1. This morning we showed from the Scriptures that God's faithfulness is great. 2. This evening we are concentrating on 4 passages that are described as "faithful sayings." 3. By referring to these statements as "faithful sayings," the importance of the principles being taught in these passages is being emphasized. 4. Since these passages are so important, we must study them carefully. Discussion: I. (1 Timothy 1:15) JESUS CHRIST CAME INTO THE WORLD TO SAVE SINNERS
A. In the context (vs.12-17), Paul was thanking God for the change that had taken place in his life. 1. Paul had been an evil person at one time. 2. Even though he considered himself to be "chief of sinners," God saved him. B. Paul had been saved because of what is revealed in vs.15. 1. Jesus had come into the world to make salvation from sin available. 2. It cost Jesus His life to provide this salvation. C. This faithful saying is "worthy of all acceptation" [deserves our full acceptance]. D. Our next faithful saying shows us how we accept it. II. (2 Timothy 2:11) IN ORDER TO LIVE WITH CHRIST, WE MUST BE DEAD WITH HIM
A. Dying and living with Christ are explained in Romans 6:3-11. B. This is what Paul had done to be saved (Acts 22:16; 9:18). C. We learn from: 1. the first faithful saying that Jesus came into the world to save sinners 2. the second faithful saying that those who die with Him will be saved. D. The other 2 faithful sayings are directed to those who have been saved. III. (1 Timothy 4:7-9) WHEN WE ARE SAVED, WE ARE TO EXERCISE OURSELVES UNTO GODLINESS
A. A contrast is made between physical exercise and godliness. 1. There is some profit associated with physical exercise [its benefits are limited to this present life]. 2. However, "godliness" [doing things that please God] is profitable unto all things -- it holds promise for the present life, and it holds promise for the life to come. B. Godliness is so important that it is included in the Christian graces (2 Peter 1:6). C. This saying is also "worthy of all acceptation" [deserves our full acceptance]. D. Very closely associated with this faithful saying is the fourth one . . . IV. (Titus 3:8) THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN SAVED ARE TO BE CAREFUL TO MAINTAIN GOOD WORKS
A. Good works are valuable -- they are good, and they are "profitable unto men." B. The Bible places special emphasis on Christians doing good works. 1. (Titus 2:14) Christians are to be "zealous of good works." 2. (Titus 3:14) Good works will keep Christians from being "unfruitful." Conclusion:
1. These passages we have studied deal with matters of utmost importance. 2. Have you allowed Jesus to save you by dying with Him? 3. Are you exercising yourself unto godliness? 4. Are you being careful to maintain good works?