Fight the good fight for the faith;
take hold of eternal life that you were called to and have made a good confession about in the presence of many witnesses.
Being a victim or experiencing victory is a choice. Salvation is not just for getting out of going to hell…it is really for the purpose of having a relationship with Jesus Christ. We aren’t to call on Jesus just because were in trouble…we are to seek Him in all circumstances. This is the essence of a true relationship.
John 6:26
Jesus answered, “I assure you: You are looking for Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled.
Biblical salvation is based upon two things in order for the Christian life to be a success:
- Relationship
Jesus Christ, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit all work together to encourage you to get to know who they are.
- Education
We are guided by the Holy Spirit in our learning.
John 14:25-26
25 “I have spoken these things to you while I remain with you. 26 But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit—the Father will send Him in My name—will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.
2 Peter 3:18
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
Without education, your relationship with the Lord will suffer. In the same way, your knowledge of the Word does not ensure a strong relationship with God. If you love God, your desire to grow your relationship with Him will also show the importance of learning about Him.
Building a successful life requires hard work.
1. Education: Spiritual and Social
We need to be fully equipped to be able to perform and function well in our society.
Hosea 4:6
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Because you have rejected knowledge,
I will reject you from serving as My priest.
Since you have forgotten the law of your God,
I will also forget your sons.
2. Health: Spiritual and Physical
Ephesians 1:4a
For He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.
3 John 1:2
Dear friend, I pray that you may prosper in every way and be in good health physically just as you are spiritually.
3. Mental strength: Spiritual and Moral Strength
If you are spiritually strong, you will have the ability to stand and to discern over issues that may occur.
Ephesians 4:14
Then we will no longer be little children, tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching, by human cunning with cleverness in the techniques of deceit.
Ephesians 4:23-24
23…you are being renewed in the spirit of your minds; 24 you put on the new self, the one created according to God’s likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth.
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Your Source (John 15:1-10)
Key verses–verse 7 is how to be successful, while verse 8 reveals the purpose behind your success. It is all for God’s glory.
John 15:7-8
7 If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be My disciples.
John 15:9-10
9 “As the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you. Remain in My love. 10 If you keep My commands you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commands and remain in His love.
Psalm 37:4
Take delight in the LORD,
and He will give you your heart’s desires.
When you delight in the Lord you bring everything to Him.
1. You count on God to direct your steps (Proverbs 16:9).
2. Your conversation with God and with others for guidance and encouragement is important (Proverbs 15:22).
3. You are careful to not rush into the unknown (Proverbs 19:2).
4. You are able to watch for problems and be prepared to meet them (Proverbs 17:12).
Akron Alliance Fellowship 