December 4, 2005

2 Corinthians

Your Ministry - Part 3
Steve Lane

A. Review

2 Corinthians 5: 14 The love of Christ compels us
2 Corinthians 5: 16 Regard no one from a worldly point of view
2 Corinthians 5: 19b - 20 Presenting Christ

B. The simple but repulsive message of the cross

2 Corinthians 5: 21
The heart of the gospel -- substitution
Isaiah 53: 4 - 6, 12
There is a problem with this message: The cross.

Holiness without humility?

2 Corinthians 5: 15
Revelation 5: 9 - 10
He has a new plan for us

C. Be careful that you do not live in vain

2 Corinthians 6: 1
Paul seems concerned that they would receive the message of the cross (grace) in vain

Two things if we would fulfill our calling:
1. 2 Corinthians 3: 18
2 Corinthians 2: 15 Conformed to His image
The aroma of Christ
2. John 15: 15
Matthew 11: 27 Take on His purpose
2 Corinthians 6: 2
Sacrifice and character
D.
Don't be a stumbling block

2 Corinthians 6: 3 - 10
"Take up your cross daily"

Character of the messenger: Servant, great endurance, purity, understanding, patience, kindness, sincere love, truthful speech, power of God, righteousness, genuine, rejoicing

E. Conclusion

OK... Here I am. I find myself not living like this today. What do I do?
"O God, if You were to leave me on my own for a second, that's what You can expect from me. I repent. I am going Your way now, and not my own -- no matter the sacrifice or unfairness I feel."

Every day, and many times a day, "I have decided to follow Jesus."