Bible Readings:
John 15:18 – 16:33
Sermon Outline:
Romans 5:1–5 (NKJV)
1Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;
4and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
5Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
I The believer’s confidence in suffering
1 Peter 1:6–7 (NKJV)
6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,
7that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,
II How does affliction work in the believer’s life?
Psalm 119:67 (NKJV)
67Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word.
Psalm 119:71 (NKJV)
71It is good for me that I have been afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes.
James 1:2–4 (NKJV)
2My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
3knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
4But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
2 Corinthians 4:16–18 (NKJV)
16Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.
17For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,
18while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.