The Privilege of Persecution-Kansas Bible Conference-Aug 2015

The Privilege of Persecution

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness …” Mat 5:10b

At present, many men, women, and children around the world are facing persecution. Many more will face it in the near future. Indeed, persecution against Christians and Christian standards is now taking shape across the USA, and this persecution is becoming more aggressive and intense with each passing day. As we would prepare for any upcoming event in our life, so we should spiritually prepare for both present and coming persecution. Days of persecution are days to stand up in victory—not flee in defeat!

These are the notes from Nan Cunningham’s ladies’ Bible class at the Kansas Bible Conference, August 21–23, 2015.

Kansas 2015 Ladies Class

Gene Cunningham - April 8, 2000

Simplicity in Christ #4

Listen

After being attacked by Herodians, Pharisees, and Saducees, Jesus answer was simple "you are mistaken because you don't know the scriptures, nor the power of God" (Mat 22:29). Complexity comes from the fall of man -- sin, evil. Jesus' approach to scripture . The Word is simple and liberates us from the complexities of life. (1) Jesus saw God as His Father and provider (Mat 6:25-33), therefore commands we "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness". The way to keep life simple is to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ. Salvation is simple. You cannot serve God and "money" at the same time (Mat 6:24); you have to leave your provision in His hands. The only way to serve God is to actively seek His will by faith (Mat 6:10). Money enslaves us and keeps us in the realm of anxiety. The God of the universe has the power to hear and answer our prayers (Mat 7:7-12). Disobedience disqualifies any prayer. Effective prayer is persistent (Luk 18:1-8). Knock means to be insistent. When we're not knocking on His door, He's knocking on ours. An answer is always certain (Mat 7:8). When we seek, we need to add looking for guidance from His Word.

Scripture References: Luke 18:1-8, Matthew 7:7-12, Matthew 6:10, Matthew 6:24, Matthew 6:25-33, Matthew 22:29, Matthew 7:8