We Are of Good Courage 2 Corinthians 4:16 – 5:10

Introduction God’s people in one of two places –On earth, waiting to go home –At home (Philippians 1:23, 24) So, we are of good courage –Love with the world? (1 John 2:15-17) –Think about home? (Colossians 3:1-4)

Always Be of Good Courage Heaven not just a destination –P–Paul’s motivation as well –S–Strength to endure (Romans 8:24, 25)

Confident about the future –“Courage” from tharrhontes meaning to be bold or confident –Similar to “be of good cheer” (Acts 27:25)

Always Be of Good Courage Only happen for the faithful –Only they make sure their faith grows –Only they have the assurance of God’s help (Hebrews 13:6)

In The Body Live by faith –Recall what faith is and does (Hebrews 11) –Only people who have a rational reason for living as they do

In The Body Basis of faith –Miracles in the Bible (John 20:30, 31) –Greatest was the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1-8; I John 1:1-3)

In The Body Walking by faith –Not at home yet –Cannot go in this body (1 Corinthians 15:50-58)

At Home Some Day The dead in Christ are at home –Paul’s desire to depart and “be with Christ” (Philippians 1:23) –Not received their new, immortal body (1 Corinthians 15:24)

At Home Some Day Walk by sight then –See Him as He is (1 John 3:1, 2) –All struggles and problems past

At Home Some Day Our goal in life –Seek to please the Father (Matthew 26:42) –Next state is to be preferred

Basis of Our Courage Promises of God –Never lied to man (Hebrews 6:13-20) –Can rely on them

Basis of Our Courage Helps us to focus –Ambition to please the Lord –From the word philotimoumta which means “to aim, honor, love and aspire to something”

Basis of Our Courage Walk in the light –Allows God’s word to work in us (1 Thessalonians 2:13) –Walk in the light, confessing our sins (1 John 1:6-2:1)

Conclusion Are you of good courage? Are you in Christ? Are you living faithfully?