Connect the Dots
Renew
May 10, 2020
Rev. Gabe Sylvia
The sermon warns that the Church faces organized opposition—both legalistic and personal—and urges Christians to recognize that their enemies are bold, spiritually blind, and bullying, to respond with mercy and firm confrontation, and to take comfort that victory belongs to those in Christ.
Summary
The message observes that some organizations oppose the Church by promoting freedom from religion rather than true religious liberty, but emphasizes that genuine persecution and opposition come from spiritual enemies who are characterized as bold (openly antagonistic), blind (suppressing the truth), and bullies (trying to intimidate and thwart the Church). Believers are called to discern these motives, show mercy toward the blinded, confront bullies decisively when necessary, and persevere in kingdom work with the assurance that those who have put their faith in Christ share in his victory—illustrated by a personal determination to remain steadfast ("I wanted to stay at Liberty...").
Key Points
- Some organizations profit from opposing the Church and push a freedom-from-religion agenda rather than true religious liberty.
- The government does not dictate personal belief or worship, and discrimination cannot be justified by claiming religious grounds.
- Christians live among spiritual opponents and must know their nature: bold, blind, and bullies (Ezra 4).
- Bold opponents antagonize, mock, persecute, or attack believers simply for their faith.
- Much of the opposition is subtle and stems from spiritual blindness—people who know the truth but suppress it.
- Those who oppose the Church are often blinded by the god of this world, so believers should respond with mercy.
- The world hated Christ and will hate the Church; bullies can be routed when confronted by a power they cannot defeat.
- Believers have victory in Christ and must persevere, as shown by personal commitment to remain faithful (e.g., "I wanted to stay at Liberty...").
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