The Key to Steadfast Faith

Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. Standing before you today and sharing God's word is an honor. As we continue our journey of faith, it is vital for us to understand the key to steadfast faith. In Hebrews 12:1-2, the author urges us to run the race set before us with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. This month's theme, "Keep Your Eyes on Jesus," and this year's theme, "Good Fight, Right Race, Steadfast Faith," align perfectly with our topic today.

Hebrews 12:1–2 ESV

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Central Idea:

The central idea of today's sermon is that steadfast faith resides in focusing on Jesus, drawing strength from His example, and persevering in our spiritual journey, irrespective of our challenges.

KEY 1: Maintain our Sight on Jesus

Our first objective in developing steadfast faith is to fix our gaze on Jesus. Amid trials and challenges, becoming distracted and taking our eyes off Jesus can be easy. However, Hebrews 12:2 reminds us that He is the author and perfecter of our faith. When we keep our focus on Him, we are reminded of His power, love, and faithfulness. We can look to Him for strength and courage, knowing that He has already overcome the world.

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." - Hebrews 12:2 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33

Hebrews 12:2 ESV

2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Matthew 6:33 ESV

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

KEY 1 - Reflection Question:

How can you, in your daily life and amidst your personal challenges, keep your sight fixed on Jesus? What practical steps can you take to ensure His teachings and example remain at the forefront of your thoughts and actions?

KEY 2: Holding on to God's promises

The second objective in building steadfast faith is holding on to God's promises. In moments of doubt and uncertainty, we must cling to His word and trust that He will fulfill His promises. God's word is a source of strength and hope, reminding us of His faithfulness throughout history. 2 Corinthians 1:20 tells us that all of God's promises find their "Yes" in Jesus Christ.

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him, the 'A men' is spoken by us to the glory of God." - 2 Corinthians 1:20 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10

2 Corinthians 1:20 ESV

20 For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.

Isaiah 41:10 ESV

10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

KEY 2 - Reflection Question:

Which of God's promises resonate most with you during trying times?

1. The promise of His presence (Isaiah 41:10)

2. The promise of His strength and help (Isaiah 41:10)

3. The affirmation of all His promises in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20)

4. The promise of His kingdom and righteousness when we seek Him first (Matthew 6:33)

KEY 3: Persevering through trials

Our final objective in developing steadfast faith is persevering through trials. As Christians, we are not immune to hardships and struggles. In fact, 1 Peter 4:12 tells us to "not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you." However, when our faith is tested, it produces perseverance, which leads to maturity and completeness in our relationship with God.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." - James 1:2-3 "And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." - 1 Peter 5:10

James 1:2–3 ESV

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

1 Peter 5:10 ESV

10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

KEY 3 - Reflection Question:

True or False: Facing trials and hardships is an indicator that our faith is weak or that God has abandoned us. Can you elaborate on your answer using the teachings from James 1:2-3 and 1 Peter 5:10?

Conclusion

In conclusion, the key to steadfast faith is fixing our gaze on Jesus, holding on to God's promises, and persevering through trials. When we keep our eyes fixed on Him, trust in His promises, and endure hardships, we will develop unwavering faith that can weather any storm. So let us continue to run the race set before us with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus as our perfect example.