"A May that Matters" Part One

This month, Bro. Rick is preaching on things that matter. His first sermon (May 3, 2009) was on FAITH.

Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Take a minute to think about the 3 things in your life that matter the most to you. What are they?

1. _______________________
2. _______________________
3. _______________________

Is your faith on that list?

Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."

Why is faith so important?

FAITH IS ELEMENTARY: It is our basic starting point in a relationship with God. (Ephesians 2:8 - "For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.")

1. It is our foundation. (1 Corinthians 3:11 - "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.")
2. It should be our focus. (Galatians 2:20 - "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.") Our focus should always be on Jesus. Where is your focus?

FAITH IS ESSENTIAL: We cannot have a personal relationship with God without faith. (Hebrews 11:6 - "...without faith it is impossible to please him...")

1. It is essential for salvation. (Ephesians 2:8 - "For by grace ye are saved through faith...")
2. It is essential for seeing miracles happen. (Hebrews 11:1) What miracle do you need God to do today? (Mark 9:23 - "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.")

FAITH IS ETERNAL: Our faith ensures us that we have a home in Heaven.

1. It is our responsibility to be faithful. (Hebrews 11:6 - "...he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.")

HOW DILIGENT ARE WE IN OUR FAITH?