Page 68 - Pastoral Epistles student textbook

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Habakkuk 3:17-18. Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the
vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no
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sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be
joyful in God my Savior.
Hebrews 6:10. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have
shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
2. There is always forgiveness - no matter how unfairly we’ve been treated.

Jeremiah 29:11. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to

prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Isaiah 40:31. But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar
on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

If we have been mistreated, we need to remind ourselves of the Gospel, forgiveness of sin and hope
for eternal life. This life, no matter how good or bad is temporary.
3. Becoming a Christian does not solve all our problems.

John 16:33. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this
world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Matthew 10:16-17. 16 “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be
as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 17 Be on your guard; you will be handed
over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues.

When is it appropriate for a Christian to confront an abusive person? When is it not
appropriate?
• When is it appropriate for a Christian to confront an abusive employer?
• There may come a time when all slavery as we know it has disappeared – but
there will always be times when one person takes advantage of another person. Give
examples. ________

I Timothy 6:3-5. If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound
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instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and
understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels
about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant
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friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who
think that godliness is a means to financial gain.

I read a story about a Pastor in America who said this: “I don’t want pie
in the sky when I die; I want cash in the stash here and now!” Asked how much
his church is worth, Ike replies, “A lot of money. This is a very successful,
prosperous, multimillion-dollar operation, and I’m very happy to say that.” He
also claims not to know his personal salary, but explains, “It’s whatever I need.”
(Newsweek, Dec. 20, 1982.)

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