OH! YOU OF LITTLE FAITH

 

Theme: - OH! YOU OF LITTLE FAITH

READINGS:

GENESIS 37:1-4

ROMANS 10:5-15

MATTHEW 14:22-33

By: Rev. Immanuel A. Wiafe

 

 

INTRODUCTION

According to the passages Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28; Romans 10:5-15, and Matthew 14:22-33, faith can be understood as follows:

 

Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28: In this story, faith is not explicitly mentioned, but it is implied. Joseph, despite facing trials and adversity, holds onto his dreams and trusts that God's plan will prevail. His unwavering belief in God's ultimate purpose in his life can be seen as an expression of faith.

 

Romans 10:5-15: In this passage, faith is presented as the means of salvation. It emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ and that everyone who believes in him will be saved. It implies that faith involves trust and reliance on Jesus as the Savior.

 

Matthew 14:22-33: This story recounts the episode where Jesus walks on water, and Peter, in a display of faith, asks Jesus to allow him to walk on the water as well. Initially, Peter steps out of the boat in faith, but when he becomes afraid and doubts, he starts to sink. Jesus then rescues him, highlighting that faith requires trust and not allowing doubt to overshadow it.

 

Overall, faith, as depicted in these passages, involves a deep trust and belief in God, His plans, and the saving power of Jesus Christ. It is the conviction that God will fulfill His promises and that by placing our trust in Him, we can receive salvation and experience His intervention in our lives.

WHAT THEN IS BIBLICAL FAITH?

 

Biblical faith can be defined as a complete trust and confidence in God, His character, His promises, and His Word. It is an active and living faith that is demonstrated through obedience and reliance on God.

Here are additional scripture texts that provide insights into biblical faith:

Hebrews 11:1-3 - "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith, we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."

Hebrews 11:6 - "And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."

James 2:14-26 - This entire passage emphasizes the importance of active faith, stating that faith without works is dead. It highlights that genuine faith is evidenced by works of obedience and that faith and action go hand in hand.

Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage emphasizes that salvation is received through faith in God's grace and not through our own works or efforts.

Mark 11:22-24 - "Have faith in God... Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." This verse teaches that faith involves believing in God's power and confidently trusting in His ability to answer prayer.

In summary, biblical faith involves trust and confidence in God, His promises, and His Word. It is demonstrated through obedience, reliance, and active belief in His power and goodness.

 

WHAT FAITH DOES? According to Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28; Romans 10:5-15 and Matthew 14:22-33

Faith, as depicted in these passages, involves belief, trust, and taking action based on one's beliefs. In Genesis 37:1-4, Joseph's dreams reflect his faith in God's plan for his future. In Romans 10:5-15, faith is emphasized as the basis for salvation, prompting believers to share the message. In Matthew 14:22-33, Peter's steps on water demonstrate his faith in Jesus, though doubt briefly falters his confidence.

 

WHAT CAUSES OUR FAITH TO FALL?

There can be various reasons for a person's faith to weaken or fall. It could be due to doubt, personal struggles, external influences, or life challenges. Here are a few relevant scripture texts:

Doubt and Uncertainty: Matthew 14:31 - "Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. 'You of little faith,' he said, 'why did you doubt?'"

Trials and Tribulations: James 1:2-3 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."

Deception and False Teachings: 2 Peter 2:1 - "But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them bringing swift destruction on themselves."

Worldly Temptations: 1 John 2:15-16 - "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life comes not from the Father but from the world."

Lack of Spiritual Nourishment: Hebrews 5:12-14 - "In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food!"

Sin and Unconfessed Wrongdoing: 1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Falling Away from God's Presence: Revelation 2:4-5 - "Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first."

Remember, the journey of faith involves both highs and lows, and seeking guidance, prayer, and seeking spiritual support can help in times of doubt or struggle.

WHAT MAKES OUR FAITH GROW?

 

Faith can grow through studying and reflecting on scripture, prayer, community, and experiencing God's faithfulness.

In Romans 10:17 - "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ."

James 1:3-4 - "For you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Hebrews 11:6 - "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."

Matthew 17:20 - "For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you."

Galatians 5:6 - "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love."

Remember, nurturing faith is a personal journey, and these elements can help foster its growth.

 

What prevents us from having faith? according to Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28; Romans 10:5-15 and Matthew 14:22-33

 

In those passages, various factors that could prevent faith include jealousy and disbelief (Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28), misunderstanding and lack of hearing the word (Romans 10:5-15), and doubt or fear (Matthew 14:22-33). These factors can hinder one's ability to fully trust and have faith.

