Message Outline

Our Heavenly Reputation

Pastor Jonathan Stockstill
Sunday, Dec 11, 2022

Hebrews 11:1–6 (NLT) - 1 Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. 2 Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation. 3 By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen. 4 It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith. 5 It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying—“he disappeared, because God took him.” For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God. 6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

Three things that impact heavenly reputation

1. My WORLDVIEW

  1. Verse 3 - “By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen.”
  2. A fundamental fact for every believer - GOD CREATED IT ALL.
  3. Why do we believe this - BECAUSE WE BELIEVE HIS WORD!! 
  4. Your worldview is built on the Word of God.
  5. Your morals are shaped by your worldview.
  6. Your heavenly reputation is built on your worldview.

2. My WORSHIP

  1. Some worship is acceptable, and some worship is rejected. 
  2. Verse 4 - “It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.”
  3. Cain gave something, but it wasn’t what was asked by God.
  4. Takeaways
    1. You must believe that ONLY JESUS IS ACCEPTABLE TO GOD.
    2. You must only sacrifice what He tells you.
    3. Worship that is not done in faith is not approved.

3. My WALK

  1. Verse 5 - “It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying-“he disappeared, because God took him.” For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God.”
  2. God wants FELLOWSHIP WITH YOU! 
  3. Enoch separated from the world.
  4. Enoch pursued intimacy with God.
  5. Enoch spoke for God.
  6. Do you want a good heavenly reputation? Walk with God!

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