26/08/2026
SERMON DELIVERED BY DEACONESS R.O IGBIGBISIE DURING ODI-OLOWO ASSEMBLY WOMEN MOVEMENT RALLY HELD AT THE APOSTOLIC CHURCH NIGERIA, OSOGBO AREA HEADQUARTERS ON SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026.
THEME: LOVE OF THE WORLD AND ITS CONSEQUENCES
TEXT: 2 TIMOTHY 4:5-10
INTRODUCTION
The life of Demas presents a solemn warning about the danger of allowing the love of the world to take the place of our love and commitment to God.
Demas was once a fellow worker with Paul and was associated with the ministry (Colossians 4:14). However, Paul later recorded that Demas had forsaken him because he “loved this present world” (2 Timothy 4:10).
WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM DEMAS?
✓ He was once part of the ministry. Demas had a place among Paul's fellow workers, showing that being actively involved in God's work does not automatically guarantee steadfastness.
✓ He abandoned the work because of the world. His love for the present world became greater than his commitment to the things of God.
✓ He lacked perseverance - His departure reminds us that our Christian journey requires endurance, faithfulness and steadfastness to the end.
CONSEQUENCES OF LOVING THE WORLD
The story of Demas reminds us that misplaced priorities can lead to:
✓ Losing sight of God's calling and purpose.
✓ Losing valuable fellowship and commitment in God's work.
✓ Missing the eternal reward that comes from faithful service.
✓ Abandoning the good works God has prepared for us.
✓ Allowing worldly desires to weaken our relationship with God.
LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF DEMAS
✓ Persevere to the end - “He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)
✓ The love of the world is dangerous. Worldly attractions can gradually draw the heart away from God.
✓ Temptation reveals our priorities. What we choose when tested often reveals what truly matters to us.
✓ Ministry requires perseverance. We must remain faithful even when the journey becomes difficult.
✓Keep eternity first. Our hearts must remain focused on the things that have eternal value. (Colossians 3:1-2)
✓ Guard your heart. “Keep thy heart with all diligence...” (Proverbs 4:23)
The life of Demas is a solemn warning to every believer, especially women committed to the work of God: stand firm in the faith, guard your heart, remain faithful in service, and never allow the attractions of this world to make you lose sight of eternity.
May our love for God always be greater than our love for the things of this world. May we remain faithful to the end and receive the reward of eternal life. Amen.