Confidence in the truth

2013 Autumn Lectures

“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.”
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)

The influence of secularism on our society can often feel overwhelming. In a nation that is increasingly turning from God’s word, the Church is in need of those who are willing to stand firm in the truth of the gospel. But in the face of so many challenges, how should Christians respond?

These lectures help encourage Christians to be confident about their beliefs by focusing on the sovereignty of God and the truthfulness of his word.

This series helps Christians see that, even in the midst of fears and disappointments, we can continue to be courageous ambassadors for Jesus Christ.

1. Faith and action

By Dr Peter Saunders

Though we are saved by grace through faith in Christ alone, faith is never alone. As James says faith without works is dead. We have to work out our salvation with fear and trembling in whatever sphere of service in every sphere of life – in our jobs, family and society. That includes thinking Christianly about the ethical issues which face us and acting accordingly. Putting our faith into action will be costly but in so doing we will be bringing glory to Christ and having a disproportionate influence for good on those around us.

2. Remaining faithful when the ungodly triumph

By Revd William Macleod

Christian believers are often puzzled and distressed when they see the apparent triumph of evil over good. We wonder what God is doing when the ungodly prosper. This is a recurrent theme addressed in the Bible. This talk will look at the right approach for faithful believers to take. Satan wishes us to be depressed and discouraged but we must look to God and be strong.

3. Confident in God’s truth

By Pastor Paul Yeulett

Whatever the Bible declares is true, whether people believe in it or not. While Christians need to realistically assess the level of opposition that they will encounter in the public arena, they also need to remember the utter reliability and truthfulness of God’s Word, in whatever area it addresses, as well as God’s common grace to all mankind and the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit. We have every reason to be confident and not to lose heart.

4. Doubt

By Revd Dan Peters

With so many challenges coming from science, education, politics, and popular culture, there is a danger that some Christians may get swept along by the cultural drift. What do we say to Christians who start to doubt what the Bible says on essential truths? How can the faithful believer retain confidence in what the Scriptures say on these issues? If we are saved through faith, does the presence of doubt imperil our very salvation?