ENDURE CHASTENING

Introduction:

A. How Much Are You Willing To Endure?

1. The persecution and rejection of friends and family?

2. The loss of shelter, finances and food?

3. Would You Be Willing To Die For Your Faith?

B. How Strong Is Your Faith?

Body: Hebrews 12: 3 - 11

I. Christ Endured.

A. Hostility from sinners.

B. Do not give up.

1. Do not become weary, tired.
2. Do not become discouraged, relax and give up.

C. Have not shed blood.

1. They have not endured martyrdom for their faith.
a. They have not striven against sinful people.
b. They have not yet been called to choose between life and death.
2. They have not struggled as Jesus did in the garden.
a. They have not striven against severe temptation.
b. They have not yet been called to make a testing decision.

II. Chastening From The Lord.

A. Do not despise.

B. Proof of sonship.

1. God chastens because of love.
2. God is treating us as sons.
3. No chastening = do not belong to God.

C. For our good.

1. God’s chastening brings life.
2. God chastens so we may partake of His holiness.
3. God’s chastening produces.
a. Righteousness for those receptive to it.
b. Unrighteousness in those unreceptive.

Conclusion:

A. Have You Suffered As Christ Has Suffered?

B. Have You Endured The Discipline Of God?

C. Would Your Faith Be Strong Enough?