1. THERE WOULD BE NO HOME FOR OUR SOUL AND SPIRIT.
A. IT IS TRAGIC TO SAY GOD IS WRONG. THERE IS NO HOPE WITHOUT HIS PROMISES.
PEOPLE WHO DON’T BELIEVE IN THE RESURRECTION HAVE TO BE SAD, YOU SEE.
Acts 23:8“For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.”
(***Biblical joke… In New Testament times, the Sadducees were a group of religious Jews who did not believe in an afterlife of any kind – that when you die, that is all there is. Without this hope of eternal life, physical resurrection or even heaven, they must have been “sad, you see”.)
GOD MADE THE HOUSE FIRST, AND THEN BREATHED LIFE TO DWELL INSIDE IT.
Genesis 2:7“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.”
2. THERE WOULD BE NO WAY TO COMMUNICATE AND INTERACT WITH THAT WHICH IS PHYSICAL.
The rich man could not communicate with those in the body unless he had a body. But, his souls and spirit could feel pain, just like a body does.
Luke 16:23-24“And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.”
3. THERE WOULD BE SERIOUS DOUBTS ABOUT THE TRUSTWORTHINESS OF GOD.
BECAUSE HE PROMISED A NEW BODY. HE SET THE EXAMPLE BY RISING FROM THE DEAD. HE GIVES SPECIFIC PROMISES WHICH WE CAN COUNT ON.
PREACHING FROM JESUS, THE PROPHETS, AND THE APOSTLES ALL SAY THAT THERE IS A RESURRECTION.
THE PROPHETS.
Luke 20:37 “Now that the dead are raised, even Moses shewed at the bush, when he calleth the Lord the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” 1 Corinthians 15:12 “Now if Christ be preached that He rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead?” 1 Corinthians 15:13 “But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:”
JESUS SPECIFICALLY SAID HE WOULD RISE FORM THE DEAD BODILY.
Matthew 16:21 “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto His disciples, how that He must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.” Matthew 17:23“And they shall kill Him, and the third day He shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.”
THE TOMB WAS EMPTY. IF IT WAS JUST A SPIRITUAL RESURRECTION, THE BODY WOULD STILL BE THERE.
Matthew 28:6“He is not here: for He is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.” Matthew 28:7“And go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead; and, behold, He goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.”
JESUS LEFT US EVIDENCE THAT HIS PROMISES ARE TRUE.
Luke 24:36-40“And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.”
1 Thessalonians 4:15-17“For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
WHY DON’T CHRISTIANS TODAY DESIRE THE RESURRECTION LIKE EARLY CHRISTIANS DID ?
**THIS DESIRE WAS NOT JUST FOR THAT GENERATION WHICH EXPERIENCED THE LORD WALKING WITH THEM ON THE EARTH. IT IS EXPRESSED BY GOD’S PEOPLE UNTIL RECENT TIMES.
TODAY, PEOPLE ARE TOO BUSY TO WALK WITH HIM. THEY HAVE THEIR KIDS, THEIR GRANDKIDS, THEIR DOCTORS, THEIR GARDENS, THEIR PETS, THEIR HOUSES, AND THEIR JOBS. THEY HAVE TIME TO SPEND WITH THEIR RELATIVES, BUT DON’T HAVE THE TIME TO COME TO KNOW JESUS BETTER. THEY SAY THOSE THINGS KEEP THEM BUSY. THEY DON’T HAVE THE TIME.
BUT THEY MAKE TIME FOR THEIR INTERNET CHATS AND EMAILS. THEY MAKE TIME TO VISIT ONE ANOTHER. THEY MAKE TIME TO SEE DVD’s WHICH ARE NOT MORALLY UPLIFTING. THEY MAKE THE TIME TO SEE DOCTORS, LAWYERS, AND BUSINESSMEN. BUT, THEY CAN’T MAKE THE TIME TO WALK WITH JESUS AS ALL PAST GENERATIONS OF CHRISTIANS HAVE DONE.
YOU HAVE TO MAKE THE TIME ! THEN, THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS WILL BE IMPORTANT TO YOU. IT WILL COMFORT YOU. THAT IS HOW THIS CHAPTER ENDS. BUT, IF WE ARE TOO BUSY TO APPRECIATE WHAT JESUS DID, WE HAVE NO COMFORT AND NO EXPECTATION.
This is a multi-part series. On this page you will find links to all audio files in the series as well as the outlines for the entire series. Scroll down for complete outlines.
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
WE ARE NOT DOOMED TO FAILURE IN LIFE. OUR WEAKNESSES CAN BE OVERCOME. BUT, WE NEED TO CONFESS THEM AND TURN FROM THEM THROUGH THE POWER OF THE LORD.
Hebrews 11:34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
CHRISTIANS ARE AGAINST SIN. THEY DON’T WANT IT IN OTHERS, AND THEY DON’T WANT IT IN THEMSELVES. YET, IT EXISTS. MOST PEOPLE WILL CLASSIFY SOME SINS TO BE MORE SERIOUS THAN OTHERS.
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IT SEEMS THAT THERE ARE SOME SINS THAT HAVE BECOME ACCEPTABLE AMONG CHRISTIANS IN CHURCH. THESE ARE NOT CONSIDERED SERIOUS SINS BY THE PEOPLE WHO DO THEM, OR OTHER CHRISTIANS WHO WATCH.
AN EXAMPLE OF THIS IS THE MAN WHO COMMITTED ADULTERY IN 1 CORINTHINS 6. THE CHURCH ACCEPTED WHAT HE DID AS “NORMAL.” IT WASN’T, AND IT SET PAUL DOWN ON THEM WITH SOME SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES.
WHEN IT COMES DOWN TO IT, FEW CHURCHES TODAY HAVE ANY STANDARDS THAT THEY ENFORCE AND EXPECT MEMBERS TO ABIDE BY.
THIS IS WHY SO MANY LOST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD FIND CHRISTIANITY COMPLETELY UNINTERESTING. BECAUSE WHAT THEY SEE FROM CHURCH PEOPLE IS THE SAME THING THEY SEE IN MORAL PEOPLE WHO ARE LOST OUTSIDE THE CHURCH.
LET’S EXAMINE SOME OF THE SINS WHICH HAVE BECOME ACCEPTABLE IN TODAY’S CHURCHES.
1. FEAR
2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Fear is a spirit that can overwhelm your life.
AFRAID OF WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN NEXT.
AFRAID OF THINGS THAT ARE ONLY ILLUSIONS.
AFRAID TO DEPART OF THE USUAL.
AFRAID TO STEP OUT BY FAITH.
AFRAID TO TRUST GOD MORE THAN DOCTORS.
AFRAID TO SPEAK UP FOR THE LORD.
AFRAID TO FAST.
AFRAID TO DO ANYTHING THAT LOST PEOPLE MIGHT USE AS AN EXCUSE TO CRITICIZE US.
2. APATHY
Apathy doesn’t necessarily mean the lack of emotions. It is more a lack of action. People can get riled up and even furious with some things. They see needs, and their hearts are emotional about those needs. But, without action, all of that is nothing but apathy.
