A Sunday Sermon

 Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

The importance of gathering together as believers cannot be overstated. It's not merely a suggestion but a vital necessity for spiritual growth and resilience. When we assemble, we create a powerful synergy that strengthens our faith and fortifies our resolve.

Bearing one another's burdens is not just a noble ideal; it's a fundamental responsibility towards our fellow believers. By supporting each other, we create a robust network of faith that can withstand the trials and tribulations of life. This mutual support system is essential, especially as we face increasingly challenging times.

The strength we derive from other believers is unparalleled. We grow stronger in our faith through our interactions, shared experiences, and collective wisdom. We must actively seek out these opportunities for connection, refusing to isolate ourselves or become complacent in our spiritual journey.

As the day approaches, it becomes even more critical to intensify our efforts in community building. We must encourage one another with greater frequency and fervor, pushing each other toward righteousness and unwavering faith. The challenges ahead demand nothing less than our total commitment to supporting and uplifting one another in our spiritual walk.

The LORD has spoken in His Word the reason for the falling away.

1 Timothy 4:1 - Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.

Like Satan in the Garden, seducing spirits act with subtleness or craftiness; more specifically, they insert grains of truth along with deceptive doctrines that, over time and repetition, draw one's thinking away from God's standards.

Seducing spirits and doctrines of demons don't announce themselves as coming from Satan but instead are packaged as being "smart," "modern," or "advanced." The purpose, however, is always the same.

"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).

Satan is not after our faith for miracles, prosperity, or God's blessing – he is after our faith in Christ as Savior, to pull people away from the Savior who came to save our souls and to destroy God's creation.

2 Thessalonians 2:3

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first,

2 Corinthians 11:3 - But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be deteriorated from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Hebrews 3:12-19 - Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.   

Revelation 2:4-5 - Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 

2 Peter 2:20-22 - For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.   

Matthew 24:10-13 - And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.   

Revelation 3:11 - Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.

James 1:12 - Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised them that love him.

1 Timothy 4:16 - Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

The exodus of Christians from the Church is a pressing issue that demands our immediate attention. Many are abandoning their faith communities due to a severe lack of commitment. These individuals are not loyal to their fellow Christians, choosing personal comfort over communal support. They're easily offended and unable to handle constructive criticism or differing opinions within the congregation. Instead of focusing on spiritual growth, they've become caught up in the cares of life, prioritizing worldly pursuits over their relationship with God. For these people, the Church is no longer a priority. They've relegated it to an afterthought, attending only when convenient. This lackadaisical attitude towards faith and community is detrimental to both individual spiritual health and the strength of the Church as a whole. It's time for Christians to reassess their priorities, recommit to their faith, and recognize the irreplaceable value of active participation in a church community.

A report issued by Dr. George Barna, Director of Research Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University Release Date: August 6, 2024, states: The cultural awareness sparked by the COVID pandemic and the 2024 presidential campaign has led millions of Americans to realize just how depraved American society has become. Corrupt politicians, dishonest journalists and media outlets, broken social institutions, immoral religious leaders, unconstitutional government programs and policies, and more have generated non-stop headlines highlighting the decadence of American society and the demise of the United States. The depth of the depravity is shocking. But the deterioration of this once-great nation begs the fundamental question: How did we get here? What happened to so quickly introduce new philosophies of life and ways of living that radically depart from America's historical Christian moorings and consensus? The indisputable cultural decline is a direct result of the spiritual collapse of Christianity in the nation. We are living in a day of deceit and confusion.

God is not the author of confusion, period. His word is clear, consistent, and unchanging. The Bible explicitly states that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He doesn't flip-flop on His messages or change His mind on a whim. If you're experiencing constant shifts in what God is telling you, it's a clear sign that you must develop and apply your spiritual discernment, a crucial skill in navigating the complexities of faith.

Too often, believers mistakenly attribute Satan's deceptive messages to God's voice. We are commanded to test the spirits and diligently search the scriptures. Stop jumping from one "God told me" moment to another, especially when these supposed divine instructions contradict each other or the Bible itself.

The problem is a "know it all" attitude among those who think they know God's voice.

It's crucial to anchor your faith in the solid foundation of God's written word rather than relying solely on fleeting emotions or impressions. God's faithful guidance aligns perfectly with His character and scriptures, which remain steadfast and unchanging. If you're constantly changing course based on what you think God is saying, you're likely not hearing from God at all. This spiritual arrogance has invaded the Church.

Spiritual arrogance is a dangerous pitfall many people face on their spiritual journey. It manifests as a know-it-all attitude, where individuals believe they've reached the pinnacle of spiritual understanding. This misguided confidence leads to an unwillingness to learn from others, effectively stunting their growth. They have head knowledge without heart experience.

Those afflicted with spiritual arrogance often disregard those who possess genuine knowledge and experience. They dismiss valuable insights, believing their limited understanding to be superior. This arrogance stems from a lack of true spiritual discernment, as they need to recognize the vast depths of wisdom beyond their narrow perspective.

It's crucial to understand that genuine wisdom comes with humility. Those who are genuinely enlightened acknowledge that there is always more to learn. Spiritual arrogance, on the other hand, is a clear indicator of someone who has no true wisdom. It's a barrier to personal growth and a hindrance to meaningful spiritual connections with others. Cultivating humility is essential for genuine spiritual growth.

To avoid this trap, one must remain open-minded, respectful of others' experiences, and committed to lifelong learning. Only then can one hope to achieve genuine spiritual growth and understanding.

Remember, our God is a God of order, not chaos. He doesn't tell you one thing today and something entirely different tomorrow. Seek His unchanging truth in His word, and stop falling for the confusion masquerading as divine guidance.

God has strategically positioned you where you are for a divine purpose. It's time to stop questioning your circumstances and start recognizing the ministry He has entrusted to you right where you stand. You are not a victim of chance but a chosen instrument in God's grand design.

Understand this: God has placed you where you are now for a reason. Your current situation, whether challenging or comfortable, is not a mistake. It's a calling. Open your eyes to see the ministry God has given you in the place you are today. Your sphere of influence, your struggles, and your strengths are all part of His plan.

It's time to stop being the unstable man James warns about, tossed by the wind and double-minded. Cease your aimless wandering like a star without orbit. Instead, plant your feet firmly in the soil of your current circumstance and bloom where you're planted.

Take up your cross and follow where God leads you. This isn't a suggestion; it's a command. Embrace your position with conviction, knowing God has equipped you for this moment. Your obedience in staying put may be the very thing that sparks a revival in your community, workplace, or family.

Stop looking for greener pastures and start cultivating the field God has given you. Your purpose is not elsewhere; it's right here, right now. Seize it with both hands and fulfill the calling God has placed on your life in this very place.