Keeping Ourselves unspotted from the world (Lesson 41)
Introduction:
1. In order to practice "pure and undefiled religion before God" we must "keep ourselves unspotted from the world" (James 1:27). 2. In His Word God has provided numerous instructions that will help us remain free from the spots of the world. 3. This lesson is based on the instruction in Hebrews 6:1-3 to "go on unto perfection." Discussion: I. LET US FIRST POINT OUT THAT GOD WANTS HIS CHILDREN TO BE PERFECT
A. See 2 Corinthians 13:11 1. One of the instructions given in this verse is "Be perfect." 2. A tremendous blessing is in store for those who comply with these instructions -- "the God of love and peace shall be with you." B. While God wants us to be perfect, we must understand that this is something He accomplishes (Hebrews 13:20-21; 1 Peter 5:10). C. God wants His children to be perfect, but this is not something we can do ourselves -- it is God who makes us perfect. D. This leads us to our next point . . . II. GOD HAS GIVEN US WHAT WE NEED SO WE CAN GO ON TO PERFECTION
A. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) He has given us the Scriptures. 1. The Scriptures are profitable for: a. "doctrine": teaching, instruction b. "reproof": pointing out our ways which are wrong c. "correction": restoring to an upright condition d. "instruction in righteousness": teach us how to live righteous lives. 2. If we will benefit from this information revealed in the Scriptures, we will be "perfect" [completely equipped unto every good work]. 3. Let us remember the admonition given in 1 Peter 2:2: "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." B. (Ephesians 4:11-13) The Lord also put teachers in the church "for the perfecting of the saints." 1. Teachers are responsible for communicating God's Word. 2. One of the purposes of teaching is to help God's people become "perfect." C. Let us turn our attention to . . . III. SOME SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS RELATING TO BEING PERFECT
A. We must treat our enemies correctly (Matthew 5:43-48). B. We must forget the past and press toward the mark (Philippians 3:13-15). C. We must face trials in the right way (James 1:2-6a). 1. The key to facing trials is depending upon God for wisdom. 2. He will give wisdom to those who ask for it "in faith." 3. Facing trials in the right way will help us to become "perfect." 4. Jesus is our great example in this (Hebrews 2:10; 5:8-9). D. We must bridle our tongues (James 3:2). 1. The importance of bridling the tongue is stressed in James 1:26. 2. Jesus said, "For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned" (Matthew 12:37).
Conclusion:
1. We have: a. seen that God wants His children to "go on unto perfection" b. seen that God has given us what we need so we can be "perfect" c. examined a few passages that teach us how to be "perfect." 2. Let us follow these instructions -- they will help us remain unspotted from the world.
