TITLE: Convenience or Conviction

TEXT: Acts 24:25 When I have a more convenient season (a better time) I will call for you.

PROPOSITION: Jesus calls us to conviction, not convenience.

Introduction:

1. I'll change my life if it's convenient.

2. I'll come to Bible class if it's convenient.

3. I'll give my money if it's convenient.

4. I'll work for the Lord if it's convenient.

5. We are deceiving and fooling ourselves if we think that being a Christian is effortless, painless, easy, and convenient.

In the New Testament

1. Acts 2:45 – sold possessions

2. Acts 4:32-35 – sold land to share the proceeds with others

3. Acts 4:18-21 – Threatened with punishment for preaching Christ

4. Acts 5:40 – Beaten, commanded by High Court – stop preaching

5. 2 Corinthians 11:24-27 – Paul was beaten 5 times (39 stripes each), 3 times beaten with rods, stoned once, shipwrecked, in constant danger

   1. Why did Paul endure all this?

   2. 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 – Love of Christ constrains (compels) us

6. Revelation 6:9 – souls slain for the word of God

There is ALWAYS a price to pay for Righteousness

1. Hebrews 11:35-38 – Many suffered while looking for the promise

2. Are you willing to suffer – knowing the promise has been kept?

3. Acts 14:22 – through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom

4. 2 Timothy 3:12 – Godly will suffer persecution

We must OVERCOME

1. Revelation 21:7 – He who overcomes will inherit these things

2. All 7 letters (Revelation 2 and 4) – He who overcomes - - -

3. 2 Corinthians 4:17 – light affliction vs. exceeding eternal glory

4. Romans 8:18 – present suffering not compare to glory ahead