Diligence on SermonAudio

This sermon explores the biblical theology of work, leisure, and laziness through the lens of Proverbs, contrasting the diligence of the ant with the idleness of the sluggard. It argues that while work is cursed by toil, it remains a divine mandate for the glory of God, as exemplified by Christ's completed work. The teaching uses honey as a metaphor for lawful pleasures, urging believers to enjoy God's gifts with self-control rather than indulging in addictive excess. By examining the consequences of procrastination and the rewards of skill, the message calls for a balanced life of productive labor and restful enjoyment. Ultimately, it grounds this ethic in the gospel, urging listeners to rest in Christ's finished work for salvation while actively pursuing the good works prepared for them.

Please consider how you can be faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ through your financial support to the continued work of His Church in this time. Contributions can be made by PayPal ( https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=CK4HH84AFWTY4 ) or by visiting our website ( faithbiblepres.org ) or by mailing your contribution to: Faith Bible Presbyterian Church 3001 Marian Dr. Trenton Mi 48183 "The Pastor ought to have two voices: one, for gathering the sheep; and another, for warding off and driving away wolves and thieves. The Scripture supplies him with the means of doing both." ~ John Calvin (July 10, 1509 - May 27, 1564). "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." ~ NKJV John 10:27 "Satan's greatest success is in making people think they have plenty of time before they die to consider their eternal welfare" ~ John Owen (1616 - August 1683). "For the word of God and testimony of Jesus Christ." ~ NKJV Rev. 1:9 Fᴀɪᴛʜ Bɪʙʟᴇ Pʀᴇsʙʏᴛᴇʀɪᴀɴ Cʜᴜʀᴄʜ ~ Tʀᴜᴇ Worship & Aᴜᴛʜᴇɴᴛɪᴄ Fᴇʟʟᴏᴡsʜɪᴘ ~ Faith Bible Presbyterian Church is a Bible believing and Christ honoring church that is committed to teaching|preaching the Word of God with diligence and authority. We stand for the historic Christian faith, and we welcome you to our services of worship. Won't you join us? faithbiblepres.org

Stay diligent in your service and devotion to your Lord in order to call succeeding generations to faithfulness and finish life well.

This, the 49th sermon on Romans, explores the call for believers to embrace humility and unity within the body of Christ, using the metaphor of a 'Humble Workers Union' to illustrate mutual dependence. The message emphasizes that while individual gifts and functions differ, all members belong to one body under Christ's headship, requiring a sober assessment of self rather than inflated pride. Drawing from Romans 12, the teaching urges the congregation to view their spiritual gifts as expressions of God's grace intended for active service to others, not for personal boasting. The tone is pastoral and encouraging, addressing contemporary cultural divisions by contrasting them with the biblical mandate for shared belonging and diligent, cheerful ministry. Ultimately, the sermon challenges listeners to move from passive reception of grace to faithful, humble action that supports the collective mission of the church.

This sermon explores the intimate relationship between the believer and God through the diligent study of Scripture, focusing on Psalm 119:135. It argues that the primary motive for reading the Bible should not be mere self-preservation or the accumulation of knowledge, but a desire to know God personally and to experience His goodness, mercy, and grace. The text contrasts the casual reader who remains in spiritual infancy with the blessed man who meditates on God's law day and night, seeking a deeper communion that transforms character and life. By emphasizing that God's face shining upon the servant is the context for His teaching, the message encourages believers to approach the Word with reverence and humility, ensuring that their knowledge leads to a holy and devoted life rather than pride. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a return to the psalmist's heart, where the desire to be taught is inseparable from the desire to behold the glory of Christ.

This sermon explores the call for believers to strive diligently to enter the eternal Sabbath rest promised in Hebrews 4. It distinguishes this ultimate spiritual rest from the geographical rest of the Promised Land and the weekly observance of the Lord's Day, identifying it as the final glory of the new heaven and new earth. The message emphasizes that the Christian life is a paradox of resting in Christ's finished work while actively striving in faith, hope, and love every single day. Preachers urge the congregation to avoid the complacency and disobedience that caused Israel to fail, warning that God's living word discerns the true state of the heart. Ultimately, the sermon encourages steadfast perseverance, reminding listeners that their labors in the Lord are never in vain as they keep their eyes on the future rest secured by Jesus Christ.

This sermon explores the theological depth of 1 Peter 1, focusing on the nature of salvation as foretold by the Old Testament prophets and revealed through the Holy Spirit. It highlights the distinction between blind faith and belief based on divine revelation, emphasizing that believers are blessed for trusting in Christ without having seen Him. The message draws a parallel between the suffering of Christ and the trials faced by believers, asserting that enduring these tests with faith results in divine praise, honor, and glory. By examining the prophets' diligent search for the Messiah's identity and timing, the sermon encourages believers to view their present distresses as a refining process that prepares them for the ultimate revelation of Jesus Christ.

B.I.— Followers of Jesus Christ must be aware of the times in which they live to understand them—times of division, discernment, and diligence. INTRODUCTION: 1A. A MINISTRY OF DIVISION. 49-53 1B. The Transmission of Fire. v. 49 2B. An Impending Baptism. v. 50 3B. A Dispensation of Division. vv. 51-53 2A. THE ABSENCE OF DISCERNMENT. 54-57 1B. Discerning the Weather. 54-55 2B. Shallowness of Discernment. vv. 56-57 3A. THE URGENCY OF DILIGENCE. 58-59 1B. The Time for Diligence. 58 2B. The Delay of Diligence. 59 CONCLUSION:

The sermon explores the practical application of Christian doctrine found in Romans 12, emphasizing that believers are to present their bodies as living sacrifices in response to God's abundant grace. It argues that the 'measure of faith' limits believers from pride and self-exaltation, fostering humility and unity within the body of Christ. The speaker distinguishes between the pre-canonical era of spiritual gifts and the current age of grace, asserting that the complete Scripture is sufficient for all spiritual needs and that no new revelation is required. Key themes include the sufficiency of the Bible, the necessity of genuine love without dissimulation, and the call to serve one another with diligence and cheerfulness. The tone is instructional and pastoral, urging believers to rely on the finished work of Christ rather than their own efforts or external signs.

The sermon explores the theological imperative for believers to actively mortify the deeds of the flesh, grounded in the promise of appearing with Christ in glory. It examines Paul's exhortations in Colossians and Galatians, contrasting the 'times past' of sin and self-righteousness with the present reality of being renewed in knowledge after the image of God. The teaching emphasizes that while the old man is crucified, the process of putting off sins such as covetousness, wrath, and malice requires continuous effort and reliance on divine grace. By analyzing specific sin lists and the nature of God's wrath, the message urges Christians to recognize that their previous lifestyle is obsolete and to diligently put on virtues like mercy, kindness, and love. This pastoral instruction serves as a reminder that sanctification is an ongoing journey of chipping away at old patterns to reflect the character of Christ.