Persecution does not stop the Gospel because of it's purifying effect. -12-16- ----Persecution does not stop the Gospel because of the power of God. -17-21- ----Persecution does not stop the Gospel because of the persistence of truth. -22-42-

We can expect opposition if we faithfully speak the message of Christ. -- The gospel is offensive because it threatens mans agenda. -- The gospel is offensive because it violates mans thinking. --We must meet opposition by faithfully speaking the message of Christ. --We must faithfully endure opposition because of the message of Christ.

We can all benefit from a renewed confidence in God as we tackle the mountains and the monotonous of daily life. When we are dependent on God, He gives us confidence in life and death. ----1- dependent on God- connection to God and believers----2- confident living- contentment with the gift and the giver ----3- dependent on God- counsel, meditate on God and find stability with God.----4- confident living- constancy, confident in Christ's power over death, confident in the likeness of Christ.