Lecture on Living from the Inside Out

Key Scripture:

• 2 Corinthians 4:16-18:
  • "For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
  • For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.
  • While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal."

Main Themes:

Living from the Inside Out:

• Apostle Paul:
  • Jew by birth and Roman by citizenship.
  • Tentmaker by trade, lawyer by profession.
  • Preached in various cities despite facing numerous hardships.
  • Continued to give God praise despite persecutions and sufferings.

Perseverance in Ministry:

• Paul's Endurance:

  • Shipwrecked, lost at sea, beaten, and faced peril but continued his mission.
  • Paul’s focus was on spiritual fulfillment, not worldly approval or applause.

• Preaching for the Right Reasons:

  • Warnings against seeking popularity or approval.
  • True preaching is about faithfulness to God's message and enduring hardships.
  • Anecdote about young preachers seeking “anointing” highlights misconceptions.

Outward vs. Inward Renewal:

• Outward Decay vs. Inward Renewal:
  • The outer man (physical body) deteriorates but the inner man (spirit) is renewed daily.
  • Physical declination is countered by spiritual strength and renewal.

Importance of Scripture:

• Scriptural Foundation:

  • Emphasis on staying true to Scripture for meaningful preaching.
  • Example of a 90-year-old preacher's power derived from scriptural faithfulness.

• Personal Testimonies:

  • Real-life examples illustrating the power of faith and focus on inward strength.
  • Overcoming personal challenges (e.g., Paul’s trials, speaker’s health issues).

Present Problems Versus Promised Prizes:

• Light Affliction:

  • Present sufferings are temporary and lead to eternal glory.
  • Encouragement to endure despite trials and tribulations.

• Eternal Crown:

  • Comparison of earthly crowns to the eternal glory awaiting the faithful.
  • Charles’ ceremonial crown vs. the eternal, weightless crown for believers.

Proper Perspective:

• Focus on the Eternal:
  • Looking beyond temporary, visible troubles to eternal, unseen promises.
  • Encouragement to steadfastly preach and live by faith.

Conclusion: Power in Preaching Jesus:

• Faithfulness in Preaching:

  • Consistently preaching Christ crucified brings spiritual power and anointing.
  • Importance of having one’s own voice in ministry.

• Celebration of Endurance and Faith:

  • Praise for those who have faithfully ministered over the years, like Frank R.
  • Affirmation of God’s sustaining power through trials and ministry.

Emotional Appeal and Call to Action:

• Testimony of Overcoming Personal Challenges:

  • Speaker’s battle with a brain tumor and miraculous recovery.
  • Emphasis on God’s grace and mercy.

• Encouragement to Stand Firm:

  • Call to preach with power, regardless of circumstances, and focus on Jesus Christ.

  • Ending Celebration:

  • Thanking and honoring influential figures in the ministry, celebrating God’s gifts.