Overcoming and Contending for the Faith – Jesus’ encouragement and demonstration
Jesus' words to His disciples in John 16:33 brought both warnings and encouragement. The same words apply to us today. "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." Jesus spoke these words before going to the cross. So what did it look like in reality to already declare that He had "overcome" when suffering awaited and would be part of all their journey? As we look through scripture and the life of Jesus and the disciples we see the importance of the Holy Spirit, the written Word and prayer in helping us not only to go through these times, but to come out victorious. Jude urges us to "contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God's Holy people" (Jude verse 3). Many today need breakthroughs and hope. As the body of Christ, we can no longer be passive or apathetic in our christian walk, the world is getting darker…