The Christians Spiritual Protective Equipment Pt 4 Enduring with the Saints

The Christian's SPE The Christian's SPE Tony Cansler / General Armor of God / Ephesians 6:10–18 SPE - Should you be wondering what that is, I am referring to the Christians Spiritual Protective Equipment. At times people need to wear PPE, Personal Protective Equipment. This protects them from harm that mat come to them. For example someone that works with heavy things will wear steel toed shoes or boots. A Doctor/Nurse/Medical Professional will wear gloves while checking someone. We are hearing the term PPE on regular updates now from Governor Lee and President Trump. Mainly referring to the N95 masks. Right now those on the front lines working with COVID-19 patients will wear a complete protective suit to protect them from coming in contact and getting the virus themselves due the highly contagious nature of the virus. Our soldiers are required to wear PPE while in at war to protect their lives. As a Christian we too need to wear protective equipment, thus the name The Christian’s Spiritual Protective Equipment. We are at war, a spiritual war and need to be protected. We need to be protected again sin and against satan which are out against us. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 1 Empowered by the Savior Ephesians 6:10 KJV 1900 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. We see two powers in this text, the first if the power of the Savior “be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might” , the second is the power of satan “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places”. I am going to focus this part of the Power of the Savior. Power Source “be strong in the Lord” “power of his might” The source of our power is the Lord, we have no power apart from the Lord. Romans 13:1 KJV 1900 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Matthew 6:13 KJV 1900 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Nahum 1:3 KJV 1900 3 The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, And will not at all acquit the wicked: The Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, And the clouds are the dust of his feet. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 2 Power is Shared Acts 1:8 KJV 1900 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Acts 4:33 KJV 1900 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Matthew 10:1 KJV 1900 1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Power Span Joshua 1:9 KJV 1900 9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Acts 4:33 KJV 1900 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Power is Sustained 2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV 1900 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Romans 8:37–39 KJV 1900 Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 3 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Peter 1:3–5 KJV 1900 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Power to Save Matthew 9:6 KJV 1900 6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. Matthew 24:30 KJV 1900 30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Romans 1:16 KJV 1900 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 4 believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Power in the Scriptures Hebrews 4:12 KJV 1900 12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Power in the Saviors Coming Matthew 26:64 KJV 1900 64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. Matthew 24:30 KJV 1900 30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Enemy is Satan Ephesians 6:11–12 KJV 1900 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. The Enemy’s Proficient Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 5 “the wiles of the devil” Luke 22:31 KJV 1900 31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 1 Peter 5:8 KJV 1900 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Doubt Disease Disobedience Division Distraction Deception Depression Destruction Delay Drift The Enemy’s Persona “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities” Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 6 “against the rulers of the darkness of this world” Ephesians 2:2 KJV 1900 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: satan will take on different forms, don’t expect him to come before you with a red suit and a pitchfork. That’s not his approach. he will use whatever approach he can with you that he knows will work to deceive you. At times people will be against you, they are not the enemy, the devil is. 2 Corinthians 11:3 KJV 1900 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. Revelation 12:9 KJV 1900 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. In summary, the devil will take on different forms in an effort to deceive The Enemy’s Power “against powers” 2 Corinthians 4:4 KJV 1900 4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 7 1 Peter 5:8 KJV 1900 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: The devil has the power to Deceive 2 Corinthians 11:14 KJV 1900 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. John 8:44 KJV 1900 44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. The devil has the power to Demoralize 1 Corinthians 7:5 KJV 1900 5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. In Genesis 3 the devil deceived Adam and Eve 2 Corinthians 11:3 KJV 1900 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. The devil has the power to Destroy John 10:10 KJV 1900 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 8 have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. The Enemy’s Presence “against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” The devil reaches into high places Revelation 12:7–9 KJV 1900 7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Job 1:6 KJV 1900 6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them. Enabled to Stand Ephesians 6:13–14 KJV 1900 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 9 “stand against the wiles of the devil” “withstand in the evil day” “having done all, to stand” “Stand therefore” Stand Steadfast 1 Corinthians 16:13 KJV 1900 13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Galatians 5:1 KJV 1900 1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Philippians 1:27 KJV 1900 27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 1 Thessalonians 3:8 KJV 1900 8 For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. Stand Sure 2 Timothy 2:19 KJV 1900 19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. Equipment is Supplied Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 10 Ephesians 6:14–17 KJV 1900 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Romans 13:12 KJV 1900 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. 