1. Jesus showed in Matthew 16:26 that a person's soul is his most valuable possession. 2. Since our souls are so special, saving our souls is a matter of utmost importance. 3. Recently, we have been studying some Bible subjects that relate to "the salvation of our souls," including: a. the grace of God b. the death of Christ c. hearing God's Word d. believing that Jesus is the Son of God e. repentance f. confession g. baptism. 4. In this lesson we are examining a number of passages that relate to "faithfulness." 5. "Faithfulness" is fidelity, reliability, or trustworthiness, as illustrated in 1 Corinthians 4:2. 6. The first point we need to make is that . . .
Discussion:
I. "FAITHFULNESS" IS A KEY CHARACTERISTIC IN CHRISTIANITY
A. "Faithfulness" is one of God's characteristics. 1. God's "faithfulness" is declared in 1 Corinthians 1:9. 2. God's "faithfulness" is described in Psalm 36:5. B. "Faithfulness" is one of Jesus' characteristics (Hebrews 3:1-2). C. "Faithfulness" is one of the characteristics to be developed by God's children (Galatians 5:22-23).
II. "FAITHFULNESS" IS A REQUIREMENT FOR SALVATION
A. The Lord made this very clear in His message to the church in Smyrna (Revelation 2:10). B. The Lord showed how His faithful servants will be blessed when He returns, while unfaithful servants will be punished. 1. Matthew 24:44-51 2. Matthew 25:14-30
III. "FAITHFULNESS" IS AFFECTED BY OUR ACTIONS
A. Practices that negatively affect "faithfulness" must be avoided, including: 1. looking back (Luke 9:62; 17:32) 2. loving the world (2 Timothy 4:10) 3. developing an unbelieving heart (Hebrews 3:12-15) 4. forsaking worship assemblies (Hebrews 10:25). B. Practices that positively affect "faithfulness" include: 1. studying and meditating upon God's Word regularly (Romans 10:17) 2. obeying the Lord (James 2:17-18) 3. looking unto Jesus (Hebrews 12:1-3) 4. maintaining a spirit of optimism (Philippians 4:13).
Conclusion:
1. In order for our souls to be saved we must obey the Gospel of Christ. 2. We must also serve the Lord faithfully. 3. Those who do so will hear Jesus speak some special words when He returns (Matthew 25:21).
