Apostle Joel Obuobisa

8. Enduring a contradiction of sinners is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ Heb 12:3
Contradiction of sinners is when you reap evil for the good things you do
Christ ask, for which of the good works do ye seek to kill me?.
God wants us to look at the example of Christ when we encounter such lest we be wearied
Ephesians 6:5-8
9. Enduring accusations is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Mark 15:3
10. Enduring hatred is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ Mark 15:4
John 15:25
11. Enduring envy is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ
Mark 15:10
12. Enduring rejection from men is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. - John 18:40

6. Enduring sorrow is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Matthew 26:38

1. Enduring temptations is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Luke 4:1-2, Matthew 27:42 2. Enduring pressure is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Luke 12:50, 2 Corinthians 1:8 3. Enduring betrayal is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Matthew 26:21 4. Enduring long hours of prayer is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Matthew 26:39 5. Enduring sleepless nights is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Matthew 26:40 6. Enduring sorrow is an accomplishment of the sufferings of Christ. Matthew 26:38

We continue on the reasons why God would have us experience suffering:

It is easy to accept faith when it is about the things we like and the impossible being done for us. Hebrews 11:1-16 is about this. Then also some suffered and lost by the same faith and because of the faith, and especially from v35

Reasons Why God Wants Us To Suffer:
1. It pleases Him. Isaiah 53:10 it pleased the LORD to bride Him: He hath put Him to brief
2. Because it makes you perfect Hebrews 2:10
3. Because it makes you obedient. Hebrews 5:8
4. It brings us closer to Christ Phil 3:10
5. Because of the glory that will follow you Romans 8:18, 2 Corinthians 4:17, 1 Peter 1:11, 1 Peter 4:13
6. So that you play your part in completing the sufferings of Christ Colossians 1:24

1 Corinthians 15:1-58
Revelation 14:13

Christ undoubtedly resurrected! Many saw Him. Things completely changed!

We too shall be resurrected in Him.

Seeing that it is our future, how must we prepare for that stage life? We must be rich in works, for they are the only things that crosses into that life.

The convention continued on with this gripping message to help us think about how to respond appropriately to God's love that is show by giving Christ to die for our sin.

If God went as far as giving His life for us, what ought to be our response?

Should we not give our lives without reserve? Is there anything too precious to lose in order to gain such a love?

Matt 16:21-28
The steps to following Christ
1. Deny self
2. Take up own cross
3. Follow Christ
Anyone and everyone desiring to follow Christ must carry their own cross
When Christ went to the cross, power was released that triggered Christianity and forgiveness of sin.
We also must take up our cross for power to be released into our lives and ministry

John 12:20-22
The people wanted to see Jesus. THey said, Sir, we would see Jesus!

God wants us to seek Him not the things that come from Him. He must be the subject and the object of our worship.

John 6:1-2, 22-28 - These people did not seek Jesus but for the miracles He was doing.

It appears God is always analysing the purpose for which we serve Him and come to Him.

Heb 11:6 - He that cometh to God must believe that He is and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Psalm 91:14-16 The blessing of those who set their love upon God.

For setting love upon God, He will:

- deliver you
- set you on high
- He will answer you
- He will be with you in trouble and deliver you
- He will honor you

The people in Matt 6 that at the beginning were blessed for coming to Jesus, later on followed because of the bread. Follow Him geniuinely for Him.