WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:10.320 So last Sunday we heard Jesus speaking to us through Paul about money and greed and contentment. 00:00:11.359 --> 00:00:15.200 And he warned about how many false teachers are in it for the money. 00:00:16.480 --> 00:00:22.920 They see godliness being devoted to God as a means and not an end. 00:00:23.920 --> 00:00:26.260 They see it as a way to make an easy buck. 00:00:26.260 --> 00:00:35.300 But no, says Jesus, being devoted to God with contentment is great gain. 00:00:36.140 --> 00:00:40.740 Life is not about how much we have, whether money or possessions. 00:00:41.719 --> 00:00:46.299 And death will someday separate us from all our material things. 00:00:47.359 --> 00:00:54.200 And so we should seek to be content with what we have, to be content with the basics like food and clothing. 00:00:54.200 --> 00:01:05.740 And we heard Jesus give us this very sober warning last Sunday about what greed and the love of money leads to in the lives of people. 00:01:06.480 --> 00:01:08.100 It leads to temptation. 00:01:08.719 --> 00:01:10.460 It leads to entrapment. 00:01:11.000 --> 00:01:14.079 It leads to us doing stupid and foolish things. 00:01:14.760 --> 00:01:16.219 It leads to harm. 00:01:16.219 --> 00:01:23.239 And if we continue to scratch that itch of greed, it eventually plunges us into ruin and destruction. 00:01:24.879 --> 00:01:30.680 It ruins and destroys lives, marriages, families. 00:01:30.680 --> 00:01:36.620 Not only does it bring guilt upon us because it opens the door to all kinds of evil, 00:01:36.880 --> 00:01:41.400 but the eagerness for money and the eagerness to get more stuff 00:01:41.400 --> 00:01:46.719 has even led some people to wander away from their faith in Jesus. 00:01:47.640 --> 00:01:51.820 It's the source of many problems and countless griefs. 00:01:53.660 --> 00:01:54.840 That was last Sunday. 00:01:54.840 --> 00:01:59.320 Now we pick up the words of Christ in verse 11 of chapter 6. 00:02:01.560 --> 00:02:16.539 But you, man of God, flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 00:02:17.580 --> 00:02:19.740 Fight the good fight of the faith. 00:02:19.740 --> 00:02:24.240 Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called 00:02:24.240 --> 00:02:27.680 when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 00:02:28.960 --> 00:02:31.780 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, 00:02:32.420 --> 00:02:37.240 and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, 00:02:37.780 --> 00:02:41.540 I charge you to keep this command without spot or blame 00:02:41.540 --> 00:02:44.760 until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 00:02:45.939 --> 00:02:48.340 which God will bring about in his own time. 00:02:48.340 --> 00:02:52.879 God, the blessed and only ruler, 00:02:53.439 --> 00:02:55.719 the King of kings and Lord of lords, 00:02:56.020 --> 00:02:57.920 who alone is immortal 00:02:57.920 --> 00:03:01.099 and who lives in unapproachable light, 00:03:01.840 --> 00:03:04.360 whom no one has seen or can see, 00:03:05.259 --> 00:03:09.360 to him be honor and might forever. 00:03:10.319 --> 00:03:10.960 Amen. 00:03:10.960 --> 00:03:11.120 Amen. 00:03:11.120 --> 00:03:20.099 So in this passage, Christ sets before us four contrasting commands. 00:03:21.500 --> 00:03:26.780 First, we are told to look at the damage and destruction that greed and the love of money 00:03:26.780 --> 00:03:29.020 has caused in people's lives. 00:03:29.020 --> 00:03:37.120 And so flee, pursue, fight, and take hold of. 00:03:37.540 --> 00:03:43.240 We hear these four contrasting commands from Jesus through Paul in verses 11 and 12. 00:03:43.240 --> 00:03:51.840 Then in verses 13 and 14, we again hear the Apostle Paul call both God and Jesus as witnesses 00:03:51.840 --> 00:03:55.680 to this charge, to these commands that he's giving to Timothy, 00:03:56.219 --> 00:04:00.400 which Timothy is to keep until the return of Christ. 00:04:00.400 --> 00:04:04.640 And then the third piece there in verses 15 and 16, 00:04:04.640 --> 00:04:11.219 we hear Paul revel in the holiness of God in comparison to all others and give God praise. 00:04:12.319 --> 00:04:17.019 So let's begin by looking at these four commands that Christ gives, 00:04:17.100 --> 00:04:19.699 not just to Timothy, but to all of us. 00:04:19.699 --> 00:04:22.539 Verse 11, 00:04:22.539 --> 00:04:37.959 But you, man of God, flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 00:04:39.120 --> 00:04:45.379 So first, look at the damage and destruction that greed and the love of money has caused in people's lives. 00:04:45.379 --> 00:04:51.519 But you, Timothy, says Paul, don't follow that path. 00:04:52.459 --> 00:04:54.779 Be the man of God that you are. 00:04:55.379 --> 00:05:00.060 Not like these false teachers who fake devotion to God. 00:05:00.259 --> 00:05:00.500 No. 00:05:01.319 --> 00:05:05.500 You, Timothy, be God's man and flee from all this. 00:05:05.759 --> 00:05:08.439 Run away from greed and the love of money. 00:05:10.459 --> 00:05:13.240 This word flee is really strong. 00:05:13.240 --> 00:05:18.480 It's the word fugo from which we get our English word fugitive. 00:05:18.960 --> 00:05:22.740 It means to escape from potential danger or damage. 00:05:25.460 --> 00:05:28.780 And so the ruining effects of greed are not hypothetical. 00:05:29.900 --> 00:05:30.540 They're real. 00:05:31.980 --> 00:05:33.699 Escape those damaging effects. 00:05:34.800 --> 00:05:39.319 Run away from those soul-shrinking seductions, Timothy. 00:05:39.319 --> 00:05:45.339 Wake up to the reality of the danger and run for your life from these things. 00:05:46.040 --> 00:05:48.920 Flee from all this, says Jesus. 00:05:50.779 --> 00:05:52.980 How do we run from greed? 00:05:54.139 --> 00:05:58.039 How do we run from a desire that's in our hearts? 00:05:59.399 --> 00:06:01.560 Well, we first need to acknowledge that it's there. 00:06:01.560 --> 00:06:08.860 We first need to confess it to God and seek His forgiveness. 00:06:10.839 --> 00:06:15.699 And then we need to vigorously shun and ignore that desire. 00:06:16.199 --> 00:06:18.040 We need to make war on that desire. 00:06:18.579 --> 00:06:20.259 We need to kill that desire. 00:06:21.120 --> 00:06:23.340 The desire for more, more, more. 00:06:23.339 --> 00:06:27.679 So practically, what does that look like? 00:06:28.619 --> 00:06:31.939 I mean, unless we know we have need of something from that store, 00:06:32.039 --> 00:06:35.339 we need to chuck that flyer in the recycling bin. 00:06:35.939 --> 00:06:37.099 Why even read it? 00:06:38.879 --> 00:06:41.539 Skip that advertisement on the screen, if possible. 00:06:41.540 --> 00:06:46.340 As you hear that sales pitch on the radio or on the screen, 00:06:46.460 --> 00:06:48.600 and you hear that little voice rising up saying, 00:06:49.080 --> 00:06:55.280 yes, wouldn't it be nice to have a new, a better fill-in-the-blank? 