KEEP ON KEEPING ON - Keep On Going
INTRODUCTION:
Little drops
of water,
Little grains of sand,
Make the mighty ocean
And the beauteous land.
In every human and spiritual endeavour, it takes just one step towards
the right direction to successfully run a successful race or achieved desired
goals. Victory and success are never an absence of challenges but a continuous
unrelented efforts to the point of breakthroughs and mastery. However, every thought,
plan, action and reactions contribute to success or failure. So, watch your life
and conduct every day, for they propel you further or drag you away. It is just
a decision and determination to never give up – it begins with you and made
possible because we have a capable leader that knows the way, walked the way
and showing the way – Jesus Christ, our Mighty Captain.
1. What crime had the Apostles committed that brought them before the
Jewish rulers? See Acts 4:1-3.
KEY POINTS:
In the world but not of the world - knowledge
Two opposing forces - Righteous & unrighteousness
Working and walking in contrary motion
Your faith and convictions never a crime
Opposition and trials: mark of faith integrity
Sure word of prophecy - proclaim it
The field: Favourable & unfavorable in reception
Opposition - evidence of hidden potentials
SEARCH: APPLICATIONS
Boldness in Faith:
- The Apostles preached boldly about Jesus, despite potential threats.
Stand firm in your faith and proclaim what you believe, regardless of opposition.
Acts 4:13 - Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
The Importance of Proclaiming the
Gospel:
- The Apostles prioritized sharing the Gospel, demonstrating the urgency of spreading the message of Jesus.
Make evangelism a priority in your life; share the message of salvation with others.
Matthew 28:19 - Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Facing Persecution with Grace:
- The Apostles faced persecution for their faith and actions, setting an example of how to respond to adversity.
Embrace challenges for your faith as opportunities to witness God's strength and grace.
2 Timothy 3:12 - Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
The Role of the Holy Spirit:
- The Apostles were empowered by the Holy Spirit to perform miracles and speak with authority.
Rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in your daily life and
ministry.
Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me...
Obedience to God Over Man:
- The Apostles prioritized obeying God's command to preach, even when it clashed with human authority.
When faced with conflicting demands, prioritize obedience to God above all else.
Acts 5:29 - Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
2. The Apostles had not always been so bold. Peter had denied the Lord
and others had forsaken Him and fled when He was taken by the high priest. Even
after His Resurrection they didn’t seem to promote the cause of Christ, but,
instead, went fishing. What was it that compelled these men to speak out now so
forcefully for Christ? See Acts 1:8.
KEY POINTS:
Desire to preach the gospel - Good but you will need more
Training Process
Availability of spiritual grace and resources
Have you been saved, sanctified and Baptized?
What has been your personal experience in evangelism?
It is more than you - you need more
Saved to serve
Sanctified - a mind like God
Power service - empowered to do exploits
A quick review of your experience: Do you need help?
Take up the whole armour of God
Your body, circumstances, situations, people will challenge
SEARCH: APPLICATIONS
Empowerment by the Holy Spirit:
- The turning point for the Apostles was their empowerment through the Holy Spirit as promised by Jesus.
The necessity of the Holy Spirit in our life for empowerment, guidance, and strength to fulfill God's calling.
Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me...
Forgiveness and Restoration:
- Peter's denial was followed by a personal restoration from Jesus, emphasizing that past failures do not define one's future.
God’s forgiveness allows for restoration and new beginnings, regardless of past failures.
Purpose and Mission:
Seek and embrace the God-given purpose in your life, which can motivate and empower your actions.
Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission, which instructs believers to go and make disciples.
Transforming Experiences with Christ:
Count your encounters with Christ as transformative moments that can fuel your faith and witness.
Acts
2:32 - This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Courage to Overcome Fear:
Lean on God's promises to cultivate courage in the face of adversity or fear when sharing your faith.
2 Timothy 1:7 - For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Awareness of the Urgency of the
Gospel:
Cultivate a sense of urgency in sharing the Gospel with others, recognizing the eternal implications of their response.
Romans 1:16 - For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth...
3. How do you suppose the authorities expected Peter and John to
respond when they were commanded not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus?
KEY POINTS:
Not ignorant of devil's devices:
Negotiate
Subtle, pull method
Aggressive, push method
Power, influence, authority method
Life threatening method
God first: Thought, plan, action, reaction
Our faith, love, obedience... would be tested
SEARCH: APPLICATIONS
Expectation of Compliance:
- The authorities presumed that threats or commands would intimidate the Apostles into silence.
Worldly powers often expect compliance from believers; remain steadfast
in your faith despite external pressures.
