Sermons by John Staiger (Page 19)
Add Moral Excellence, Too
Man is made in the Image of God God’s Character is reflected in man Love Goodness Kindness Mercy Compassion Grace Righteousness If there was ever a time that was in need of moral heroes, this would be the time. Our generation is very much like those described in the book of Judges where it says that “everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 21:25) 2 Peter 1:5 (NASB) 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in…
The church—What do you see?
One Upon a Time … They say…1.The people turned up to church to work, because they believed that the work was theirs.2.When they went to worship they went to work.3.When you came to share in praise, you also came to share in sacrifice. They say…also:1.Times have changed.2.Around the world there are still places where the church is growing as it once did.3.But in our society many things are falling apart that we could once rely on. Ephesians 5:29-30 (NASB) 29 for no…
Endure to the End
Rather you, than me 1.Demands great physical and mental stamina 2.Excessive investment –Years of work. –Long distances –Controlled Diet 3.Punishing toll –Injuries –Hours alone Could be doing something else 4.For what? –A medal –Fame –Money –Personal satisfaction Spiritual Endurance 1.Demands great physical and mental stamina. •Struggle against the devil •Excesses of this world •Staying focus amidst constant distractions 2.Excessive investment –2Cor.12:15—“I will most gladly spend and be expended for your souls.” –Mt.19:21—“Sell all and give to the poor…come follow me”…
Add Self-Control, Too
A. Without Self-control our lives simply fall apart 1.Things that mask your demise: a.You’ve had better days •Fumes of past success b.Skills have kept you in place c.Enablers have propped you up d.Resources •Money 2 Peter 1:5-7 New American Standard Bible (NASB) 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral [a]excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. Without Self-control our lives simply fall apart.
Keeping God in Sight
•Prayer and dieting have this in common… They are most often done in desperation Nothing wrong with either, but its no way to live •Especially when desperation becomes “Too late 1.The heart hardens 2.Focus fades 3.The way is lost •Where there is life there is hope: “Choose Life.” 1 Corinthians 16:22 (NASB) 22 If anyone does not love the Lord, he is to be [a]accursed. [b]Maranatha.
Strength In Battle: Spiritual Warfare
A call to strength by the Lord demands action: 1.Awareness 2.Preparation 3.Offensive 4.Defensive Ephesians 6:10 (NASB) The Armor of God 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.