The Results of Faithfulness, Part 2

Aim: To prove to be wise with God-given liberties—to Christ's glory.

Doctrine: Faithfulness brings glory to God, and freedom to saints. Whole nations are affected by obedient churchmen, and new societies are created through obedient churchmen.

Exegesis: Liberties and responsibilities that shap the saint's life: God's fulfilled word emboldens us (vv. 1-4a); God's whole world is before us (v. 4b); God's needy people beckon us (vv. 5-6).

Further application: Governing principles for godly decision-making: when in doubt, stay close to ''home,'' and make Christ and His church my top priority.

Key verse: v. 4 ''And now look, I free you this day from the chains that were on your hand. If it seems good to you to come with me to Babylon, come, and I will look after you. But if it seems wrong for you to come with me to Babylon, remain here. See, all the land is before you; wherever it seems good and convenient for you to go, go there.''