The Pursuit of Holiness. By Jerry Bridges Ch 16-17

Transcription

1 The Pursuit of Holiness By Jerry Bridges Ch 16-17

2 Topics for Today Our Struggle Enemies Battle Plan Our Joy The Perfect Storm, 2000

3 Our Enemies Our sinful nature For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. Rom 7:22-23 Satan and his demons Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Eph 6:12 The world Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you. 1 John 3:13 We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 1 John 5:19

4 Our Battle Plan COMPREHEND Who are our opponents RECOGNITION We are in a battle ENGAGED We don t fight the battle alone DEFENSE We need protection OFFENSE We need a weapon Unless the Christian is prepared for such evil assaults on his mind and heart, he will have great difficulty maintaining personal holiness. Page 143

5 Daily Christian Battle Against Evil Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints

6 VERSES TO MEMORIZE John 17:15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one 1 John 4:4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

7 The Joy of Holiness God intends the Christian life to be a life of joy not drudgery.only those who walk in holiness experience true joy. Page 149 John 15:10-11 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

8 What is Joy? In Scripture, the idea of joy is expressed by similar terms that cannot be easily distinguished Gladness Rejoicing Exultation Shouting Be excited To dance God is the source and object of joy You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound. Psa 4:7 Once more the humble will rejoice in the LORD; the needy will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. Isa 29:19 Joy is the source of a Christian s strength the joy of the LORD is your strength. Neh 8:10 Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy 1 Pet 1:8

9 What Causes Joy? Joy is a fruit of the Spirit But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Gal 5:22,23 Joy comes from our relationship with God May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Rom 15:13 Joy comes from our fellowship with God You will fill me with joy in your presence Psa 16:11 Joy comes from anticipating heaven However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Cor 2:9

10 Psalm 118:24 This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.