Now Then Do It
The sermon emphasizes the importance of making Christ the king of our lives and progressing in our spiritual journey.
Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of making Christ the king of our lives, drawing parallels between David's anointing and Christ's role as the anointed one. He highlights how David's patience and waiting on the Lord led to his eventual crowning, and encourages believers to take action by fully accepting Christ's kingship. Epp points out that while Christ's redemptive work is complete, the Holy Spirit's work in us is ongoing, urging us to progress in our faith. The call to 'Now then do it' serves as a reminder to actively choose to follow Christ and deepen our relationship with Him.
Text
2 Samuel 3:1,7-18
David's waiting on the Lord indeed paid off. At the end of seven and a half years, God began to arrange events so that David was finally crowned king of all Israel. Abner, who was general of the armies of Israel, had put Ish-bosheth on the throne of Saul to reign over 11 tribes. However, when Ish-bosheth quarreled with him concerning one of Saul's concubines, Abner retaliated by scheming to turn the kingdom over to David.
A very practical admonition comes from a statement made by Abner that we can apply to our own hearts. Abner went to the people of Israel and said that they had sought for David in the past to be their king, and he added, "Now then do it" (2 Sam. 3:18).
Make Christ king in your life. He is God's appointed King as David was appointed and then anointed for the kingship of Israel. Remember, the name "Christ" means the "anointed of God," and as such He has been appointed and anointed to be king in our lives. So make Him king today.
The work of redemption that Christ did for us is a finished work. The work of the Holy Spirit, on the other hand, which is forming Christ in us, is progressive. Have we ever progressed beyond Calvary?
"Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection" (Heb. 6:1).
Sermon Outline
-
I
- David's waiting on the Lord
- The significance of God's timing
- Abner's role in the transition of power
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II
- Abner's declaration to Israel
- The call to action: 'Now then do it'
- Making Christ king in our lives
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III
- Understanding Christ's kingship
- The finished work of redemption
- The progressive work of the Holy Spirit
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IV
- The importance of spiritual growth
- Moving beyond the basics of faith
- Embracing perfection in Christ
Key Quotes
“Now then do it.” — Theodore Epp
“The work of redemption that Christ did for us is a finished work.” — Theodore Epp
“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection.” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Reflect on areas of your life where you need to submit to Christ's authority.
- Consider how you can actively pursue spiritual growth beyond the basics of your faith.
- Take time to wait on the Lord and trust in His perfect timing for your life.