Prayerlessness = Powerlessness,” —Absence of habit —Your spiritual stomach is full of things of this world

Faith is completed by acting on salvation. James 2:14–24 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (ESV) Ephesians 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one. (ESV) Hebrews 11:6–7 By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. A.R.K.S. • Access Heaven through Prayer - Matthew 6:9–10 “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done. (ESV) • Read and Study our Bible - Psalm 119:15-16 I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. (NLT) • Keep ourselves out of Babylon - Revelation 18:4 Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues. (ESV) • Stay around God’s People -Hebrews 10:24–25 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (ESV) -Matthew 7:21–27 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ 24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” (ESV)

Sermon Notes: Ephesians 6:16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one. Romans 10:15–17 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (ESV) John 5:19 So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise. (ESV ** The foundation of faith is God’s word ** - Faith doesn’t mean we do what we want to when we want, faith means we follow what God tells us to do. 2 Corinthians 5:7 or we walk by faith, not by sight. (ESV) The Bible says in Psalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (ESV) How God Speaks to Us: 1. God speaks through his written Word - 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV) - 1 Corinthians 10:11–12 - Hebrews 1:1-3 2. God’s speaks through our conscience - 1 Timothy 4:1–2 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared. (ESV) - “Conscience” comes from the Latin conscientia and is a compound from con and scion meaning "to know together." The Greek equivalent in the New Testament is syneidesis and means "to know together or to have common knowledge together with someone else.” - Psalm 14:1 - 1 Timothy 1:18–20 - Judges 17:6 3. God speaks through natural things - Romans 1:18-21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. (ESV) - Psalm 19:1–4 4. God speaks through peace - Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always]. AMP - Importance of Meditation - Joshua 1:6–9 - Hebrews 11:4–10

Sermon Outline - James 2:18–23 (ESV) - Hebrews 4:2 Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. (NKJV) - “All Christians would agree to the supreme importance placed upon faith. The Bible assures us that we are "saved through faith" (Ephesians 2:8) and that the just "live by faith" (Romans 1:17), and it reminds us that "without faith it is impossible to please [God]" (Hebrews 11:6). Finally, we are commanded to take "the shield of faith," the Christian's essential defense against every weapon of his soul's enemy (Ephesians 6:16). Clearly, a correct view of faith is essential to biblical Christianity. Therefore to come short or to be confused in the area of faith is a very serious matter. 46 BEYOND SEDUCTION It is therefore understandable that in his plans to seduce the human race, Satan should make faith a primary object of his attack, seeking to destroy it or at the very least to discredit it in the minds of some people, or, as the Master Deceiver, to lull others into a false assurance, a deadly deception indeed.” (Beyond Seduction: A Return to Biblical Christianity by Dave Hunt page 45 to 46) ** Faith is the Entrance and Consummation of Salvation ** - The Roman Road to Salvation: • 1. Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Because all of us have sinned, we are separated from God. Not many people will dispute that they have sinned. We all have personal weaknesses and person guilt. People are naturally self- serving. Even though people do good things, we all have done our share of wrong. • 2. Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." The consequence of our sin is death. This verse explains one of the most important concepts of the Bible in one sentence. God is Holy and perfect, without any wrong. He can not be in the presence of sin. Because we have all sinned, we are all separated from Him. This is much like a limb being cut from a tree; it has been removed from its source of life! We cannot have spiritual life because we have been removed from God because of sin. So if we have all sinned, and God cannot be in the presence of sin, how can we be saved from eternal spiritual death? • 3. Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates His own love to ward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The penalty for our sin was paid by Jesus Christ. Notice that this verse does not say "God loved us so much that He was really distressed that we were separated from Him by our sin." No! God demonstrated His love. He did something in history that proved His love; Jesus Christ died for us. Despite our sinful condition, Christ died for us. This is the wonderful message of the gospel: God loves us despite our sinful condition, so much that He became a man, Jesus Christ, the perfect, holy, and sinless God in the form of man. He came to die in our stead, taking the penalty of our sins (death) on Himself so that we might live the way God intended for us to live: in total dependence on Him and in total obedience to Him. • 4. Romans 10:9: "If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." If we repent of our sinfulness, then confess and trust Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior of our lives, we will be saved from the penalty of sin. The gospel offers us a promise, to save us from the penalty of sin; we must believe it. The gospel also offers us a person, Jesus Christ who paid our penalty and who deserves to be Lord of our lives; we must receive Him. I would like to invite you right now to pray to God, telling Him you're ready to trust Christ to save you from the penalty of sin and to confess Him as the Lord over your life. There is a prayer you can pray right now, but let the words be your own; don't just repeat words as if they were a spiritual chant, but speak them to the personal God who loves you enough to die for you. Lord, / admit that / have sinned and made myself unclean before you, the Holy God, I understand that I deserve death as the penalty for my sins, and I believe that Jesus Christ paid this price with His blood, I want to turn away from my lifestyle of selfishness and sin; I repent, I confess Jesus Christ as my Savior and I put Him in control of my life as my Lord, /pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. (Nelson's Minister's Manual NKJV Edition, page 226 to 227)