CONCLUSION

 

In Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, the story highlights the jealousy and betrayal experienced by Joseph when his brothers sell him into slavery. Romans 10:5-15 emphasizes the importance of faith and the role of messengers in spreading the message of salvation. In Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus walks on water, teaching Peter to have faith and not doubt. These passages collectively emphasize themes of faith, trust, and the challenges believers face.

Dear friends, the threads of faith woven through these passages remind us that faith is not the absence of doubt, but the triumph over it. We are challenged to embrace unwavering faith, just as Joseph did, to spread the message of salvation like Paul, and to step out courageously like Peter. Let us cultivate a faith that shines brightly amidst life's storms, illuminating our path and drawing others closer to God's love. As we navigate the waters of life, may we hold fast to the truth that with faith, all things are possible. Amen.

 

 

 

 

CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS, MY ROLE AS A PRESBYTERIAN IN PRESERVING THE ENVIRONMENT

 

SERMON ON THE THEME CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS, MY ROLE AS A PRESBYTERIAN IN PRESERVING THE ENVIRONMENT 

SCRIPTURE TEXT

1^st Reading: Deuteronomy 10:12-14;

2^nd Reading: Psalm 89:8-15

3^rd Reading John: 1:1-3

 

Introduction

Dear beloved in Christ,

As Presbyterians and Christians alike, we are called to honor God by being good stewards of His creation. The adage "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" emphasizes the importance of caring for our environment as an expression of our love and obedience to the Creator. Today, we will explore the biblical foundation for environmental stewardship and our role as Presbyterians and Christians in preserving the environment. Let us turn to Deuteronomy 10:12-14, Psalm 89:8-15, and John 1:1-3 as we seek guidance on this vital aspect of our faith.

 

Body

God's Creation - A Testament of His Majesty

In John 1:1-3, we learn that Jesus, the Word, was present at the beginning of creation. God's divine creativity and wisdom are displayed in the vastness of the universe, the beauty of nature, and the intricate design of every living being. Psalm 89:8-15 further praises God's dominion over creation, stating that the heavens and earth testify to His faithfulness and righteousness.

Key Point am driving home is: Recognize that God's creation is a magnificent reflection of His majesty and serves as a constant reminder of His presence and power.

 

Stewardship - Our God-Given Responsibility

Deuteronomy 10:12-14 calls us to fear God, walk in His ways, love Him, and serve Him with all our heart and soul. As Presbyterians, Christians, we understand that stewardship goes beyond tithing and encompasses our responsibility to care for the environment. God has entrusted us with His creation, and we are called to be faithful stewards of the resources He has provided.

Understand this: We need to embrace our role as stewards by adopting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and conserving natural resources.

 

Environmental Preservation - A Reflection of Our Faith

Our commitment to environmental preservation is an act of worship and obedience to God. When we preserve the environment, we demonstrate our love for the Creator and His creation. By taking care of God's earth, we honor Him and display our gratitude for His gifts.

 

The key point here is: Our environmental efforts are not merely practical tasks but spiritual acts of worship and obedience.

 

Promoting Justice and Compassion

Environmental stewardship also involves advocating for justice and compassion toward the vulnerable. As we protect the environment, we consider the impact of our actions on communities, especially those most affected by environmental degradation. Preserving the environment includes promoting social justice, equitable distribution of resources, and caring for the marginalized.

Hence, our role as Presbyterians, Christians in preserving the environment includes advocating for justice and compassion in environmental policies and practices.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, as Presbyterians, Christians, we embrace the principle that "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" by fulfilling our role as faithful stewards of God's creation. Through Deuteronomy 10:12-14, Psalm 89:8-15, and John 1:1-3, we are reminded of God's majesty, our responsibility as stewards, and the significance of environmental preservation as an act of worship and obedience.

Let us heed the call to be good stewards of God's creation, taking steps to preserve and protect the environment. Our environmental efforts are not separate from our faith; they are deeply connected to our love for God and His people. May we, as Presbyterians and Christians in general, be shining examples of environmental stewardship, promoting justice, compassion, and a deep appreciation for God's magnificent creation. May God's name be glorified through our faithful care for His earth.

Amen.

 

EXPOSITION ON THE THEME: JESUS CHRIST, THE ALPHA AND OMEGA - REVELATION 21:6

 

EXPOSITION ON THE THEME: JESUS CHRIST, THE ALPHA AND OMEGA - REVELATION 21:6

 

In Revelation 21:6, the Lord Jesus Christ proclaims, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty, I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life." This profound statement encapsulates the eternal nature and divine authority of our Savior, emphasizing His existence before all things and His preeminence over all creation.

