Have you ever stood in great need of comfort and encouragement? If so, you know that in time of affliction, there is no thought or word that has deeper meaning, nor any possession of greater value, than that of effective and genuine comfort. The objective of this study is to equip us to have the assurance that there is comfort available, and to know how to be comforted, as well as how to be a comfort to others in the fires of affliction.
Gene Cunningham - February 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #11
Nine facets in the diamond on the bride - Diamonds in the Bible (Exo 28:18, Jer 17:1, Eze 28:13). The adornment of the bride is composed of the righteous act of the saints (Rev 19:7-9, Isa 61:10-11). Divine production in life of the believer are valuable (1Co 3:12). Living faith will be rewarded (Jam 2:17). The works of the flesh (Gal 5:16-21) are the antithesis to the fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22-25). What does it take to make a diamond? one element (carbon), heat, pressure, time, cutting and polishing; the same is true of us when it comes to God increasing Christ-likeness in us. Diamond in original Greek means "invincible". Fruit of the Spirit has a threefold division -- spiritual relation to (1) God -- Love, joy, peace; (2) others -- patience, kindness, goodness; and (3) yourself - faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. The are fake diamonds Col 2:8, Col 2:16, Col 2:18; Col 2:23. Surrender is needed for this -- the character and conduct of Christ in us (Gal 4:19, 1Jo 2:6). Good works? (1) Sacrifice whatever will make another stumble (Rom 14:21). Maintaining sexual purity (1Co 7:1, 1Th 4:3). (2) Being content with what you have (1Co 7:26, 1Ti 6:8, Heb 13:5). (3) To exercise your spiritual gift for the blessing of other believers (1Co 12:7). (4) Generous giving (2Co 9:7-8, Gal 6:6). (5) Work in supporting yourself (Eph 4:28, 1Th 3:8-10). (6) Fight the good fight (1Ti 1:18). (7) Boldly confessing Christ (1Ti 6:12).
Scripture References: Romans 14:21, Jeremiah 17:1, Galatians 5:22-25, John 2:6, Exodus 28:18, Galatians 5:16-21, Galatians 4:19, James 2:17, Colossians 2:23, Ephesians 4:28, Isaiah 61:10-11, Colossians 2:18, Galatians 6:6, Revelation 19:7-9, Colossians 2:16, Hebrews 13:5, Ezekiel 28:13, Colossians 2:8
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.