CHARACTER REFERENCES

“Character Matters”

Pastor Duane Cross | 01.30.2011

“While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Then he fell on his knees and cried out, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaira. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women.” (Acts 7:59-8:3)

“WHAT DO WE DO?

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:2-4, 12)

3 POWERFUL STATEMENTS:

I. ADVERSITY STRENGTHENS YOUR FAITH.

1) You will experience adversity in life.

“In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33)

2) Adversity strengthens our faith.

II. TESTING OF YOUR FAITH DEVELOPS PERSEVERANCE.

III. THOSE WHO PERSEVERE RECEIVE THE CROWN OF LIFE.