Apathy is against the very nature of Christians. In order to be apathetic, you have to fight the Holy Spirit in you. That creates real problems for you and others.
It goes against the extremist nature of Christians. Yes, Christians are extremists. How can it be otherwise. Extreme in commitment.
EVERY PART OF US SHOULD BE COMMITTED TO CHRIST. Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Christians are compelled by other commands which are extreme.
EVERYTHING WE DO SHOULD BE FOR THE LORD. Colossians 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
ALL THAT WE DO SHOULD BE ACCORDING TO GOD’S WILL, NOT OUR OWN. Colossians 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.
OF COURSE, THE WILL OF GOD INVOLVES REACHING OTHERS WITH THE GOOD NEWS. SO, APATHY WOULD HAVE IT THAT WE LEAVE THAT TO OTHERS.
3. GREED
This is exposed most clearly when a national election rolls around. The world talks the pulse of different demographics, and evangelistic Christians is an important group of people. Without exception, each of the past 8 elections, so-called Christians have chosen who they will vote for on the basis of how the candidate will make them better off financially. In some cases, they voted for an openly immoral, ungodly behaving person. In other cases, they voted for a person who promised to promote ungodly principles if they are elected. But, the large majority of so-called Christians were not ashamed to admit that they voted to better themselves financially rather than voting for the person who stood by good morals.
1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
SOCIALISM AND COMMUNISM ARE POLITICS OF GREED. PEOPLE THINK THEY ARE WAYS OF HELPING NEEDY PEOPLE. NOT SO. THE POOR WANT IT BECAUSE THEY WANT THE WEALTH OF THOSE WHO WORKED FOR IT.
Proverbs 1:14-19 Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.
Proverbs 15:27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
GREED IS THE REASON WHY SOME CHRISTIANS DO NOT OBEY GOD. AS A RESULT OF A LACK OF OBEDIENCE, THEY DON’T GET MANY PRAYERS ANSWERED, AND THEY MISS OUT ON MANY BLESSINGS.
EXCUSES ABOUND.
I HAVE BILLS. (WHO DOESN’T). PEOPLE WHO TITHE USUALLY HAVE FEWER BILLS BECAUSE THEY LISTEN TO THE HOLY SPIRIT’S GUIDANCE ABOUT USING MONEY WISELY.
MY WIFE CONTROLS THE MONEY, AND THAT’S WHY I CAN’T TITHE. (IF YOU ARE THE MAN OF THE HOUSE, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR WIFE DOES, GOD WILL HOLD YOU PERSONALLY ACCOUNTABLE).
I HAVE TO HAVE A CUSHION, AND IF I GAVE WHAT I SHOULD, I WOULDN’T BE ABLE TO HAVE IT. WELL, GOD CAN GET IT REGARDLESS OF HOW MUCH YOU TRY TO KEEP A CUSHION. BUT, INSTEAD OF BEING REWARDED ONE DAY FOR YOUR FAITHFULNESS, GOD WILL HAVE TO POINT OUT THAT HE HAD TO JUDGE YOU ON THIS EARTH BECAUSE OF YOUR UNFAITHFULNESS.
GREED MAKES A PERSON SUBJECT TO MANY MORE TIMES OF SADNESS, BUT A PERSON WHO GIVES FROM THE HEART IS A HAPPIER PERSON.
2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
4. WORRY
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
What does worry accomplish ? It does not solve any problems, bring you peace or happiness. Instead, worry is a villain that takes away all those things.
Worry makes you sick or depressed, or angry. It does nothing constructive at all.
The great philosopher Van Wilder once said, “Worrying is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.” That’s right. But Van Wilder isn’t the only one who talked about worry. Jesus said you shouldn’t worry about anything (Matt. 6:25-34). But Jesus wasn’t serious was he? I mean, really Jesus? Anything?
Matthew 6:25-33 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
He was serious. You see, worrying is symptomatic of a larger issue…lack of faith. And for followers of Jesus whose primary mission is to show the glory and nature of God to the world, worrying is a problem.
5. FLATTERY & PRAISE
IT WAS THE DOWNFALL OF THE PHARISEES.
John 12:42-43 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
YOU CANNOT BE A POWERFUL WITNESS IF PRAISE OF MEN IS WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO WORK. Paul and Silas were not praised by anyone. Instead, they praised God, and He gave them blessings for doing so. If they had been waiting for a pat on the back, they would not have seen the hand of God work as He did.
If your identity is tied to man’s praise, you’ll be eternally discontent.
Many people are just plain out fickle. They’re for you one day, against you the next. They love you when you agree with them, dislike you when you don’t.
It’s hard to point people to Jesus if you need their approval.
PEOPLE TODAY WILL DESPISE YOU IF YOU ARE GOOD. SO, DON’T EXPECT THEM TO LISTEN AND EXALT YOUR REPUTATION.
2 Timothy 3:3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
THEY WILL NOT BE WILLING TO SAY A LOT OF GOOD THINGS ABOUT YOU.
Let’s be honest, it’s hard to point lost people to Jesus if you need their approval. because they are not usually going to give it you. They are lost because the are not impressed enough with the Lord or their own sinful condition. So, why would they flatter you when they don’t respect the od you serve ? Don’t expect flattery from the world, and don’t seek it.
JOHN THE BAPTIST HAD IT RIGHT.
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease. HE DIDN’T CARE WHAT PEOPLE THOUGHT ABOUT HIM. HE CARED ABOUT WHAT GOD THOUGHT OF HIM.
6. BECOMING TOO COMFORTABLE WITH THE PRESENT… SLUGGISH.
Many in the church are satisfied with doing nothing or very little. God wants us to use our talents for Him, not the world.
Consider a man lying in bed with medical tubes in him. This is understandable if this was a means to getting better. But, what if the man wanted people to feed him, give him medicines just to feel pleasure, bathe him, wash him, massage him, and he was doing nothing at all ? Not the Christian life. Yet, some seem to take comfort in doing that spiritually. That is what the Bible describes as being a sluggard, or lazy.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Proverbs 20:4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
Proverbs 26:16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.
Romans 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
LAZY WITH EXCUSES:
Proverbs 22:13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.
–Some are afraid what people in their own homes might say if they do God’s will. Afraid of being criticized, afraid of retaliation, etc. Some have been afraid to come to church at times because family didn’t want them to come, and they they feared what family might do to them.
Hebrews 6:12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
There is nothing wrong with comfort so long as it comes from God. God’s comfort can come from God using another person, through God’s Word, or directly by the unmistakable touch of the Holy Spirit. But, we are talking about another kind of comfort that ruins our relationship with God by leading us to a lifestyle that displeases God.
Comfort might be the source of the “church approved” sins family. When the church becomes comfortable, Christianity starts to die.
PAUL IS PROVEN TO BE A REAL CHRISTIAN BY THE DISCOMFORT THAT HE ENDURED AND OVERCAME.
