Hold the Line

Main Idea: If we do things God’s way together, we can faithfully endure.

I. We Faithfully Endure When Leadership Leads in the Shadow of the Throne

Scripture: "So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory." – 1 Peter 5:1-4

• Leadership in the church belongs to the Chief Shepherd—Jesus.
• Elders are called to lead by modeling submission to Christ.
• Authority in the church is not about power but about willing, humble service.
• Pray for your elders as they carry this responsibility.

Main Idea: If we do things God’s way together, we can faithfully endure.

II. We Faithfully Endure When We All Remain Humble

Scripture: "Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." – 1 Peter 5:5-7

• Humility is both important and difficult, which is why the Bible speaks about it so often.
• Elders must lead with humility, and the church must follow with humility.
• Submission in the church is a mutual act of trust and respect.
• "Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another." This is similar to Paul's call in Ephesians 5 for mutual submission among believers.
• Casting our anxieties on the Lord requires humility and trust.
• Take time to personally and collectively cast anxieties on Him.

Main Idea: If we do things God’s way together, we can faithfully endure.

III. We Faithfully Endure When We Resist the Enemy in the Power of God Together

Scripture: "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen." – 1 Peter 5:8-11

• Be alert—don’t let your guard down against the enemy.
• The enemy attacks like a prowling lion, looking for vulnerabilities.
• Know your weaknesses and be ready for spiritual attacks.
• "Resist him"—stand firm and do not give up ground.
• We must rely on each other, standing together in humility and trust.
• Suffering is not unique—believers everywhere face struggles.
• God promises to restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish us when we remain faithful.

Main Idea: If we do things God’s way together, we can faithfully endure.

Conclusion

• The greatest danger is being unaware that we are in a spiritual battle.
• Pride and a lack of trust in God can lead to division within the church.
• True strength comes from abiding in Christ. (John 15:1-11)