Introduction
Greetings to this 119th General Assembly, the last days Church of God this side of the Dark Ages. Today, I humbly submit this Annual Address to all members and friends, as well as all visitors, with great respect, fear, and trembling of our eternal God almighty.
Last year’s theme, “Committed,” came from 2 Timothy 1:12-14. Let us begin this address with verse 11, where Paul tells Timothy exactly who he is:
11 Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
There are twelve words that are in bold type in the scriptures above. If put together, they say to us: Keep and Hold fast in our faith and love; Keep it by the Holy Ghost. It is plain for me to see that the Holy Ghost is telling us (The Church of God) that we should be Keeping the Faith no matter what may come our way. Why? It will be our Faith that will sustain us, keep us, and deliver us from all the evil that is in this world. Also, I believe something worth keeping is also something worth holding on to. This is why Paul encourages Timothy in our theme scripture:
Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
(1 Timothy 1:19)
When we have or keep the faith we need in God’s Word, we will be prepared to fight the good fight of faith. We can have the testimony of Paul when he said:
7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
(2 Timothy 4:7, 8)
If we desire that crown of righteousness, it is so important that we understand the difference between the phrases Keep the Faith and Keeping the faith.
The expression Keep the Faith can be a command or an encouragement. It is a directive telling someone to remain hopeful, to continue believing in something, or to stay loyal to a cause or belief. For example, one may say, “No matter how tough things get, keep the faith.”
The phrase Keeping the Faith refers to the act of continuously believing in something, remaining hopeful, or staying loyal over time. For example: “Despite the challenges we face, She, the Church, is keeping the faith.”
In summary, Keep the Faith is used to encourage or command someone to maintain their belief or hope, while Keeping the Faith describes the ongoing act of maintaining belief or hope.
Here is the irony of it all, we cannot Keep the Faith if we don’t put into action our keeping of it.
The Word of God is very clear. It’s easy to tell or to encourage someone to keep the faith, but it is a whole different ballgame when we are called to put into action the keeping of our faith!
James tells us:
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
(James 2:18-26)
Church of God, we have been commanded and encouraged long enough to keep the faith, it is now our time to show the world that we, the Bride of Christ, are “Keeping the Faith.”
Let’s put our Faith into action!!!
Understanding the Faith
1 NOW faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.
3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
(Hebrews 11:1-7)
We are called to live a life of faith, trusting in God’s promises and relying on His righteousness rather than our own.
Anyone who has tried to program any kind of electronic device knows there is a difference between owning something and understanding how it works. Anyone with even a slight understanding of language knows there is a difference between hearing words and actually understanding their implication.
Understanding is knowledge which is both intimate and personal. The Bible highlights that we can know spiritual truth as facts and doctrine. However, it is quite another thing to have an understanding of the Word of God on an intimate and personal level. This type of knowledge of God almighty will direct us to transformed living.
Keeping or holding onto something of value, requires us to get an understanding of it.
In Romans 1:16, 17 Paul says:
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
Keeping the faith requires us to move from faith to faith, for therein is the righteousness of God.
The first faith requires salvation. The second faith requires sound doctrine, which is essential to keeping the faith. When we accepted Christ, we did not fully understand Him, but because we believed and confessed our sins, He was faithful to forgive us. After we received salvation Paul says in Colossians 2:6, 7
6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
After receiving the first faith, now it is time to move on to the second. We must walk in it, be rooted and established in the faith, always abounding with thanksgiving in the work of the Lord.
The first step to understanding God is to know that He understands us. All we have to do is ask.
David understood this when he cried out to God in Psalm 119:18
Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.
We can only depend on God to open our minds to understand His truth. Solomon had this very plea,
9 Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
10 And the speech pleased the LORD, that Solomon had asked this thing.
11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;
12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.”
(1 Kings 3:9-12)
God will always honor our prayer for a deeper relationship of Him and His Word. Genuine understanding and the wisdom which accompanies it only come when we are persistent in our search of truth. We must study His Word.
Proverbs 2:1-6 says,
1 MY son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;
4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
When we fully understand, we bear the fruit of that understanding; it naturally comes. There is a keeping power when we allow truth to be rooted and settled in our walk with Christ. It is imperative that we continue to move from faith to faith daily, if we are to get understanding from almighty God!
Christ Himself gives fair warning regarding understanding our faith, He says:
18 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.”
(Matthew 13:18-23)
Understanding Through Keeping
To convey how we understand the things we keep, we can focus on the concept of cherishing and learning from our possessions or values.
The things we choose to keep, whether they are physical objects, memories, beliefs, or values carry significant meaning and understanding. They represent our past experiences, our identity, and our aspirations.
Here are some ways we derive understanding from the things we keep:
Sentimental Objects—We keep mementos like photographs, letters, or souvenirs because they remind us of special moments and people. These items help us understand our personal history and the emotions associated with it.
Beliefs and Values—The principles and morals we hold dear guide our decisions and actions. By keeping these values at the forefront, we understand our purpose and direction in life.
Knowledge and Skills—The knowledge we acquire and the skills we develop over time are kept within us, shaping our understanding of the world and our ability to navigate it effectively.