Pastor LT concludes the series on The Book of Revelation with a recap of the book. He highlights the important takeaways and admonishes us to be prepared -- not scared. Keep your eyes on Jesus so you may endure to the end! Sermon Outline - Revelation 5:1–14 - Revelation 6:1–2 As I watched, the Lamb broke the first of the seven seals on the scroll. Then I heard one of the four living beings say with a voice like thunder, “Come!” 2 I looked up and saw a white horse standing there. Its rider carried a bow, and a crown was placed on his head. He rode out to win many battles and gain the victory. - In the ESV it says, “and he came out conquering, and to conquer.” (ESV) - Greek word used for “and to” is hina. It means in order that. - Conquering in order to conquer — defeating in order to defeat. - Didomi (Gave them) Didimi - “to give.” Didimi - “to give something to someone. - Revelation 19:12 - Daniel 7:23–24 - Revelation 17:12–13 - Daniel 7:8 - Revelation 6:3–4 - Revelation 6:5–6, talks about hyperinflation and famine. - Revelation 6:7–8 - Daniel 7:20–22 - Daniel 8:9–12 - Revelation 14:6–7 - Revelation 14:14–20 - Matthew 24:29–31 - Daniel 7:13–14 - Revelation 20:4–6 - 7 TRUMPETS AND 7 BOWLS - JUDGMENTS OF GOD. • Trumpet # 1 - Hail and fire mixed with blood will be thrown to the earth. A 1/3 of the earth will be burnt up. A 1/3 of the trees will be burnt up. All of the green grass will burn up. • Trumpet # 2 - Something like a huge mountain will be thrown into the sea. 1/3 of the sea will be turned to blood. 1/3 of the sea creatures will die. 1/3 of the boats will be destroyed. • Trumpet # 3 - A great star blazing like a torch will fall on 1/3 of rivers and springs. The star’s name is Wormwood. 1/3 of drinking water turned bitter. Many people will die because the water is bitter. • Trumpet # 4 - 1/3 of the Sun, Moon, and stars will be struck and turned dark. • Trumpet # 5 - Locust scorpion demon creatures will be released from hell to torture people on Earth for five months. • Trumpet # 6 - Four fallen angels/demons who were bound up at the great river Euphrates will be released to kill 1/3 of mankind. • Trumpet # 7 - God’s temple in heaven will open and the ark of covenant will be seen within the temple. Then lighting, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail came. • Bowl #1 - Ugly and Painful Sores given to those who had the mark of the beast. • Bowl #2 - The entire sea will turn into blood. All sea creatures die. • Bowl #3 - All rivers and streams will turn into blood. All of the drinking water will be destroyed. • Bowl #4 - People on earth will be scorched by heat and flames from the sun. • Bowl #5 - Antichrist’s kingdom plunged into darkness. Men will gnaw their tongues in agony because of their sores. • Bowl #6 - Three demon spirits speak through Satan, the Antichrist, and the false Prophet to deceive humanity on earth to gather for the Battle of Armageddon to fight against God. • Bowl #7 - The most Powerful Earthquake ever hits the earth. This earthquake levels every mountain on earth and puts under water every island on the sea. This earthquake destroys all the kingdoms of man. Hailstones about 100 pounds will fall down on the earth. - 1000-YEAR REIGN • Revelation 20:6–7 • Daniel 7:18 • Daniel 7:26–27 • 1 Timothy 4:7–8 • 1 Corinthians 6:1–3 - GOG AND MAGOG • Revelation 20:7–10 - GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT • Revelation 20:11–15 - NEW HEAVENS AND NEW EARTH • Revelation 21:1–7

