Friday, April 4, 2025
Thursday, April 3, 2025
How Are Christians Made Righteous?
A Sermon on Justification by Faith
Text: "For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." (2 Corinthians 5:21, ESV)
Introduction
What does it mean to be righteous? In a world filled with guilt, shame, and moral failure, how can sinful human beings stand before a holy God and be declared righteous? The Bible gives us a glorious answer: Righteousness is not earned; it is received by faith in Jesus Christ.
Today, we will explore the biblical truth of how Christians are made righteous. We will examine:
The Problem of Unrighteousness – Why we need righteousness.
The Provision of Righteousness – How God provides it through Christ.
The Possession of Righteousness – How we receive it by faith.
The Proof of Righteousness – How it transforms our lives.
1. The Problem of Unrighteousness
Before we understand how we are made righteous, we must first recognize our natural state before God.
A. All Have Sinned
Romans 3:23 declares, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
No one is exempt—every human being is born in sin (Psalm 51:5).
Our best efforts cannot make us righteous before God (Isaiah 64:6).
B. The Wages of Sin Is Death
Romans 6:23 warns, "The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
Without righteousness, we face eternal judgment (Revelation 20:15).
C. The Law Exposes Our Sin
Romans 3:20 says, "For by works of the law no human being will be justified in His sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin."
The Ten Commandments reveal our guilt but cannot save us.
We need a righteousness that comes from outside ourselves.
2. The Provision of Righteousness
Since we cannot produce our own righteousness, God provides it for us through Jesus Christ.
A. Christ Became Sin for Us
2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."
Jesus, the sinless Son of God, took our sin upon Himself.
On the cross, He bore the punishment we deserved (Isaiah 53:5).
B. Justified by His Blood
Romans 5:9 declares, "Since, therefore, we have now been justified by His blood, much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God."
Justification means being declared righteous before God.
Christ’s sacrifice fully satisfies God’s justice.
C. The Righteousness of God Revealed
Romans 1:17 says, "For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, 'The righteous shall live by faith.'"
This righteousness is not our own but is given to us through Christ (Philippians 3:9).
It is perfect, complete, and eternal.
3. The Possession of Righteousness
How do we receive this righteousness? Not by works, but by faith alone.
A. Justified by Faith, Not Works
Romans 3:28 states, "For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law."
Salvation is not based on our performance but on Christ’s finished work.
Even Abraham was justified by faith (Romans 4:3).
B. The Gift of Righteousness
Romans 5:17 says, "For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ."
Righteousness is a gift, not a wage.
We receive it by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
C. Faith in Christ Alone
Galatians 2:16 declares, "Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ."
No religious ritual, moral effort, or good deed can save us.
Only faith in Christ’s death and resurrection brings righteousness.
4. The Proof of Righteousness
True righteousness transforms how we live.
A. A New Creation in Christ
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Justification leads to sanctification—a changed life.
Good works are the fruit, not the root, of righteousness.
B. Walking in Obedience
1 John 2:29 says, "If you know that He is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of Him."
True faith produces a desire to obey God.
We are saved by faith alone, but not by a faith that remains alone.
C. Assurance of Eternal Life
Romans 8:1 declares, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
Because we are clothed in Christ’s righteousness, we have peace with God.
Nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39).
Conclusion: How Are Christians Made Righteous?
We are unrighteous by nature—sinful, guilty, and deserving judgment.
Christ provides righteousness—He took our sin and gave us His righteousness.
We receive it by faith—not by works, but by trusting in Jesus alone.
It transforms our lives—leading us to live for God’s glory.
Invitation
Are you trying to earn God’s favor through your own efforts? You will never be good enough. But Jesus is. Today, you can be declared righteous by repenting of your sin and trusting in Christ alone.
If you have never trusted Christ, call on Him today (Romans 10:9-10).
If you are a believer, rejoice that your righteousness is secure in Him!
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Storing up wealth in heaven, as taught by Jesus in Matthew 6:19-21, means investing in eternal, spiritual treasures rather than accumulating earthly possessions. It involves living a life of faith, generosity, and obedience to God, prioritizing His kingdom above all else. Here are some modern-day examples of how to store up heavenly wealth:
1. Generosity & Charity
Supporting the needy: Donating to food banks, homeless shelters, or organizations that care for orphans and widows (James 1:27).
