Dr. Rob White - February 7, 2016
Believe - Chapter 4
February 7th, 2016
A sermon based on "Believe" by Randy Frazee by Rev. Dr. Rob White for Athens Universal Life Church
From Series: "Believe"
Believe is a unique spiritual growth journey that helps you to think, act, and be more like Jesus. In it, general editor and pastor Randy Frazee walks you through the ten key Beliefs of the Christian faith, the ten key Practices of a Jesus-follower, and the ten key Virtues that characterize someone who is becoming more like Jesus. Each chapter uses short topical passages from the New International Version to help you live the story of the Bible. As you journey through this book, whether in a group or on your own, one simple truth will become undeniably clear: what you believe drives everything. Each chapter includes both Old Testament and New Testament Scripture passages that relate to the specific belief, practice, or virtue in that chapter. Chapters being with a key question, a key idea, and a key verse to guide the reader, along with helpful introductions, summaries, and through-provoking questions. Using this edition of Believe, church families around the globe can now embrace a full ministry year through worship services, small group studies, and family activities. About the BELIEVE experience Know what you believe and why it matters. Grounded in Scripture, BELIEVE is a unique discipleship experience that helps Christians of all ages become more like Jesus in their beliefs, actions, and character. This series illuminates the core beliefs of the Christian faith to help you think, act, and be more like Christ. The BELIEVE experience includes books of carefully selected Scripture for adults, students, and kids; a companion book for discipleship and growth; a storybook and a coloring book for children; and curriculum for every age group. All editions of BELIEVE unpack 30 key ideas of the Bible: 10 key beliefs, 10 key practices, and 10 key virtues of a Christian, so your whole church can learn to be more like Jesus together.
More Messages from Dr. Rob White...
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In this insightful sermon titled “Waiting for the Uppertaker,” Dr. Rob shares a message of spiritual preparedness and hope, emphasizing the significance of being ready for the Second Coming of Christ, as well as the challenges and opportunities this anticipation brings to our lives.
The sermon begins by drawing a parallel between the changing seasons, specifically the colorful transition from fall to winter, and the spiritual changes that come with anticipation of Christ’s return. Just as leaves fall before trees sprout new growth, we are encouraged to prepare our hearts and lives for the imminent return of Jesus.
Luke 21:25-36 serves as the focal point of the sermon. The text speaks of signs in the heavens and the coming of the Son of Man. Rather than presenting a fearful vision, the Reverend interprets this text as a promise of God’s decisive intervention in human history, offering redemption and liberation from the challenges of life.
A key message in this sermon is the need for constant readiness in our spiritual lives. Dr. Rob stresses that, much like the anticipation of the Second Coming, daily spiritual preparedness is crucial. By addressing the dangers of dissipation, drunkenness, and worldly worries, we are reminded of the importance of staying spiritually vigilant and ready for whatever life may bring.
Additionally, the sermon provides a hopeful perspective on the cosmic signs mentioned in the scripture. While they may initially appear intimidating, these events are portrayed as signs of God’s active involvement in our world. They are not meant to frighten but to prepare us for redemption, a promise that calls for celebration and anticipation.
The sermon text mentions that “this generation” will not pass away until all things are accomplished, which Dr. Rob interprets as meaning those who are characterized by their faith, waiting, and witnessing will experience God’s redemption. The precise timing of Christ’s return remains a mystery, but this is not a reason to become complacent. Rather, it serves as a reminder of the constant need for spiritual readiness.
The sermon concludes with a message of hope and encouragement. The early Christians were eagerly awaiting the Second Coming, looking forward to their meeting with Christ. They were spiritually prepared to see Jesus, expecting Him with great hope and excitement. The Reverend encourages us to follow in their footsteps, to be spiritually ready to see Jesus when He returns.
In summary, “Waiting for the Uppertaker” teaches us the importance of living with spiritual preparedness in our daily lives, anticipating the Second Coming with hope and readiness. It invites us to embrace the changing seasons of life, confident that God’s promise of redemption will bring ultimate liberation and fulfillment.
