Definition:
• The steadfast effort to follow God’s commands and to do His work and will I Cor
15:58
• Running the Christian race within limits, and to the finishing line 2Tim 2:5; 4:8; Matt 10:22
• Being deeply rooted in faith lCor 16:13
• To persist in being a child of God inspite of all odds Rom 8:35
• Being watchful and maintaining focus 10cr 10:12; Heb 12:1&2
• Constantly saying No to the devil Eph 4:27; lPet 5:8, Jas 4:7; Rev 12:9

General message:
Text: James 2:14-26; 1 Cor. 15:57-58; Rom. 5:3-4; Ram. 8:25-27; 1 John 5:13
The New Testament makes it clear that faith alone can save. But it makes it equally clear that perseverance in doing good works is the greatest indication that our faith is genuine (James 2:14-26). Indeed, perseverance springs from a faithful trust that God has been steadfast toward His people. Through persevering in God’s will and work, we prove our deep appreciation for God’s saving grace (1 Cor. 15:57-58).
As a result of perseverance, we can expect not only to enhance the strength of the church, but also to build up the strength of our own character (Rom. 5:34). In short, we can expect to become closer to God. We learn that we can persevere primarily because God is intimately related to us (Rem. 8:25-27) and especially because we have the assurance of final reward in heaven (1 John 5:13).

Biblical teaching on the doctrine (God’s provision):
1. Divine decree - John 10:28, 29; Rom. 11:29; Num 23:19; Phil. 1:6; 1 Pet. 1:5. Jer. 31:3;
2. The provisions of the covenant of grace - Jer. 32:40; John 10:29; 17:2-6.
3. The atonement and intercession of Christ - Isa. 53:6, 11; Math. 20:28; 1 Pet.
2:24; John 11:42; 17:11,15,20; Rom. 8:34.
4. The indwelling of the Holy Ghost - John 14:16; 2 Cor. 1:21, 22; 5:5; Eph. 1:14; 1 John 3:9.

This doctrine is not inconsistent with the truth that the believer may nevertheless fall into grievous sin, and lose his position in God’s kingdom. We should be ware not to take the grace and provisions of God for granted.

Review Questions:
1. Why do we need to persevere?
2. What are the dangers of not persevering in faith?
3. Are there examples to follow?
4. Discuss practical tips on how to persevere successfully.
5. How can I help another Christian to persevere?

Memory verse: Luke 21:34
“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares”.