2 Corinthians 10:4 KJV 1900 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 1 Timothy 6:12 KJV 1900 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 2 Timothy 2:3 KJV 1900 3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Strap of Truth “having your loins girt about with truth” Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 The belt was used to hold the soldier’s clothing next to his body. This kept his clothing from flapping about and allowed him freedom of movement. The Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 11 belt was also used to strengthen and support the body John 14:6 KJV 1900 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 1:14 KJV 1900 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 17:17 KJV 1900 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. Suit of Righteousness “having on the breastplate of righteousness” Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 The breastplate covered the body of the soldier from the neck to the thighs. It was used to protect the heart. The believer’s heart is focused upon the Lord Jesus Christ and His righteousness, and that focus must be protected. Isaiah 59:17 KJV 1900 17 For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, And an helmet of salvation upon his head; And he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, And was clad with zeal as a cloke. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 KJV 1900 8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. Matthew 5:20 KJV 1900 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 12 of heaven. 1 Corinthians 15:34 KJV 1900 34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. 2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV 1900 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Shoes of the Gospel “your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace” Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 The Roman sandals were made with nails that gripped the ground firmly even when it was sloping or slippery. The sign of the Christian soldier is readiness—a readiness to march and to bear witness to the gospel. Wherever the Christian soldier’s feet take him, he shares the gospel that can firmly ground a world reeling under the weight of desperate need and conflict. Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 Lehman Strauss makes a statement about this point that startles the mind of modern man: “The soldier’s shoes are not the dancing slippers of this world or the lounging slippers of the slothful, but the shoes of the Christian warrior who knows Christ and makes Him known Matthew 28:19–20 KJV 1900 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 13 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Acts 1:8 KJV 1900 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Romans 1:16 KJV 1900 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Shield of Faith “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked” Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 The word “shield” does not mean the small round shield which the soldier held in his hand to fight off the weapons of the enemy. It means the great oblong shield worn by the soldier to protect his body from the fiery darts thrown by the enemy. The darts were dipped in pitch or some other combustible material and set afire. When they struck, they served the purpose of small incendiary bombs. Psalm 33:20 KJV 1900 20 Our soul waiteth for the Lord: He is our help and our shield. Psalm 84:9 KJV 1900 9 Behold, O God our shield, And look upon the face of thine anointed. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 14 Hebrews 11:6 KJV 1900 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Salvation Helmet “take the helmet of salvation” Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 The helmet covered the head and the mind of the soldier. The head, of course, was the core of a soldier’s power to wage war. His thinking ability was the most important factor in determining his victory or defeat. Therefore, the soldier needed a helmet to protect his head and mind. The sign of the Christian soldier is the helmet of salvation (deliverance). He must protect his mind and its thoughts, keeping all thoughts focused upon the Leader, the Lord Jesus Christ, and His objective of reaching the world with the glorious news that men can live forever Romans 12:2 KJV 1900 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV 1900 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; Ephesians 4:22–24 KJV 1900 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 15 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Sword of the Spirit “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” Galatians–Colossians (King James Version) A. The Armor of the Christian Soldier, 6:10–20 The sword was a weapon used for both defense and offense. The sword was used both to protect and to fight off and slay the enemy Hebrews 4:12 KJV 1900 12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Revelation 1:16 KJV 1900 16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. Psalm 119:9 KJV 1900 9 BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. Psalm 119:11 KJV 1900 Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 16 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, That I might not sin against thee. Engage in Supplication Ephesians 6:18 KJV 1900 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Pray with Humility When we pray we should first humble ourselves before the Lord, let us not be prideful or boastful before the Lord, but Humble. Luke 18:9–14 KJV 1900 9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 17 rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Pray with Purity When we come into the presence of the Lord we need to enter his presence with a pure life. Any sin we harbor we need to put under the blood of Jesus with forgiveness. If we harbor sin in our life and pray the Lord will not listen to our prayer. Isaiah 59:1–2 KJV 1900 1 Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; Neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, And your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. Psalm 66:18 KJV 1900 18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear me: Pray with Clarity Be Clear in your request before the Lord, be Specific in the prayer. Be careful not to pray in generalities, say specific requests with the Lord. James 