Did you know that time had a beginning and a Creator? - 2 Timothy 1:9 Who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, (NIV) - Genesis 1:14–19 - Psalm 90:2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. (ESV) ***Since God is outside time, we can trust His predictions of what the future will be*** - Daniel 7:1-22 ***God is outside of time and He knows what the future will be*** - The only problem is that there are false prophets in the world who are saying things about our future that are not according to the Bible. - This false prophecy because the Bible doesn’t tell us that the world is going to end because of climate change. The Climate will change when the world ends, but the world is going to end one day in the future because of man’s rebellion against God. - 2 Peter 3:1–13 #1. One of the first signs that God’s wrath is coming to a nation is that he lifts His Hand of Grace. - But when people continue to rebel against Him, He will lift his Hand of Grace that holds us back. - Romans 1 - 2 Thessalonians 2:10–12 #2. One of the next big things we will see is an effort to build a third temple in Jerusalem. - Matthew 24:15–17 - Daniel 9:25-27 - Revelation 13:1–8 - Daniel 8:23–26

Revelation Series — Jesus' warning about Lot's family and how it applies to us. 1 Corinthians 10:11 Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. (ESV) Luke 17:26–32 Just as it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27 They were eating and drinking and marrying and being given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. 28 Likewise, just as it was in the days of Lot—they were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building, 29 but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom, fire and sulfur rained from heaven and destroyed them all— 30 so will it be on the day when the Son of Man is revealed. 31 On that day, let the one who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away, and likewise let the one who is in the field not turn back. 32 Remember Lot’s wife. (ESV) - Sodom and Gomorrah's moral depravity caused them to be extremely wicked. Genesis 19:12–14 (ESV) - Sodom and Gomorrah's moral depravity caused them to be increasingly violent. Genesis 19:4–11 (ESV) - Sodom and Gomorrah's moral depravity caused them to begin to redefine words and reality. • DEFINITION: The word "shaphat" in the Hebrew language means "pronounces sentence," "gives vindication or punishment," "to litigate" (trial), "defend," and "plead." This word promotes the basis for the entire judicial system all the way from "indictment," to "vindication" or "punishment." from God’s Work by Ary Mokarow page 46-8. - Sodom and Gomorrah's moral depravity caused them to be sexually deviant. Genesis 19:4–9, 15–22 Daniel 12:4 But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, until the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.” (ESV) Revelation 13:1–7 - Increase in wickedness • Wicker furniture. • Iniquity — It means to bent towards something. - Increase in a “distorted reality and definitions.” • DEFINITION: Note: Anomia is disregard for, or defiance of, God's laws. • DEFINITION: Iniquities is "lawlessnesses," from anomia, "contempt and violation of law." • What Adam chose in the Garden is the ability to create his own truth or definition of things. Satan loves to hide behind the definitions of words to deceive people. • Isaiah 5:20–23.

Sermon Notes: Ezekiel 33:6, Matthew 24:9–14, Revelation 14:12, Revelation 16:15–16, 1 Thessalonians 5:1–4, Thessalonians 5:5-6, 1 Thessalonians 5:7-11. Endurance — hypomone — The Greek word for "perseverance" is hypomone. It is the capacity to continue to bear up under difficult circumstances — 'endurance, being able to endure.’ Surprise — katalambano. The Greek word means "to seize" something and make it one's own. Katheudo — Sleep. 1 Thess 5:7; (6) of carnal indifference to spiritual things on the part of believers, Eph. 5:14; I Thess. 5: 6, 10 (as in Mark 13:36), a condition of insensibility to divine things involving conformity to God’s will. ~ Ten indicators believers could go through the Great Tribulation: 1) The understanding of the wheat and tares parable and the timing of the gospel being preached to the whole world.Matthew 13:30, Matthew 24:14, Revelation 14:6–20. 2) Use of the word Elect in Matthew 24. Matthew 24:3–31, 1 Peter 2:9–10, Matthew 24:36–44, Revelation 1:7, 1 Thessalonians 4:15–18, Matthew 24:30–31. "Elect" is eklektos, "chosen out ones." 3) The timing of the Antichrist's appearance. 2 Thessalonians 2:1–4. 4) Difference between the words Tribulation and Wrath. 1 Thessalonians 5:8–1. ----Tribulation — Thilipsis — It is translated as "tribulation" 20 times, meaning "pressure, squeeze, and press." It is translated as "affliction" in the sense of tribulation 18 times. ----Wrath — orge — “an abiding, settled, and habitual anger that includes in its scope the purpose of revenge.” 5) Description and timing of the Day of the Lord.Joel 2:30–32, Acts 2:17–21, Matthew 24:29–31, Revelation 6:12–17, Luke 21:25–28. 6)Time of a demonic and global attack on the Nation of Israel.This will be led by the antichrist. Daniel 9:27, Matthew 24:15–21, Luke 21:20–25, Revelation 12:7–17. 7) What the Seven Seals teach us. ----Revelation 6 — Seals 1-6 — Represents satan and man’s and then the beginning of Jesus’ wrath or revenge starting in seal 6. ----Revelation 14 — Seal 6 — Jesus’ return and the Rapture. ----Revelation 8-9 — Seal 7 — God’s wrath and the beginning of the 7 Trumpets and 7 Bowls. ----Revelation 15-17 — 7 Trumpets and 7 Bowls — God’s Wrath released and poured out on the earth and mankind. 8) Timing of the great falling away. 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4. 9) A special event in heaven. Revelation 7:9–14. 10) Present-day persecution and circumstances.1 Corinthians 15:58. ~ Four S’s ~ Spending time in prayer. — James 5:16. Studying God's Word. — 1 Peter 2:1-3. Surrender to God, not the world. — James 4:6-10. Spend time in Koinonia/Spiritual Community. — Acts 4:29–32.

