1. This morning we showed from the Scriptures that Jesus considered "thankfulness" to be very important. a. During His ministry,: 1) He gave thanks often 2) He gave thanks for a variety of reasons 3) He gave thanks under all types of circumstances. b. In His Word [the New Testament] the Lord teaches His followers to be thankful (Hebrews 13:15). c. The Lord's actions and His teaching show that He considers "gratitude" to be very important. 2. This evening we are concentrating on a subject mentioned in Romans 1:21: "being unthankful" [ingratitude]. 3. Since "ingratitude" is the opposite of "thankfulness," we must know how to overcome it. 4. In our lesson we are considering several principles that relate to "overcoming ingratitude." 5. To introduce our study, . . .
Discussion:
I. LET US CONSIDER SEVERAL DEMONSTRATIONS OF "INGRATITUDE"
A. The Gentiles were not thankful (Romans 1:20-21). 1. Beginning at vs.18 and continuing through the end of this chapter, Paul showed why God gave up on the Gentiles. 2. One sin committed by the Gentiles was "not being thankful." 3. According to vs.20, the Gentiles had plenty of evidence to lead them to believe in God, but they chose to reject Him. 4. They also chose not to thank God for the blessings He provides. B. The Israelites were not thankful on many occasions. 1. We read about 3 occasions in Exodus 15:22-24; 16:2-3; 17:1-3. 2. Did you notice how ingratitude and murmuring go together? C. Nine of ten lepers healed by Jesus did not thank Him (Luke 17:17). D. These illustrations should cause us to realize that "ingratitude" is a serious problem.
II. LET US CONSIDER WHY WE MUST OVERCOME "INGRATITUDE"
A. We must overcome "ingratitude" because the Bible teaches us repeatedly to be thankful (Colossians 3:15, 17; 4:2). B. "Ingratitude" is a sin because it is a violation of God's law (1 John 3:4).
III. LET US CONSIDER HOW "INGRATITUDE" CAN BE OVERCOME
A. Practice the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12). B. Do not murmur (1 Corinthians 10:10; Philippians 2:14). C. Count your blessings. 1. God gives all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3). 2. God gives every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). D. Take the time to appreciate simple things.
Conclusion:
1. God did something very special for us a long time ago (John 3:16). 2. Let us be thankful for the sacrifice that God and His Son made for us.