00:06:55.500 --> 00:06:57.020 That will make you happy. 00:06:58.060 --> 00:06:59.220 We need to shout back. 00:06:59.700 --> 00:07:02.180 I have the Lord Jesus Christ, 00:07:02.300 --> 00:07:06.720 and being devoted to Him with contentment is great gain. 00:07:07.580 --> 00:07:08.900 We need to shout back. 00:07:08.899 --> 00:07:11.359 But if we have food and clothing, 00:07:11.799 --> 00:07:14.819 we will be content with that. 00:07:16.239 --> 00:07:18.339 Now, I don't know what you guys do in your houses, 00:07:18.479 --> 00:07:21.319 but one of the things that we do in our house when we're watching TV, 00:07:22.000 --> 00:07:23.919 both as a family or just me and Jen, 00:07:24.859 --> 00:07:26.500 when the advertisement comes on, 00:07:26.579 --> 00:07:28.179 sometimes I just can't help myself, 00:07:28.279 --> 00:07:30.659 and I have to just start saying out loud 00:07:30.659 --> 00:07:33.779 the underlying message that's in the ad. 00:07:34.379 --> 00:07:36.719 I'm going to give you a little example. 00:07:38.899 --> 00:07:52.819 I'm going to give you a little secret. 00:07:56.319 --> 00:07:57.000 Bye. 00:07:59.739 --> 00:08:00.339 Bye. 00:08:00.359 --> 00:08:00.479 Bye. 00:08:00.659 --> 00:08:02.979 Bye. 00:08:03.000 --> 00:08:03.719 Bye. 00:08:03.799 --> 00:08:04.199 Bye. 00:08:04.199 --> 00:08:04.839 Let's go. 00:08:05.719 --> 00:08:06.680 She's up. 00:08:10.199 --> 00:08:10.860 Wow, wow. 00:08:10.920 --> 00:08:12.039 Jump it down and I'll pick it up. 00:08:12.120 --> 00:08:12.719 Wow, wow. 00:08:13.620 --> 00:08:14.560 Wow, wow. 00:08:14.620 --> 00:08:15.719 Jump it down and I'll pick it up. 00:08:15.819 --> 00:08:17.360 Wow, wow, wow. 00:08:21.079 --> 00:08:26.199 Are you bored? 00:08:27.419 --> 00:08:31.899 The new iPhone 15 will put the wow back into your life. 00:08:31.899 --> 00:08:37.139 Are you still carrying one of those old phones around with less features? 00:08:37.740 --> 00:08:39.279 Then you're missing out. 00:08:39.720 --> 00:08:45.360 Get the new iPhone 15 that comes with dynamic island, 48 megapixel camera, 00:08:45.779 --> 00:08:49.340 two times telephoto zoom lens, all day battery life. 00:08:50.379 --> 00:08:51.779 Because we've never had that before. 00:08:52.679 --> 00:08:54.639 This phone is sure to please you. 00:08:55.500 --> 00:09:00.159 It'll make others go wow when they see that you have it. 00:09:00.159 --> 00:09:03.019 It'll bring wow to you in all that you do. 00:09:03.199 --> 00:09:06.620 Whether it's just sitting there on the table at home looking good. 00:09:07.399 --> 00:09:10.480 Or helping you listen to music as you go for a walk in the rain. 00:09:10.899 --> 00:09:14.120 Or helping you capture and relive your favorite moments. 00:09:14.259 --> 00:09:17.860 It'll wow you with its ability to remind you of important deadlines. 00:09:18.039 --> 00:09:20.480 It'll wow you by how it enables you to connect. 00:09:21.000 --> 00:09:24.819 The iPhone 15 is your best traveling companion wherever you go. 00:09:25.600 --> 00:09:27.399 Get some wow in your life. 00:09:27.399 --> 00:09:31.579 You know what else will make you go wow? 00:09:33.220 --> 00:09:34.259 The price tag. 00:09:36.019 --> 00:09:37.579 This phone is about $1,200. 00:09:39.980 --> 00:09:41.000 And another wow. 00:09:41.120 --> 00:09:44.240 $1,200 only gets you this much storage on that thing. 00:09:44.419 --> 00:09:46.840 For all those high-res photos and videos. 00:09:47.039 --> 00:09:49.299 So you're going to be needing an upgrade in no time. 00:09:50.899 --> 00:09:53.679 Maybe I should get a little bit more storage right off the get-go. 00:09:53.679 --> 00:09:56.419 And now we're talking $1,300 or even $1,600. 00:09:58.859 --> 00:10:00.539 And what else will make you go wow? 00:10:00.599 --> 00:10:03.179 If you get the 15 Pro or the Pro Max. 00:10:04.339 --> 00:10:07.399 You can spend up to $2,500. 00:10:09.500 --> 00:10:11.339 Depending on how much storage you choose. 00:10:12.339 --> 00:10:13.579 And the ultimate wow. 00:10:13.580 --> 00:10:17.000 You might find out that your device has an issue with overheating. 00:10:17.540 --> 00:10:20.580 As these models have been prone to do. 00:10:20.660 --> 00:10:21.920 Becoming too hot to handle. 00:10:22.460 --> 00:10:23.920 But it's not our fault says Apple. 00:10:24.560 --> 00:10:28.180 It's the fault of how people are writing the software that runs on these things. 00:10:29.660 --> 00:10:30.520 Wow indeed. 00:10:30.519 --> 00:10:33.819 $1,200. 00:10:33.819 --> 00:10:33.899 $1,200. 00:10:34.899 --> 00:10:37.620 Is enough to sponsor a child. 00:10:38.019 --> 00:10:39.899 And provide the basics for them. 00:10:40.039 --> 00:10:43.639 And regular gospel opportunities for that child. 00:10:44.100 --> 00:10:45.600 Through Compassion Canada. 00:10:45.860 --> 00:10:47.840 For two whole years. 00:10:49.419 --> 00:10:51.679 Maybe I can do with a little less wow. 00:10:52.399 --> 00:10:53.480 In my life. 00:10:53.960 --> 00:10:54.379 For that. 00:10:55.939 --> 00:10:57.220 Flee from all this. 00:10:57.340 --> 00:10:58.079 Says Jesus. 00:10:58.579 --> 00:10:59.939 Don't just tolerate greed. 00:10:59.940 --> 00:11:01.880 Don't give it even a little place. 00:11:02.200 --> 00:11:02.780 In your life. 00:11:03.140 --> 00:11:04.200 Run away from it. 00:11:06.200 --> 00:11:08.700 One of the things I'll confess right now to all of you. 00:11:08.800 --> 00:11:10.180 That I was convicted. 00:11:10.520 --> 00:11:11.700 Reading through these words. 00:11:11.820 --> 00:11:12.800 These past two weeks. 00:11:13.520 --> 00:11:15.960 Because there's been a number of times in the past year. 00:11:16.780 --> 00:11:18.760 Where I've gone boredom shopping. 00:11:19.440 --> 00:11:20.520 Or escape shopping. 00:11:21.480 --> 00:11:23.060 In a moment where I'm bored. 00:11:23.160 --> 00:11:24.760 Or just want to escape. 00:11:25.520 --> 00:11:27.140 I've scrolled on Amazon. 00:11:27.960 --> 00:11:29.560 I've made a trip to the store. 00:11:30.900 --> 00:11:33.080 Usually I needed at least one thing there. 00:11:34.300 --> 00:11:35.440 But then I've lingered. 00:11:35.560 --> 00:11:36.660 And I've walked the aisles. 00:11:37.560 --> 00:11:38.940 What else can I buy? 00:11:39.140 --> 00:11:39.880 While I'm here. 00:11:41.180 --> 00:11:41.520 Ooh. 00:11:41.660 --> 00:11:42.620 That looks nice. 00:11:43.620 --> 00:11:44.740 And it's on sale. 00:11:47.140 --> 00:11:48.660 I already have one of those. 00:11:48.780 --> 00:11:49.640 But this one's better. 00:11:49.639 --> 00:11:53.279 Now praise the Lord. 00:11:53.379 --> 00:11:54.639 Oftentimes when I've done that. 00:11:54.720 --> 00:11:56.120 Though I regret the time wasted. 00:11:56.759 --> 00:11:58.340 I've left the store. 