As we embark on a new year, it presents an opportunity for a fresh start, a chance to realign our priorities and seek first the kingdom of God. Drawing inspiration from Proverbs 3:5-6, the sermon dives into the exploration of genuine faith, going beyond mere words to examine what makes it real and reliable.

The journey begins with a reflection on the greetings in 2 Timothy 1, where Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, emphasizes the discovery of faith as one walks by faith. Addressing Timothy as his beloved son, Paul extends grace, mercy, and peace from God and Jesus. The foundation for genuine faith is laid, woven with the promises of life.

Timothy's faith is then unveiled in verses 3-7, characterized by Paul's clear conscience and constant prayers. The desire to be with Timothy, coupled with the acknowledgment of tears shed in times of separation, underscores the depth of their relationship. Genuine faith is marked by authenticity, reflecting what it claims to be both inside and out.

The congregation is guided through the REAL test of faith: Reliable, Evidence-based, Authentic, and Lasting. A faith that works in the midst of the fire, provides tangible evidence of its existence, goes beyond mere words, and stands the test of time. The importance of distinguishing feelings from faith is highlighted, emphasizing that unlike faith, love, never fails.

A critical aspect of genuine faith is its testing. The congregation is encouraged to build their faith by regular exercise – reading, praying, serving, and sharing. Drawing from the survey findings, the significance of faith passed down through generations is underscored, highlighting the impact of the first person in a household becoming a Christian.

In verses 6-7, the congregation is urged to stir up the gifts, keeping the fire of faith ablaze through continuous use. A spirit of fear is identified as a spiritual attack when one is afraid to share their faith. The sermon delves into the triad of power, love, and a sound mind that replaces fear, drawing from 2 Corinthians 12:9 and 5:13-14.

The sermon unfolds with Paul's declaration in verses 8-12, where he expresses his lack of shame in the Gospel despite the shame associated with the cross. The congregation is reminded that the Gospel's messengers faced persecution, illustrating the gravity of the message they carried.

Exploring verses 9-10, the sermon explains that the calling is not based on personal qualifications but on God's purpose and grace. The revelation of God's plan and the abolition of both spiritual death through Christ are expounded upon, emphasizing that Christians do not experience eternal death.

In verses 12-13, Paul articulates his willingness to endure suffering for a worthy cause, anchoring his belief in Jesus, the source of his faith. The congregation is urged to hold fast to the pattern outlined, highlighting the importance of studying the Bible with observation, interpretation, and application.

Closing with verse 15, the congregation is reminded that some have abandoned genuine faith, putting their trust in man rather than God. The example of Onesiphorus in verses 16-17 serves as a testament to enduring faith – reliable, evidence-based, authentic, and lasting.

Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, under the insightful leadership of Pastor Allen Victor, encourages its congregation to go beyond superficial faith, delving into the depths of a real and tested relationship with God.

#GenuineFaith #TestedFaith #BuildingFaith #RealChristianLiving