Teaching summary
In this sermon, Pastors Leonard and Lori Rola discuss how true prosperity and health are directly connected to the prosperity of the soul. They emphasize the importance of renewing the mind through the truth of God's grace, rejecting legalism, and embracing one's identity in Christ. Walking in truth, as John describes, leads to abundant life, divine health, and success in all aspects of life. They also share personal testimonies of healing and faith, illustrating how aligning the soul with God's truth manifests His blessings.
Bible verses referenced
3 John 1:1-4– "The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be healthy, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly when the brethren came and testified of the truth in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth."
John 10:10 – "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I have come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly."
Isaiah 53:5– "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed."
1 Peter 2:24 – "Who his self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed."
Romans 12:2 – "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
Ephesians 4:23-24 – "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."
Colossians 3:1-2 – "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
Philippians 4:8 – "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Romans 10:17 – "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Galatians 5:6 – "For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love."
Ephesians 2:8-9 – "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."
Romans 5:17 – "For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ."
John 1:16-17 – "And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ."
Luke 15:11-32 – "And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living… (Full passage included)."
Teaching notes
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Embracing the Day in God's Blessings
- The Foundation: 3 John 1:1-4
- What Does it Mean to Prosper?
- Health and Healing in Christ
- Renewing the Mind: Transformation Through Truth
- Faith and Agreement with God
- Personal Testimony of Healing
- The Role of Worship and Communion
- Closing Encouragement: Walking in Truth Daily
Introduction: Embracing the Day in God's Blessings
Pastors Leonard and Lori Rola open by greeting their audience, acknowledging the snowstorm that has kept people at home. They encourage everyone to embrace the day joyfully, reminding them that God’s blessings are present whether in sunshine or snow. They also express gratitude for their congregation and invite everyone to engage in worship from their homes.
The Foundation: 3 John 1:1-4
Pastor Leonard introduces 3 John 1:1-4, emphasizing that John’s prayer for prosperity and health is tied to the prosperity of the soul. "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
What Does it Mean to Prosper?
The Greek word for "prosper" means "to help on the road"—suggesting success in life’s journey. True prosperity isn’t just financial; it extends to relationships, work, and spiritual growth. It means succeeding in God’s plan, not striving in self-effort.
Health and Healing in Christ
John’s prayer includes health, reinforcing the biblical truth of healing. Isaiah 53:5 declares, "With his stripes, we are healed." Pastor Leonard emphasizes that healing is already accomplished through Christ and is part of God’s promise.
Renewing the Mind: Transformation Through Truth
A prospering soul is continually renewed. Romans 12:2 instructs, "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." Renewing the mind means aligning thoughts with grace, not religious performance.
Faith and Agreement with God
Faith operates through agreement with God's truth. Romans 10:17 states, "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Pastor Leonard warns against listening to messages that mix grace with legalism, as they hinder spiritual growth.
Personal Testimony of Healing
Pastor Leonard shares a powerful testimony of overcoming a life-threatening illness. Despite a grim prognosis, he trusted in God’s voice and direction. His faith led him to the right medical treatment, and today he is completely healed.
The Role of Worship and Communion
Worship is an expression of gratitude for God’s goodness. The congregation is encouraged to participate in communion, remembering Christ’s sacrifice. John 1:16 reminds us, "Of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace."
Closing Encouragement: Walking in Truth Daily
Pastor Leonard concludes by emphasizing that God does not condemn past mistakes but leads His children into His fullness. He urges believers to fix their minds on truth and reject guilt, shame, or condemnation.
Final Words
We pray this message has encouraged and strengthened you. Share this teaching with others and continue walking in the fullness of God's grace and truth!