00:11:58.500 --> 00:12:00.000 I've left the website with nothing. 00:12:01.039 --> 00:12:02.480 I felt the battle in me. 00:12:02.559 --> 00:12:03.740 And I fought against it. 00:12:04.939 --> 00:12:06.019 But to my regret. 00:12:06.139 --> 00:12:07.340 Sometimes in the past year. 00:12:07.399 --> 00:12:07.980 I gave in. 00:12:07.980 --> 00:12:12.720 I bought things just to scratch the itch. 00:12:14.539 --> 00:12:17.340 I let greed fester in my heart. 00:12:17.340 --> 00:12:21.220 I'll give you an example. 00:12:21.960 --> 00:12:28.040 When the last fastening clip on my ratchet set case broke. 00:12:28.039 --> 00:12:32.579 I found myself spending a lot of time looking at ratchet sets. 00:12:33.579 --> 00:12:35.779 It bothered me that that clip was broken. 00:12:35.779 --> 00:12:39.139 I gave in to greed. 00:12:40.000 --> 00:12:41.419 I bought a brand new one. 00:12:42.240 --> 00:12:43.659 It was such a good sale. 00:12:45.139 --> 00:12:47.659 Hundreds of dollars off at Canadian Tire. 00:12:49.279 --> 00:12:49.959 And guess what? 00:12:50.819 --> 00:12:53.360 After using it quite a few times. 00:12:53.459 --> 00:12:56.079 I realized that it was just a stupid waste of money. 00:12:56.759 --> 00:12:58.439 I realized why I had really done it. 00:13:00.079 --> 00:13:03.279 The new one is irritatingly difficult to open the case. 00:13:03.279 --> 00:13:06.620 And every socket inside is pinched in so tightly. 00:13:06.839 --> 00:13:08.919 That it drives me crazy just trying to get them out. 00:13:09.860 --> 00:13:12.379 Turns out my old ratchet set was better. 00:13:12.779 --> 00:13:14.679 Even with the broken case. 00:13:15.919 --> 00:13:17.679 All of that was a waste of time. 00:13:17.919 --> 00:13:18.860 And a waste of money. 00:13:19.279 --> 00:13:20.740 And it could have been avoided altogether. 00:13:20.939 --> 00:13:23.159 If I had just been content with the good thing. 00:13:23.639 --> 00:13:25.039 That God had already given me. 00:13:26.399 --> 00:13:27.240 Praise God. 00:13:27.699 --> 00:13:29.319 That when we confess our sins. 00:13:30.079 --> 00:13:31.220 He is faithful. 00:13:31.959 --> 00:13:32.459 And just. 00:13:33.279 --> 00:13:34.899 And will forgive us our sins. 00:13:35.579 --> 00:13:38.299 And cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 00:13:40.699 --> 00:13:42.959 And so if the only reason we're going to the store. 00:13:43.079 --> 00:13:44.299 Or to the Amazon website. 00:13:44.519 --> 00:13:45.279 Is to escape. 00:13:45.839 --> 00:13:47.220 Or because we're bored. 00:13:47.720 --> 00:13:48.980 We need to run away. 00:13:49.480 --> 00:13:50.480 Flee from all this. 00:13:51.339 --> 00:13:53.199 Go for a drive in the country instead. 00:13:54.539 --> 00:13:57.399 Spend time praying for the desperate needs of others instead. 00:13:57.399 --> 00:14:00.480 There's Israeli hostages in Gaza. 00:14:00.480 --> 00:14:01.639 And here I am. 00:14:01.740 --> 00:14:04.919 Preoccupied with getting a slightly better whatever. 00:14:04.919 --> 00:14:08.159 Flee from all this. 00:14:08.159 --> 00:14:12.539 And pursue righteousness. 00:14:13.439 --> 00:14:14.099 Godliness. 00:14:15.500 --> 00:14:16.059 Faith. 00:14:17.240 --> 00:14:17.659 Love. 00:14:18.620 --> 00:14:19.219 Endurance. 00:14:20.099 --> 00:14:20.799 And gentleness. 00:14:20.799 --> 00:14:24.079 So it's not just run away and avoid. 00:14:25.319 --> 00:14:27.139 It's run away from these things. 00:14:27.279 --> 00:14:28.319 Greed and the love of money. 00:14:28.539 --> 00:14:29.620 And run after. 00:14:29.799 --> 00:14:31.779 Run toward these things. 00:14:31.779 --> 00:14:38.439 And the word there again is very strong. 00:14:39.139 --> 00:14:39.819 Pursue. 00:14:43.079 --> 00:14:44.600 Just like the word flee. 00:14:44.759 --> 00:14:46.000 It implies running. 00:14:46.240 --> 00:14:47.860 Moving decisively. 00:14:48.000 --> 00:14:50.299 With intentionality toward these things. 00:14:50.299 --> 00:14:52.839 And. 00:14:53.599 --> 00:14:55.519 If you look closely at these things. 00:14:55.639 --> 00:14:56.079 You realize. 00:14:56.699 --> 00:14:57.659 There's no in between. 00:14:58.879 --> 00:14:59.979 It's run from. 00:15:00.399 --> 00:15:01.259 Run to. 00:15:02.579 --> 00:15:04.179 There's no passive Christianity. 00:15:04.519 --> 00:15:05.019 There's no just. 00:15:05.259 --> 00:15:06.579 Put your feet up and coast. 00:15:06.740 --> 00:15:07.379 And relax. 00:15:08.579 --> 00:15:08.979 It's. 00:15:09.039 --> 00:15:09.959 It's all running. 00:15:10.399 --> 00:15:11.719 Running away from these things. 00:15:11.959 --> 00:15:12.579 Running to. 00:15:13.759 --> 00:15:14.459 These things. 00:15:14.599 --> 00:15:15.519 Seeking these things. 00:15:15.639 --> 00:15:16.379 Go after them. 00:15:18.319 --> 00:15:20.279 And so if you think you're living the Christian life. 00:15:20.299 --> 00:15:23.059 Just because you're not doing the bad stuff. 00:15:24.219 --> 00:15:25.179 Think again. 00:15:26.719 --> 00:15:27.279 Christ. 00:15:27.679 --> 00:15:28.559 Commands us. 00:15:29.240 --> 00:15:30.279 To pursue. 00:15:30.879 --> 00:15:31.859 These things. 00:15:32.419 --> 00:15:33.379 To pursue them. 00:15:33.719 --> 00:15:34.579 To go after them. 00:15:36.500 --> 00:15:38.939 So what are these things that we're to pursue? 00:15:40.000 --> 00:15:40.839 First of all. 00:15:40.919 --> 00:15:41.439 Pursue. 00:15:41.879 --> 00:15:42.579 Righteousness. 00:15:42.959 --> 00:15:45.740 Now this word is used in a couple different ways in the New Testament. 00:15:46.539 --> 00:15:49.699 And we need to be careful to understand which way is meant. 00:15:49.700 --> 00:15:55.060 The first meaning of righteousness is a right standing with God. 00:15:55.680 --> 00:15:58.300 That God gives to us as a gift. 00:15:58.800 --> 00:15:59.500 By faith. 00:16:00.180 --> 00:16:01.180 And not by works. 00:16:01.620 --> 00:16:02.840 That's one meaning. 00:16:03.240 --> 00:16:05.720 But it's not the meaning used here. 00:16:06.680 --> 00:16:09.700 The other meaning has to do with how we live. 00:16:09.700 --> 00:16:16.220 The resulting fruit of our faith in Jesus is a righteous life. 00:16:16.860 --> 00:16:18.500 Where we do good works. 00:16:18.640 --> 00:16:19.980 We do things that are right. 00:16:20.620 --> 00:16:22.220 Rather than things that are wrong. 00:16:23.220 --> 00:16:24.600 This is the meaning of Paul here. 00:16:24.759 --> 00:16:27.020 Pursue righteous living. 00:16:27.580 --> 00:16:28.640 Is what he means. 00:16:29.300 --> 00:16:31.500 Vigorously go after the right thing. 00:16:32.000 --> 00:16:32.820 In any. 00:16:33.020 --> 00:16:34.080 In every situation. 00:16:34.080 --> 00:16:37.520 Set yourself to doing what's right. 00:16:37.740 --> 00:16:38.540 Go after it. 00:16:41.420 --> 00:16:43.400 We're to pursue godliness. 00:16:44.020 --> 00:16:46.259 We've already looked at this word a few times. 