Day 1 - Resolved Conference Friday Night - Rick Holland

Rick Holland is the one of Pastor John MacArthur's administrative pastors and the college ministry pastor at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, CA. Six years ago he had a vision of doing an outreach that would speak to college-aged people about living for the Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength, fighting for holiness and purity in their lives as young believers. He never would of thought that six years later at the 5th Resolved Conference that more than 4,000 people would be attending the event. What a testimony of God's faithfulness.

So what does Resolved mean? Well Resolved is based off of one of the most historic predominate preachers of the colonial period. His name is Jonathan Edwards. When he was 19 years old, he started writing down statements called "Resolutions." He wrote 70 of them, all stating things that he desired to changed in his life to grow closer to the Lord. These statements from a teen are remarkable and truly set the tone for our generation on how we need to not just live for Jesus but live like Jesus. For the Bible says, "But as He who has called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct." (1 Peter 1:15)

Therefore, this years conference theme and topic is SIN. Here are some notes from Rick Holland's message for you guys to read. Enjoy!

The Spiritual War
1 Peter 2:11-12

All military experts agree that the biggest mistake a soldier can make is to under estimate the enemy. That is exactly what happened to the British who in the Revolutionary War decided to take off Christmas to relax and stay warm during the war against the Americans. They were ambushed and attacked by surprise by General George Washington as he and his men crossed the Delware River to take our the British. The British under estimated the enemy who were the Americans.

However there is a greater enemy in this world. WE ARE THE ENEMY.

We are the greatest sinner we know, and that we are the ones who war against the Spirit of God. We lust, hate, lie, cheat, boast, envy, gossip, steal, etc. We are born a sinner; live as a sinner; die as a sinner; we are at WAR.

Why Should I Fight Against My Flesh?
1. Christian citizenship demands warfare (1 Peter 2:11a)
2. Fleshly lusts provokes the war (1 Peter 2:11b)
3. Fruitful evangelism express holiness and obedience (1 Peter 2:12)

The greatest threat to Christianity and your faith is yourself. Resolve your sinfulness before Almighty God. If we are living for God and dreading our sin, fearing the Lord with all reverence, sharing gospel love and grace to others, it will quench fleshly sin and wretched disobedience to God.

Deep stuff! I will be updating all this week. Blessings Everyone! Here is a video of the first day.