Ephesians 3:13

 

Ephesians 3:13

Take Courage Brethren!

 

Eph 3:13  Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. 

          1.      The Suffering of the Church Motivates Us

a.       Take courage when you see resistance to God’s work

                                                              i.      Don’t quit now before the reward

1.      Galatians 6:9 

                                                            ii.      Do not be afraid of the enemy

1.      Deuteronomy 20:3 

                                                          iii.      Now is not the time to run

1.      Isaiah 40:29-31 

2.      Mark 4:16-17   

                                                          iv.      Things may get tough but press on

1.      2 Corinthians 6:3-7 

           2.      The Sufferings of the Church is Our Glory

a.       The path to glory may not be what you are prepared for

                                                              i.      Matthew 20:20-23 

                                                            ii.      Romans 8:18 

b.      But when you look back on your suffering, you will be able to echo the words of Paul: “[it was a] light affliction”

                                                              i.      2 Corinthians 4:14-17 

c.       Consider it a privilege to stand with those who suffer

                                                              i.      2 Timothy 1:8-9 

d.      Like Paul you should see suffering as an opportunity

                                                              i.      Philippians 1:12-14 

e.       Do not be surprised by suffering

                                                              i.      1 Peter 4:12-14