14 March 2010

John 16

"I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD"

EXPLORING THE THEME OF VICTORY
We have every reason to explore the doctrine of "victory" as our pulpit theme for March and April 2010!

1. This is a Biblical doctrine

a) Every Biblical teaching ought to be given due consideration

b) This doctrine is so pertinent and personally relevant

2. A great doctrine that inspires hope

a) The thought of victory should give us a powerful sense of hope

b) This sense of hope should cause our hearts to become even more alert and receptive to what the Lord's word teaches!

THE PROMISE OF VICTORY
Wherein is the promise of victory? The following text draws us to consider a wonderful promise of victory.

"These things I have spoken to you,
that in Me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation,
But be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33

1. The word "victory"

a) This word is taken from the word "overcome" (Nenikeka)

b) Translated in another way
The above text would read "I have already obtained victory over the world."

2. The Person who promised this victory

a) None other than the Lord Jesus Himself has promised us wonderful victory

b) He assures us that He has overcome the world

c) Yes, Jesus has already gained or obtained victory over the world!"

3. The world

a) It can be very wicked

b) It can be very oppressive and threatening

c) It can cause great tribulation to afflict people

4. A glorious promise of "peace"

a)Imagine having a powerful sense of peace in the heart all the time

b) This is the victory that we can have through knowledge and faith in the teachings of Jesus

FINDING PEACE AMIDST TRIBULATION
Let us find that peace Jesus promised to all believers! Let us learn how we may live victoriously through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ! Peace amidst tribulation is victory indeed!