Followers of Christ should expect difficulties and opposition in this world. As our Lord Jesus endured harsh treatment, and His apostles suffered for His sake, so believers now should welcome the reproach of this world as we represent our crucified and resurrection Savior.

Godly pastors, mature older men and women in the church, and faithful parents are key to the evangelism and discipleship of the next generation. (Recording started a few minutes into the sermon.)

God graciously gives all things to His people, so we must not boast in ourselves but only in Him. We may serve one another in humility, doing our very best and leaving the results to Him.

Strife in the church comes in part from an unjust criticism and even condemnation of one another. Followers of Christ must be found faithful, but it is ultimately the Lord who makes this determination. Do your best and leave the results—and the vindication—to God.

God opposes all thoughts that supplant Him and place humanity at the height of wisdom. We may not deceive ourselves by false claims of wisdom apart from His word. Neither should we attach ourselves to any teacher of His word but seek to exalt Christ over His church to the glory of God.

God regards His church so highly that He has chosen to dwell among His redeemed people and display His holiness through them. But beware—God will destroy those who seek to destroy His church.

Each Christian contributes to the building up of the church, but the Lord will evaluate our service according to Christ and His word. Therefore, we must be careful how we build to ensure our work remains after the Lord's testing.