In the World Ye Shall Have Tribulation (John 16:33)
Introduction:
1. In John 14-16 Jesus spoke to the apostles to comfort their troubled hearts. 2. He concluded in 16:33 by informing the apostles that they would have tribulation in the world. 3. He also said that peace can be found in Him and that His followers can "be of good cheer." 4. This morning we studied Psalm 46, a helpful Psalm for troubling times. 5. This evening we are studying a number of passages that supply helpful information that relates to tribulation.
Discussion:
I. CHRISTIANS ARE NOT IMMUNE TO TRIBULATION
A. The reality of tribulation in Christianity is touched on in Acts 14:19-22. B. The Lord's church has faced tribulation for many years (Revelation 2:8-11). C. Christians must face tribulation properly because it can have an adverse effect, as illustrated by the stony soil (Matthew 13:20-21).
II. IN CHRISTIANITY, TRIBULATION IS CONNECTED WITH PATIENCE
A. In Romans 12:12 Christians are instructed to be "patient in tribulation" [to accomplish this we must "rejoice in hope" and "continue instant in prayer"]. B. According to Romans 5:3-4, tribulation produces patience that leads to experience and hope (see James 1:3-6a).
III. SPECIAL BLESSINGS ARE AVAILABLE DURING TRIBULATION
A. God provides comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). B. Tribulation cannot separate the Lord's people from His love (Romans 8:35-39).
Conclusion:
1. In John 14-16 Jesus spoke to the apostles to comfort their troubled hearts. 2. We began our lesson by reading the Lord's final statements in John 16:33. 3. Let us conclude by reading the Lord's statements in John 14:1-4.