2 Corinthians 6:4-10 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.
THE CHURCH CAN NOT BE GROWING SPIRITUALLY AND AT THE SAME TIME BE COMFORTABLE WITH WHERE THEY ARE.
THE CHURCH CAN NOT BECOMING MORE SPIRITUAL WHILE BEING SATISFIED WITH WHAT THEY ARE DOING FOR THE LORD.
THESE TYPES OF COMFORT SEEMS ACCEPTABLE TO MOST CHRISTIANS IN MOST CHURCHES.
7. LACK OF LOVE
***People have differing ideas of what love is. Some say that spanking your child is evidence that you don’t love them. The Bible says that if you love your child, you WILL discipline them. Some people say that loving the brethren is proven by praying for them. Others say that praying is just the beginning, and that actions are important too. We need a Biblical view of what love is, not our own–or the world’s– definition.
BIBLICAL DEFINITION IS:
1 John 3:17 But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him ?
–ARE THERE MORE THAN MATERIAL NEEDS ? YES ! WHAT OTHER NEEDS COULD THERE BE ? ARE CHRISTIANS FAILING TO VEEN LOOK AT THOSE NEEDS OF THE BRETHREN ?
OUR ACTIVE PRACTICAL FAITH IS TIED IN WITH OUR ACTIVE LOVE.
James 2:14-18 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
MOST IMPORTANT IS LOVING GOD. HOW MANY WOUOLD AGREE WITH THAT ?
THIS IS GOD’S DEFINITION OF LOVE TO HIM–
1 John 2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
1 John 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.
Matthew 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
LOVE MUST HAVE PRIORITIES. YOU SHOULD LOVE YOUR OWN CHILDREN MORE THAN OTHER PEOPLE’S CHILDREN. YOU SHOULD LOVE YOU WIFE MORE THAN YOU LOVE SOMEONE ELSE’S WIFE. IT IS NOT THAT YOU SHOULDN’T LOVE OTHER CHILDREN OR OTHER PEOPLE. BUT, THERE IS A PRIORITY.
FIRST AND FOREMOST, WE SHOULD LOVE GOD.
THEN THE BRETHREN.
THEN THE LOST.
8. MISDIRECTED PATRIOTISM
PRIORITIES ARE IMPORTANT. WHEN WE STAND UP FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD, IT IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT THAN STANDING UP FOR A NATION THAT WILL PASS AWAY.
WHAT COUNTRY ARE WE A PART OF ? WHAT COUNTRY DID ABRAHAM SEEK ? IS EARTHLY COUNTRY AS IMPORTANT AS THE HEAVENL.Y ONE. WHEN LOYALTY TO OUR EARTHLY COUNTRY COMES HIGHER THAN LOYALTY TOWARD THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN, WE HAVE MISDIRECTED PATRIOTISM
When your allegiance is torn between your country and your God, American ideals begin to shape your faith more than God. And you transpose American values onto God, believing God would be an American and think like an American.
Celebrate American values. That’s great. But, at the end of the day, your citizenship is not with America. It’s in heaven.
Hebrews 11:8-10 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
Philippians 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [“CONVERSATION” literally means “CITIZENSHIP”]
9. LYING & GOSSIPING
A CHRISTIAN’S WORD SHOULD MEAN WHAT IT SAYS.
Matthew 5:33-37 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
2 Corinthians 1:17-19 When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay? But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.
SO, LYING IS A DEPARTURE FROM THE TRUTH. WE ARE CALLED TO SPEAK TRUTH. IF PEOPLE CAN’T TRUST YOU ABOUT LITTLE THINGS, HOW CAN THEY TRUST YOU ABOUT THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES OF ALL–SALVATION, FORGIVENESS, FAITH.
Ephesians 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
GOSSIP IS SPREADING INFORMATION THAT IS NOT BENEFICIAL… EVEN IF IT IS TRUE.
1 Timothy 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
1 Peter 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
Lying is the elephant in the room no one sees. Lying is so socially acceptable, even in Christian circles, that it often goes undetected. We’re desensitized to it.
And here’s why this is dangerous for Christians.
Here’s what Jesus is saying. You should live with such high integrity that your word doesn’t need attachments to make it legitimate. So, typical phrases like, “I promise,” “I swear,” and “I swear on my mom’s grave” should never come from your mouth.
How serious is this? Jesus says anything more than our word is from the evil one, Satan. That’s real.
10. SINFUL PRIORITIES.
PREACHING SALVATION BUT LEAVING OUT ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS.
Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Acts 20:21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
WE KNOW WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT, BUT WE DON’T DO IT IN GOD’S ORDER OF THINGS. WE CHOOSE OUR OWN ORDER.
James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
PRIORITY OF SELF. IF EVERYONE DOES IT, IT IS OK. *Everyone is different, and therefore will do things differently. Everyone has their own objectives in life. Everyone sees things differently. Everyone loves God in their own way. Everyone prays in their own way. –Very few people stop to think about the implications of statements like these. Do these statements line up with what the Bible says ? Yet, they are widely accepted and heard in most churches.
Many churches have made these statements more important than the Bible, which commands us to do specific things.
WE NEED TO JUDGE OTHERS. BUT, MANY DO SO WITHOUT JUDGING THEMSELVES FIRST.
Matthew 7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.
SUBMITTING TO OUR OWN WILL. SUBMISSION TO GOD IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN SUBMISSION TO ANYTHING OR ANYONE ELSE.
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
WHY DID JOHN SAY THIS ? IS IT A GOOD REASON FOR US TO FOLLOW THE SAME PRINCIPLE ?
Colossians 3:18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.
WHEN THE PRIORITY IS YOU, THEN YOUR PURPOSE FOR BEING ALIVE IS LOST. WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO HELP YOUR HUSBAND FULFILL GOD’S CALLING FOR HIM ?
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
QUIT SUBMITTING TO YOURSELF OR TO THE WORLD’S DEFINITION OF WHAT A REAL WOMAN IS. SUBMIT TO GOD’S DEFINITION, AND YOU WON’T HAVE TO PAY A PRICE LATER ON.
1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
PRAYER. DOESN’T GET THE RIGHT PRIORITY.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints:
I AM THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN GOD’S LIFE. PRIORITY OF OUR OWN FEELINGS, NOT THE FEELINGS OF GOD.
Hebrews 12:3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
**AN EXAMPLE IS IF SOMEONE GETS OMITTED FROM AN INVITATION. IT IS WRONG TO HOLD THAT AGAINST THEM. OR IF SOMEONE MAKES A COMMITMENT, BUT DOESN’T DO IT BECAUSE THEY FIND OUT THAT THEY WON’T GET THE GLORY OUT OF IT. (We are supposed to give GOD all the glory !)
WHY IS THAT SO IMPORTANT ? Because our Savior’s thoughts are more important than ours. Our Savior’s feelings are more important than ours.
