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Test of Perseverance - part 2 of 2 The New Testament writers were firmly convinced that those who truly committed themselves to Christ should persevere to the end because they had gained a new perspective and become a people who would not treat lightly the biblical admonitions. Heb. 6:9-12 (KJV) 9But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. 10For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: 12That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Heb. 10:39 (KJV) 39But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. They believed Christians would finish the race because Christians would focus their attention on Jesus, the lead runner and model finisher of their faith. Heb. 12:2 (KJV) 2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. In the early church Christians wrestled with the problem of the “renouncers” during and after periods of persecution. But the perseverance of the saints is one of the great theological ideas that needs to be reaffirmed in this era. It is the human side of the salvation equation, and it deals with faithfulness of Christians in matters of God’s will. James 1:25 (KJV) 25But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. This concept encompasses the taking seriously of human weakness, without denying the mysterious nature of God’s patience with His people. It permits judgment concerning the way people live in this world, but it does not exclude God’s abundant graciousness. Persevering Christians take prayer seriously as a reflection of life. They recognize the way of love and forgiveness because they understand the nature of human weakness and divine help. They know they have experienced grace beyond their human capacities. Persevering Christians recognize that the warnings of the Bible are meant for them to obey and that Christ gave His life to transform their lives. Perseverance is thus a call to faithfulness, but it is also an affirmation that somehow, in spite of our failures, God will bring His committed people through the difficulties and concerns of life to their promised destiny in Christ. -S. Chad Ross February Newsletter 2004 | Forgiveness | Test of Perseverance part 2 of 2 | Pastor's Journal February 2003 Holding Truth in Humility | Keep Moving Forward | Be Not Fruitless or Barren Part 2 of 3 |
Biblical Counseling for Leaders
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