00:16:46.620 --> 00:16:49.100 It means being devoted to God. 00:16:50.379 --> 00:16:52.040 So don't just wait for that to happen. 00:16:52.820 --> 00:16:53.700 Go after it. 00:16:54.440 --> 00:16:55.080 Pursue that. 00:16:55.840 --> 00:16:56.840 Run towards him. 00:16:56.840 --> 00:17:01.780 He says pursue faith. 00:17:03.800 --> 00:17:06.660 Faith is not just a thing that we have at the beginning. 00:17:07.319 --> 00:17:08.559 When we get saved. 00:17:09.019 --> 00:17:10.880 And then once we're saved we're kind of good to go. 00:17:11.400 --> 00:17:13.059 We don't need to worry about faith anymore. 00:17:13.559 --> 00:17:15.160 Faith is something we must maintain. 00:17:16.140 --> 00:17:17.460 It's a relational thing. 00:17:17.559 --> 00:17:18.440 It's about trust. 00:17:19.440 --> 00:17:22.559 An ongoing trust between us and Jesus. 00:17:22.720 --> 00:17:23.840 Between us and God. 00:17:24.140 --> 00:17:25.240 Don't let go of that. 00:17:25.380 --> 00:17:26.259 Don't let it diminish. 00:17:26.920 --> 00:17:27.680 Run after it. 00:17:28.180 --> 00:17:28.980 Get more of it. 00:17:30.640 --> 00:17:31.859 And how do we get more? 00:17:32.700 --> 00:17:34.079 How do we deepen our faith? 00:17:36.559 --> 00:17:37.720 Romans 10.17 00:17:37.720 --> 00:17:39.859 Faith comes by hearing the word of God. 00:17:41.559 --> 00:17:45.039 And other passages tell us that faith comes as God's gift. 00:17:46.279 --> 00:17:47.319 So we need to pray. 00:17:47.900 --> 00:17:49.259 We need to ask God for more. 00:17:49.920 --> 00:17:54.680 As one man who the Lord Jesus spoke with said. 00:17:54.680 --> 00:17:55.720 Lord. 00:17:55.720 --> 00:17:55.799 Lord. 00:17:56.060 --> 00:17:57.519 I believe. 00:17:58.100 --> 00:17:59.320 Help me. 00:18:00.000 --> 00:18:00.920 In my unbelief. 00:18:02.000 --> 00:18:03.799 Pursue faith. 00:18:05.100 --> 00:18:07.160 Pursue love. 00:18:07.160 --> 00:18:10.440 Are you a loving person? 00:18:10.440 --> 00:18:10.480 Are you a loving person? 00:18:12.480 --> 00:18:15.980 Would your family say that you're a loving person? 00:18:16.680 --> 00:18:17.860 Or your friends? 00:18:18.860 --> 00:18:19.759 If not. 00:18:20.460 --> 00:18:21.440 That's a problem. 00:18:23.080 --> 00:18:25.820 Jesus said that everyone will know that we are his disciples. 00:18:25.819 --> 00:18:27.980 If we love one another. 00:18:28.859 --> 00:18:30.720 He said a new command I give you. 00:18:31.119 --> 00:18:32.099 Love one another. 00:18:32.599 --> 00:18:33.899 As I have loved you. 00:18:34.000 --> 00:18:35.639 So you must love one another. 00:18:36.439 --> 00:18:38.779 This is to be one of the foremost fruits. 00:18:39.279 --> 00:18:40.159 Of our faith. 00:18:40.160 --> 00:18:44.259 The apostle John wrote in his letter. 00:18:44.460 --> 00:18:46.840 That if you do not have love for your brother. 00:18:47.160 --> 00:18:48.100 Or your sister. 00:18:48.620 --> 00:18:50.660 Then you cannot love God. 00:18:51.519 --> 00:18:52.980 First John 4 verse 20. 00:18:54.440 --> 00:18:55.580 Anyone who loves God. 00:18:55.700 --> 00:18:57.480 Must also love their brother. 00:18:58.120 --> 00:18:58.840 Or sister. 00:18:59.620 --> 00:19:00.460 Said John. 00:19:01.460 --> 00:19:03.120 And so love is commanded. 00:19:04.120 --> 00:19:05.060 Love is to be. 00:19:05.059 --> 00:19:07.940 A primary fruit in our lives. 00:19:08.519 --> 00:19:11.319 It's a fruit that God's spirit produces in us. 00:19:12.119 --> 00:19:13.379 Galatians 5 verse 22. 00:19:15.339 --> 00:19:17.579 Without love our faith is worthless. 00:19:18.500 --> 00:19:20.159 Said Paul to the Corinthians. 00:19:20.720 --> 00:19:21.899 1 Corinthians 13. 00:19:23.839 --> 00:19:25.720 And here from Paul to Timothy. 00:19:25.879 --> 00:19:28.000 We learn that love is not always automatic. 00:19:28.659 --> 00:19:29.500 Or easy. 00:19:30.579 --> 00:19:31.659 Or default. 00:19:32.059 --> 00:19:33.220 We must pursue it. 00:19:33.220 --> 00:19:35.240 Go after it. 00:19:36.460 --> 00:19:37.940 We must choose it. 00:19:38.019 --> 00:19:40.600 Even though it may be exceedingly difficult at times. 00:19:43.640 --> 00:19:45.660 We're to pursue endurance. 00:19:46.579 --> 00:19:47.920 Pursue endurance. 00:19:48.039 --> 00:19:48.740 Says Jesus. 00:19:50.120 --> 00:19:51.200 Don't give up. 00:19:52.200 --> 00:19:53.759 When things get difficult. 00:19:54.339 --> 00:19:55.200 And they do. 00:19:55.460 --> 00:19:56.579 And they will at times. 00:19:57.519 --> 00:19:59.880 And sometimes that difficulty doesn't seem to let up. 00:20:00.339 --> 00:20:01.440 We must press on. 00:20:01.839 --> 00:20:02.360 Pursuing. 00:20:02.359 --> 00:20:04.219 Running after endurance. 00:20:04.339 --> 00:20:05.039 Or perseverance. 00:20:07.119 --> 00:20:11.079 Following Christ has the feels of a difficult marathon at times. 00:20:11.579 --> 00:20:12.799 We feel the ache. 00:20:13.759 --> 00:20:16.000 We feel like we're in agony. 00:20:16.719 --> 00:20:18.479 We feel like we're out of breath. 00:20:18.599 --> 00:20:19.839 And we just can't go on. 00:20:20.859 --> 00:20:21.559 But run. 00:20:21.799 --> 00:20:22.439 Says Jesus. 00:20:23.079 --> 00:20:23.779 Don't stop. 00:20:23.959 --> 00:20:25.859 Chase after perseverance. 00:20:26.379 --> 00:20:26.779 And steadfastness. 00:20:26.779 --> 00:20:27.539 Steadfastness. 00:20:28.660 --> 00:20:29.899 And lastly. 00:20:30.460 --> 00:20:32.299 Pursue gentleness. 00:20:33.160 --> 00:20:34.299 I love this one. 00:20:35.420 --> 00:20:38.079 Paul uses a vigorous verb like pursue. 00:20:38.460 --> 00:20:41.379 To describe how we're to be mild. 00:20:42.519 --> 00:20:43.019 Tender. 00:20:44.599 --> 00:20:45.160 Soft. 00:20:45.160 --> 00:20:47.300 This is beautiful. 00:20:48.640 --> 00:20:52.460 This really does illustrate the true experience of the Christian life. 00:20:52.960 --> 00:20:56.540 There is a noble fight and struggle. 00:20:56.539 --> 00:20:58.539 But we're not fighting to be violent. 00:20:58.539 --> 00:20:59.659 We're not fighting to be violent. 00:20:59.920 --> 00:21:00.779 Or harsh. 00:21:01.180 --> 00:21:01.539 Or argumentative. 00:21:02.539 --> 00:21:03.779 But to be self-controlled. 00:21:04.539 --> 00:21:05.659 To be loving. 00:21:06.519 --> 00:21:07.819 To be respectful. 00:21:08.659 --> 00:21:09.779 To be gentle. 00:21:11.500 --> 00:21:15.819 Gentleness is not just a personality trait that some have and others do not. 00:21:15.819 --> 00:21:17.779 Every Christian. 00:21:17.980 --> 00:21:21.899 Every follower of Christ is called to pursue gentleness. 00:21:23.419 --> 00:21:27.059 For some who are timid or afraid of others or are people pleasers. 00:21:27.700 --> 00:21:30.119 Gentleness might seem to come easier. 00:21:30.399 --> 00:21:32.639 Maybe they have some other things that they need to work on. 00:21:32.720 --> 00:21:33.379 Like courage. 00:21:33.939 --> 00:21:34.679 Or boldness. 