**THE DISCIPLES COULD HAVE BEEN TORN AGAINST EACH OTHER IF THEY HELD THE ATTITUDES THAT SOME CHRISTIANS HAVE. “How come Peter and John get to spend more time with Jesus than I do ?” “How come John gets to sit beside Jesus, and I don’t ?” We should be totally ashamed of ourselves if we ever start thinking about people wounding our sensitive little egos, while not taking into account that all that we do should be for the glory of God.
DISCIPLES ARGUED AMONG THEMSELVES AS TO WHO SHOULD HAVE THE PRIORITY.
Mark 9:34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.
AFTER THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME, THIS DID NOT HAPPEN ANY MORE. IF WE RELY UPON THE SPIRIT OF GOD, WE WILL NOT HAVE THIS TYPE OF JEALOUSY AND CONCERN FOR OUR OWN FEELINGS.
IS THE LORD JEALOUS THAT YOU HONOR YOUR OWN FEELINGS MORE THAN HIS ?
Deuteronomy 32:21 They have moved me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with those which are not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation.
WRONG PRIORITY TO HAVE FAMILY OVER GOD. ***What if you stayed at home instead of coming to church ? You say, “My family would be hurt if i didn’t stay with them..” Well, isn’t God going to be hurt when you put your family ahead of Him ?
YOUR TIME.
YOUR FEELINGS — IS GOD THE PRIORITY IN THESE THINGS ? WHY NOT ?
YOUR PLANS.
NOTHING IS AS IMPORTANT AS GETTING RIGHT WITH GOD !
THIS SERIES ON “POWERFUL WORDS” EXAMINES SOME IMPORTANT WORDS USED IN THE BIBLE WHICH PEOPLE DON’T UNDERSTAND ANYMORE. EVEN MANY CHRISTIANS DON’T SEEM TO UNDERSTAND THEIR TRUE MEANING.
SALVATION
1. SAVED FROM WHAT ?
– FROM THE WRATH OF GOD.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
AND WHY IS GOD ANGRY ? HE IS ANGRY AT PEOPLE WHO WILL NOT RESPOND TO HIS OFFER OF A FREELY GIVEN FORGIVENESS AND A CLEAN GARMENT WASHED BY HIS LOVE.
Luke 14:21 So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.
NEED TO BE SAVED FROM THE JUDGMENT BY GOD UP AHEAD.
SOME JUDGMENTS OCCUR ON EARTH. SOME CALL IT KARMA.
1 Timothy 5:24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
–EVEN NATIONS WILL BE JUDGED ON EARTH. BUT, THAT DOES NOT AVOID THE GREATER JUDGMENT TO COME. ISRAEL AND EVERY NATION HAS BEEN JUDGED BY GOD AT SOME TIME FOR DISOBEYING HIS CLEAR LAWS.
2 Chronicles 34:21 Go, enquire of the LORD for me, and for them that are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out upon us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD, to do after all that is written in this book.
–PERHAPS THE MOST NOTABLE EVENT WAS WHEN GOD JUDGED THE ENTIRE EARTH IN THE DAYS OF NOAH. THIS IS NOT SOMETHING WHICH IS FOLKLORE. IT IS SOMETHING PROVEN BY MAN’S SCIENCE THAT HAS FINALLY MADE ITS WAY FROM INSISTING THAT THE EARTH WAS FLAT TO FINALLY ACCEPTING THE BIBLE’S TEACHING OF A ROUND EARTH, AND THAT CONTINENTS WERE ONCE ONE GIANT CONTINENT THAT WAS BROKEN APART.
Genesis 6:7 And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.
Genesis 6:13 And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.
Genesis 19:13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.
ALL PEOPLE WILL BE JUDGED AFTER THEY LEAVE THIS EARTH.
Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
IS THERE ANY REASON TO BELIEVE IN DIVINE JUDGMENT ? SINCE THERE IS JUDGMENT NOW, WHY NOT A FINAL JUDGMENT OF A PERSON’S LIFE LATER ?
Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
THERE ARE NATURAL EVENTS WHICH REVEAL THAT DIVINE JUDGMENT IS A REALITY. IT IS KNOWN AS “CAUSE AND EFFECT.” IF YOU CONSTANTLY POLLUTE THE WATER, THERE ARE NATURAL CONSEQUENCES. IF YOU TAKE TOO MANY PIECES OF PIE AFTER DINNER, THERE ARE NATURAL CONSEQUENCES. ALL NATURE BEARS WITNESS TO THIS PRINCIPLE.
BUT, IT GOES FURTHER THAN THAT. IT SPEAKS OF OUR LIVES. WHAT IF WE DO THINGS WHICH GO AGAINST THE ORDER WHICH GOD ESTABLISHED ? THERE WILL BE CONSEQUENCES. GOD WILL BRING THOSE TO PASS AFTER YOUR LIFE HERE.
Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
MEN WILL NOT HAVE A CHANCE TO ESCAPE JUDGMENT BECAUSE THEY ARE BROUGHT TO IT BY THE ANGELS.
Matthew 13:40-43 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
IS THERE ANY REASON TO BELIEVE THAT A LOVING GOD WOULD SEND PEOPLE TO HELL ?
GOD REVEALS WHAT HE WILL DO. WHO BETTER TO BELIEVE THAN GOD HIMSELF ?
Revelation 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
–JESUS OFTEN WARNED ABOUT COMING JUDGMENT.
John 5:28-29 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
IS THERE ANY REASON TO BELIEVE THAT THERE IS LIFE AFTER DEATH, AND THAT THERE IS A LITERAL HEAVEN WHERE PEOPLE CAN GO ?
***WE NEED PEOPLE WHO HAVE PERSONALLY EXPERIENCED THIS TO BE WITNESSES OF IT.
JESUS TESTIFIED OF IT. TODAY, THERE ARE COUNTLESS EYEWITNESSES OF BOTH HEAVEN AND HELL BECAUSE PEOPLE WERE BROUGHT BACK THROUGH CPR FROM BOTH OF THOSE PLACES !
JESUS TAUGHT BY CITING ACCOUNTS OF WHAT HAPPENED TO REAL PEOPLE.
Luke 16:20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Luke 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
–JESUS SPEAKS OF JUDGMENT OVER THE BEHAVIOR OF A PERSON.
Matthew 25:41-43 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.
2. EVIDENCE OF THE NEED FOR SALVATION.
EVERYONE HAS DONE WRONG AT SOME POINT. THE BIBLE EXPLAINS THIS.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
EVEN THE BEST OF PEOPLE HAVE COMMITTED SIN.
—DAVID. CONSIDERED TO BE A SAVED, RIGHTEOUS MAN, DESCRIBED AS “A MAN AFTER GOD’S OWN HEART…” EVEN HE SINNED AND KNEW THAT HE DID. .
2 Samuel 12:13 And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
2 Samuel 24:17 And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people, and said, Lo, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly: but these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, be against me, and against my father’s house.
–THE CONDITION OF SIN HAS AFFECTED ALL PEOPLE.
Romans 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
–WE ARE ALL CONSIDERED BY GOD TO BE SINNERS. AND OUR SINS BEGIN EARLY.
Psalms 58:3 The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.
