How to Stand Strong in Truth and Grace

Standing for biblical truth has become increasingly difficult in a culture that often rejects God's standards. In this message from 3 John, Pastor Chris Teien explains how believers can remain faithful to Christ by living the truth with grace, supporting those who advance the gospel, and refusing to let pride or selfish ambition derail God's work.Through the examples of Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius, 3 John teaches believers how to develop Christlike character, strengthen healthy churches, invest in meaningful relationships, and faithfully stand for the truth while demonstrating the love and grace of Jesus Christ.In This Message:1. Live the Truth with GraceTruth and grace belong together. This message explains how believers can faithfully proclaim God's truth while responding with humility, compassion, and patience toward those who disagree. (3 John 1-4; John 1:14; Ephesians 4:15; 1 John 3:18)2. Support Those Who Advance the GospelGod calls His people to partner with those who faithfully proclaim the gospel. This message highlights the importance of hospitality, missions, generosity, and encouraging those who dedicate their lives to advancing Christ's kingdom. (3 John 5-8; Matthew 28:19-20)3. Don't Let Power Seekers Derail the MissionThe example of Diotrephes warns believers about the dangers of pride, selfish ambition, and controlling leadership. This message encourages Christians to protect the unity of the church by keeping Christ and the gospel at the center of every ministry. (3 John 9-11; Philippians 2:3-5)4. Be a Christian Leader Worth FollowingDemetrius demonstrates the kind of reputation every believer should desire. This message challenges Christians to cultivate integrity, faithfully live out God's truth, and become examples that encourage others to follow Christ. (3 John 11-12; 1 Timothy 4:12; Hebrews 13:7)5. Invest in Relationships That Bring Peace and JoyHealthy Christian friendships strengthen believers and help churches flourish. This message explains why face-to-face encouragement, genuine fellowship, and Christ-centered relationships are essential for spiritual growth and perseverance. (3 John 13-15; Hebrews 10:24-25)TakeawayStand firmly for biblical truth without sacrificing Christlike grace. Invest in people, support the work of the gospel, and become the kind of believer whose life encourages others to faithfully follow Jesus.Illustrations• Receiving a personal letter from the Apostle John illustrates the authority and encouragement the early churches would have experienced.• Hosting a missionary for a week demonstrates how supporting those who advance the gospel often becomes a life-changing blessing for both the missionary and the church.• The contrast between Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius illustrates three very different responses to leadership, truth, and the mission of the church.Key Quotes"Live the truth with grace.""Don't let power seekers derail the mission.""Be a Christian leader worth following."Search Topics3 John, truth and grace, Gaius, Diotrephes, Demetrius, Christian leadership, church unity, missions, Christian friendship, Pastor Chris TeienFull Episode & Transcript:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/1737733325.0622der Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith