#29: A Way of Escape

<ul><li> Email: [email protected]</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/A_WAY_OF_ESCAPE.pdf </li><li> The sermon focuses on 1 Corinthians 10:13 and delves into the distinction between trials and evil in the context of God's faithfulness to provide a way of escape for His people.The Greek word for temptation, peirasmos, encompasses various meanings, including trials, temptation to sin, and afflictions. The sermon emphasizes that trials are common to humanity, and every person, as a part of the human experience, will face trials. The distinction between trials and evil is crucial; trials are challenges that God allows for various reasons, whereas evil is destructive and has no good associated with it.The sermon offers biblical examples to illustrate the concept of divine escapes. The story of Joseph in Egypt portrays how God provided an escape through favor, enabling Joseph to bear the trials of slavery. The sermon emphasizes the need for individuals to actively look for opportunities or avenues (symbolized by "Potiphars") during trials, rather than dwelling on the problems.The story of Job illustrates that sometimes God's escape may come in the form of discussions and challenges from friends. Despite the disagreements, these interactions keep individuals engaged and occupied, making the trials more bearable. The narrative of Apostle Paul's journey to Rome demonstrates how God used a storm and subsequent shipwreck as an escape, leading Paul to Malta, where he could preach the Gospel and save souls.The sermon encourages listeners to recognize that trials are not without purpose. God, in His faithfulness, provides escapes even in the midst of trials. The key lies in actively seeking and recognizing these divine exits, which might come in unexpected forms, enabling believers to bear their trials and fulfill their missions, just as Paul did in Malta. The message reinforces the faithfulness of God in providing ways of escape tailored to each individual's circumstances.</li></ul>