ANY REMAINING CONSCIENCE THAT A PERSON HAS TESTIFIES THAT THEY HAVE SINNED.
Romans 2:15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)
WE ALL KNOW OF THINGS THAT IF WE HAD TO DO THEM OVER, WE WOULD. WHAT IS THAT ? A KNOWLEDGE THAT WE SHOULD HAVE DONE GOOD AND DIDN’T. OUR OWN CONSCIENCE TELLS THAT WE COULD HAVE DONE GOOD AND BLEW IT.
James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
1 John 5:17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
WHY WOULD GOD SEND HIS SON TO SUFFER AND DIE IF EVERYONE WAS GOING TO BE BETTER OFF AFTER THEY DIED ?
–FACT: THEY WOULD NOT BE BETTER OFF ! WITHOUT THE PAYMENT FOR SINS, WE ALL ARE DOOMED TO HELL ! THEREFORE, WE ALL NEED SALVATION ! HOW DOES IT COME ?
BIBLICAL SALVATION MEANS THAT THERE ARE NO MORE SINS APPLIED TO US.
THEY HAVE BEEN COVERED BY CHRIST. (“ATONEMENT” MEANS “COVERING”)
Romans 5:11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
THEY HAVE BEEN TAKEN AWAY BY CHRIST.
1 Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
THEY HAVE BEEN JUSTIFIED BY CHRIST.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
YOU HAVE BEEN REDEEMED OUT OF THE HAND OF SATAN, AND BORN INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD.
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
JESUS CAME TO SAVE US FROM OUR SINS AND PROVIDE TRUE SALVATION !
Matthew 18:11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
***At Solid Rock Bible Church, if you have a question about the Bible, doctrine, faith or anything related to your spiritual walk with God, we have a “Question Box” where you can deposit those questions. Pastor Ed then researches each one and give answers from the Word of God to help you grow in your faith !
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QUESTION:
“Recently I got into a little debate about sin in God’s eyes. I have noticed a lot of Christians lately saying ‘All sin is equal in God’s eyes’. I told a friend I disagreed because of these verses . . .” and they listed some verses. “They state otherwise. Why would God call some sins abominations if all sin was equal ? She agreed that the only greater sin was blaspheming the Holy Ghost but all other sin is equal in God’s eyes. She said that I was taking verses out of context, so my question is – was I ? If all sin is not equal in God’s eyes, can you share more scriptures that would confirm this ?”
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ANSWER:
IF THERE IS A DIFFERENCE IN SINS, WE CAN SEE IT THROUGH TWO DIFFERENT WAYS.
1. BY WHAT CONSEQUENCES ARE ATTACHED TO IT. 2. BY WHEN GOD EXPRESSES HIS FEELINGS TOWARD IT.
***KEEP IN MIND THAT SIN SHOULD NEVER BE ANALYZED FROM A PEOPLE-PERSPECTIVE OR STANDARD. PEOPLE HAVE A TENDENCY TO CHANGE STANDARDS TO FIT THEIR CURRENT IDEAS – ESPECIALLY TO ALLOW THEM TO GET AWAY WITH WHATEVER SIN THEY ARE COMMITTING AT THAT TIME.
1. BY WHAT CONSEQUENCES ARE ATTACHED TO IT.
♦ ETERNAL CONSEQUENCES.
1 John 5:16-17If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. All unrighteousness is sin [eternal view]: and there is a sin not unto death [present view].
♦ PRESENT CONSEQUENCES.
ENTICING PEOPLE AWAY FROM GOD = DEATH.
Deuteronomy 13:6-10If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers; Namely, of the gods of the people which are round about you, nigh unto thee, or far off from thee, from the one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth; Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him; neither shall thine eye pity him, neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him: But thou shalt surely kill him; thine hand shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterwards the hand of all the people. And thou shalt stone him with stones, that he die; because he hath sought to thrust thee away from the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.
THE THIEF = PAYING DOUBLE (restitution).
Exodus 22:7If a man shall deliver unto his neighbour money or stuff to keep, and it be stolen out of the man’s house; if the thief be found, let him pay double.
THE SEXUAL PERVERSIONS = DEATH.
Leviticus 18:22Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.
Leviticus 20:13If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
2. BY WHEN GOD EXPRESSES HIS FEELINGS TOWARD IT.
ABOMINATIONS.
08251 ץוקשׁ shiqquwts shik-koots’ or ץקשׁ shiqquts shik-koots’ unclean things, impure 08441 הבעות tow‘ebah to-ay-baw’ or הבעת to‘ebah to-ay-baw’ personal afront, rebellion. BOTH INCLUDE A RANGE OF PENALTIES.
THESE ARE THE BASIC CATEGORIES OF ABOMINATIONS TO THE LORD.
Proverbs 6:16-19 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
MOSES RECOGNIZED THAT THE PEOPLE COMMITTED A SIN WHICH WAS MORE LIKELY TO ANGER GOD THAN ANOTHER SIN. (Did all lying stop ? Wasn’t there stealing, or lack of commitment, etc ? Yes. But, this sin was counted as greater).
Exodus 32:31And Moses returned unto the LORD, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods of gold.
Deuteronomy 18:9-12When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard , or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD : and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.
THERE IS A SIN THAT CANNOT BE FORGIVEN. (A SIN UNTO DEATH ?).
Matthew 12:31Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
THIS INDICATES THAT THERE ARE DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF SINS.
GOD SAYS THAT LOOKING AT THE SIN OF NAILING JESUS TO THE CROSS AND THE SIN OF BETRAYING HIM, THAT BETRAYING HIM TO THE ROMANS WAS THE GREATER SIN.
John 19:11Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against Me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered Me unto thee hath the greater sin.
GOD’S MERCY AND GRACE IS ENOUGH TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL SIN.
1 John 1:7But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.
THE DANGER OF LOOKING AT THE BIBLICAL TEACHING ON THIS IS THAT SOME PEOPLE WILL TRY TO FIND THE LESSER SIN AND DO IT BECAUSE IT IS NOT AS SERIOUS IN THE SHORT TERM AS THE GREATER SIN.
REMEMBER ANY SIN IS STILL SIN IN GOD’S EYES, SO LET’S STRIVE TO KEEP OURSELVES PURE AND HOLY FOR OUR LORD !
1. BECAUSE WITHOUT GOD WE ARE HEADED IN THE WRONG DIRECTION.
WE CAN SEE THE RESULTS OF DOING THINGS WITHOUT GOD. FAMILIES WHICH DON’T PUT GOD FIRST INHERIT HUGE AMOUNTS OF PROBLEMS FOR THEMSELVES AND THEIR CHILDREN, RANGING FROM DRUGS, BOOZE, MURDEROUS FRIENDS, RUN-INS WITH THE LAW, SICKNESSES WHICH CANNOT BE EXPLAINED, AND MANY MORE. JUST BECAUSE A PERSON CLAIMS TO BE A CHRISTIAN DOESN’T MEAN THAT HE IS, OR THAT HE FOLLOWS CHRISTIAN PRINCIPLES. MOST PEOPLE TODAY WHO CALL THEMSELVES CHRISTIANS LIKE THE IDEA OF GOING TO HEAVEN, BUT HAVE NO COMMITMENT TO PUT GOD FIRST.
