The Key to Increasing Faith (Luke 17:1-10) Bro. James Strait

I. You must learn to deal with the many offenses of life (vs. 1-4).

A. Offences are inevitable.  Be prepared emotionally.  
Learn to let peace reign in your life 
(Colossians 3:15; Philippians 4:7)

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

B.  Be prepared spiritually.  
Don't traumatize every offence or difficulty.  
(Philip. 1:12-13)

But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;  So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places (Philippians 1:12-13)



1.  It exposes your own wickedness as well as the offender.
2.  It reveals your weakness.
3.  It provides a wonderful opportunity for spiritual growth.

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you 
(Mat. 5:44)

C.  Be prepared biblically (Matthew 18:15-18)
1.  Determine to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18-21)
2.  Do not avenge yourself, but give place for God's wrath.
3.  Attempt to meet the needs of your enemies.
4.  Do not let evil overcome you.  Overcome evil with good.

II.  Keep the door of forgiveness open constantly for your offender and thus remain in the sphere of God's grace for yourself. (Luke 17:4)

But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (Matthew 6:15)

III.  If you would increase your faith you must learn to go above and beyond what is required of you as a servant (Luke 17:7-10)

Learn the power of the 2nd mile (Mt. 5:41)

A.  There are three tests for faithfulness as a servant (Luke 16:10-12)

B.  When you are obedient to everything God has already shown you and you are willing to take one more step above that level the very next step is a step of increased faith.