While we wait for His coming, Jesus has given us things to watch for. He tells us what characteristics the antichrist will have. And we can identify the antichrist spirit that’s already in this world today. Join us as we endeavor to understand the season of THE ANTICHRIST’s appearance and his characteristics. Watch is the Greek word "gregoreo." It means to be awake or vigilant. It also means to keep up in order to guard. It means close observation. Matt. 24:42-44, Luke 21:34–36, Matt. 25:1–13, Rev. 16:15, 1 Thess. 4:13–5:11, 1 Chron. 12:32. Two effective ways to understand the Book of Revelation: 1. Through the lens of the Old Testament. 2. Through having a good understanding of the 7 seals that are mentioned in Chapters 6 through 8 in the book of Revelation. SEVEN Ways to Understand the Season of the Antichrist's Appearance #1. The world will witness the great rebellion or falling away of Christians. #2. The world will see Antichrist declare himself to be God from Jerusalem. #3. The world will begin to look to one man to fix its problems. #4. The world will enter an intense Global War. World War 3. #5. The world will experience severe global famines and hyperinflation. #6. The world will undergo intense violence and persecution. #7. The world will witness a global leader whose name will equal or represent 666. ----Christ vs. The Antichrist---- (from "The End of the Age: The Countdown Has Begun," John Hagee page 224). - Christ came from heaven (John 6:38); the Antichrist will come from hell (Rev. 11; 17). - Christ came in His Father’s name (John 5:43); the Antichrist will come in his own name (John 5:43). - Christ humbled Himself (Philippians 2:8); the Antichrist “shall exalt himself in his heart” (Daniel 8:25). - Christ was despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:3); the Antichrist will be admired, lauded, and worshiped (Rev. 13:3-4, 8). - Christ came to do His Father’s will (John 6:38); the Antichrist will do as he pleases (Daniel 11:36). - Christ came to save (Luke 19:10); the Antichrist brings death and destruction (Daniel 8:24; Rev. 19:21;20:15). - Christ is the Good Shepherd (John 10); the Antichrist is“the worthless shepherd” (Zech. 11:16-17). - Christ is the Truth (John 14:6); the Antichrist is a liar (2 Thess. 2:11; 1 John 2:22). - Christ is the “mystery of godliness” (1 Tim. 3:16); the Antichrist is the “mystery of lawlessness” (2 Thess. 2:7). Antichrist Acronym - A - Able to work miracles and wonders - N - Necessitates and forces others to worship him - T - Terrible hatred for Jews - I - In the world today - C - Changes laws and customs - H - Head up the One World Government - R - Rome will be the headquarters and ethnicity of the Antichrist. - I - Incarnate of Satan - S - Sophism or deception are his weapons - T - Triumphed over by the True Christ! And Thrown in the lake of fire! “Oh God our Father, how easy it is to backslide, to be living and yet be dead. How easy it is to become part of a troop of jolly church people, chattering and giggling, while the world grows old, the judgment draws near, hell enlarges its borders and the antichrist prepares himself to take over. While the world is unifying itself and getting ready for a king, oh God, my church is playing and saying, "I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing" (Revelation 3:17). We have more people attending, we have more money than we ever had. Our churches cost more and our schools are full and our programs are many. But we are forgetting, oh my God, that the quality of our Christianity has been greatly impaired.” (The Attributes of God: A journey into the Father's Heart by A.W. Tozer Volume One page 195 and 196)

