Teaching summary
In this sermon, Pastor Leonard Rola encourages believers to "stir up" the gift of God within them. He explains how fear is like a consuming fire, but God has provided a "fear extinguisher" through the Holy Spirit, who empowers us with strength, love, and self-discipline. Pastor Lenny emphasizes that faith in Jesus Christ makes us righteous and qualifies us for every blessing. The key to transformation is renewing the mind, focusing on God’s promises, and stirring up our spiritual gifts with passion and faith. He concludes with a powerful revelation about Jesus enduring the cross for the joy set before Him—our salvation.
Bible verses referenced
2 Timothy 1:6 – "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."
2 Timothy 1:7 – "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, love, and of a sound mind."
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."
3 John 2 – "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth."
Hebrews 12:2 – "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Teaching notes
Table of Contents
- Introduction: A Journey to Florida and a Message from the Heart
- Gratitude and the Power of Encouragement
- The Foundation of the Sermon: Stirring Up the Gift
- Overcoming Fear: The Fear Extinguisher
- The Power, Love, and Sound Mind Given by God
- The Importance of Renewing the Mind
- Walking in the Spirit of Self-Discipline
- Jesus and the Finished Work of the Cross
- Conclusion: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus and Walking in Victory
Introduction: A Journey to Florida and a Message from the Heart
Pastor Leonard begins by sharing a personal story about his travel to Florida, highlighting the delays he experienced but ultimately focusing on the joy of reuniting with his wife, Lori, and his mother. This sets the tone for the sermon, emphasizing love, family, and gratitude as key themes. He acknowledges his audience and expresses deep appreciation for their support and encouragement.
Gratitude and the Power of Encouragement
Pastor Lenny takes a moment to thank those who support the ministry through donations, emails, and social media engagement. He expresses how their words of encouragement uplift and strengthen him. He reminds listeners that every act of kindness and encouragement has spiritual significance.
The Foundation of the Sermon: Stirring Up the Gift
The sermon centers on 2 Timothy 1:6-7, where Paul instructs Timothy to "stir up the gift of God" within him. Pastor Lenny explains that every believer has received a divine gift from God, but it must be activated. He emphasizes that just as a fire needs to be rekindled, our spiritual passion and faith must be stirred up continually.
2 Timothy 1:6 – "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."
Overcoming Fear: The Fear Extinguisher
Pastor Lenny explains that fear is like a fire consuming the body, affecting the immune system, and bringing stress, anxiety, and sickness. He emphasizes that fear is not from God but is often wrongly attributed to Satan when, in reality, it results from a lack of trust in God’s promises.
2 Timothy 1:7- "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, love, and of a sound mind." He describes the Holy Spirit as a "fear extinguisher," given to believers to eliminate fear and anxiety.
The Power, Love, and Sound Mind Given by God
Pastor Lenny elaborates on the three gifts mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:7:
– Power (Dunamis) – The miraculous, supernatural strength given by the Holy Spirit.
– Love– The unconditional commitment of God towards us.
– Sound Mind – Self-discipline and the ability to make godly decisions.
The Importance of Renewing the Mind
Pastor Lenny stresses the necessity of right thinking, quoting Romans 12:2:
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." He explains that transformation happens through a renewal of the mind, shifting our thoughts toward the truth of God’s Word.
Walking in the Spirit of Self-Discipline
Pastor Lenny shares how self-discipline plays a key role in the Christian life, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle, making godly choices, and standing firm in righteousness. He references Ephesians 4:23-24:
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. He encourages believers to cooperate with the Holy Spirit, leading them to walk in victory.
Jesus and the Finished Work of the Cross
Pastor Lenny shares a powerful revelation from Hebrews 12:2:
Hebrews 12:2 – "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." He illustrates how Jesus endured the cross joyfully because He saw the ultimate victory—our salvation. He invites listeners to fix their eyes on Jesus, knowing that His work is finished.
Conclusion: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus and Walking in Victory
Pastor Lenny closes by encouraging believers to embrace the fullness of what Jesus has provided. He reminds them to stir up their faith, overcome fear, and walk in the power, love, and self-discipline given by God.
3 John 2 – "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." He invites the audience to share the message, engage with the ministry, and continue renewing their minds daily.
We hope this teaching has blessed you. If it has, share it with others so they, too, can walk in the fullness of God’s grace!