God's people are to be soldiers for Christ and to
examine the implications of this. Text: 2
Timothy 2:1-4.
Introduction.
1. It seems that everywhere we go today, we see signs in front of church
buildings which talk about a celebration.2. This has even crept into
the Lord's church.3. While it is true that Christians have great
cause to celebrate, we must remember that our ultimate celebration is to be in
eternity.4. While we are on earth, we are told to be soldiers who are
fighting for Christ.
Body.
I. Soldiers.
A. Must meet enlistment
requirements.B. Characteristics
of a soldier
1. Makes adequate preparation.
a. Knows his own strengths
and weaknesses.
b. Knows how to use weapon.
c. Knows how to conduct
himself.
d. Knows the enemy.
2. Is loyal to his commander.
3. Is motivated; knows what is
at stake.
4. Is focused on the ultimate
goal.
5. Never gives up.
II. We are at war.
A. Not at peace!B.
Not physical but spiritual (Eph
6:12).
1. So much more important than
physical.2. One soul is
worth more than the world (Matt
16:26).
C. Have we met the enlistment
requirements for this army (2
Tim 2:2)?D. Have we
made adequate preparation?
1. Do we know our strengths
and weaknesses?2. Do we
know how to use the weapon we have been issued (Eph
6:17)?a. Tells us how
to influence others.b. Is
our manual on how to be a good soldier (2
Tim 3:16-17).
E. Are we loyal to our commander
(Heb
2:10)?
1. Will follow no other.
F. Are we focused (Heb
12:1,2)?G. Never gives
up.
1. No armor on backside.2.
Sometimes we may only be able to stand; not go forward (Eph
6:11-14; 1
Cor 10:13).
H. What is at stake (1
Tim 6:12)?
1. Eternal life.
2. Our souls and other's souls
(Matt
16:26).
III. What will be the outcome?
A. The outcome is known.
2. Defeat for the unrighteous (2
Thess 1:7-9).B. Are you on
the right side?
Conclusion.
1. Why not get on the right side
today?
-- Ralph Price --
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