As we continue to study the Book of Revelation, we need to understand the spirit of Babylon that is mentioned there. When looking at the entirety of the scriptures, we see the spirit of Babylon as a throughline -- a rebellious spirit that opposes God. Revelation 18:4-5 “Come out (exerchomai) of her, my people (laos), so that you will not share (synkoinoneo) in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues; 5 for her sins are piled up to heaven, and God has remembered her crimes.” (NIV) Spirit of Babylon: B -- Basis for all evil spirits and false religions A -- Attacks God’s people B -- Based on counterfeit and deception Y -- Yearns for power and control over all people L -- Lacks value for mankind O -- Opposes God’s Word and Law N -- Never Gives God Glory Combating the Spirit of Babylon: -- Spend time in Prayer. -- Study God’s word. -- Surrender to God, not the world. -- Spending time in Koinonia.

In Revelation Chapter 7, God seals His servants. Pastor LT explores what it means to be sealed by God. What is a seal and how will it protect us? Ephesians 1:13 states “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.” (NIV) SEALED BY GOD: S -- Sign of Protection E -- Eternal mark of Love A -- Affirms He never leaves nor forsakes L -- Legal reality of our security in Him S -- Statement of Ownership *** GOD HAS SEALED US WITH HIS POWER *** Matthew 7:14, Matthew 24:21-23, Matthew 24:30-31, Revelation 7:3, John 16:33, 2 Peter 2:9 *** GOD HAS SEALED US WITH HIS BLOOD *** Revelation 7:3, Revelation 12:11 *** GOD HAS SEALED US WITH HIS LOVE *** Revelation 7:16-17, Romans 8:31-39

This week, Pastor LT exposits Chapter 6 of Revelation. How can we understand the opening of the seven seals and all the catastrophes that result from each scroll? How can we understand when these things will happen and when Jesus will come to get his Church? Understanding The Day of the Lord is one key to unlocking this passage. Another key is laying two passages side-by-side and seeing how they align and inform one another. Jesus' description of end-times events in Matthew 24 perfectly aligns with chapter 6 of Revelation. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE DAY OF THE LORD (2 Thessalonians 2:1–12) *** 3 Important Questions to Ask to Understand The Day of the Lord *** 1) Is The Day of the LORD directly connected to the rapture of the Church and Jesus’ second coming? (2 Thessalonians 2:1-2) 2) Will the Church be on earth when the Antichrist is revealed? (2 Thessalonians 2:1-10) 3) Are there any other big things that happen right before or during the day of the Lord? (Isaiah 13:6-13, Zephaniah 1:14-19, Isaiah 34:1-4, 2 Peter 3:10-13, Acts 2:17-21, Revelation 6:12-17, Matthew 24:28-31) *** The 7 Seals line up with Jesus' description in Matthew 24. *** - Now that we know this information about The Day of the Lord, what do we do about it? 1. We endeavor to live a holy life. “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? “12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.” (2 Peter 3:10-13 NIV) 2. We continue to call on the Name of Jesus. “And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” (Acts 2:21 NIV)

This week, Pastor LT explores Chapter 5 of the book of Revelation. What does the word “worthy” really mean? Is anyone or anything really worthy to be worshipped? In chapter 5, John the Revelator sees powerful manifestations that reveal just how worthy Jesus is. Sermon Notes: ** Jesus is Worthy to Open the Scroll! ** Jesus is Worthy to Redeem us from our sins! ** Jesus is Worthy to Be Worshiped! Revelation 5:1-14 Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” 3 But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. 4 I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. 5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” 6 Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. 7 He came and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. 8 And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” 11 Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12 In a loud voice they sang: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” 13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” 14 The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped. (NIV) music from "You Alone" by LT Bowens https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYfJGAlXfrI

Pastor LT examines Jesus' admonition to the Church of Laodicea. Don't be poor, unclothed, and blind! Be humble, trust God, and draw near to Him. Sermon Notes: Church of Laodecia Revelation 3:7-13 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear to cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. 21 To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (NIV) --- Trust God’s Word --- Revelation 3:18 --- Trust God's Righteousness --- Revelation 3:18 --- Trust God's Spirit --- Revelation 3:18, Matthew 6:22-24, Jeremiah 11:6-8