1 Peter 3:14 - But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.
Courage in Conviction:
- Peter and John responded with boldness, asserting their commitment to obey God rather than human authorities.
Stand firm in your convictions and be courageous in proclaiming the truth of the Gospel, regardless of opposition.
Acts 4:19-20 - But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Faith Over Fear:
Cultivate faith that overcomes fear. Trust in God's promises and presence in the face of challenges rather than succumbing to fear.
Isaiah 41:10 - Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Prioritizing Obedience to God:
Acknowledge God’s authority as supreme and prioritize His directives over societal or governmental expectations.
Acts 5:29 - Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Witness Through Action:
Your actions can testify to your faith and can influence those around you. Live in a way that points others to Christ.
Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
The Role of the Holy Spirit:
Seek the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in your life to help you respond appropriately to challenging situations.
Luke 12:12 - For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.
- Ultimate Purpose of Suffering:
Understand that suffering and opposition can lead to greater purposes, including spiritual growth and wider dissemination of the Gospel.
Romans 5:3-4 - And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.
4. How did the Apostles respond when the council commanded them not to
speak in the name of Jesus? Looking on into the next chapter of Acts, find
where the Apostles showed by their actions that they meant what they said.
KEY POINTS:
Knowledge is good - application of it is the best - wisdom
Talk is cheap - walking the talk is essential
God first
Obey God and leave the consequences to him
What have you heard and seen?
You can't give what you don't have
You can't defend what you are not convinced of
You can't uphold a standard if you fall for everything
SEARCH: APPLICATIONS
Obedience to God:
- The Apostles prioritized their allegiance to God over compliance with human authority.
In situations where beliefs conflict with societal demands, choose to obey God — this reflects true faith and commitment.
Acts 4:19 - But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
Unwavering Commitment to Testimony:
Be prepared to share your personal testimony of faith; it can be a powerful tool for evangelism.
Acts 4:20 - For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Community and Prayer:
Engage in prayer with fellow believers for strength in facing challenges and to seek God's guidance and courage.
Acts 4:24 - And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord...
Continued Bold Preaching:
Actions must align with words; let your faith be shown through consistent and bold action in your environment.
Acts 5:42 - And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Facing Consequences with Grace:
Embrace suffering for your faith as a privilege that can strengthen your resolve.
Acts 5:41 - And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
5. In the Old Testament, we read of others who, like Peter and John,
were determined to cling to God in spite of temporal and physical adversity.
Briefly review the calamities that were the lot of Job. See Job 1:13-19 and
2:7. Which phrases in Job 23:8-11 prove that Job had kept his trust in God in
spite of these circumstances?
Little grains of sand,
Make the mighty ocean
And the beauteous land.
In the world but not of the world - knowledge
Two opposing forces - Righteous & unrighteousness
Working and walking in contrary motion
Your faith and convictions never a crime
Opposition and trials: mark of faith integrity
Sure word of prophecy - proclaim it
The field: Favourable & unfavorable in reception
Opposition - evidence of hidden potentials
- The Apostles preached boldly about Jesus, despite potential threats.
Stand firm in your faith and proclaim what you believe, regardless of opposition.
Acts 4:13 - Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
- The Apostles prioritized sharing the Gospel, demonstrating the urgency of spreading the message of Jesus.
Make evangelism a priority in your life; share the message of salvation with others.
Matthew 28:19 - Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
- The Apostles faced persecution for their faith and actions, setting an example of how to respond to adversity.
Embrace challenges for your faith as opportunities to witness God's strength and grace.
2 Timothy 3:12 - Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
- The Apostles were empowered by the Holy Spirit to perform miracles and speak with authority.
Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me...
- The Apostles prioritized obeying God's command to preach, even when it clashed with human authority.
When faced with conflicting demands, prioritize obedience to God above all else.
Acts 5:29 - Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Desire to preach the gospel - Good but you will need more
Training Process
Availability of spiritual grace and resources
Have you been saved, sanctified and Baptized?
What has been your personal experience in evangelism?
It is more than you - you need more
Saved to serve
Sanctified - a mind like God
Power service - empowered to do exploits
A quick review of your experience: Do you need help?
Take up the whole armour of God
Your body, circumstances, situations, people will challenge
- The turning point for the Apostles was their empowerment through the Holy Spirit as promised by Jesus.
The necessity of the Holy Spirit in our life for empowerment, guidance, and strength to fulfill God's calling.
Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me...
- Peter's denial was followed by a personal restoration from Jesus, emphasizing that past failures do not define one's future.
God’s forgiveness allows for restoration and new beginnings, regardless of past failures.
Seek and embrace the God-given purpose in your life, which can motivate and empower your actions.
Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission, which instructs believers to go and make disciples.
Count your encounters with Christ as transformative moments that can fuel your faith and witness.
Lean on God's promises to cultivate courage in the face of adversity or fear when sharing your faith.
2 Timothy 1:7 - For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Cultivate a sense of urgency in sharing the Gospel with others, recognizing the eternal implications of their response.
Romans 1:16 - For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth...
Not ignorant of devil's devices:
Negotiate
Subtle, pull method
Aggressive, push method
Power, influence, authority method
Life threatening method
God first: Thought, plan, action, reaction
Our faith, love, obedience... would be tested
- The authorities presumed that threats or commands would intimidate the Apostles into silence.
1 Peter 3:14 - But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.
- Peter and John responded with boldness, asserting their commitment to obey God rather than human authorities.
Stand firm in your convictions and be courageous in proclaiming the truth of the Gospel, regardless of opposition.
Acts 4:19-20 - But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Cultivate faith that overcomes fear. Trust in God's promises and presence in the face of challenges rather than succumbing to fear.
Isaiah 41:10 - Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Acknowledge God’s authority as supreme and prioritize His directives over societal or governmental expectations.
Acts 5:29 - Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Your actions can testify to your faith and can influence those around you. Live in a way that points others to Christ.
Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Seek the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in your life to help you respond appropriately to challenging situations.
Luke 12:12 - For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.
Understand that suffering and opposition can lead to greater purposes, including spiritual growth and wider dissemination of the Gospel.
Romans 5:3-4 - And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.
Knowledge is good - application of it is the best - wisdom
Talk is cheap - walking the talk is essential
God first
Obey God and leave the consequences to him
What have you heard and seen?
You can't give what you don't have
You can't defend what you are not convinced of
You can't uphold a standard if you fall for everything
- The Apostles prioritized their allegiance to God over compliance with human authority.
In situations where beliefs conflict with societal demands, choose to obey God — this reflects true faith and commitment.
Acts 4:19 - But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
Be prepared to share your personal testimony of faith; it can be a powerful tool for evangelism.
Acts 4:20 - For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Engage in prayer with fellow believers for strength in facing challenges and to seek God's guidance and courage.
Acts 4:24 - And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord...
Actions must align with words; let your faith be shown through consistent and bold action in your environment.
Acts 5:42 - And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Embrace suffering for your faith as a privilege that can strengthen your resolve.
Acts 5:41 - And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
KEY POINTS:
You are not alone (there are many clouds of witnesses)
Before you and after you, many remain faithful
This is your time: Only remembered by what you have done
It may be tough but if you stand, the end is sweet
Make your call and election sure
- Job lost his livestock, which was his wealth, when Sabeans and Chaldeans raided and took them away. Additionally, a strong wind caused the house where his children were feasting to collapse, resulting in the death of all his children.
Physical Affliction:
- After the initial calamities, Job was struck with sore boils from head to foot, causing him immense physical pain and discomfort (Job 2:7).
- If I go to the west, I cannot find him.
- When he is at work in the north, I do not see him.
- But he knows the way that I take.
- When he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
Maintain trust in God’s plan and presence even when circumstances appear bleak.
Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Recognize and accept God's sovereignty in your life, which can provide peace amid challenges.
View trials as opportunities for spiritual growth and character refinement.
1 Peter 1:6-7 - Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth...
Seek God earnestly during times of struggle; He is always present and actively working in your life.
Jeremiah 29:13 - And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Hold on to hope during suffering, trusting that God can restore what has been lost and bring new life.
Romans 5:3-5 - And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope...
Personal matter - Do it yourself (According to godliness)
"I" - Spiritual empowered identity (not pride or usual DIY)
Power of choice (considering alternatives)
Possible attractive alternatives - That notwithstanding
Determination: No matter what
Count the cost: (Name it and willing to pay the price)
Potential consequences: Leave the consequences to God
Testimonies - Proven and tested
Never known to fail - Same God yesterday, today and forever
- The phrase represents a deliberate and steady choice to follow God’s teachings, that one seeks direction in life through the word of God.
Psalm 119:105 - Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Remain steadfast in your faith and commitment to God’s Word, especially during trials and temptations.
Hebrews 10:23 - Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised).
Rely on the promises found in Scripture during difficult times; they provide comfort and encouragement.
Romans 15:4 - For whatsoever was written aforetime was written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
Pursue spiritual growth actively, seeking to deepen your understanding and application of biblical truths in your life.
2 Peter 3:18 - But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ...
Strive for integrity in your actions and decisions by aligning them with God’s truths instead of societal norms.