Colossians 1:14-17In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by Him all things consist.
“CONSIST” = literally means “ARE HELD TOGETHER”. Jesus is the one that holds families together. If you are half-hearted, don’t expect Him to reward that.
2. BECAUSE WE DIE. WE SEE DEATH ALL AROUND US.
Even if you are already saved and are resurrected at the Rapture, you will have to leave this old body behind. It will be completely changed as you ascend.
IF YOU LIVE LONG ENOUGH, YOU WILL EXPERIENCE A LOVED ONE DYING. IT IS OBVIOUS.
Hebrews 9:27And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
A man once gave a testimony that as a church reader was reading Genesis 5, he thought how boring this passage was. It was just a list of different people, and how long they lived, who their kids were. He was young, and had never thought about himself dying. Suddenly, as he was listening he realized that one thing each person listed had in common was that they all died. Some lived longer, some had more children, but they all died. He understood that God was speaking with him about death and his need to get ready.
Genesis 5:5And all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years: and he died. Genesis 5:8And all the days of Seth were nine hundred and twelve years: and he died. Genesis 5:11And all the days of Enos were nine hundred and five years: and he died. Genesis 5:14And all the days of Cainan were nine hundred and ten years: and he died. Genesis 5:17And all the days of Mahalaleel were eight hundred ninety and five years: and he died. Genesis 5:20And all the days of Jared were nine hundred sixty and two years: and he died. Genesis 5:27And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty and nine years: and he died. Genesis 5:31And all the days of Lamech were seven hundred seventy and seven years: and he died.
3. BECAUSE YOUR SOUL AND SPIRIT WILL LEAVE THIS BODY ONE DAY . . .
. . . AND WHEN THEY DO, WE NO LONGER HAVE CONTROL OVER WHERE WE END UP. IT IS UP TO GOD TO BRING US TO A PLACE WHERE WE WILL LIVE FOREVER. THE DECISION IS MADE WHILE WE LIVE, NOT AFTER WE DIE.
2 Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
4. BECAUSE THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES TO DISOBEDIENCE, OR SIN.
A. ALL IT TAKES IS ONE SIN TO BREAK THE LAW OF LIFE.
ADAM AND EVE SINNED ONCE, AND SPIRITUALLY DIED. GOD TOLD THEM IT TOOK ONLY ONE ACT OF DISOBEDIENCE. HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU DONE THE SAME ? MORE THAN ONCE ?
Romans 5:12Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
A woman received a phone call telling her that her bank account had been accessed by a hacker, and all her life saving were gone. She was devastated. The voice on the other end said that the bank was committed to getting her money back, but they needed to verify that she was one who held the account. They asked for her social security number, and the account numbers. After which, they thanked her for her cooperation, and hung up. Shortly thereafter, she received a call from the REAL bank informing her that someone had accessed her accounts. The first called was a scam. She never fell for anything like that before. She did only once, and lost everything.
What if a man jumps off the top of a skyscaper ? On the way down, he changes his mind and decides it was the wrong thing to do. He complains that it was his first time to try something so stupid. It didn’t help. He died anyway. He did this only once. That is all it took.
ONE SIN PRODUCES AN AUTOMATIC VERDICT OF GUILT. ONLY ONE SIN !
Romans 6:23For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
5. BECAUSE EVEN WHEN WE TRY TO DO OUR BEST, WE ARE UNWORTHY TO MAKE IT TO HEAVEN WITHOUT GOD.
Isaiah 64:6But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
OUR FEEBLE EFFORTS ARE NOT TOTALLY PURE OR CLEAN ENOUGH TO MAKE IT INTO HEAVEN.
Psalm 24:3-5Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
When faced with the idea that one sin is enough to condemn them to hell, some contend that they are “Good people.” But, consider the number of murderers whose relatives and friends cannot believe they committed a crime. What about their neighbors who say they were always respectful and friendly. Does their good behavior outweigh them killing their children, their wife or others ?
6. BECAUSE OUR CREATOR SAYS THAT WE NEED TO BE BORN AGAIN.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER WHAT HE SAYS ? ONLY GOD CAN DETERMINE WHERE YOU WILL SPEND ETERNITY. THINK ABOUT IT.
What government can give you a home in Heaven ? Which of your friends can bring you safely all the way to Heaven ? None. You relay solely upon God.
Isaiah 55:3Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
JESUS PRESENTED THIS TRUTH TO A MAN WHO WAS VERY RELIGIOUS, KNEW THE BIBLE, AND SEEMED TO BE VERY SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE. HOW MUCH MROE WOULD THIS APPLY TO EVERY ONE OF US !
John 3:7Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
7. GOD PROMISES EVERLASTING LIFE TO THOSE WHOSE SINS ARE TAKEN AWAY AND ERASED.
It doesn’t matter how bad your sins have been, there is a God Who wants to free you from them, and bless you. But, you have to do it HIS way.
WHY WOULD ANYONE TURN DOWN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE FREED FROM THE POWER OF SIN ? WHY WOULD ANYONE PUSH GOD’S LOVE AWAY WHEN THERE IS STILL TIME TO RECEIVE IT ?
John 5:24Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
John 8:51Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.
JESUS SPOKE OF DEATH AND CONFRONTED PEOPLE WITH IT MORE THAN ALL THE PROPHETS.
Luke 16:22And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
8. BECAUSE WE CANNOT CONTROL WHAT LIES AHEAD IN A WORLD WE CANNOT SEE RIGHT NOW.
CANNOT GET INTO HEAVEN OR MAKE ANYTHING IN OUR LIVES COUNT WITHOUT HIM.
John 15:5I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.
9. BECAUSE WE ARE UNWORTHY TO MAKE IT TO HEAVEN WITHOUT GOD.
Psalm 24:3-5 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
MISTAKES. THEY ARE ERRORS. WHETHER INTENTIONAL OR NOT.
Mistake = 1. An error or fault resulting from defective judgment, deficient knowledge, or carelessness. 2. A misconception or misunderstanding 3. An act or judgment that is misguided or wrong
SOME CAN BE CORRECTED.
SOME CAN NEVER BE CORRECTED.
SOME CAN BE TOOLS FOR LEARNING.
SOME ARE MORE SERIOUS THAN OTHER.
THEY CAN BE FORGIVEN.
THOSE NOT FORGIVEN MUST RESULT IN THE FULL CONSEQUENCES.
IN ALL CASES, MISTAKES MUST BE ADDRESSED AND DEALT WITH PROPERLY.
1. WE MAY NOT UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING, BUT GOD TELLS US CLEARLY WHAT IS RIGHT.
A. A MISTAKE, OR ERROR IS STILL SIN, WHETHER IT IS DONE WITHOUT KNOWING IT IS SIN, OR KNOWING THAT YOU COMMITTED IT DELIBERATELY.