Pastor LT continues to preach through the book of Revelation with part 11: "Ways to Ward Off Spiritual Sleep" The Church of Sardis. Sermon Notes: The Church of Sardis Revelation 3:1–6 (NIV84): “To the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; obey it, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you. 4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels. 6 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. (NIV) - Wake Up! - Strengthen What Remains! - Remember! - Do That! - Repent! GTC CoMo

Pastor LT continues his series on The Book of Revelation with part ten: Three Ways to Avoid Corruption - The Church of Thyatira. Sermon Notes: Revelation 2:18-29 To the angel of the church in Thyatira write: These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. 19 I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first. 20 Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. 21 I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. 22 So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. 23 I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds. 24 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets (I will not impose any other burden on you): 25 Only hold on to what you have until I come. 26 To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations— 27 ‘He will rule them with an iron scepter; he will dash them to pieces like pottery’— just as I have received authority from my Father. 28 I will also give him the morning star. 29 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. (NIV) AVOID BAD INFLUENCES Revelation 2:20 Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. (NIV) AVOID THE UNWILLINGNESS TO REPENT Revelation 2:21 I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. (NIV) Matthew 3:2 Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” (NIV) Proverbs 1:20-33 Wisdom calls aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the public squares; 21 at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech: 22 “How long will you simple ones love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? 23 If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you. 24 But since you rejected me when I called and no one gave heed when I stretched out my hand, 25 since you ignored all my advice and would not accept my rebuke, 26 I in turn will laugh at your disaster; I will mock when calamity overtakes you— 27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. 28 “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me. 29 Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord, 30 since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, 31 they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. 32 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; 33 but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” (NIV) AVOID THE TEMPTATION TO GIVE UP GROUND Revelation 2:24-25 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets (I will not impose any other burden on you): 25 Only hold on to what you have until I come. (NIV) Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV)

Sanctity of Life Sunday It's been 50 years to the day since the Roe vs. Wade decision. Roe was overturned last year and the power returned to the states. However, there is still much work to do, especially in people's understanding and in their hearts. Alision Guzman shares an important message about how we can share truth and healing with the world around us, and perhaps even ourselves. Video shown is from "Faces of Choice" https://youtu.be/hm24p8cBPKQ

Pastor LT continues his series on Revelation with Part 9, "Three Anchors for Our Lives." When Jesus speaks to the Church of Pergamum, he reveals three things to help us root out false prophecies. Sermon Notes below: - Revelation 2:12-17 “To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. 13 I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives (katoikeo). 14 Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. 15 Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it." (NIV) **ANCHOR OUR LIVES IN THE AUTHORITY OF GOD'S WORD** Matthew 7:24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (NIV) Hebrew 4:12 'For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged [a] sword, penetrating as far as the division of the [b]soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart." 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." (NIV) John 6:63 "The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life." (NIV) The word double-edged in the Greek is distomos. It is probably the oddest Greek word in the Bible. Distomos literally means two mouths. Psalm 149:1-6 "Praise the Lord. Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints. 2 Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King. 3 Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp. 4 For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation. 5 Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds. 6 May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands.' (NIV) **ANCHOR OUR LIVES IN GODLY RELATIONSHIPS** **ANCHOR OUR LIVES IN GOD'S IDENTITY**

Book of Revelation - Part 8 - The Church of Smyrna Revelation 2:8-11“To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. 9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death. (NIV) ***The Three Prongs of Persecution*** - SLANDER Revelation 2:9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. - FEAR Revelation 2:10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. - DOUBT Revelation 2:10 Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. (NIV) ***What do we do?*** - REMEMBER THAT JESUS IS IN CONTROL! Revelation 2:8 These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. (NIV) Revelation 2:10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. (NIV) The implication here is that Jesus permitted Satan to place them in prison. JESUS IS IN CONTROL! - EXPERIENCE JOY! Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (NIV) - ACTIVATE GOD’S TRUTH IN OUR LIVES 1 Peter 4:12-18 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” (NIV) 2 Timothy 3:12 "Indeed all who delight in piety and are determined to live a devoted and godly life in Christ Jesus will meet with persecution [will be made to suffer because of their religious stand].” (AMP) "True Christianity will cost a man the favor of the world. He must be content to be thought ill of my man if he pleases God. He must count it no strange thing to be mopped, ridiculed, slandered, persecuted and even hated." JC Ryle - DETERMINE TO NEVER GIVE UP! Revelation 2:10 Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. (NIV) James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.