Proverbs 3:6 - In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Acknowledge your reliance on God’s strength; confess your weaknesses and seek His help in maintaining your commitment.
Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Standing firm in faith may invite challenges, but God uses these experiences to strengthen your character and faith.
James 1:2-4 - My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
The word of God is perfect...
Knowledge is essential
Application of knowledge - wisdom
A student of the word, for life
Study to make yourself approved
Make your calling and election sure - continuous process
Instructions
Manual of life - The word of God
Life's skills - Instructions and guidance of God
The word of God is dynamic - beautiful for every situation
The word of God is deep - explore and mine
The word of God is our final constitution
You are the one to profit when you keep it
Regularly engage with Scripture to illuminate your path and guide your choices.
The Scriptures not only provide life guidance but also reveal the truth about Jesus Christ as the source of eternal life.
Make a habit of searching the Scriptures to deepen your understanding of Christ and His work.
Memorize and meditate on Scripture so that it influences your thoughts, conversations, and worship.
It is important to not only hear the Word but to actively apply it in our lives, demonstrating faith through actions.
Allow Scripture to challenge and change your heart, being open to its conviction and guidance.
Meditating on God’s law leads to spiritual vitality and fruitful living.
Cultivate a habit of meditation on God's Word, letting it nourish your spirit and guide your actions.
KEY POINTS:
Prayer - Spiritual communication
For:
1. Praise 2. Devotion 3. Request/supplication 4. Appreciation 5. Relationship development 6. Instructions 7. Guidance 8. Feedback 9. Interventional cry 10. Intercessory 11. Others
Prayer syllabus - The Lord’s prayer
Spiritual Capacity building
Spiritual defense (for defensive purposes)
Spiritual armour (For offensive/proactive purpose)
Keeps the heart in tune
Chart and compass for the young - Spiritual GPS
Staff for the aged
Obedience:
-Submitting your ideas and desires to God's will
-Integrity of your faith
-Barometer of your love for God
You are the one to profit when you obey
Obedience saves time and resources
Obedience saves and preserves lives
Blessings and consequences of obedience begins with you
Blessings and consequences of obedience is compounding
Your constituency is touched by your obedience or otherwise
John 14:15 - If ye love me, keep my commandments.
- Obedience is essential for spiritual growth. As we follow God’s commands, we develop deeper faith and understanding of His character.
Engage in obedience as a path to spiritual maturity; grow in your understanding of God's will through your actions.
Hebrews 5:8-9 - Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.
- Obeying God's Word opens the door to His blessings.
Seek to obey God not only out of duty but with the understanding that obedience aligns you with His will and brings blessings.
Deuteronomy 28:1 - And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth.
Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Romans 12:2 - And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
- Obedience positions us for spiritual victories over sin, temptation, and challenges. It equips us to live righteously and resist the devil's schemes.
Rely on obedience as a strategy for spiritual warfare, enabling you to overcome obstacles through the strength God provides.
James 4:7 - Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
God knows the nature of our service (Spiritual and challenging)
God knows our human nature
God prepared the needed spiritual armour
It is suicidal to attempt to serve without the armour on
It is dangerous to use some of the armour alone
It is wise to put on the whole armour of God
It is devil's deceit to think you're okay, with some of the armour
The devil has to deceive you in order to defeat you
Be wise - Put on the whole armour of God
Be well dressed and prepared
True strength comes from God, not from our abilities. Rely on His power to sustain you through challenges.
Ephesians 6:10 - Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Equip yourself with the spiritual armor provided by God (truth, righteousness, faith, etc.) as protection and guidance in your daily life.
Ephesians 6:11 - Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Stay alert and proactive in your spiritual life, resisting temptations and deceptions through prayer and Scripture.
Cultivate a strong prayer life, not just for your needs but for the needs of others and the advancement of the Gospel.
Ephesians 6:18 - Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
Work towards unity and harmony within your church community; support and encourage one another in the faith journey.
Ephesians 4:3 (earlier in the book) - Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 6:16 - Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Regularly study and meditate on God's Word; allow it to guide your actions and decisions.
Ephesians 6:17 - And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
CONCLUSION: Keep on keeping on – Keep
on the firing line!
1. If you’re in the battle for the
Lord and right,
Keep on the firing line;
If you win, my brother, surely you
must fight,
Keep on the firing line.
There are many dangers that we all
must face,
If we die still fighting it is no
disgrace;
Cowards in the service will not find
a place,
So keep on the firing line.
Refrain:
Oh, you must fight, be brave against
all evil,
Never run, nor even lag behind;
If you would win for God and the
right,
Just keep on the firing line.
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