The lecture revolves around a central spiritual virtue in Christian life, which is spiritual strength. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the spiritual person is a strong person, because his strength comes from God who dwells in him, not from himself. He clarifies that the children of God must live this strength daily in faith, prayer, service, steadfastness, and in facing trials.

Spiritual and educational points

1. The source of spiritual strength

• A person is strong because he is created in the image and likeness of the strong God.

• The Holy Spirit is the source of strength in a believer’s life, as Christ promised: “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.”

• Whoever has the Spirit of God working in him must be strong in faith and conduct.

2. Biblical examples of spiritual strength

• The twelve apostles were strong men who spread the faith by the power of the Spirit.

• The angels are described as “mighty in strength.”

• Moses the prophet was strong in miracles, endurance, and faith despite his weak speech.

• David the prophet defeated Goliath by God’s strength, not his own.

• Jeremiah was called by God to be a “fortified city and an iron pillar” despite feeling weak.

3. Strength is not violence but spiritual power

• Christian strength is not domination, violence, or pride.

• True strength is the strength of faith, mind, spirit, soul, and will.

• The spiritual person does not tremble from trials nor fear, because God is with him.

4. The strength of the saints and martyrs

• The martyrs lived indescribable strength in facing tortures.

• The saints resisted demons, desires, and thoughts with power from God.

• The power of repentance transformed sinners into astonishing saints.

5. Strength in service and the word

• Christian service needs strong servants in the word and in spiritual influence.

• The word of God is powerful and effective, penetrating hearts and changing souls.

• The apostles preached the Resurrection “with great power” and grace worked strongly in them.

6. The call to strength in the spiritual life

• The Kingdom of God needs people with strong hearts, men and women steadfast in faith.

• Strength is needed in repentance, perseverance, fighting sin, and all spiritual work.

• One must ask God for strength to live a stable, strong, and fruitful life.

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