5:17–18 KJV 1900 17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 18 18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. Pray Obediently While praying the request must be in alignment with the Will of God, not accordingly to our own will. Matthew 26:39 KJV 1900 39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. Matthew 26:42 KJV 1900 42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. Pray Confidently While praying we should believe that the Lord will answer our prayers, confident not in ourselves but in the Lord. Matthew 18:19 KJV 1900 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 21:22 KJV 1900 22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. The Lord will answer the Born again Believers Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 19 prayers and covers the bases we spoke of previously, the answer will come to our prayers. But it might not be what we are expecting. The Lord answers according to His will. The answer will come in one of four ways. Yes No Not Now Not that Way Pray Intently As we pray we need to focus on the Lord, and it is best during your private prayer time you do so in isolation so that we can intently focus on the Lord. Matthew 14:23 KJV 1900 23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. Pray Earnestly We need be earnest in our prayers, pouring out our deepest concerns and desires unto the Lord with passion and purity. James 5:15–18 KJV 1900 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 20 fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. 17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. 18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. Luke 22:44 KJV 1900 44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Pray Persistently We need be persistent in our prayers before the Lord. At times we tend to share a single request then ask no more, we need to be persistent with the Lord and ask over and over. Luke 18:1–8 KJV 1900 1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; 2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: 3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. 4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; 5Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 21 her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. 6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. 7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? 8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth? 1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV 1900 17 Pray without ceasing. Matthew 7:7 KJV 1900 7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 1 Chronicles 16:11 KJV 1900 11 Seek the Lord and his strength, Seek his face continually. up to this point we have covered the following • Empowered by the Savior • Enemy is satan • Enabled to Stand • Equipment is Supplied • Engaging in Supplication Today we are going to speak about... Enduring with the Saints Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 22 This Journey we are on has a lot to do with Enduring The Christian Life isn’t about your first steps as much as it is about your finishing steps The Christian Life isn’t about how far you go as much as it is finishing The Christian Life isn’t about how many goals you finish as much as it is getting to the finish Hebrews 12:1–3 KJV 1900 1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. This about the Parable of the Sower in Mt 13 Matthew 13:3–9 KJV 1900 3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; 4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: 5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 23 no deepness of earth: 6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: 8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. 9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. It was the seeds that endured and finished that produced, we need to be saints that endure and finish as we too will produce. I have met many that jump out on fire when they make a profession of faith only to fall to the wayside later, you need deep roots to endure this Christian life. I worry did they actually get it. You aren’t finished when you get saved, as a matter of fact that is your first step in this marathon/triathlon of a Christian life we are living. A Marathoner or Triathlete don’t just sign up for the race, they compete in the race Ephesians 6:18 KJV 1900 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 24 Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 2 Timothy 4:5 KJV 1900 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. 1 Thessalonians 1:3 KJV 1900 3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; 2 Timothy 2:3 KJV 1900 3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 1:4 KJV 1900 4 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: James 5:8 KJV 1900 8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. God gave word to Azariah (Prophet) to give to Asa (King) in 2 Chr 15:1-7 that was specifically to Asa, but I feel we can also apply some of it to us today. There is 5 points that I feel applies to Christian Leaders today. I encourage you to go home and read this story in full context to get the entire picture. “The Lord is with you while ye be with him” – Child of God, know the Lord is with you “if ye seek him, he will be found of you” – Child of God, Seek the Lord and you will find him “Be ye strong” – Child of God, Stay Strong in the Lord and the power of His might “and let your hands not be weak” – Child of God, Don’t back down, Don’t get slack, Don’t Give up, Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 25 Don’t Quit some other versions actually say Don’t give up. “you work shall be rewarded” – Child of God, You will have a reward, and Great is your reward. • When your Burden is hard to Bare, Don’t you give up, Endure • When your Load is Long, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Road is Rough, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Saints Suffer, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Walk Makes you Weary, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Work Makes you Weak, Don’t you give up, Endure • When Prayer seems Powerless, Don’t you give up - Jesus is Listening, Endure • When the Disciples are Distressed, Don’t you give up, Endure • When Doubt and Depression is Drowning us, Don’t you give up, Endure • When Teaching has made you Tired, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Sanctuary is Silent, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Divine seems Distant, Don’t you give up, Endure • When Prayers seem