Holding Fast to Faith
VBC Albuquerque · Dec 29, 2024
This sermon encourages the congregation to hold fast to faith until the end, even in the face of hardship and trials. Through Paul's example and Jesus's teachings, believers are called to live faithfully and steadfastly for Christ.
The opening section presents the main theme: holding fast to faith is essential for all Christians. The sermon begins with Acts 21:11-13, where the prophet Agabus foretells Paul's imprisonment in Jerusalem. Although the believers worry and ask Paul not to go to Jerusalem, Paul remains willing to suffer and die for the name of Jesus Christ. This story illustrates the unwavering commitment of a faithful servant to his faith.
The second section develops the theological argument about perseverance and completing a life of faith through Paul's words in 2 Timothy 4:6-8. Paul affirms that he has "fought a good fight, finished the race, kept the faith." The crown of righteousness has been laid up for those who love His appearing. The sermon also warns of coming challenges (2 Timothy 4:3-4), when people will refuse sound doctrine and follow their own desires and false teachers. However, Jesus's promise in Acts 23:11 reminds Paul (and through him the church) that the Lord will give strength to testify in Rome just as in Jerusalem.
The third section applies the message to the real life of the congregation by emphasizing the brevity of life. Through the story of the rich fool in Luke 12:19-20, the sermon warns that our life is only like a vapor, appearing for a moment and then vanishing away. James 4:13-15 reminds believers to say: "If the Lord wills, and we live, we will do this or that." Therefore, our purpose must be to devote ourselves to serving God and keeping faith steadfast, knowing that the crown of righteousness will be given to those who love His appearing.