Old Testament WORD “ERROR”=07944 שׁל shal shal 1) error, fault, MISTAKE
2 Samuel 6:7And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.
B. KNOW WHERE YOU ARE HEADING SPIRITUALLY. HAVE A PLAN, A PURPOSE, AND A PLACE WHERE YOU WANT TO BE SPIRITUALLY.
Joseph was wandering around a field, uncertain of where he was, and not seeing any evidence of what he was looking for.
Genesis 37:15-18And a certain man found him, and, behold, he was wandering in the field: and the man asked him, saying, What seekest thou? And he said, I seek my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they feed their flocks. And the man said, They are departed hence; for I heard them say, Let us go to Dothan. And Joseph went after his brethren, and found them in Dothan. And when they saw him afar off, even before he came near unto them, they conspired against him to slay him.
LATER IN LIFE JOSEPH HAD A PLAN. HE WOULD SEEK GOD’S PURPOSE FOR HIS LIFE, AND FOLLOW IT EVEN IF IT LED HIM TO PRISON, PERSECUTION, OR DEATH. HE ACTIVELY LISTENED TO GOD, GOD GAVE HIM GUIDANCE BECAUSE HE WAS WILLING TO LISTEN.
Many people have died trying to climb to the top of Mt. Everest. Most of them died when they refused to listen to the guides who knew the mountain well. They decided to disregard their advice, and strike out on a different path. The most important and faithful guide in life is not some saintly relative, but the Bible, and the Holy Spirit.
C. GOD WILL BE WITH THOSE WHO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PATH.
REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE WORLD DOES, GOD WILL GET HIS PEOPLE THROUGH THEIR ORDEALS. DANIEL WAS METICULOUSLY FOLLOWING WHAT WAS RIGHT. SOME PEOPLE ARE HAPHAZARD ABOUT DOING THINGS. NOT SO WITH DANIEL.
Daniel 6:4Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.
2. THE WORLD WILL LEAD YOU INTO THE COUNTLESS ERRORS.
A. THE WORLD HAS A PATH THAT LEADS TO DESTRUCTION.
IT CLAIMS THAT THIS ROAD IS NOT WRONG, AND THAT IS CANNOT BE STRAYING FROM RIGHT BECAUSE NO ONE CAN SET UP A STANDARD OF RIGHT OR WRONG EXCEPT THE INDIVIDUAL.
Matthew 7:13Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
B. THERE IS A LIFE STYLE OF MISTAKES AND ERRORS THAT MUST BE AVOIDED AT ALL COSTS.
James 5:20 Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
THERE IS A WAY OF LIFE THAT IS AN ERROR. IT LEAVES GOD OUT. EXCEPT FOR WHEN A CRISIS HITS, GOD IS CAST ASIDE AS UNNECESSARY. THAT IS THE WAY OF LIFE FOR SOME.
New Testament WORD “ERROR”=4106 πλανη plane plan’-ay
WANDERING AWAY, DECEIT, FRAUD, STRAYING
EVERYONE HAS A WAY OF DETERMINING WHERE TO GO NEXT IF THEY ARE LOST OR CONFUSED. SOME FREEZE. SOME ALWAYS CONSULT SOMEONE THEY TRUST. SOME REACH FOR SOMETHING TO EASE THEIR PAIN. SOME SEARCH IN A BOOK FOR AN ANSWER. SOME GET ON THEIR KNEES AND PRAY. WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN CONFRONTED WITH THE FACT THAT YOU AREN’T GETTING ANYWHERE SPIRITUALLY ?
THE MISTAKE OF THE UNSAVED IS PART OF A LIFESTYLE WHICH DEPARTS FROM THE WAYS OF GOD. IN SOME CULTURES, A SPIRIT OF SIN TAKES OVER.
1 John 4:6We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
THERE IS A DANGER OF BEING LED AWAY FROM THE RIGHT PATH FOR THE BELIEVER.
2 Peter 3:17Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
GOD EXPECTS US TO BE STEADFAST IN THE RIGHT WAYS. THAT INCLUDES SERVING HIM.
1 Corinthians 15:58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
MANY WHO LIVE IN WORLDLY PLEASURES AND DO NOT SEEK THE PLEASURES OF GOD ARE THE TRUE WALKING DEAD TODAY.
1 Timothy 5:6 But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
Think you are secure ? You might be living a dream. For example, a man in a store parking lot got out of his car, took about 15 steps, and pressed the button to lock his car doors. The car horn blew to let him know they were locked. He questioned its safety though, so he goes back to the car, and makes sure the locks are in the downward position, indicating they were locked. They were. So, he walks away from the car assuming that it is protected safe. The problem is the car was a convertible and had the top down. Somehow he thought the car was safer since he checked on it.
Many people think they are safe because they used to attend church, used to be faithful, and when in a crisis, they pray to God. However, that does not provide eternal security. Only repenting of your sins, and putting your faith in Jesus provides for your soul to be secure and heaven-bound.
ARE WE LOCKED INTO UNDERSTANDING ONLY OUR PRESENT EXISTENCE ?
WHEN ASTRONAUTS ARE PLANNING TRIPS TO OTHER PLANETS TO STUDY THE ENVIRONMENT VERY CAREFULLY, HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO KNOW THE CONDITIONS THEY WILL FACE ?
Without knowing their surroundings, they could leave a space craft, and walk onto a planet where there are gasses that could penetrate their suits. They could walk onto a surface which would consume them in a second. So, NASA sends exploratory vehicles to report on what they can expect when they land there.
The Christian has already landed on earth. In fact, we were born here. Very often his knowledge of his environment is incorrect because the sources of information are deliberately trying to make it appear better than it really is. But, our existence on earth is only temporary. When a Christian gets saved, Jesus uses the term, that he is “born-again” into the kingdom of God. That means that the Christian now has a new home.
Philippians 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [conversation= citizenship” 4175 πολίτευμα politeuma pol-it’-yoo-mah]
God’s Word gives us instructions on how to handle our environment. We must begin treating it as a foreign nation, a hostile environment to the Believer.
1. GOD WANTS US TO FOCUS OUR KNOWLEDGE.
We are not supposed to focus it on this world.
A. FOCUS KNOWLEDGE UPON HIM. OUR NEW MAN IS RENEWWED–AND THUS GROWS–THROUGH OUR KNOWLEDGE OF GOD.
Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him:
B. FOCUS KNOWLEDGE UPON HIS KINGDOM.
Why would He have us pray “Thy kingdom come…” if He didn’t set before us something wonderful and exciting ?
Acts 28:31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
2. GOD WANTS US TO ACTIVELY DEAL WITH THIS WORLD, BUT NOT BECOME MONKS.
A. HE WANTS US AND OTHERS TO SEE THAT HIS CHILDREN ARE BLESSED.
GOD DOES NOT WANT US TO WRITE OFF HIS BLESSINGS FOR THIS PRESENT WORLD. HE STILL BLESSES PEOPLE NOW. NOT EVERYTHING IS FUTURE.
