1. In Genesis 6:11 the condition of the world before the flood is described. 2. Sadly, the condition of the world remains the same. 3. We have been reminded several times recently that violence is a serious problem in our country as well as the rest of the world. 4. Today we are studying what the Bible teaches about "violence." 5. In our lesson we are pointing out that: a. the Bible reveals when and how violence began b. the Bible reveals how God feels about violence c. the Bible reveals the keys to overcoming violence. 6. Let us first point out that . . .
Discussion:
I. THE BIBLE REVEALS WHEN AND HOW VIOLENCE BEGAN
A. Cain committed the first act of violence when he killed Abel (Genesis 4:8). B. Let us note that: 1. God is not responsible for the existence of violence a. God did not include violence in Creation (Genesis 1:31). b. Man introduced violence, and man is responsible for it. 2. innocent people often suffer because of the actions of violent people. a. God is not responsible for this. b. Those who commit the violent acts are responsible. C. Cain committed the first act of violence, but it escalated (Genesis 6:11-13). 1. By the time Noah came onto the scene, man had become very corrupt (Genesis 6:5). 2. (vs.6-7) Man's wickedness became so great that it grieved God at his heart. 3. Note especially that the earth was "filled with violence" (vs.11, 13). 4. Note also that corruption is associated with violence. D. The book of Genesis shows how and when violence began as well as how it escalated.
II. THE BIBLE REVEALS HOW GOD FEELS ABOUT VIOLENCE
A. Cain's punishment shows that God does not approve of it (Genesis 4:10-12). B. From the flood we conclude that God does not approve of violence. C. According to Psalm 11:5, God hates those who love violence.
III. THE BIBLE REVEALS THE KEYS TO OVERCOMING VIOLENCE
A. Violent people must be avoided (Proverbs 4:14-17). 1. God knows that violent people will have an evil influence upon His people (Proverbs 16:29). 2. This principle is also touched on in 1 Corinthians 15:33. B. The Golden Rule must be practiced (Matthew 7:12). C. Revenge must be avoided (Romans 12:17-21). D. Violent people must be punished by the state (Romans 13:3-4). E. Things listed in the following verses that lead to violence must be eliminated. 1. Ephesians 4:31 2. Colossians 3:8 3. 1 John 3:15 F. Things listed in the following verses that eliminate violence must be practiced. 1. Colossians 3:12-15 2. Ephesians 4:32
Conclusion:
1. In closing, let us read the instructions given in 1 Timothy 2:1-4. a. Let us pray diligently for our leaders so we may live in a quiet and peaceable world. b. God wants everyone to come to the knowledge of the truth to be saved. 2. Do you have this knowledge?