00:21:36.619 --> 00:21:39.220 But for most of us, gentleness doesn't come easily. 00:21:40.960 --> 00:21:44.379 Especially when someone says something that gets under our skin. 00:21:45.819 --> 00:21:47.939 Or does something that irritates us. 00:21:49.139 --> 00:21:51.579 And especially in that hour right before supper. 00:21:52.220 --> 00:21:53.399 When we're feeling hungry. 00:21:55.339 --> 00:21:58.220 We are called by Christ to pursue. 00:21:58.679 --> 00:22:01.460 To run after gentleness. 00:22:02.299 --> 00:22:05.659 A gentleness that characterizes everything. 00:22:06.259 --> 00:22:07.019 Our actions. 00:22:07.939 --> 00:22:08.899 Our words. 00:22:10.339 --> 00:22:11.700 We're called to speak the truth. 00:22:11.799 --> 00:22:13.339 Yes, but to do so in love. 00:22:15.819 --> 00:22:17.859 This too is a fruit of the spirit. 00:22:18.599 --> 00:22:20.460 Something that God must work in us. 00:22:20.700 --> 00:22:21.720 And at the same time. 00:22:21.839 --> 00:22:24.599 It's something that we must make every effort to do. 00:22:24.980 --> 00:22:25.619 And to be. 00:22:27.779 --> 00:22:30.099 So this is his first point here. 00:22:30.279 --> 00:22:32.079 Look at the damage and the destruction. 00:22:32.319 --> 00:22:36.019 That greed and the love of money has caused in people's lives. 00:22:36.139 --> 00:22:36.960 But you, Timothy. 00:22:37.099 --> 00:22:38.480 Run away from all these things. 00:22:38.700 --> 00:22:40.639 And run toward these things. 00:22:40.799 --> 00:22:41.839 Pursue these things. 00:22:41.980 --> 00:22:42.980 Get these things. 00:22:42.980 --> 00:22:44.099 Righteousness. 00:22:44.259 --> 00:22:45.240 Devotion to God. 00:22:45.839 --> 00:22:46.220 Faith. 00:22:46.680 --> 00:22:47.039 Love. 00:22:47.759 --> 00:22:48.299 Perseverance. 00:22:48.980 --> 00:22:49.680 And gentleness. 00:22:51.000 --> 00:22:54.579 Fight the good fight of the faith. 00:22:54.839 --> 00:22:55.380 Says Paul. 00:22:56.500 --> 00:22:58.240 These are precious words to me. 00:22:59.500 --> 00:23:00.519 Do you ever wonder. 00:23:00.519 --> 00:23:05.539 Why does following Jesus seem so difficult at times? 00:23:06.639 --> 00:23:09.339 Why is there always this battle going on inside of me? 00:23:10.319 --> 00:23:12.779 I mean if I have God's spirit living in me. 00:23:13.700 --> 00:23:16.299 Shouldn't it all these things just flow out of me. 00:23:16.759 --> 00:23:17.240 Automatically. 00:23:18.059 --> 00:23:18.519 Naturally. 00:23:18.759 --> 00:23:19.139 Easily. 00:23:19.240 --> 00:23:20.119 Without any effort. 00:23:21.680 --> 00:23:22.599 And so these words. 00:23:23.539 --> 00:23:25.599 Of Paul are a great comfort to me. 00:23:25.720 --> 00:23:27.879 He says fight the good fight of the faith. 00:23:27.880 --> 00:23:27.960 Faith. 00:23:31.900 --> 00:23:34.920 Following Jesus is not easy. 00:23:35.900 --> 00:23:38.840 Being a loving and gentle person is not automatic. 00:23:39.740 --> 00:23:41.500 Being fully devoted to God. 00:23:41.760 --> 00:23:43.480 And doing what's right are a struggle. 00:23:43.920 --> 00:23:44.760 But that's normal. 00:23:46.820 --> 00:23:49.900 Living as a follower of Jesus is a lifelong fight. 00:23:51.940 --> 00:23:53.500 But it's the good fight. 00:23:54.900 --> 00:23:56.200 Fight the good fight. 00:23:56.280 --> 00:23:57.360 It's the noble fight. 00:23:57.880 --> 00:23:58.640 Again. 00:24:03.740 --> 00:24:06.460 There's not much room for passivity here. 00:24:06.760 --> 00:24:08.380 If we're not fighting the good fight. 00:24:08.500 --> 00:24:09.560 What's happening to us? 00:24:10.640 --> 00:24:11.840 We're compromising. 00:24:12.340 --> 00:24:13.520 We're drifting away. 00:24:14.260 --> 00:24:15.560 We're losing the battle. 00:24:17.400 --> 00:24:17.860 Fight. 00:24:18.080 --> 00:24:18.580 Says Paul. 00:24:19.520 --> 00:24:20.780 And take hold. 00:24:21.040 --> 00:24:22.420 Of the eternal life. 00:24:22.660 --> 00:24:23.500 To which you were called. 00:24:23.560 --> 00:24:24.860 When you made your good confession. 00:24:25.340 --> 00:24:26.780 In the presence of many witnesses. 00:24:26.779 --> 00:24:30.500 This is the gospel. 00:24:31.160 --> 00:24:32.639 The good news of Jesus. 00:24:33.639 --> 00:24:34.700 He proclaimed. 00:24:34.700 --> 00:24:37.039 That God is giving sinners like you and me. 00:24:38.460 --> 00:24:39.460 A gracious. 00:24:39.960 --> 00:24:40.940 Undeserved gift. 00:24:42.319 --> 00:24:43.220 Eternal life. 00:24:44.539 --> 00:24:46.079 Life that lasts forever. 00:24:46.079 --> 00:24:47.799 Resurrection from the dead. 00:24:47.799 --> 00:24:49.939 And it's a free gift. 00:24:49.939 --> 00:24:52.119 And it's a free gift. 00:24:52.119 --> 00:24:52.919 To anyone. 00:24:53.139 --> 00:24:54.639 Who believes in his name. 00:24:55.119 --> 00:24:56.980 Listen again to these words of Jesus. 00:24:56.980 --> 00:24:58.279 From John chapter 6. 00:24:58.359 --> 00:24:58.899 Verse 40. 00:24:59.899 --> 00:25:00.419 Jesus said. 00:25:00.500 --> 00:25:01.639 For my father's will. 00:25:02.019 --> 00:25:03.980 Is that everyone who looks to the son. 00:25:04.199 --> 00:25:05.399 And believes in him. 00:25:05.659 --> 00:25:07.240 Shall have eternal life. 00:25:07.240 --> 00:25:09.519 And I will raise them up. 00:25:09.900 --> 00:25:11.099 At the last day. 00:25:12.700 --> 00:25:14.279 So what is Paul doing here? 00:25:15.599 --> 00:25:17.039 He's reminding Timothy. 00:25:17.380 --> 00:25:19.380 Of the end prize. 00:25:20.960 --> 00:25:22.279 The sure promise. 00:25:22.500 --> 00:25:23.079 Of Jesus. 00:25:23.680 --> 00:25:24.440 To his people. 00:25:25.620 --> 00:25:27.920 Why run a difficult marathon like this? 00:25:28.759 --> 00:25:31.180 Why fight a difficult fight like this? 00:25:31.240 --> 00:25:32.400 Why go to all this trouble? 00:25:32.840 --> 00:25:34.080 Why not just take it easy? 00:25:35.720 --> 00:25:37.060 Because at the end of it all. 00:25:37.060 --> 00:25:37.980 There is a sure. 00:25:38.539 --> 00:25:39.039 And great. 00:25:39.460 --> 00:25:39.980 Reward. 00:25:40.440 --> 00:25:40.820 And hope. 00:25:41.140 --> 00:25:42.460 There is a promised land. 00:25:42.600 --> 00:25:43.880 Flowing with milk and honey. 00:25:44.720 --> 00:25:45.640 Eternal life. 00:25:46.080 --> 00:25:46.700 In the kingdom. 00:25:47.400 --> 00:25:48.560 Of Christ Jesus. 00:25:49.840 --> 00:25:50.980 When he returns. 00:25:51.880 --> 00:25:53.300 So don't shrink back Timothy. 00:25:53.519 --> 00:25:54.460 Don't take it easy. 00:25:54.820 --> 00:25:56.200 Don't just take the path of. 00:25:56.420 --> 00:25:57.160 Least resistance. 00:25:57.160 --> 00:25:58.720 Don't settle for the mirage. 00:25:58.720 --> 00:26:00.720 Of bare minimum Christianity. 00:26:01.440 --> 00:26:03.279 Take hold of that eternal life. 00:26:03.340 --> 00:26:04.279 To which you were called. 00:26:04.840 --> 00:26:06.900 When you first made that good confession. 