Keeping Ourselves Unspotted from the World (Lesson 13)
Introduction:
1. We learn from James 1:27 that "keeping ourselves unspotted from the world" is an important part of "pure and undefiled religion before God." 2. The Bible addresses many issues that relate to keeping ourselves unspotted from the world. 3. In this lesson we are studying 3 activities that must be overcome: "doubt," "disbelief," and "distrust." 4. If we fail to overcome doubt, disbelief, and distrust, they will lead to things such as fear, anxiety, grief, and failure. 5. Let us begin by examining a number of passages that illustrate . . .
Discussion:
I. WHY WE MUST OVERCOME DOUBT, DISBELIEF, AND DISTRUST
A. (Matthew 14:25-31) Peter's "doubt" prevented him from walking to Jesus on the water. B. (John 20:24-29) Thomas' "disbelief" prevented him from believing those who said that Jesus had been resurrected. C. (Numbers 13:30-33; 14:1-4, 29-30) "Distrust" prevented many of the Israelites from entering the Promised Land. D. These verses illustrate why we must overcome doubt, disbelief, and distrust. E. Let us turn our attention to passages that teach us . . .
II. HOW TO OVERCOME DOUBT, DISBELIEF, AND DISTRUST
A. "Faith" is the primary cure for doubt, disbelief, and distrust. 1. Rather than: a. doubt as Peter did, let us "walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7) b. disbelieve as Thomas did, let us establish our faith on solid evidence (Romans 10:17) c. distrust God as the Israelites did, let us trust Him (Proverbs 3:5-6). 2. More specifically, . . . a. let us have faith in God 1) Faith in God is essential (Hebrews 11:6). 2) Faith in God will calm the troubled heart (John 14:1). 3) The faith that pleases God is an active faith (James 2:17). b. let us have faith in others 1) Jesus had faith in the apostles (Matthew 28:19-20). 2) Barnabas had faith in Saul (Acts 9:27) and John Mark (Acts 15:37). c. let us have faith in ourselves. 1) We must not think too highly of ourselves (Romans 12:3). 2) Through Christ we can have great confidence (Philippians 4:13). B. Some additional practical matters will help us overcome doubt, disbelief and distrust. 1. When struggling with doubt, disbelief, and distrust, let us remember that there are some things we are unable to know (Deuteronomy 29:29); however, God has given us everything we need (2 Peter 1:3). 2. When struggling with doubt, disbelief, and distrust, let us consider the questions that God asked Job (Job 38-41). 3. When struggling with doubt, disbelief, and distrust, let us follow the instructions revealed in 1 Peter 5:6-9.
