Wednesday, 1 January 2003

(Archive of other audio sermons)
(Archive of other audio songs)

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New Year Sermon 1 January 2003 - "Obedience and growth"

(Summary of sermon by Michael Ngubane)

Matthew 2: 19-23

The Lord had spoken a few times before to Joseph and he had been obedient. For instance, the Lord had told him to marry the one whom he had planned to quietly put aside. Then, the Lord had told him to go with Mary and the Child to Egypt to escape from Herod. Joseph was always obedient to the Lord. Now He speaks again and we find Joseph quick to comply. Herod and other enemies of the Christ-Child were dead and Joseph could take his family back to Nazareth.
Perhaps you have failed in this past year because God did speak to you but you did not obey.
In Herod and the others who sought the Child's life, we see the devil and his hatred of the Lord's life in you. Satan has no pleasure in your having become a Christian and he seeks to destroy the One who has been born within you.
You may find that there is no spiritual growth. The Child within is sick, cold and hungry - you're not caring for gift of life within you.
Joseph was soft and ready for God's direction. Allow the Word of God to be alive and flourish in you, so that the gift within you will grow.
You need not walk around in depression and fear but rather, you can enjoy an overflowing life in obedience to God. Obey Him and see how you'll grow. Build your life on the solid rock, Jesus Christ Himself. Then, persevere in obedience to Jesus.