From time to time woodsmen...
Illustration
From time to time woodsmen fell trees that are of medium size. They appear healthy and strong. But, when the trees fall, the real story is revealed. Their rings indicate that they are of great age -- far older than their outer size and strength would indicate. Because of poor conditions and perhaps disease, their growth was hindered. Consequently, they were never able to reach the towering strength intended to be theirs by nature.
Faith brings salvation and growth. We are always on the front line of faith. There is a story about Longstreet, one of the generals at the battle of Gettysburg. One of Longstreet's subordinate officers reported to him that it was impossible to bring the men forward for another attack. Longstreet replied that to bring them forward would not be necessary, then, but they would still be on the front line because the enemy would advance and save them the trouble of another attack. Where our faith meets resistance, there is our spiritual front line.
David Lloyd George is credited with having said, "Don't be afraid to take a big step if one is indicated. You can't cross a chasm in two small jumps."
By faith we overcome the world. That brings me to what we might call the syllogism of Christian living that summarizes much of the meaning of our text:
Faith makes us children of God.
Children of God overcome the world through Jesus Christ.
Therefore, faith overcomes the world.
Faith brings salvation and growth. We are always on the front line of faith. There is a story about Longstreet, one of the generals at the battle of Gettysburg. One of Longstreet's subordinate officers reported to him that it was impossible to bring the men forward for another attack. Longstreet replied that to bring them forward would not be necessary, then, but they would still be on the front line because the enemy would advance and save them the trouble of another attack. Where our faith meets resistance, there is our spiritual front line.
David Lloyd George is credited with having said, "Don't be afraid to take a big step if one is indicated. You can't cross a chasm in two small jumps."
By faith we overcome the world. That brings me to what we might call the syllogism of Christian living that summarizes much of the meaning of our text:
Faith makes us children of God.
Children of God overcome the world through Jesus Christ.
Therefore, faith overcomes the world.