The proclamation of Jesus as the Alpha and Omega in Revelation 21:6 carries deep theological significance, revealing essential aspects of His identity and nature.

 

ETERNAL EXISTENCE:

By declaring Himself as the Alpha and Omega, Jesus affirms His eternal existence. He transcends time and space, existing beyond the constraints of the created universe. In John 8:58, Jesus told the Pharisees, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am." This statement reflects His divine nature as the eternal "I AM," coexisting with the Father and the Holy Spirit from eternity past to eternity future. The eternal nature of Jesus assures us that His promises and truths remain unchanging throughout all generations (Psalm 102:25-27; Hebrews 13:8).

 

    DIVINE AUTHORITY AND SOVEREIGNTY:

As the Alpha and Omega, Jesus claims divine authority and sovereignty over all creation. Colossians 1:17 proclaims, "He is before all things, and in Him, all things hold together." He is not only the Creator of the universe but also its sustainer. All things were created through Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16). This cosmic lordship highlights Jesus' preeminence over all powers, principalities, and rulers (Ephesians 1:20-23). His sovereignty extends not only over the physical realm but also the spiritual realm, making Him the ultimate source of hope and salvation for humanity (Acts 4:12).

 

    BEGINNING AND END OF SALVATION:

The title "Alpha and Omega" also encompasses the fullness of God's redemptive plan for humanity. As the Beginning, Jesus initiated God's plan of salvation through His incarnation, perfect life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection. His atoning work on the cross provides the way for humanity to be reconciled with God and receive forgiveness of sins (1 Peter 1:18-19). As the End, Jesus will bring the fulfillment of God's redemptive purposes when He returns to establish His Kingdom and judge the world (Matthew 25:31-32; Revelation 22:12).

 

    LIVING WATER AND ETERNAL LIFE:

In the latter part of Revelation 21:6, Jesus promises to give water without cost from the spring of the water of life to the thirsty. This water symbolizes the gift of eternal life that Jesus offers freely to all who come to Him in faith (John 3:16; John 4:14). In John 7:37-38, Jesus stood at the Feast of Tabernacles and cried out, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’" This living water satisfies the deepest longings of our souls, granting us a spiritual refreshment and transformation that leads to everlasting life.

 

    THE ALPHA - THE BEGINNING:

The term "Alpha" refers to the first letter of the Greek alphabet, signifying the origin or starting point. Jesus Christ, as the Alpha, declares His eternal existence. He is not bound by time or limited to a particular point in history. Before the foundations of the world were laid, Jesus existed in perfect unity with the Father and the Holy Spirit (John 17:5). He was present at the creation of the universe, actively participating in its formation (Colossians 1:16). The Alpha highlights Christ's divine nature and His role as the Creator and Sustainer of all things.

 

    THE OMEGA - THE END:

As the Omega, Jesus denotes the conclusion and fulfillment of all things. Just as He is the origin of creation, He is also the destination and purpose of all creation. Through His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, providing a way for humanity to be reconciled with God. The Omega represents the finality of God's redemptive plan. In the end, Jesus will return as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords to establish His eternal Kingdom (Revelation 19:16). He will bring about the consummation of history and the ushering in of a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1).

 

    THE ETERNAL GOD:

The title "Alpha and Omega" signifies that Jesus Christ is the eternal God, unbound by time and space. He is not limited by the constraints of human existence but transcends all of creation. In His divine nature, Jesus is outside of time, for He is the eternal "I AM" (John 8:58). This eternal aspect of Christ assures us of His faithfulness and unchanging character. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). As we place our trust in the Alpha and Omega, we find security in the knowledge that He has been with us from the beginning and will be with us until the end.

 

 

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Revelation 21:6 reveals Jesus Christ as the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. He is the eternal God, present at the inception of creation and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. As the Alpha, He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, while as the Omega, He is the culmination and purpose of all creation. This divine title reassures us of Christ's unchanging nature, His eternal love, and the living water of life He freely offers to all who believe in Him. As we reflect on the significance of Jesus as the Alpha and Omega, may we find comfort, hope, and renewed faith in the one who holds the past, present, and future in His hands.

In addition the proclamation of Jesus as the Alpha and Omega in Revelation 21:6 is a profound declaration of His eternal nature, divine authority, and significance in God's redemptive plan. He is the eternal "I AM," the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and the beginning and end of salvation for humanity. Jesus' promise of living water represents the free gift of eternal life that He offers to all who believe in Him. As we meditate on the truth of Jesus being the Alpha and Omega, may our hearts be filled with awe and gratitude for the eternal, sovereign, and loving Savior who holds the entirety of history and eternity in His hands