Helping persecuted Christians: Giving to ministries that aid believers facing persecution (Hebrews 13:3).
Sponsoring a child: Supporting education and basic needs through organizations like Compassion International.
2. Sharing the Gospel
Evangelism: Actively sharing your faith with others, whether in person or online (Matthew 28:19).
Supporting missionaries: Funding or praying for those spreading the Gospel globally (Romans 10:14-15).
Creating faith-based content: Using social media or writing to encourage others spiritually.
3. Investing in God’s Kingdom Work
Tithing & giving to the church: Supporting your local church’s ministry and outreach (Malachi 3:10).
Funding Bible translation: Contributing to organizations like Wycliffe Bible Translators.
Building discipleship programs: Mentoring younger believers or funding Christian education.
4. Living Righteously & Serving Others
Volunteering: Serving at a soup kitchen, prison ministry, or disaster relief (Matthew 25:35-40).
Forgiving debts or helping others financially: Assisting someone in crisis without expecting repayment (Luke 6:35).
Practicing integrity at work: Honoring God by being honest, fair, and ethical in business.
5. Prioritizing Eternal Values Over Materialism
Choosing simplicity: Avoiding excessive luxury to instead use resources for God’s purposes (1 Timothy 6:17-19).
Leaving a legacy of faith: Raising children to love God or writing a will that donates to ministries.
Key Principle:
God is pleased when we use our time, money, and talents for His glory—not for selfish gain. As Jesus said, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21).
Would you like help finding practical ways to start based on your current situation?
6. Mentorship & Discipleship
Leading a Bible study – Guiding others in faith (2 Timothy 2:2).
Counseling struggling believers – Offering biblical wisdom and encouragement (Galatians 6:1-2).
Discipling new converts – Helping them grow in their walk with Christ (Matthew 28:19-20).
7. Defending the Vulnerable
Advocating for the unborn – Supporting pro-life ministries or crisis pregnancy centers (Proverbs 31:8-9).
Fighting human trafficking – Donating to or volunteering with anti-trafficking organizations (Isaiah 1:17).
Helping refugees – Providing food, shelter, or job training for displaced families (Leviticus 19:34).
8. Faith-Based Work & Business
Running an ethical business – Treating employees fairly and giving profits to God’s work (Colossians 3:23-24).
Creating Christian media – Producing films, music, or books that glorify God (Psalm 96:3).
Offering free services – A mechanic fixing a single mom’s car for free, a lawyer doing pro bono work for the poor (Luke 6:30).
9. Prayer & Intercession
Starting a prayer group – Regularly interceding for your church, nation, and unreached people (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
Praying for enemies – Blessing those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44).
Adopting a missionary in prayer – Committing to pray daily for a specific missionary’s work.
10. Sacrificial Giving
Selling possessions to help others – Downsizing luxury items to fund a missionary or charity (Acts 2:45).
Paying for someone’s education – Helping a struggling student afford Christian college or vocational training.
Leaving an inheritance to the Church – Including ministries in your will (Proverbs 13:22).
11. Encouragement & Hospitality
Hosting fellowship meals – Inviting lonely people, international students, or new believers into your home (1 Peter 4:9).
Writing encouraging notes – Sending Scripture-based letters to prisoners, soldiers, or discouraged believers (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Supporting pastors & leaders – Sending a gift or note to a weary minister to uplift them (Galatians 6:6).
12. Living a Life of Integrity
Rejecting corruption at work – Refusing bribes or dishonest gain (Proverbs 10:9).
Being faithful in small things – Honoring God even when no one is watching (Luke 16:10).
Choosing purity in entertainment – Avoiding media that dishonors God (Philippians 4:8).
13. Raising Godly Children
Teaching kids to serve – Involving them in volunteering and giving (Proverbs 22:6).
Prioritizing family worship – Making prayer and Bible study a daily habit (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Modeling generosity – Letting children see you tithe and help others cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7).
14. Supporting Persecuted Christians
Donating to Voice of the Martyrs – Helping believers in hostile nations.
Sending Bibles to closed countries – Supporting smuggling ministries (Hebrews 4:12).
Praying for the persecuted – Using resources like Open Doors prayer alerts.
15. Environmental Stewardship
Caring for God’s creation – Reducing waste, planting trees, or supporting clean water initiatives (Genesis 2:15).
Helping poor farmers – Supporting sustainable agriculture missions (Proverbs 12:10).
