Daniel 7:9-10; Revelation 1:4-8; John 18:33-37
Introduction
The theme for today reminds me of a letter to the church in Smyrna in Revelations where Jesus tells them to "Be faithful, even to the point of death" (Rev. 2:10).
We often encounter trials and temptations that test our commitment to God in our faith journey. The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who faced adversity and chose to remain faithful to the end. Let us explore the importance of enduring faithfulness and the rewards that await those who persevere. Jesus says, "The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death" (Revelation 2:11).
The Challenge of Enduring Faithfulness
Daniel 7:9-10 paints a vivid picture of the eternal nature of God's kingdom, "“thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat" (Daniel 7:9). Amidst the chaos and upheaval of human history, God remains sovereign and just. The open of the books, the faithful to the end shall be glorified. However, the path to eternal life is not without its challenges.
In Revelation 1:4-8, we are reminded that Jesus Christ, the faithful and true witness, is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. He overcame death and reigns victorious. Yet, we are called to follow in His footsteps, even when the road is difficult to death. In assurance, the letter to Smyrna begins with "These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again." (Revelation 2:8).
John 18:33-37 highlights the ultimate test of Jesus's faithfulness. Faced with the unjust accusations of the religious leaders, Jesus remained steadfast in His identity as the Son of God "“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”" (John 18:35). Jesus endured suffering and death, demonstrating the ultimate example of enduring faithfulness. The Hebrew writer draws on His suffering to say, "Because He Himself suffered when he was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted." (Hebrews 2:18).
The challenge of our faithfulness is both 'intra' and 'inter,' with-in and out. Jesus says, "I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan." (Revelation 2:9) Apostle Paul shares his experience with us saying, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). Our faithfulness is on the test every day in this Christian journey, Jesus said, "I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich!" When our faithfulness endures, our riches in victory will surely be unveiled.
The Rewards of Enduring Faithfulness
Those who remain faithful to the end will receive a glorious reward. Revelation 2:10 promises a crown of life to those who are faithful unto death. This crown symbolizes eternal life and the victory over sin and death. Daniel says the faithful "will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever." (Daniel 12:3).
Furthermore, the Bible teaches that the faithful will inherit the Kingdom of God. They will reign with Christ and share in His eternal glory. This promise should motivate us to persevere, even when the challenges seem overwhelming.
Do you know that Jesus could have failed in the salvation mission on earth? The Hebrew writer points to why Jesus kept His faithfulness to the end by saying, "And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2)
For the reward set before Jesus, He endured faithfully. Our eternal life, reigning with God in Heaven in His everlasting joy, let us scorn the shame of the backlash, backbiting, disgrace, persecution, and dishonour we face every day as Christians.
Let's consider these practical steps to enduring faithfully in the Christian journey.
Cultivate a Deep Relationship with God: Spend time in prayer, Bible study, and worship. Develop a personal relationship with God through regular communication and obedience to His Word. "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." (Psalms 119:11)
Surround Yourself with Faithful Believers: Join a supportive Christian community that encourages and challenges you to grow in faith not just in prosperity. "Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”" (1 Corinthians 15:33; cf. Prov. 22:24,25)
Seek God's Wisdom and Guidance: Pray for wisdom and discernment to make godly choices. Trust in God's leading and rely on His strength. "My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding." (Proverbs 2:1-2)
Embrace Suffering as an Opportunity for Growth: View trials as opportunities to deepen your faith and draw closer to God. Remember that God uses suffering to refine His children. "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:2-4).
Keep Your Eyes on the Prize: Focus on the eternal rewards that await the faithful. Let the hope of heaven sustain you through difficult times. "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14)
Conclusion
The journey of faith is not always easy, but the rewards are immeasurable. By remaining faithful to the end, we can experience the fullness of God's love and grace. Let us be inspired by the examples we have theologically analysed and other testimonies around us to be faithful to the end. May we choose to endure, persevere, and ultimately, receive the crown of life.
Shalom aleikhem...
