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As Christians we are constantly involved in spiritual battles. This Sunday, being Defence Sunday, I thought it would be good to look at what kind of character we need to have to win our battles, live the life God calls us to, and share the gospel with others.
I will remind you again that the gospel is about “making disciples” and according to Jesus we make disciples by teaching them to obey everything that he taught his disciples (Matthew 28). Paul reiterates this in his 2nd letter to Timothy where he passes on some principles that apply to all Christians because we all have a role in passing on to others what we have received from God. As we look at 2 Timothy 2:3-7 together, we will see how we are to be like soldiers, athletes, and farmers. Each of these illustrate that the work of the gospel is strenuous, involving both labour and suffering. Soldiers endure hardship, discipline, taking orders, and are removed from civilian life as part and parcel of being a soldier. No good soldier goes to war surrounded by luxuries and comfort. Soldiers experience and see unpleasant things. It is not a safe activity. Similarly, Christians should not expect an easy life. If we are loyal to the gospel, we will experience opposition, ridicule and “share in his sufferings”. Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules. We must pass on what we have received in obedience to Christ’s commands so at the end of our days we can say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, …. “ We also need to be like a farmer and work hard. We will then be rewarded with the first fruits of the Harvest. We must sow seeds of righteousness, because we will reap what we sow. And we need to open our eyes to see the harvest is plentiful and go out into the harvest field to do our work. For us to be faithful to our Christian calling and for Mount Eliza Anglican church to grow, we need to be hard workers like farmers, disciplined like athletes, and have the dedication of a good soldier. As we do this, we will receive victory in our battles, the prize for the race run well, and a plentiful harvest to enjoy and give thanks for. Therefore, take courage! And give special thanks for all who have served and fought for our freedoms. Lest we forget! Rev Tanya
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Reverend
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