Final Thought:
Jesus said, "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life" (John 6:27). Every act of love, sacrifice, and faithfulness—no matter how small—has eternal value.
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Monday, March 31, 2025
The Danger of Resentment: A Biblical Warning and Pathway to Freedom
Introduction
Resentment is a silent poison that eats away at the soul. It begins as a small seed of hurt, disappointment, or injustice, but if left unchecked, it grows into bitterness, anger, and even hatred. Jesus and the Bible repeatedly warn us about the dangers of holding onto resentment, urging us instead to forgive, release offenses, and walk in love.
In this sermon, we will explore:
What the Bible Says About Resentment
The Destructive Power of Unforgiveness
Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness
How to Overcome Resentment and Walk in Freedom
1. What the Bible Says About Resentment
Resentment is a deep-seated feeling of bitterness or indignation over a perceived wrong. The Bible warns against it in multiple places:
Hebrews 12:15 – "See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many."
A "bitter root" refers to unresolved anger that festers and spreads, affecting not just the individual but others around them.
Ephesians 4:31-32 – "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Resentment is listed alongside rage, anger, and malice—emotions that corrupt the heart.
Proverbs 14:10 – "Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy."
Bitterness isolates us, making us prisoners of our own emotions.
Resentment is dangerous because it distorts our perception, hardens our hearts, and separates us from God’s peace.
2. The Destructive Power of Unforgiveness
Holding onto resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. It doesn’t punish the offender—it destroys us.
A. Resentment Harms Our Relationship with God
Matthew 6:14-15 – "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."
Unforgiveness hinders our own forgiveness before God.
Mark 11:25 – "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
Jesus links our forgiveness of others with our ability to receive God’s forgiveness.
B. Resentment Poisons Our Hearts and Relationships
1 John 4:20 – "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen."
Hatred and resentment contradict the love of God.
James 3:14-16 – "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such 'wisdom' does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
Bitterness opens the door to demonic influence and chaos.
C. Resentment Leads to Physical and Emotional Suffering
Medical studies confirm that unforgiveness contributes to stress, high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. The Bible also acknowledges this:
Proverbs 17:22 – "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
Bitterness drains life and joy.
3. Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness
Jesus not only preached forgiveness—He lived it. Even on the cross, He prayed for His enemies:
Luke 23:34 – "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
If Jesus could forgive those who crucified Him, how much more should we forgive those who hurt us?
A. The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)
Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus responded, "Not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
He then told a parable about a servant who was forgiven a massive debt by his master but refused to forgive a small debt owed to him. The master, upon hearing this, threw the unforgiving servant into prison.
The lesson?
God has forgiven us an immeasurable debt through Christ.
When we refuse to forgive others, we imprison ourselves in bitterness.
B. Love Your Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48)
Jesus commanded:
"Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
"Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Forgiveness is not optional—it is a requirement for spiritual maturity.
4. How to Overcome Resentment and Walk in Freedom
If you’re struggling with resentment, here are biblical steps to break free:
A. Acknowledge the Hurt and Bring It to God
Psalm 62:8 – "Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."
Tell God exactly how you feel. He can handle your anger and pain.
B. Choose to Forgive—Even If You Don’t Feel Like It
Forgiveness is not excusing the wrong but releasing the right to revenge.
Colossians 3:13 – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
C. Pray for Those Who Hurt You
Matthew 5:44 – "Pray for those who persecute you."
Prayer softens our hearts and breaks the power of resentment.
D. Let Go and Trust God’s Justice
Romans 12:19 – "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord."
God sees every injustice and will judge rightly.
E. Walk in Love and Reconciliation
Romans 12:18 – "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
Seek reconciliation where possible, but even if the other person refuses, maintain a heart of peace.
Conclusion: The Freedom of Forgiveness
Resentment is a prison, but forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door. Jesus calls us to let go of bitterness and embrace His grace.
Are you holding onto resentment today?
Is there someone you need to forgive?
Don’t let bitterness steal your joy, your health, or your relationship with God. Choose forgiveness today and experience the freedom Christ offers.
Prayer:
"Lord, I confess any resentment in my heart. Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me. Heal my wounds and fill me with Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
May we walk in the freedom of forgiveness, releasing others and receiving God’s peace in return.
