Sermons – Eastside church of Christ Eastside church of Christ

There are many investments that one can make (stocks, real estate, collectibles, cryptocurrency, etc.). All of these have to do with financial growth and security in this life. Yet there are certain investments we are to make that are spiritual in nature, and these are most important. In this series, we are going to discuss some of these investments we are to make. In this first lesson, we are going to consider the value of the soul.

As Paul closed his letter to the church in Ephesus, he admonished them to be “strong in the Lord” (v. 10). This was necessary because of the challenges and opposition they faced (v. 11-12). This was done by putting on “the full armor of God” (v. 11, 13), which would enable them to “stand firm” (v. 11, 13-14). We face challenges and opposition to our faith today just as they did then. The way we can deal with it is the same – “put on the full armor of God.” What does this mean? How do we do it? Let us consider the passage.

We have been abundantly blessed by God. In our text, Paul emphasized certain blessings we have as Christians. He said, “All things belong to you.” What does that mean? To answer that, we need to look at what he said and what is in the context.

When Paul addressed the ones gathered on Mars Hill, he taught them about the “unknown God” (Acts 17:23). In his lesson, he explained what God was declaring to them. This is also what God is declaring to us. In this lesson, we are going to examine what God is declaring to all men.

Paul warned Timothy that apostasy was certain (1 Timothy 4:1). Yet Timothy was to hold fast the pattern (2 Timothy 1:13), teach this to others (2 Timothy 2:2), and continue teaching without compromise, even if others departed (2 Timothy 4:2-5). There was hope that those who would listen would be saved (1 Timothy 4:16). So how was Timothy to approach his work as a preacher to help prevent apostasy? And how would the brethren need to respond in order to keep from falling away?

Paul warned Timothy that apostasy was certain (1 Timothy 4:1). Yet Timothy was to hold fast the pattern (2 Timothy 1:13), teach this to others (2 Timothy 2:2), and continue teaching without compromise, even if others departed (2 Timothy 4:2-5). There was hope that those who would listen would be saved (1 Timothy 4:16). So how was Timothy to approach his work as a preacher to help prevent apostasy? And how would the brethren need to respond in order to keep from falling away?