Sanctification
146: All Things to All Men (1 Cor. 9:19-27)
Why did Paul choose to let go of his freedom in Christ and live like the Jews when with Jews, like the Gentiles when with Gentiles, and like the weak when with weaker brethren? Pastor Hollandsworth shows that Paul was motivated by “winning” other believers so that they could become partakers together with him in inheritance. To that end, Paul recognizes the need for all believers to run the race of the Christian life with diligence in order to be rewarded and not disqualified.
138: A Friend of the Groom (Walking with Jesus Series #009: John 3:22-36)
As baptisms of Christ’s followers began to outpace those of John the Baptist, the religious leaders attempted to make John’s disciples envious. But John was overjoyed with Christ’s success and delighted in being a “friend of the groom.” Pastor Hollandsworth explains what this means and examines five humble statements made by John that should be the conviction of all believers.
115: Faith That Progresses Part 1 (Hebrews Series #23: Heb. 11:8-9)
Abraham’s pilgrimage of faith was a “bumpy ride” during his early years. He left a life of idolatry and living in Ur, only to become detoured in Haran for many years, a culture very similar to Ur. Pastor Hollandsworth describes how this patriarch, over time, learned to obey the Lord and separate from the world, sojourning as a pilgrim in Canaan land. Christians can learn much from Abraham’s life.
113: Faith That Accomplishes (Hebrews Series #21: Heb. 11:1-3)
The just shall live by faith. Pastor Hollandsworth clarifies from Heb. 11, that this quote from the Old Testament is not a soteriological (salvation) statement, as Reformation theology claims. Rather, it is a matter of sanctification, which Hebrews refers to as the “saving of the soul.” Those who live righteously, by faith, will be rewarded by God, like those named in the great faith chapter.
112: No More Sacrifice for Sins (Hebrews Series #20: Heb. 10:26-39)
The book of Hebrews warns that believers who have been “illuminated,” yet continue in willful, defiant sinning, can reach the point where there is no more sacrifice for their sins. Pastor Hollandsworth demonstrates that this does not result in loss of salvation, but rather punishment and loss of Reward at the Bema.