Sunday, March 30, 2025
Fan Into Flame the Gift of God
Text: "That is why I remind you to fan into flame the gracious gift of God, [that inner fire—the special endowment] which is in you through the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination]." (2 Timothy 1:6, AMP)
Introduction
The Apostle Paul, writing to his spiritual son Timothy, encourages him to stir up the gift of God within him. This exhortation is not just for Timothy but for every believer who has received a divine calling. God has deposited something powerful inside each of us—a gift, an anointing, a purpose. But like embers in a fire, if we do not tend to it, it can grow dim.
Today, we will explore:
The Nature of God’s Gift – What is this gift?
The Need to Fan It Into Flame – Why must we stir it up?
The Hindrances to the Flame – What quenches the fire?
How to Keep the Fire Burning – Practical steps to maintain spiritual passion.
1. The Nature of God’s Gift
Paul refers to a "gracious gift of God" (charisma) given to Timothy through the laying on of hands. This was likely a spiritual gift for ministry—perhaps preaching, teaching, leadership, or prophecy. But beyond Timothy, every believer has received something from God:
Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) – Wisdom, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, interpretation.
Natural Talents Enhanced by Grace – Skills used for God’s glory (Exodus 31:3 – Bezalel filled with the Spirit for craftsmanship).
The Inner Fire of Calling – A divine burden, a holy discontent, a passion for God’s work.
This gift is gracious—not earned but given. It is powerful—capable of transforming lives. And it is personal—tailored to your assignment in the Kingdom.
Question: Have you identified your God-given gift? Are you using it for His glory?
2. The Need to Fan It Into Flame
Paul says, "Fan into flame…" Fire, if unattended, fades. Spiritual passion can grow cold due to neglect, discouragement, or sin.
Why Must We Stir It Up?
Because Gifts Can Lie Dormant (1 Timothy 4:14) – Timothy needed reminding; so do we.
Because the World Tries to Extinguish It – Persecution, distractions, and opposition seek to quench our zeal.
Because the Harvest Demands It (Matthew 9:37-38) – Lost souls need the fire of God in us.
Illustration: A campfire left untended will eventually die. But when stirred, the embers ignite afresh. Similarly, we must intentionally cultivate our spiritual gifts through prayer, study, and obedience.
3. The Hindrances to the Flame
Why do many believers lose their spiritual fire?
A. Fear and Timidity (2 Timothy 1:7)
Timothy may have been shrinking back due to persecution. Fear paralyzes our gifts.
B. Neglect and Laziness
Spiritual Sloth – Not praying, not reading the Word, skipping fellowship.
Procrastination – Delaying obedience to God’s call.
C. Sin and Unrepentance
Unconfessed sin blocks the flow of the Spirit (Psalm 66:18).
Compromise with the world dampens passion.
D. Comparison and Discouragement
Feeling "less gifted" than others can make us bury our talents (Matthew 25:25).
Question: What is suffocating your flame today? Fear? Busyness? Sin?
4. How to Keep the Fire Burning
How do we fan the flame?
A. Remember Your Calling (2 Timothy 1:6)
Revisit your spiritual milestones—salvation, baptism, moments of anointing.
Remember who commissioned you (God, not man).
B. Stay in the Word and Prayer
The Word Fuels Fire (Jeremiah 20:9 – "His word was in my heart like a burning fire").
Prayer Rekindles Passion (Jude 1:20 – "Pray in the Holy Spirit").
C. Step Out in Faith
Use your gift, even if imperfectly.
Like Peter walking on water, action sustains faith.
D. Surround Yourself with Fire-Carriers
Paul mentored Timothy. Who is speaking into your life?
Fellowship with passionate believers (Proverbs 27:17 – "Iron sharpens iron").
E. Guard Against Spiritual Drowsiness
Avoid complacency (Revelation 3:15-16 – "Lukewarm").
Stay alert (1 Peter 5:8).
Conclusion: A Call to Reignite
God has placed a fire in you—not for your glory, but for His Kingdom. Maybe yours has dwindled to embers. Today, He is saying:
Stir it up! Pray like you mean it.
Step out! Preach, teach, serve, give—do something.
Stay close to the Fire-Giver! Abide in Christ (John 15:5).
Final Challenge:
Identify one way you will fan your flame this week (e.g., recommit to prayer, join a ministry, repent of sin).
Don’t let your gift die unused. The world needs your fire!
"Fan into flame the gift of God!" Let it burn brightly for Jesus.
Amen.