00:26:07.640 --> 00:26:08.279 Years ago. 00:26:09.300 --> 00:26:10.740 I think Paul is referring to the day. 00:26:10.860 --> 00:26:11.720 That Timothy first. 00:26:12.120 --> 00:26:12.720 Publicly professed. 00:26:13.480 --> 00:26:14.180 Faith in Jesus. 00:26:14.300 --> 00:26:15.160 As his Messiah. 00:26:15.680 --> 00:26:16.259 And King. 00:26:16.420 --> 00:26:16.820 And Lord. 00:26:18.100 --> 00:26:19.460 And it's interesting. 00:26:19.600 --> 00:26:21.259 How Paul points him back to that day. 00:26:21.759 --> 00:26:23.380 That he began his race. 00:26:23.779 --> 00:26:24.519 And fight. 00:26:25.700 --> 00:26:26.360 It's like he's saying. 00:26:26.359 --> 00:26:27.379 The good news of Jesus. 00:26:27.379 --> 00:26:28.519 Was so good. 00:26:28.519 --> 00:26:29.559 Back then. 00:26:29.919 --> 00:26:31.559 And it still is good today. 00:26:31.639 --> 00:26:32.019 Timothy. 00:26:32.859 --> 00:26:33.859 Don't give up. 00:26:34.679 --> 00:26:35.819 Don't stop running. 00:26:36.039 --> 00:26:37.279 Don't stop fighting. 00:26:37.839 --> 00:26:38.539 This good fight. 00:26:38.599 --> 00:26:39.159 Of the faith. 00:26:42.039 --> 00:26:43.059 Paul then adds. 00:26:43.599 --> 00:26:44.359 To the seriousness. 00:26:44.559 --> 00:26:45.079 Of all this. 00:26:45.139 --> 00:26:45.479 He says. 00:26:45.599 --> 00:26:46.339 Listen Timothy. 00:26:46.339 --> 00:26:48.439 God is watching. 00:26:50.159 --> 00:26:51.000 He's watching. 00:26:51.000 --> 00:26:51.559 Even now. 00:26:51.619 --> 00:26:52.679 As I pen these words. 00:26:52.679 --> 00:26:53.519 On the parchment. 00:26:53.939 --> 00:26:54.659 He's watching. 00:26:54.659 --> 00:26:56.299 As you read these words. 00:26:56.619 --> 00:26:57.899 Off of the parchment. 00:26:59.359 --> 00:27:00.980 He is my witness. 00:27:01.519 --> 00:27:02.199 The Lord Jesus. 00:27:02.199 --> 00:27:03.299 Is my witness. 00:27:05.259 --> 00:27:06.839 I give you this charge. 00:27:07.500 --> 00:27:08.519 Do these things. 00:27:08.519 --> 00:27:09.359 That I've commanded. 00:27:10.259 --> 00:27:11.199 Flee these things. 00:27:11.359 --> 00:27:12.399 Pursue these things. 00:27:12.899 --> 00:27:13.799 Fight the good fight. 00:27:14.519 --> 00:27:15.319 I charge you. 00:27:15.440 --> 00:27:16.299 Do these things. 00:27:17.500 --> 00:27:18.740 And God is watching. 00:27:19.440 --> 00:27:20.759 To see that you do it. 00:27:20.919 --> 00:27:21.759 Do these things. 00:27:23.539 --> 00:27:24.460 Keep this command. 00:27:24.559 --> 00:27:25.279 Without spot. 00:27:25.379 --> 00:27:25.839 Or blame. 00:27:25.960 --> 00:27:26.759 Until the appearing. 00:27:26.859 --> 00:27:28.200 Of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:27:29.159 --> 00:27:31.039 How long do we have to run this race? 00:27:32.480 --> 00:27:33.819 How long do we have to fight. 00:27:33.819 --> 00:27:34.720 This fight. 00:27:35.779 --> 00:27:36.940 Until King Jesus. 00:27:37.659 --> 00:27:38.099 Appears. 00:27:38.099 --> 00:27:40.579 Which for Timothy. 00:27:40.699 --> 00:27:41.179 And for many. 00:27:41.579 --> 00:27:41.980 After. 00:27:42.519 --> 00:27:43.919 Means till the day that we die. 00:27:44.759 --> 00:27:46.419 If he hasn't returned yet. 00:27:48.259 --> 00:27:48.919 Paul says. 00:27:49.159 --> 00:27:49.799 Keep these commands. 00:27:49.859 --> 00:27:50.519 Without spot. 00:27:50.639 --> 00:27:51.139 Or blame. 00:27:52.579 --> 00:27:53.679 And there's a couple ways. 00:27:53.719 --> 00:27:54.259 To take that. 00:27:54.359 --> 00:27:54.539 I mean. 00:27:54.559 --> 00:27:55.139 It could mean. 00:27:55.539 --> 00:27:56.579 Strive to obey. 00:27:56.919 --> 00:27:57.439 Perfectly. 00:27:58.439 --> 00:27:59.500 But given the nature. 00:27:59.500 --> 00:28:00.240 Of these commands. 00:28:00.240 --> 00:28:00.959 Which implies. 00:28:01.299 --> 00:28:01.679 Struggle. 00:28:01.839 --> 00:28:02.319 And at least. 00:28:02.519 --> 00:28:03.259 Some sort of. 00:28:03.879 --> 00:28:05.099 Failing along the way. 00:28:06.039 --> 00:28:07.419 I think Paul means very simply. 00:28:07.579 --> 00:28:08.799 Do your very best. 00:28:09.519 --> 00:28:11.299 With Jesus return in mind. 00:28:12.240 --> 00:28:13.219 Give it all you've got. 00:28:13.299 --> 00:28:14.319 Right to the end. 00:28:16.980 --> 00:28:18.039 This made me. 00:28:18.459 --> 00:28:19.419 Reflect back to. 00:28:19.539 --> 00:28:20.179 When I was younger. 00:28:20.799 --> 00:28:21.859 I used to be a sprinter. 00:28:22.399 --> 00:28:23.579 When I was a teenager. 00:28:24.459 --> 00:28:25.339 I was in the. 00:28:25.480 --> 00:28:26.379 Track and field club. 00:28:26.459 --> 00:28:26.899 In Regina. 00:28:27.379 --> 00:28:28.699 And I used to love running. 00:28:28.819 --> 00:28:29.899 At track meets. 00:28:30.899 --> 00:28:32.139 And God gifted me. 00:28:32.279 --> 00:28:33.480 With some quick reflexes. 00:28:33.619 --> 00:28:34.699 And some speed. 00:28:34.700 --> 00:28:34.819 Lead. 00:28:35.100 --> 00:28:36.460 Compared to many of my peers. 00:28:37.019 --> 00:28:38.160 I was able to get off. 00:28:38.240 --> 00:28:39.259 The start line first. 00:28:39.360 --> 00:28:39.980 Many times. 00:28:40.160 --> 00:28:41.440 And get a significant lead. 00:28:42.460 --> 00:28:43.819 But in my early races. 00:28:44.140 --> 00:28:45.140 I had this tendency. 00:28:45.140 --> 00:28:46.700 Where if I was in the lead. 00:28:47.000 --> 00:28:48.720 I would begin to slow down. 00:28:48.980 --> 00:28:50.460 Before I got to the finish line. 00:28:50.940 --> 00:28:51.440 Feeling like. 00:28:51.500 --> 00:28:52.380 I just needed to get. 00:28:52.900 --> 00:28:53.620 To the line. 00:28:54.440 --> 00:28:55.559 And I remember my coaches. 00:28:55.740 --> 00:28:56.460 Explaining to me. 00:28:57.319 --> 00:28:58.080 That you know. 00:28:59.039 --> 00:28:59.920 The track meets. 00:29:00.080 --> 00:29:00.940 Going to be a lot harder. 00:29:01.080 --> 00:29:01.600 There's going to be. 00:29:01.740 --> 00:29:02.920 Some faster guys there. 00:29:02.920 --> 00:29:04.680 And you need to run. 00:29:04.680 --> 00:29:06.160 At your top most speed. 00:29:06.240 --> 00:29:07.100 Until after. 00:29:07.300 --> 00:29:08.180 You've crossed the line. 00:29:08.240 --> 00:29:09.240 You need to cross that line. 00:29:09.340 --> 00:29:10.160 At full speed. 00:29:10.980 --> 00:29:12.480 You need to run this race. 00:29:12.560 --> 00:29:12.940 As if. 00:29:13.320 --> 00:29:15.060 The race goes beyond that line. 00:29:16.620 --> 00:29:18.080 Because if you ease off early. 00:29:19.080 --> 00:29:20.340 Some of those other guys. 00:29:20.340 --> 00:29:21.620 Who are slower off the blocks. 00:29:21.740 --> 00:29:22.580 But faster than you. 00:29:22.640 --> 00:29:23.380 Are going to catch you. 00:29:23.420 --> 00:29:24.019 And pass you. 00:29:24.019 --> 00:29:29.019 When it comes to the Christian life. 00:29:29.339 --> 00:29:30.859 Are we easing off. 00:29:31.220 --> 00:29:33.099 And just trying to get to the line. 00:29:34.119 --> 00:29:35.680 Or have we got our sights. 