04
May '23
Picked On but Picked Out
04
May '23
Introduction: Ever since the massacre in Nashville, Tennessee, a few weeks ago at a CHRISTian school, it seems like our culture has become aware of the bitterness and hatred the LGBTQ community has toward followers of Jesus Christ. CHRISTian persecution is inevitable. But didn’t Jesus forewarn His followers of this signs of the time? Both Paul and Peter mention it as well.
Check out the following:
1. CHRISTian Accusation and Persecution! (1Tim 6:12,13)
“I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession…”
The word “charge” means put on notice….to notify! The word “quickened” means to bring to life- make alive. Please notice that Jesus was persecuted as He stood before Pontius Pilate. Yet, He did not back up or shut up, because He was looking up! He calls His followers to do the same. Are you?
2. Satan’s Falsification and Deception! (1Tim 6:13,14)
“I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; 14That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable..”
The word ” keep” means guard. The words “without spot” means undefiled. The word ” unrebukable” means never caught doing wrong. Remember, all of this is in the light of Jesus coming again.
3. Churches Evacuation and Destination! (1Tim 6:14,15)
“….until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords.”
The word “appearing” is epiphany. The word “potentate” has to do with ruling. When Jesus Christ comes again, He will rule and reign!
Conclusion: CHRISTian Persecution is going to intensify as we get closer to our Lord’s return. Are you prepared? Should we be preparing? Jesus told us too. Persecuted now. Rewarded later.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese