DEVELOPING A STRONGER FAITH

February, 2

Luke 17:1-5 (769)

Introduction

A. “Woe to him” V1

1. Jesus said that those who caused others to stumble would not escape punishment.

2. He used a method of capital punishment to express the severity.

B. Jesus gave a duty to His disciples. Vv3-4

1. Rebuke someone who had sinned against them, and upon repentance forgive them.

C. The apostles responded, “Increase our faith.”

D. Each of us can ask ourselves: “Do I need a stronger faith?”

I. The importance of faith.

A. The Bible teaches that Christians live by faith. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (854); Romans

1:16-17 (830); James 2:17,24,26 (892)

B. There are times when we depend heavily on our faith.

1. In times of temptation. 1 Peter 5:8 (897); 1 Peter 1:6-7

2. In times of sadness and grief. 1 Peter 5:7

3. In times of obedience. Matthew 7:21,24 (708)

C. Through faith we maintain our relationship with God. 1 Peter 1:3-5 (894)

II. Let’s focus on how we can develop a stronger faith. We must

A. Be dissatisfied with our present faith.

1. Because the faith of the apostles failed them, they were dissatisfied with their faith.

For example: Matthew 18:14-21 (718)

2. Are we satisfied with our faith?

B. Desire a stronger faith. Consider the principle in 1 Peter 2:1-3 (895)

C. Pray to our Heavenly Father requesting Him to help us have stronger faith.

Philippians 4:6-7 (869)

D. Study and meditate on God’s word. Romans 10:17 (836)

E. Apply the teachings of God’s word. Hebrews 5:12-14 (885)

Conclusion: A strong faith leads us to eternal life. 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (880)