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Remain in Him: "Abiding When Hardship Comes" (Jill Ludlow) - John 15:18-16:11

Radiant Church Visalia
Radiant Church Visalia
Episode • Nov 24, 2020 • 29m

Scripture References: John 15:18-16:11, John 1:9-12, 1:18, 14:18, 1 John 3:1, Matthew 6, Psalm 62, Hebrews 13:5, 4:15-16, 1 Peter 2:20-23, Ephesians 3:19

Intro:

  • Personal connection to the Gospel of John and its focus on Jesus' love.
  • Title: "Abiding When Hardship Happens."
  • Definition of "abiding": relaxing deeply into something greater that holds and surrounds us.
  • Focus on hardship due to faith-based rejection.

Key Points:

  • Why the World Hates Jesus (and Us):
    • John 15:21, 16:3: They do not know the Father or Jesus.
    • Rejection stems from ignorance, not personal animosity.
    • John 1:9-12: Jesus, the true light, was rejected by the world He created.
    • John 1:18: Jesus revealed the Father's heart, yet many still reject.
    • 1 John 3:1: God's love lavished on us, making us children of God.
    • John 14:18: Jesus came to eliminate orphanness through the Holy Spirit.
    • Orphans must strive, while children rest in their Father's provision.
  • Responding to Rejection:
    • Instead of retaliation, sink deeply into God's love.
    • John 15:26, 16:5-7: The Holy Spirit, the Comforter, is sent to us.
    • The Holy Spirit dwells within us, comforting and guiding.
    • Pour out our hearts to God in honest prayer (Psalm 62).
    • Trust in God's presence and comfort (Hebrews 13:5).
    • Jesus understands our suffering (Hebrews 4:15-16).
    • Entrust our lives to God, like Jesus did (1 Peter 2:20-23).
    • Bear the fruit of love, reflecting God's love.
    • Forgive as Jesus forgave, seeing the person behind the action.
    • Ephesians 3:19: be filled to the measure of the fullness of God.

Conclusion:

  • Rejection is painful, but God's love is greater.
  • The Holy Spirit comforts and empowers us in hardship.
  • We are called to respond with love, forgiveness, and trust.

Call to Action:

  • When facing rejection, pour out your heart to God.
  • Entrust your life and circumstances to Him.
  • Receive God's love and allow it to flow through you.
  • Forgive those who reject you, seeing them through God's eyes.
  • Abide in God's love, allowing Him to hold and surround you.

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