Memories and Experiences—Our memories and experiences, both good and bad, are kept in our minds. They teach us lessons, help us grow, and influence our future choices.
By keeping these aspects close, we not only preserve their value, but also continually learn and gain deeper insight about ourselves and the world around us.
This explanation captures the idea that the things we keep are not just retained passively but are active sources of understanding and learning.
Here are a few Scripture verses that will give us understanding through the keeping of our faith:
And he sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper.”
(2 Chronicles 26:5)
Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.”
(Psalm 119:34)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.”
(Psalm 111:10)
Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:
(Proverbs 2:11)
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
(Proverbs 3:5)
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.”
(Proverbs 3:13)
Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.”
(Proverbs 4:5)
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
(Proverbs 4:7)
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:7)
4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
6 The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
7 Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
8 Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:
9 Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.
(2 Timothy 2:4-9)
In other words, understanding through our actions involves a self-motivated process of engaging in activities that are pleasing to God, reflecting on experiences, receiving and applying knowledge, and continuously adapting and learning. This hands-on approach between you and God helps to develop a deeper and more practical understanding of keeping the faith.
15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
(2 Timothy 2:15, 19)
Conclusion: Keeping the Faith—Holding to Faith and a Clear Conscience
“19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: 20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme” (1 Timothy 1:19, 20).
Faith and a good conscience are central to leading a meaningful and virtuous life. They are like twin pillars that support one’s character and actions. The concept of holding faith and maintaining a good conscience is timeless, transcending cultures and religions, and is deeply rooted in the human experience. This thought explores the significance of these two principles, their interrelationship, and how they can be cultivated and sustained in our daily lives.
The nature of faith, at its core, is a profound trust and confidence in something greater than oneself. Our faith in God, the highest power, gives us the goodness of humanity, or faith in the principles and values one holds dear. Faith provides a sense of purpose and direction, acting as a guiding star in the journey of life. It is a source of strength in times of adversity, offering hope and resilience when faced with challenges. This kind of faith can only come from God alone.
However, faith is not blind belief. Faith is informed by reason, experience, and often, a sense of inner conviction that comes from God. It requires nurturing through reflection, study, and practice. Engaging with spiritual texts, participating in community worship, and observing the examples of those who exemplify strong faith are ways to deepen one’s faith. Remember, keeping the faith requires action.
A good conscience, on the other hand, requires the Spirit of God. The Spirit is the internal compass that helps distinguish right from wrong. It is His voice within that guides our actions and decisions, ensuring they align with one’s moral and ethical beliefs. A good conscience fosters integrity, honesty, and accountability. These are crucial traits for building trust and respect in relationships and society.
Maintaining a good conscience involves continuous self-examination and mindfulness. It requires being attuned to one’s thoughts and actions, recognizing when they deviate from one’s values, and making amends when necessary. This process of self-awareness and correction is vital for personal growth and moral development. Holding this faith and good conscience requires the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of God.
Faith and a good conscience are deeply interconnected. Faith provides the foundational beliefs and values that inform the conscience, while the conscience ensures that one’s actions are consistent with those beliefs. Together, they create a harmonious balance that enables individuals to live authentically and purposefully in faith.
Cultivating faith and a good conscience is a lifelong endeavor that requires intention and effort.
Again, Paul tells Timothy: “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15).
Holding faith and a good conscience is not just about adhering to religious or moral codes; it is about embodying the principles that define our faith in God. It involves a commitment to personal integrity, ethical behavior, and the pursuit of a higher purpose. By nurturing faith and maintaining a good conscience, we can lead lives that are not only fulfilling, but also contribute to the greater good. In a world often beset by uncertainty and moral doubt, these twin pillars provide a steadfast foundation for living with Holy Ghost conviction and compassion.
Holding on to faith and a good conscience requires us to maintain our faith in Christ and live with a clear conscience. This means we should act in a way that aligns with our beliefs and spiritual understanding.
Faith here refers to the Christian faith and trust in God’s promises. A good conscience means living in a way that does not go against Holy Ghost conviction.
When we reject Holy Ghost conviction, we have deliberately rejected or turned away from maintaining our faith and good conscience. This implies a conscious decision to abandon the principles and teachings of Christ.
When this is accomplished, we have suffered shipwreck regarding the faith. This metaphor suggests that abandoning faith and a good conscience leads to spiritual ruin.
Just as a shipwreck is a disastrous end for the vessel, rejecting faith and a good conscience results in a destructive outcome for one’s spiritual life.
In essence, Paul is urging Timothy to remain steadfast in his faith and maintain integrity in his actions to avoid the spiritual downfall that others have experienced by abandoning these principles.
We must remember that Hymenaeus and Alexander were turned over to Satan because of their blasphemous behavior.
7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
(1 Peter 4:7-19)
Church of God, in order for us to keep the faith, we must be keeping the faith, now. Our faith must be put into action in order to have the testimony of Paul. Again, Paul told Timothy: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:” (2 Timothy 4:7). When it’s all said and done, our final analysis of ourselves should be, I have kept the faith! Remember, before we can say “I have kept the faith,” we must be found “Keeping the Faith!”
To this 119th General Assembly of The Church of God, may God bless you is always my prayer.
