Preached by Pastor Mike Hess Sunday evening 01/03/2010.
“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18
“in whom (Christ) are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”Colossians 2:3
I. Encouraging One Another by Giving Preference (Rom.12:10)
We’re to be involved in holding each other accountable. If a brother or sister in Christ is caught in a pattern of sin, “we’re commanded to live in harmony – not with fighting, arguing, or contention of any kind. Commanded to do what we can to restore that person so that they can function in ministry once again for Christ.” Wayne Mack
II. Encouraging One Another to Good Works (Hebrews 3:12-13)
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Colossians 3:16
“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-12
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another. And all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25
III. Encouraging the Hurting and Bereaved
“Your brother will rise again.” John 11:23
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
IV. Making it Personal
1. Keep in mind that an encouraged church is a healthy church.
2. You have true encouragement and hope to bring to people in the gospel that speaks to every hurt, setback and discouragement in life.
3. Are you personally ministering to others right now? Do you write cards, send a nice email or text message, make calls, visit others, personally sacrifice your time and resources and more than anything…do you pray for others?
Download Sermon - right click; choose "Save Target As..."
To listen to sermon left click play icon on player