00:29:36.019 --> 00:29:37.059 Set beyond. 00:29:37.660 --> 00:29:39.099 On the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:29:39.460 --> 00:29:40.339 And his return. 00:29:42.339 --> 00:29:43.279 None of us. 00:29:43.799 --> 00:29:44.680 Can or will. 00:29:44.960 --> 00:29:45.660 Run this race. 00:29:45.720 --> 00:29:46.579 Or fight this fight. 00:29:46.799 --> 00:29:47.400 Perfectly. 00:29:47.759 --> 00:29:48.559 But give it. 00:29:48.660 --> 00:29:49.639 Your very best. 00:29:50.759 --> 00:29:51.839 Give it all you've got. 00:29:51.900 --> 00:29:53.139 Right to the very end. 00:29:53.140 --> 00:29:56.940 God is watching us right now. 00:29:57.180 --> 00:29:58.900 Jesus is watching us right now. 00:30:00.620 --> 00:30:01.100 Paul. 00:30:01.740 --> 00:30:03.320 Gave this charge to Timothy. 00:30:04.080 --> 00:30:05.860 And I want to give this charge to you. 00:30:08.080 --> 00:30:10.020 In the sight of God. 00:30:10.140 --> 00:30:11.200 And of Christ Jesus. 00:30:11.880 --> 00:30:13.160 Keep these commands. 00:30:14.920 --> 00:30:16.080 Give it all you've got. 00:30:16.160 --> 00:30:17.200 Right to the day. 00:30:17.460 --> 00:30:18.300 That he returns. 00:30:19.259 --> 00:30:19.660 Flee. 00:30:20.340 --> 00:30:20.800 Greed. 00:30:21.020 --> 00:30:21.880 And the love of money. 00:30:21.880 --> 00:30:23.140 Pursue. 00:30:23.460 --> 00:30:24.620 All these good things. 00:30:24.920 --> 00:30:25.400 Righteousness. 00:30:25.520 --> 00:30:25.840 Faith. 00:30:26.140 --> 00:30:26.500 Love. 00:30:27.300 --> 00:30:27.740 Gentleness. 00:30:29.260 --> 00:30:30.880 And do it until he comes. 00:30:34.060 --> 00:30:34.960 At this point. 00:30:35.040 --> 00:30:35.540 Paul now. 00:30:35.840 --> 00:30:37.480 Goes down a bit of a rabbit trail. 00:30:38.360 --> 00:30:40.680 A Holy Spirit inspired rabbit trail. 00:30:41.980 --> 00:30:44.020 He gets thinking about that day himself. 00:30:44.160 --> 00:30:45.100 And Jesus returning. 00:30:45.640 --> 00:30:47.440 And it leads him to reflect again. 00:30:47.440 --> 00:30:48.420 On who God is. 00:30:48.660 --> 00:30:49.700 And give him praise. 00:30:49.700 --> 00:30:51.360 He says. 00:30:51.580 --> 00:30:52.400 That Jesus. 00:30:53.160 --> 00:30:53.680 Will. 00:30:54.519 --> 00:30:55.000 Appear. 00:30:58.120 --> 00:30:59.580 His appearance will come. 00:31:00.160 --> 00:31:01.360 God will bring that about. 00:31:01.500 --> 00:31:02.580 In his own time. 00:31:03.519 --> 00:31:04.920 And then he just goes into this. 00:31:05.039 --> 00:31:05.380 God. 00:31:05.539 --> 00:31:06.960 The blessed and only ruler. 00:31:07.480 --> 00:31:08.480 The king of kings. 00:31:08.580 --> 00:31:09.580 And lord of lords. 00:31:11.039 --> 00:31:12.059 I love this. 00:31:12.059 --> 00:31:14.220 Paul reflects. 00:31:14.220 --> 00:31:15.039 On how. 00:31:15.599 --> 00:31:16.879 Whatever kings or rulers. 00:31:17.159 --> 00:31:17.659 Or lords. 00:31:17.759 --> 00:31:18.980 There may be here on earth. 00:31:20.639 --> 00:31:22.139 Jesus is one of a kind. 00:31:22.299 --> 00:31:23.119 Above them all. 00:31:23.940 --> 00:31:25.240 King over the kings. 00:31:25.359 --> 00:31:25.919 All of them. 00:31:26.159 --> 00:31:27.259 Lord over the lords. 00:31:27.799 --> 00:31:28.839 The only ruler. 00:31:30.119 --> 00:31:31.879 He's the only one who's immortal. 00:31:33.519 --> 00:31:34.000 Undying. 00:31:36.000 --> 00:31:37.440 Not subject to death. 00:31:37.440 --> 00:31:40.220 He lives in unapproachable light. 00:31:41.000 --> 00:31:41.759 His radiance. 00:31:41.900 --> 00:31:42.580 His splendor. 00:31:42.680 --> 00:31:43.160 His glory. 00:31:43.279 --> 00:31:44.900 Is such that we can't even come near. 00:31:45.299 --> 00:31:47.059 Except by his grace. 00:31:47.140 --> 00:31:48.820 And provision of a way to draw near. 00:31:49.360 --> 00:31:50.519 So high above us. 00:31:50.960 --> 00:31:51.820 So holy. 00:31:52.559 --> 00:31:53.700 Is this great God. 00:31:53.779 --> 00:31:55.299 That no man has ever seen. 00:31:55.519 --> 00:31:56.900 The fullness of his glory. 00:31:57.299 --> 00:31:58.039 Nor can we. 00:31:59.480 --> 00:32:00.820 And he ends with this prayer. 00:32:00.980 --> 00:32:01.480 To him. 00:32:01.840 --> 00:32:02.519 Be honor. 00:32:02.519 --> 00:32:03.500 And might. 00:32:04.380 --> 00:32:04.759 Forever. 00:32:04.759 --> 00:32:07.220 May he continue to. 00:32:07.640 --> 00:32:07.960 Reign. 00:32:08.160 --> 00:32:09.240 In his great power. 00:32:09.440 --> 00:32:09.859 Forever. 00:32:10.039 --> 00:32:10.539 Says Paul. 00:32:11.099 --> 00:32:12.359 May he receive. 00:32:12.779 --> 00:32:13.160 Honor. 00:32:14.140 --> 00:32:14.559 Forever. 00:32:16.279 --> 00:32:16.640 Amen. 00:32:17.819 --> 00:32:18.279 Truly. 00:32:18.480 --> 00:32:19.019 Says Paul. 00:32:19.460 --> 00:32:20.039 It's a prayer. 00:32:24.079 --> 00:32:25.240 As we come now. 00:32:25.299 --> 00:32:26.140 To the Lord's table. 00:32:27.160 --> 00:32:28.879 How do we relate all this. 00:32:29.440 --> 00:32:30.119 To the table. 00:32:30.960 --> 00:32:31.920 Where's the good news. 00:32:31.920 --> 00:32:32.519 In all this. 00:32:33.400 --> 00:32:34.119 We've received. 00:32:34.119 --> 00:32:35.259 A serious charge. 00:32:35.959 --> 00:32:36.919 Serious commands. 00:32:37.079 --> 00:32:37.479 From Christ. 00:32:37.599 --> 00:32:38.000 To keep. 00:32:38.859 --> 00:32:39.699 And we're told. 00:32:39.819 --> 00:32:40.699 That it will be a struggle. 00:32:41.099 --> 00:32:41.959 And a fight. 00:32:42.319 --> 00:32:43.459 Till the very end. 00:32:45.819 --> 00:32:46.899 But at the end. 00:32:48.119 --> 00:32:49.419 The good news is here. 00:32:49.859 --> 00:32:50.859 Our faith in Jesus. 00:32:51.079 --> 00:32:52.099 Will be rewarded. 00:32:53.379 --> 00:32:54.579 With eternal life. 00:32:55.500 --> 00:32:56.619 This is the good news. 00:32:56.619 --> 00:32:57.159 Of Christ. 00:32:59.279 --> 00:33:00.339 How can it be. 00:33:00.939 --> 00:33:02.379 That a sinner like me. 00:33:02.380 --> 00:33:08.740 Can have this gift. 00:33:08.960 --> 00:33:09.860 This reward. 00:33:10.180 --> 00:33:10.980 This blessing. 00:33:11.100 --> 00:33:11.820 This future hope. 00:33:12.000 --> 00:33:13.660 I know I don't deserve it. 00:33:15.360 --> 00:33:17.680 I know I've fallen so far short of this. 00:33:17.780 --> 00:33:18.540 All my life. 00:33:19.800 --> 00:33:20.860 And yet amazingly. 00:33:21.980 --> 00:33:23.040 God loves me. 00:33:23.760 --> 00:33:24.880 God loves you. 00:33:24.880 --> 00:33:27.320 So much. 00:33:27.320 --> 00:33:28.600 That he has made the way. 00:33:28.600 --> 00:33:29.280 For this gift. 00:33:29.360 --> 00:33:30.020 To be free. 00:33:31.960 --> 00:33:32.440 Forgiveness. 00:33:32.440 --> 00:33:33.380 Is offered. 00:33:34.000 --> 00:33:34.860 The punishment. 