Four Christian Necessities
Text: Romans 12:12-15 INTRODUCTION: In the text four necessary characteristics of the Christian are set forth. They are indispensable to the building up of a Christian character.
I. "Rejoicing In Hope"
A. What is hope? It is desire with expectation. Discuss desire minus expectation. Also expectation minus desire. Neither can be hope. One must both desire and expect, to have hope.
B. Hope is in the Lord only. (Phil. 4:4; John 6:66,67)
1. In his teaching. No hope in the doctrines of men. (Matt. 15)
2. In his salvation. (Eph. 1:2) No salvation out of him. (Acts 4:11,12)
3. In his promises. (2 Peter 1:4; 2 Cor. 1:20; 7:1)
C. Rejoice in this hope. Reasons for rejoicing are many.
1. Because our names are written in heaven. (Lk. 10:20)
2. Because we are partakers with Christ. (1 Pet. 4:13)
3. Essential to holding firm unto the end. (Heb. 3'6)
II. "Patient In Tribulation"
A. Possess souls in patience. (Luke 21:19)
B. Patience in waiting on God. (Psa. 37:1)
1. Many get ahead of God. Lord's way is sometimes too slow. Israel became impatient and made a golden calf. (Psa. 40:1) Many "golden calves" today.
C. Hope is secured in patience. (Rom. 15:34)
D. How patience is cultivated. (Jas. 1:2-4)
III. "Continuing In Prayer"
A. Means to keep on praying. (1 Thess. 5:17; Col. 4:2; Luke 18:1; Eph. 6:18)
If one keeps on living he must "continue in eating." To continue in prayer means every day.
IV. "Distributing To The Necessities Of The Saints"
A. A necessary work of every individual (Gal. 6:10), and of the church.
B. John said it is the proof of our love for Christ and the brethren. (1 John 3:17)
1. Paul holds up the churches of Macedonia as examples of such work motivated by love and an intense desire to have fellowship in the gospel. (2 Cor. 8:1-4)
2. Christians have the positive promise of God that He will not forget such work and faith. (Heb. 6:10)
CONCLUSION: Exhort the church to the fulfilling of every precept that it may advance to the fullest service possible.