Honesty in Self-Examination
I. Introduction:
A. We may often monitor
our physical health, but what about our spiritual self-examinations (Ezekiel
18:27-28, Haggai 1:5, and II Corinthians 13:5)
1. Not seeking to change is despising your soul: Proverbs 15:31-33B. Growing as a Christian is commanded: Hebrews 5:12-14 and II Peter 3:18
2. Don’t think that staying in sin is okay: Deuteronomy 29:18-20, Ezekiel 18:24-32, and Romans 16:1-2; 15-16
1. Growth comes by obtaining knowledge: I Peter 2:2
2. Applying knowledge brings correction in your life: Proverbs 2:1-8
II. Body: Being
Honest With Ourselves (Hebrews 13:18)
A. Let’s not practice
self-deception: Proverbs 30:12-13 and I Corinthians 3:18
1. Self-deception brings worthless service to God: James 1:26B. It is often easier to see the faults of others rather than self: II Samuel 12:1-14; cf. Romans 2:1-3
2. Self-deception will bring false security: Psalms 10:4-6, Proverbs 16:18, and I Corinthians 10:12
1. Often easier to point out the faults of others: Matthew 7:1-5C. Not measuring yourself by yourself: II Corinthians 10:12
2. Often too easy to set the bar lower based on the faults of others: Exodus 32:22-24
1. Self-righteousness is spiritual suicide: Proverbs 12:15; 21:2, Isaiah 5:21, Luke 18:9-14, Romans 10:1-3, and Romans 12:16D. Measure yourself by the correct standard: Psalms 119:9-11
2. Man is not meant to guide, but to be guided: Psalms 37:23 and Proverbs 20:24
1. Taking the time to study: Acts 17:11
2. Thinking about those things you learn: Psalms 1:1-2
3. Making the applications: Luke 8:15, James 1:21-25, and Revelation 1:3
III. Conclusion:
A. Don’t wait for
sermons, classes, etc. to find where you stand with God: Philippians 2:12
B. Be critical in
examining yourself; the Lord will: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
© 2006 May be freely used and distributed if no charge is made for this material. If you are a preacher who has waited until Saturday night to prepare and are looking to steal someone else's work, shame on you!
BACK TO INDEX
HOME
E-Mail Brian By Clicking Here