The lead pastor of New Creation church and the husband of Wendy Prince, Pastor Joseph prince, has come through with this life changing sermon titled ”Stop Performing, Start Living By Faith”. This is a sermon highly recommended for our spiritual growth and upliftment.
In this sermon, Pastor Joseph Prince centers his teaching around a crucial aspect of our Christian journey – living by faith instead of striving through performance. In this sermon, ”Stop Performing, Start Living By Faith” Pastor Prince delved into the liberating truth that God desires us to experience a life of freedom, rest, and victory, not by our efforts, but by putting our trust wholly in Him. Let us open our hearts and minds to God’s Word as we explore how we can stop performing and start living by faith.
I. The Trap of Performance-Based Christianity: Many believers unknowingly fall into the trap of performance-based Christianity, believing they must work hard to earn God’s favor and blessings. This mindset can lead to exhaustion, anxiety, and a constant fear of not being good enough. However, Scripture reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith, not by our works (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our acceptance before God is not based on what we do, but on what Christ has already done for us on the cross.
II. Understanding Living By Faith: Living by faith means trusting in God’s promises and finished work on the cross, rather than relying on our own efforts. It involves acknowledging that God’s love for us is unconditional and unchanging, regardless of our performance. The Bible assures us that the righteous shall live by faith (Romans 1:17), and it is through faith that we access God’s blessings and experience the fullness of His grace (Ephesians 2:8).
III. Embracing God’s Unmerited Favor: God’s grace is His unmerited favor freely given to us through Jesus Christ. Instead of trying to earn God’s blessings, we are encouraged to rest in His unending love for us. When we realize that God’s grace is sufficient, we can experience His peace and joy even amidst life’s challenges. As we rest in His favor, we find the strength to overcome obstacles and walk in victory.
IV. A Heart of Thanksgiving and Worship: Living by faith should cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and worship in us. When we understand that God’s grace and blessings are undeserved gifts, our response should be one of gratitude and praise. As we continually express our thanks to God, we open ourselves up to a deeper intimacy with Him and experience a transformation in our lives.
V. Letting Go of Legalism and Performance: Legalism and performance-based thinking have no place in the Christian walk. In Christ, we are set free from the burden of the law and the pressure to perform. Galatians 5:1 reminds us, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Let us lay down our striving and embrace the liberty that comes from living by faith in Christ.
VI. Walking in Faith Daily: Living by faith is not a one-time decision but an ongoing journey. We are called to walk in faith daily, trusting God with every aspect of our lives. As we read and meditate on His Word, pray, and seek His guidance, our faith grows stronger. We become more attuned to His voice and are empowered to live a life that glorifies Him.
Conclusion: Dear brothers and sisters, let us break free from the performance mentality that hinders us from experiencing the fullness of God’s grace. Instead, let us rest in His love, trusting in His faithfulness and living by faith daily. When we stop performing and start living by faith, we open ourselves up to a life of joy, peace, and victory in Christ. May God’s grace abound in us as we embrace this liberating truth and walk in the freedom of His love. Amen.
Watch Joseph Prince Sermon ”Stop Performing, Start Living By Faith”
Video credit : Joseph Prince Ministries Youtube