Faith Tested
Faith is put to the proof when we are forced to stand firm in our convictions in the face of opposition and adversity.
Willam Kelly preaches about the testing of faith in the path of Christ, emphasizing the challenge of standing firm when faced with opposition and desertion even from fellow believers. He highlights the struggle of losing valued associations, enduring taunts, and persecutions for the sake of Christ, drawing parallels to the experiences of Timothy and faithful Christians throughout history. Kelly reflects on the recent years as a frightful illustration of the trials faced by believers in Christendom.
Text
In the path of Christ the time surely comes when faith is put to the proof. It is one thing in the confidence of grace and at the summons of the truth to turn one's back on the fairest pretension opposed to His name; it is quite another to stand firm and unabashed when not only the world turns from us, but desertion sets in among those who confess Him. How few can stand the loss of valued associations, not to speak of their taunts and persecutions! This abnormal state was dawning on the sensitive and distresses spirit of Timothy. It has long been the ordinary experience for the faithful in Christendom. What a frightful illustration of it even recent years have furnished.
Sermon Outline
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Faith Tested
- The Path of Christ
- When faith is put to the proof
- Standing firm in the face of opposition
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The Difference Between Confidence and Conviction
- Confidence in grace
- Conviction in the truth
- Standing firm in the face of adversity
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The Cost of Following Christ
- Loss of valued associations
- Taunts and persecutions
- Desertion from those who confess Him
Key Quotes
“It is one thing in the confidence of grace and at the summons of the truth to turn one's back on the fairest pretension opposed to His name; it is quite another to stand firm and unabashed when not only the world turns from us, but desertion sets in among those who confess Him.” — William Kelly
Application Points
- We must be willing to stand firm in our convictions, even in the face of opposition and adversity.
- We must trust in God's sovereignty and hold fast to our faith, even when it seems like everything is against us.
- We must be prepared to face the costs of following Christ, including loss of valued associations and persecution.