1. This morning we examined passages that relate to "temperance" [self-control], the last of 9 characteristics making up the fruit of the Spirit. 2. We learn from Proverbs 16:32 that a person with self-control possesses a special kind of strength. a. A self-controlled person is stronger than one who conquers a city. b. Joseph, Daniel, and Jesus practiced self-control [temperance]. 3. In Proverbs 25:28 an intemperate person is compared to "a city that is broken down, and without walls." 4. In our lesson we are covering passages that demonstrate "the folly of intemperance." 5. We are looking at 4 Bible characters who paid a high price for a lack of self-control. 6. The mistakes of these people should help us appreciate the importance of temperance.
Discussion:
I. EVE'S ACTIONS ILLUSTRATE "THE FOLLY OF INTEMPERANCE"
A. God revealed His will concerning the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16-17). B. When tempted by the serpent Eve demonstrated a lack of self-control, she ate the forbidden fruit, and she gave some to Adam (Genesis 3:1-6). C. God punished Eve and Adam (Genesis 3:16-19, 22-24).
II. CAIN'S ACTIONS ILLUSTRATE "THE FOLLY OF INTEMPERANCE"
A. God talked to Cain about his anger toward Abel (Genesis 4:5-7). B. Cain did not listen to God and a lack of self-control eventually led him to kill Abel (Genesis 4:8). C. God punished Cain (Genesis 4:11-12).
III. DAVID'S ACTIONS ILLUSTRATE "THE FOLLY OF INTEMPERANCE"
A. God allowed David to have a number of wives (2 Samuel 5:13). B. David's lack of self-control led him to commit adultery with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah (2 Samuel 11:2-5). C. David also had Uriah killed in battle (2 Samuel 11:14-27). D. God punished David (2 Samuel 12:9-12).
IV. SOLOMON'S ACTIONS ILLUSTRATE "THE FOLLY OF INTEMPERANCE"
A. In Deuteronomy 17:14-20 God gave instructions for the benefit of Israel's future kings. B. Unfortunately, Solomon's lack of self-control led him to disobey these instructions (1 Kings 10:26-29; 11:1-3). C. God punished Solomon (1 Kings 11:9-12).
Conclusion:
1. The fruit of the Spirit concludes with "temperance" [self-control]. 2. We have seen in our lesson that folly accompanies intemperance. 3. Intemperance leads to sinful activities, including disobedience to God's law, murder, adultery, and idolatry. 4. Let us sow to the Spirit so we will bear the fruit of the Spirit.
