Stand Fast - I Cor. 16:13
The sermon emphasizes the importance of standing firm in one's faith, trusting in God's protection, and honouring Him in all aspects of life.
Bernard Fell preaches on the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the book of Daniel, highlighting their unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution and the fiery furnace. Despite the threat of death for not bowing down to the idol, these three men stood firm in their faith, trusting in God's protection and refusing to compromise their beliefs. Through prayer and divine intervention, they were miraculously saved from the flames, showcasing the power of God to deliver His faithful servants from harm and to turn situations of persecution into opportunities for His glory.
Text
Watch ye, stand fast in the faith,
quit you like men, be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13
Lo! a shining, gold colossus,
Product of a kingly brain,
Shameful, lifeless, metal monster,
Stood on Dura's humid plain:
All the V.I.P.'s were gathered,
With the Chaldees cornet-band,
When the hour for dedication
Of the image came to hand.
From the Babylonian despot
Came a ruthless firm decree:
Fiery death to all dissenters
Who refuse to bow the knee.
Hark! the herald's proclamation,
As the band began to play,
"Give ye homage to the idol!"
All obeyed, save three that day.
Kingly anger, like a tempest,
Burst in fury 'gainst the Jews;
Royal warning, railing, pleading,
Could not shake those godly youths.
"In this matter we're not anxious,
For we have the mind of God,
Not to serve your wretched idol,
Though we feel your fiery rod !"
"Heat the furnace seven times hotter",
Cried the king, "and let them burn!"
Seems the place was air-conditioned
For their comfort, we discern!
Bonds were burnt to give them freedom;
Better was their lot in flame!
'Neath the wings of God's protection,
From the fire unsinged they came!
Faith in God will ever triumph
Through the medium of prayer:
For the Lord of Hebrew princes
Hath His mighty arm made bare.
He can turn man's wrath to praises,
And protect His servants, too:
Stand for truth, maintain His glory,
Honour God, He'll honour you!
Sermon Outline
- Stand Fast in the Faith
- The Example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
- The Power of Prayer
- Standing for Truth and God's Glory
- Honour God, He'll Honour You
- The Lord's Mighty Arm Made Bare
Key Quotes
“Faith in God will ever triumph Through the medium of prayer:” — Bernard Fell
“He can turn man''s wrath to praises, And protect His servants, too:” — Bernard Fell
“Stand for truth, maintain His glory, Honour God, He'll honour you!” — Bernard Fell
Application Points
- We must remain steadfast and unwavering in our faith, even in the face of adversity or opposition.
- We can maintain our faith by trusting in God's protection and praying for guidance and strength.
- We must honour God by standing for truth, maintaining His glory, and trusting in His provision.