Keeping ourselves unspotted from the World (Lesson 19)
Introduction:
1. In James 1:27 the Bible teaches that "keeping ourselves unspotted from the world" is an important part of "pure and undefiled religion before God." 2. How grateful we need to be that the Scriptures address many specific issues that relate to keeping ourselves unspotted from the world. 3. In this lesson we are concentrating on a subject mentioned in Romans 1:21: "being unthankful" [ingratitude]. 4. To introduce our study, . . . Discussion: I. LET US CONSIDER 3 ILLUSTRATIONS OF "INGRATITUDE"
A. First, 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. Second, 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. The Israelites showed how ingratitude and murmuring often go together. C. Third, 9 of 10 lepers healed by Jesus did not thank Him (Luke 17:11-19). D. These illustrations should help us to realize how "ingratitude" is a serious problem. II. LET US CONSIDER WHY WE MUST OVERCOME "INGRATITUDE"
A. We must overcome "ingratitude" because the Bible teaches us to be thankful. 1. Ephesians 5:20 2. Philippians 4:6 3. Colossians 4:2 4. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 5. 1 Timothy 2:1 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).
