Preached by Anthony Franklin, 12/18/2011

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Paulina Gets Baptized (third from the right)

2 Timothy 4:6 Paul is poured out like a drink offering… fought the good fight, kept the faith, finished the race.
- Most likely written in prison at end of his life. He had confidence in his salvation.
- In Numbers 15 a drink offering (wine) is poured out over a sacrifice to represent giving your best you had to God.
- Have you given your best to God today? Can you say this at the end of your life? Giving your best is all about your love for God. Love the Lord with all… is the greatest command. If you don’t love God with all your heart, you won’t pour yourself out.

1) It’s all about relationship with God.
Philippians 3:7 The rest of world is garbage compared to knowing Christ. As long as you are close to God, nothing else is a priority.

Exodus 33:12 “How will I know you are pleased with me if your presence does not go with me?” Great leaders want to know God more than anything. Moses doesn’t want to go anywhere without God. Is that your heart? Moses was allowed to see God’s glory. Is that what you want? Do you see your need for God’s presence in your life? Have great times with God. Do you desire to understand God’s awesomeness? Know God on a deeper level. If you haven’t wanted to be in God’s presence, do you really love him? Who do you think the saints will be with in heaven all the time? God! When you love someone, it shouldn’t be burden to spend time with them. Are your times with God a burden?

2) It’s all about your salvation.
Revelation 2:1 “I know your deeds…” says Jesus to the church. Don’t forsake your first love: Jesus. “Consider how far you have fallen.” Repent. Fight for your relationship with God. To those who overcome are given access to paradise.

To him who Overcomes = Victory
Revelation 2:11 Victorious will not be hurt by second death.
Revelation 2:17 Victorious are given a white stone hidden manna.
Revelation 2:26 Victorious are given authority over nations, a throne, and be with Jesus.
Revelation 3:5 Victorious will never be blotted out from book of life. They will know God.
Revelation 3:12 Victorious will have name of God on them.
Revelation 3:21 Victorious will receive the right to sit on throne with Jesus.
Ephesians 2:6 Judging angels.

3) It’s all about your vision.
John 19:23-37 “When the soldiers crucified Jesus…” The quote “They will look on the one they have pierced” is from a prophecy in Zechariah 12:10 about Jesus’ death and the salvation it brings for the faithful. Jesus knew the vision for his own death: to bring all people to him.
- What will the cross motivate you to do today? Will you change your life for Jesus?

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