Pastor Vincent - 16 October 2014
Faith And Its Hidden Dynamics
“If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. 4 Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” [Lk 17:3-5] Often, we are troubled by the gigantic tasks we’re called to do, and we know that we lack the faith to accomplish it. However, before one has faith, he needs to know that faith comes from the Word of God. A man with faith is a man having the word of God in him so much so that he is living in a state of constant spiritual conviction. That moment, the enabling power of God will compel him to do things beyond his inclination and ability. Therefore, it is not the quantity of our faith but God's initiative power and sovereignty that achieve the great and impossible things in our lives. So in the difficult process and impossible hurdles in life, don't feel crippled by your little faith. Use the little faith you have to look to God's power and truth. Our faith is not the condition required to achieve God’s purpose, instead, it is the conditions (big and small, good and bad) surrounding us, driving us God-relying and dependent on His grace that shape our faith.
From Series: "Topical Messages"
More From "Topical Messages"
Powered by Series Engine
Battling Inferiority, Indifference, Lack of Zeal
In this fast-paced society and highly demanding era, we are trapped in a system, both knowingly and unknowingly. What is this system? At first thoughts, this system seems to sound like laws and institutions. Yet if we inquire further, this system is in fact a godless and man-centric mindset, which very quickly develops into a disbelieving culture. As believers of God, we can be easily immobilized by such a systemic culture. We involuntarily subscribe to a certain way of thinking in this system of ours, be it with regards to merits, successes, achievements, problem-solving skills, etc. Such a system hurts the human soul and makes it grow cold. Consider, what happens to the fallouts of this system? They are constantly battling with inferiority (about self), indifference (about life), and lack of zeal (to do what ought to be done). May God open our eyes to this reality so that we can be sensitive to the needs of this era, and with that, relate the Gospel powerfully and relevantly.
No Comments