Sermon Snippet – Putting the Fun into Fundamentalism – Part V
INTRODUCTION – Forgiveness, freedom from sin and freedom to serve, joy – these key aspects of Christianity are fun (really, more than fun). Last week, we added enjoyment to this impressive list. From I Timothy 6:12-21, we saw that Jesus wants us to enjoy relationships, giving, and work. Let us consider this subject of enjoyment again today.
1. JESUS WANTS US TO ENJOY THE RESULTS OF OUR WORK
Our Savior God “giveth us richly all things to enjoy” (verse 17d), including the fruit of our labor. Isaiah 3:10 commands, “Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings.” Isaiah 65:22 includes the promise that “Mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.” Part of this enjoyment is the opportunity to give generously to others, as we studied last week. Another aspect of this enjoyment is provision for ourselves and for our families.
2. JESUS WANTS US TO ENJOY THE ASSURANCE OF SALVATION
We are to “lay hold on eternal life” (verse 19b), to have no doubts. How can we enjoy something that could be taken away at any time? Paul specifically warns Timothy about the joy-killing philosophies of the world (verses 20-21a). The negativism and nihilism that dominate worldly teachings are contrary to enjoyment now and forever.
3. JESUS WANTS US TO ENJOY THE EXERCISE OF OUR MINDS
Even in the first century, people were belittling “the faith” (verse 21a), considering it unintellectual. Just the opposite is true, for Christianity opens our minds to all areas of life, including the spiritual and the eternal. Romans 12:1-2 is a foundational passage regarding the importance of intellect in the Christian life. All that we do to sharpen our minds is thus helpful, including reading, music, social interactions, contemplation – all which we do in times of worship.
4. JESUS WANTS US TO ENJOY EXERCISE OF OUR BODIES
The Bible uses athletic imagery favorably (I Corinthians 9:24-27; Hebrews 12:1-2). Since Jesus cares about all parts of our lives, it is no surprise that He wants us to enjoy something that is good for us. A long walk or a workout session is not a waste of time; it is good for us, and God “giveth us richly all things to enjoy.”
5. JESUS WANTS US TO ENJOY REST
Psalm 127:2b states, “He giveth His beloved sleep.” Such rest is a gift from God. Vacation times are sanctioned by Scripture as well: “He said unto them, ‘Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while’: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat” (Mark 6:31). Such rest is consistent with the greater offer of eternal rest that Jesus provides in Matthew 11:28-30.
CONCLUSION – Before everyone takes a nap, let us conclude. First, the greatest good thing that Jesus wants us to enjoy is eternal life – “rest unto your souls.” Through faith in Him, we are assured of eternity with Him in heaven. Second, let us put the fun into fundamentalism by enjoying the good things that He gives to us “richly.”