Luke 18:28-30 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And He said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake, Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
B. THE BLESSINGS AHEAD ARE A POWERFUL CONTRAST TO WHATEVER WE HAVE TO DEAL WITH IN THIS PRESENT TIME.
Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
C. THERE ARE ALWAYS TRUE BELIEVERS, EVEN THOUGH THEIR NUMBER MAY BE SMALL.
Romans 11:5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
–SOME BELIEVERS IN PAUL’S MINISTRY TEAM WENT ASTRAY. EVEN PAUL COULD NOT HAVE SEEN IT COMING, OR HE WOULD NOT HAVE CHOSEN THEM.
2 Timothy 4:10 For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
3. THIS WORLD IS HOSTILE TOWARD GOD.
A. THE GOD OF THIS WORLD IS SATAN.
2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
B. GOD’S PEOPLE ARE NOT A PART OF THIS WORLD SYSTEM. TRUE BELIEVERS STILL SUFFER IN THIS WORLD. IT IS AS IF WE ARE ALIENS IN A FOREIGN PLANET.
1 Corinthians 4:11 Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace;
–WE ARE AT WAR WITH THIS WORLD.
Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
C. GOD MAKES CLEAR THAT WE MUST NOT BECOME A PART OF THIS WORLD SYSTEM.
Galatians 1:4 Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:
D. WE MUST DEMONSTRATE A BETTER WAY OF LIVING TO THIS WORLD.
Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
THIS INSIDIOUS EFFORT BY THE DEVIL HAS BEEN EFFECTIVE IN DESTROYING MORE LIVES THAN ALL THE WARS OF MANKIND PUT TOGETHER.
Several years ago, weathermen were predicting hurricanes to bring disaster to Florida. One report after another proved to be false. Eventually, people didn’t react to it anymore. They became numb.
I’ve been seeing this kind of thing happen more and more everywhere I turn. This week, my wife and I were in a restaurant having breakfast. We both ordered eggs and when they came they were cold. Other foods that we had ordered came cold too. Only one dish was hot, all the rest were cold. Years ago, we would have told the waitress to take it back and get it right. In fact, almost everyone would have done the same years ago. But, something has happened over time. We have become accustomed to food that is not prepared right and have given up objecting to it. This has spread to other areas as well. As a society, we have given up objecting to what is wrong in all areas of life. How did this numbness happen ?
This even applies to TV programs that 20 years ago would have been banned from being broadcast. If they appeared in the theaters, Christians would have stood outside to discourage people from paying money to encourage perversion. In Christian homes years ago, if a person used a word of profanity on TV, they would stop watching that program. Well, soon most programs used profanity. Then immoral behavior. Drug use began to be seen sympathetically. Drinking was seen as normal. Now there is hardly a single program where homosexuality is not being portrayed as a wonderful thing to be embraced. Soooooo. . . when a program comes along where there is no drinking, the Christian rejoices. . . even though it may encourage immorality. What has happened to us that things we expected perverts and evil people to watch, we now invite into our homes because it has less vices than another program ?
Years ago, I preached a message on the fact that on TV and in moves then, a person couldn’t tell much difference between the hero and the villain. It is much worse now. Viewers have become much more permissive of evil.
Today we not only tolerate lying, stealing, corruption, ungodliness, but don’t even notice it. We watch programs which would have been banned 20 years ago. Then, we feel good when something of perversion – but less perversion – comes along.
This has made it much harder to raise a family or keep a marriage together. Sin is so prevalent or accepted that we don’t even see what it is doing to us.
This has affected our nation as a whole. The elected officials in our country would have been tarred and feathered and driven out of town on a rail years ago. Today, everyone votes on the basis of the “Lesser of two evils.”
1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
HOW DOES THE DEVIL SEDUCE ?
WHAT PROGRAM DOES HE USE THAT IS WORKING SO WELL IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW ? I CALL IT THE DEVIL’S “CRY WOLF PROJECT”.
WHEN A HUNTER SETS A SNARE, HE CAPTURES HIS PREY BY LETTING THEM GET USED TO THE SAME WRONG PATH. HE GETS THEM WALKING OVER THE SAME GROUND TILL THEY GET USED TO SEEING THE SNARE THERE TIME AFTER TIME. WHEN THEY SEE THAT NOTHING HAPPENS AND THEY AREN’T HARMED BY THE SNARE WHEN THEY GO AROUND IT, THEY DON’T SPOOK. THEY AREN’T AFRAID ANYMORE. THEN, WHEN THE GIVE IN AND GO ALONG THAT PATH AGAIN, HE SNARES THEM.
2 Timothy 2:26And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
THE WORLD WANTS MATERIAL WEALTH. THE CHURCHES HAVE BOUGHT INTO THIS PROPSERITY GOSPEL. THE RESULT IS THAT MANY PEOPLE FEEL COMFORTABLE PUTTING MATERIAL NEEDS ABOVE SPIRITUAL NEEDS.
1 Timothy 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
PEOPLE NO LONGER FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE WITH SIN. THEY DO LITTLE ABOUT IT. THEY SEE THE SAME THINGS OVER AND OVER AGAIN THAT THEY BECOME USED IT IN OTHERS AND EVENTUALLY IN THEIR OWN LIVES.
Ephesians 4:19Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
CHRISTIANS START MAKING UP THEIR OWN STANDARDS, THINKING THEY CAN BE CLOSE TO GOD WHILE DISOBEYING SCRIPTURE. YEARS AGO, CHRISTIANS WERE KNOWN AS PEOPLE WHO CAME TO CHURCH EVERY TIME THE DOORS WERE OPENED. TODAY, THEY MAKE UP THEIR OWN RULES AND IGNORE THE BIBLE. WHAT DO YOU THINK GOD WILL SAY ABOUT MAKING UP YOUR OWN BIBLE ?
Hebrews 10:25Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
STAGES OF CRYING WOLF:
OFFENDED BY SIN. First a Christian is offended by sin, and will not permit it in their lives nor are they willing to be around it.
AFTER SO MUCH OF IT… TOLERATES IT. The Christian is confronted with sin on all sides, and while they see it and are upset by it they say “What can you do ? It is all over the place.”
OBSERVES IT IN OTHERS . . .but can no longer see it in himself.
NUMBNESS SETS IN. After so long of being surrounded it becomes common. They have given up trying to change the culture around them so say “I can’t do anything about it, and it is all around, so why bother ?”
PERMITS IT IN HIS OWN HOME. Without noticing, once a Christian stops actively fighting sin, it easily creeps in to their own lives.
EMBRACES SIN. Once sin has crept into a Christian’s life, they justify and excuse their sin and that of those around them by pointing out that so many “good people” are doing it, he assumes it must be OK.
PEOPLE ACCEPT BEING AN OFFENCE TO GOD, BUT WANT TO GET ALONG WITH MANKIND, REGARDLESS OF THE OUTCOME.
Matthew 16:23But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
NO WONDER JESUS SAID HE WOULD VOMIT MANY IN THE CHURCH UP IN THE LAST DAYS.
