God's Gift Is Eternal Life through Christ (Romans 6:23)
Introduction:
1. The passages included in today's bulletin have something in common -- they all mention "eternal life." 2. According to Romans 6:23, the verse on the front of the bulletin, "God's gift is eternal life through Christ." 3. In our lesson we are focusing our attention on instructions found in the Bible that show us how to receive this special gift that receives so much attention in the Bible. 4. The first point we need to make is that . . .
Discussion:
I. CHRIST IS THE GIVER OF ETERNAL LIFE
A. Jesus made this very clear in John 17:1-3 as He prayed. B. To receive eternal life from the Lord we must hear His Word correctly. 1. (John 6:68) Peter said that Jesus has "the words of eternal life." 2. (John 5:24) Jesus tied in hearing His Word with receiving eternal life. C. The rich young ruler shows how we must comply with the Lord's instructions, even if sacrifice is involved (Matthew 19:16-22). 1. This man was seeking eternal life. 2. He came to the One who is the giver of eternal life. 3. Unfortunately, he was not willing to pay the price that Jesus required. 4. Consequently, he left filled with sorrow. D. The Lord will bless those who sacrifice on His behalf (Matthew 19:29). E. Now that we understand that Christ is the giver of eternal life and that He gives eternal life to those who comply with His Word, let us consider . . .
II. SOME IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOUND IN THE LORD'S WORD
A. (Matthew 7:13-14) Christ requires us to enter in at the strait gate and travel the narrow way that leads to life. B. (Matthew 18:8-9) Christ requires us to eliminate anything that will prevent us from entering into life. 1. With the rich young ruler, his problem was his possessions [sadly, he was not willing to eliminate the source of his problem]. 2. With the apostles, their problem was pride and ambition [fortunately, they eventually overcame the source of their problem]. C. (Matthew 25:31-46) Christ requires us to serve Him by serving others. D. (Galatians 6:7-8) The Lord requires us to sow to the Spirit to reap everlasting life. 1. The alternative is to sow to the flesh (5:19-21). 2. Those who sow to the Spirit will bear the fruit of the Spirit (5:22-23). E. (James 1:12) The Lord requires us to endure temptation [trials]. 1. This is something we must do to receive a crown of life. 2. Some helpful guidelines are given in vs.2-7.
Conclusion:
1. These are just a few of the Lord's instructions that relate to "eternal life." 2. Let us always respond properly to His Word (John 12:48-50).