Powerless, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Disciples are Disappearing, Don’t you Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 26 give up, Endure • When the Visitors seem to have Vanished, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the Children are Crying, Don’t you give up, Endure • When Soul Winning has Stopped, Don’t you give up, Endure • When Progress has Perished, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the devil is deceiving, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the liar is lying, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the deceiver is deceiving, Don’t you give up, Endure • When satan is slaying, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the tempter is tempting, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the god of this world is going against you, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the adversary is attacking, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the wicked one is warring, Don’t you give up, Endure • When the war is wearing on you, Don’t you give up, Endure Endure Trouble 2 Timothy 2:3 KJV 1900 Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 27 3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Endure Tribulation 2 Thessalonians 1:4 KJV 1900 4 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: Endure Temptation James 1:12 KJV 1900 12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Endure Tragedy Philippians 4:13 KJV 1900 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Joshua 10:25 KJV 1900 25 And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the Lord do to all your enemies against whom ye fight. 1 Chronicles 28:20 KJV 1900 20 And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 28 house of the Lord. Dr. R.G. Lee, told a story of a man who was an artist and also a chess player. He was trying to picture that you can’t beat Satan in the game of sin, so he painted a painting of a young man seated at a chessboard with Satan—Satan on one side with a malevolent look upon his face; the young man, with a worried and concerned look on his face, was seated at the other side. And this man, who knew the game of chess, had arranged the men on the chessboard in such a way that anyone who knew chess knew before very long that Satan would win. There was no move left that the young man could make, so far as anyone could see, where he could win the game. Satan had that gleam in his eye, and he knew that he was going to win. The idea of the painting evidently was that you just can’t outsmart the devil. This painting was hung in the gallery. It was a very interesting painting, and people would come to see it. One man, who was a very intelligent and eminent chess player, was intrigued by it. He stood, and he looked at it; and he watched it; and he studied it; and he studied it, and pondered, and thought, and looked, and studied. And he broke the silence of that gallery with a shout, “Ha ha!” He said, “I found it—I have found it.” And he had figured it out. There was still a move left. There was still one move that the young man had; and if he would take it, he could win the game. I personally do not know how to play chess, but I do know we might be at a hopeless time, it might seem satan has us defeated but let me assure you Jesus is not defeated, and that means we are not doomed. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 29 There is still a move left! All Glory to God. If you are watching or listening to this message you find yourself struggling to finish, you feel like quitting, just hold on child. 1 Corinthians 1:8–9 KJV 1900 8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. That is saying Christ can sustain you until you finish. Christ is the only way any of us can finish. I began to think about the Keys to Enduring to the Finish. Here is some things that I feel deeply that are Keys to the Finishline 1. Being Converted If we are not converted then we are not in Christ and I can assure you that if you are not in Christ you will not finish. Sadly enough you will fall by the wayside. You must be converted to be able to endure. 2. Being Consumed What I mean with that statement is that we must be Consumed with Christ. This means a Full Submission and a Full Surrender to Christs Word, Christs Works, Christs Will, and Christs Way. If you are consumed with Christ you shall endure. 3. Being Committed Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 30 Commitment in the life of a Christian is Huge, we oft times commit ourselves to this or to that, but if we want to Finish this Race and Endure we must above everything commit our self unto Christ. An Athlete will work, they will workout, they will exercise, they will practice , they will eat healthy, they will get plenty of rest, these are things that will help them compete in their respective sport. If they do not do these things they will struggle, they will get discouraged, they will get defeated, and they will likely quit that sport. Do you think that Michael Jordan just come out of the womb being able to play like he did no. He was very gifted but he had to work, he had to workout, he had to exercise, he had to practice, he had to rest, he had to eat right. He was committed! Some of us could do for a spiritual workout, just throwing that out there. I am not sure if you caught it but there was a some common themes in the Keys, Christ, Endurance The Christian Life is like an Ironman, you have different phases that you go thru, each one difficult, each one about Endurance. You don’t just walk out there and compete in an Ironman. You workout and you work up to that. It is about building Endurance. You don’t win the Ironman in the first step, nor the first forty yards, no even in the end of the first phase. You win an Ironman by finishing first on the final phase. In the Christian Life it is about the Finish and Enduring . Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 31 Think about Boxing, one thing about boxing that the boxer must do is not only be able to throw a punch but he/she must be able to take a punch as well as defend/deflect punches. If a Boxer can only throw a punch and cannot take a punch when their opponent lands blows on them and they will they will go down and potentially get defeated. The Christian life is a lot like that, our opponent satan will land punches on us but we must endure. Don’t think about making it thru the first round, nor the fifth round, but focus on enduring THRU (not to) the FINAL round whatever that is. Exported from Logos Bible Software, 1:07 AM May 3, 2020. 32