Roy Cunningham

ID 52580Date unavailable

The Greek word translated as "strive," "labor," and "study" in Romans 15:20, 2 Corinthians 5:9, and 1 Thessalonians 4:11, highlighting its meaning of "ambition" or "esteem with honor." Paul's ambition was to preach the gospel in unreached areas, a calling extended to believers today. The message contrasts this with negative examples like Demas, Diotrephes, Ananias, and Sapphira, whose ambitions were self-serving or led to spiritual decline. It concludes by urging listeners to cultivate a genuine ambition to serve the Lord, live pleasingly before Him, and actively share the gospel, rather than succumbing to excuses or self-interest.

ID 52579Date unavailable

The Apostle Paul's final charge to Timothy in 2 Timothy 4 emphasizes the enduring importance of preaching the Word of God with urgency and faithfulness, even in the face of doctrinal drift and personal hardship. Paul, facing his own imminent death, models unwavering commitment by recounting his faithful ministry, urging Timothy to endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, and make full proof of his ministry. The core lesson is that true ministry requires unwavering fidelity to God's Word, personal integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the commission, regardless of external pressures or personal comfort. The sermon concludes by calling believers to rekindle their missionary vision and embrace total surrender to Christ's service, especially as the century closes.