00:33:34.860 --> 00:33:35.660 Of our sins. 00:33:35.660 --> 00:33:36.460 Which is death. 00:33:37.200 --> 00:33:38.020 Taken away. 00:33:38.560 --> 00:33:39.260 By what Jesus. 00:33:39.260 --> 00:33:40.300 Has done for us. 00:33:42.220 --> 00:33:44.120 How do we get this eternal life. 00:33:44.660 --> 00:33:46.060 Let me remind us quickly. 00:33:46.060 --> 00:33:47.120 Of the words of Jesus. 00:33:47.119 --> 00:33:49.799 Jesus said. 00:33:49.959 --> 00:33:50.759 I am the living bread. 00:33:50.759 --> 00:33:52.000 That came down from heaven. 00:33:52.399 --> 00:33:54.039 Whoever eats this bread. 00:33:54.039 --> 00:33:54.939 Will live forever. 00:33:55.879 --> 00:33:56.859 This bread. 00:33:56.859 --> 00:33:57.939 Is my flesh. 00:33:58.139 --> 00:33:59.179 Which I will give. 00:33:59.299 --> 00:34:00.379 For the life of the world. 00:34:02.899 --> 00:34:03.799 Very truly. 00:34:04.000 --> 00:34:04.439 He said. 00:34:04.859 --> 00:34:05.759 I tell you. 00:34:06.259 --> 00:34:07.599 Unless you eat the flesh. 00:34:07.599 --> 00:34:08.440 Of the son of man. 00:34:08.500 --> 00:34:09.440 And drink his blood. 00:34:09.579 --> 00:34:11.099 You have no life in you. 00:34:12.440 --> 00:34:13.880 Whoever eats my flesh. 00:34:14.059 --> 00:34:15.259 And drinks my blood. 00:34:15.339 --> 00:34:16.339 Has eternal life. 00:34:16.340 --> 00:34:18.700 And I will raise them up. 00:34:19.019 --> 00:34:20.059 At the last day. 00:34:21.700 --> 00:34:23.559 So how do we get this eternal life. 00:34:24.019 --> 00:34:25.360 Not of good that we do. 00:34:26.440 --> 00:34:27.740 But because of Jesus. 00:34:28.340 --> 00:34:29.100 And what he. 00:34:29.480 --> 00:34:30.240 Did for us. 00:34:30.320 --> 00:34:31.420 He gave his body. 00:34:31.980 --> 00:34:32.740 And his blood. 00:34:32.900 --> 00:34:33.380 For us. 00:34:34.360 --> 00:34:35.260 His sacrifice. 00:34:35.519 --> 00:34:36.000 His death. 00:34:36.079 --> 00:34:36.820 On the cross. 00:34:37.280 --> 00:34:38.700 Was a special provision. 00:34:38.700 --> 00:34:39.340 From heaven. 00:34:40.280 --> 00:34:41.600 Just like the manna was. 00:34:41.680 --> 00:34:42.340 For the Israelites. 00:34:42.740 --> 00:34:43.400 In the wilderness. 00:34:44.880 --> 00:34:45.660 Jesus death. 00:34:45.720 --> 00:34:46.280 Was the thing. 00:34:46.340 --> 00:34:47.440 By which. 00:34:47.440 --> 00:34:48.680 We may receive. 00:34:48.860 --> 00:34:50.120 Eternal life. 00:34:50.740 --> 00:34:51.980 And Jesus was speaking. 00:34:52.200 --> 00:34:52.960 Metaphorically here. 00:34:53.079 --> 00:34:53.460 Of course. 00:34:53.559 --> 00:34:54.620 About eating his flesh. 00:34:54.620 --> 00:34:55.680 And drinking his blood. 00:34:56.160 --> 00:34:57.480 And many did stumble. 00:34:57.680 --> 00:34:58.780 Over his words that day. 00:34:58.860 --> 00:35:00.200 But the meaning is clear enough. 00:35:00.600 --> 00:35:01.360 His death. 00:35:01.920 --> 00:35:02.960 For our life. 00:35:04.059 --> 00:35:04.920 His body. 00:35:05.480 --> 00:35:06.480 And his blood. 00:35:06.680 --> 00:35:07.039 Broken. 00:35:07.420 --> 00:35:07.900 And shed. 00:35:08.300 --> 00:35:09.440 For our life. 00:35:10.160 --> 00:35:11.440 For our everlasting life. 00:35:11.760 --> 00:35:12.039 Life. 00:35:12.039 --> 00:35:16.960 Without the cross. 00:35:17.500 --> 00:35:18.420 There's nothing. 00:35:18.779 --> 00:35:19.659 To look forward to. 00:35:20.420 --> 00:35:21.800 But God's justice. 00:35:22.480 --> 00:35:23.440 For all the wrongs. 00:35:23.480 --> 00:35:24.119 That we have done. 00:35:26.320 --> 00:35:27.679 And so as we eat. 00:35:28.820 --> 00:35:29.579 And drink. 00:35:30.139 --> 00:35:30.679 The bread. 00:35:30.900 --> 00:35:31.400 The cup. 00:35:31.779 --> 00:35:32.679 Again this morning. 00:35:32.679 --> 00:35:34.379 Let's remember. 00:35:34.379 --> 00:35:34.399 Let's remember. 00:35:34.940 --> 00:35:36.079 Our saviors. 00:35:36.480 --> 00:35:37.339 Great love. 00:35:37.599 --> 00:35:38.079 For us. 00:35:38.779 --> 00:35:40.639 Love which opened the way for us. 00:35:41.000 --> 00:35:42.019 To eternal life. 00:35:42.019 --> 00:35:44.460 The elders are going to come. 00:35:44.860 --> 00:35:44.880 And. 00:35:46.440 --> 00:35:47.420 Or a few of the men. 00:35:47.460 --> 00:35:47.960 Are going to come. 00:35:48.079 --> 00:35:48.840 And pass out. 00:35:48.960 --> 00:35:49.579 The elements. 00:35:50.099 --> 00:35:51.039 And if you. 00:35:51.320 --> 00:35:51.679 Believe. 00:35:51.800 --> 00:35:52.960 If you are holding fast. 00:35:52.960 --> 00:35:53.619 To this hope. 00:35:54.579 --> 00:35:55.840 And Jesus is your savior. 00:35:55.840 --> 00:35:56.460 And your lord. 00:35:56.719 --> 00:35:57.119 Please. 00:35:57.739 --> 00:35:58.579 Join with us. 00:35:58.880 --> 00:35:59.759 Partake with us. 00:36:00.239 --> 00:36:01.460 If that's not you today. 00:36:01.599 --> 00:36:02.099 Please just. 00:36:02.259 --> 00:36:03.219 Signal discreetly. 00:36:03.219 --> 00:36:03.900 With your hand. 00:36:04.400 --> 00:36:05.480 And let the elements. 00:36:05.619 --> 00:36:06.239 Pass you by. 00:36:07.239 --> 00:36:07.980 In these moments. 00:36:08.139 --> 00:36:09.019 I invite you to reflect. 00:36:09.619 --> 00:36:10.480 I invite you to pray. 00:36:10.880 --> 00:36:11.539 Talk to God. 00:36:12.820 --> 00:36:14.000 We'll give thanks. 00:36:14.559 --> 00:36:15.360 And we'll eat. 00:36:15.559 --> 00:36:15.960 And drink. 00:36:16.239 --> 00:36:16.639 Together. 00:36:16.800 --> 00:36:17.400 All together. 00:36:17.860 --> 00:36:18.659 Once everybody. 00:36:18.659 --> 00:36:19.480 Has been served. 00:36:19.480 --> 00:36:19.559 Thank you. 00:36:42.019 --> 00:36:51.139 And thanks. 00:36:51.139 --> 00:36:52.139 Amen. 00:37:21.139 --> 00:37:22.139 Amen. 00:37:51.139 --> 00:37:52.139 Amen. 00:38:21.139 --> 00:38:23.139 Amen. 00:38:51.139 --> 00:38:53.139 Amen. 00:39:21.139 --> 00:39:22.139 Amen. 00:39:22.139 --> 00:39:23.139 Amen. 00:39:23.139 --> 00:39:24.819 Lord Jesus, we thank you. 00:39:25.019 --> 00:39:27.879 We praise you for this awesome gift that you have given us. 00:39:29.319 --> 00:39:33.920 Your life, your body, your blood for our life. 00:39:37.579 --> 00:39:39.199 We could never repay you. 00:39:43.619 --> 00:39:45.739 And so we just say thank you. 00:39:45.739 --> 00:39:50.039 Thank you for all of the things that we've done. 00:39:51.139 --> 00:39:52.739 That they truly are forgiven. 00:39:54.639 --> 00:39:58.579 As you hung there and died on the cross for us. 00:40:01.639 --> 00:40:05.159 I pray that you would press that love into our hearts again. 00:40:05.659 --> 00:40:08.559 As we eat and drink now in remembrance of you. 00:40:09.819 --> 00:40:10.819 In your name. 00:40:11.379 --> 00:40:11.619 Amen. 00:40:11.619 --> 00:40:12.119 Amen. 00:40:12.119 --> 00:40:13.019 Amen. 00:40:13.019 --> 00:40:13.039 Amen. 00:40:13.219 --> 00:40:13.440 Amen. 00:40:13.440 --> 00:40:13.539 Amen.