1. This morning we examined the examples and the instructions of David, Jesus, and Paul concerning "giving of thanks." a. They gave thanks themselves. b. They also taught others to give thanks. 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 avoid it. 4. In our lesson we are considering several principles that relate to "avoiding ingratitude." 5. To introduce our study, . . . Discussion: I. LET US CONSIDER SEVERAL EXAMPLES 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 failed to give thanks on many occasions. 1. They were thankful that God had punished Pharaoh (Exodus 15:1, 21). 2. A short time later they failed to give thanks in: a. Exodus 15:22-24 b. Exodus 16:2-3 c. Exodus 17:1-3. 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 AVOID "INGRATITUDE"
A. We must avoid "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 AVOIDED
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). 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. 3. Hebrews 13:15