Living for the Glory of God
Notes
Transcript
Introduction:
As we come to a close on this Lenten season a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal. It's a season where we focus on drawing closer to God and aligning our lives with His will. Today, our sermon is centered on the theme of "Living for the Glory of God," the Soli Deo Gloria, the fifth and final sola of the reformation. Today we will look at the passage from 1 Corinthians 10:23-33. Pg. 1218 Let us delve into God's Word and discover what it means to live for His glory.
I. Understanding Freedom in Christ 1 Corinthians 10:23
I. Understanding Freedom in Christ 1 Corinthians 10:23
A. The Context of Corinthian Culture 1 Corinthians 10:23a
“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
In ancient Corinth, there were various cultural practices and customs that the Corinthians were accustomed to. Some of these practices were not in line with the teachings of Christ.
Often things were acceptable in society, much like today, things that the God is clear on from his word that are sin and unacceptable to keep living in. While they may be legal to do some of these things, it definitely is not helpful or good to do them.
B. The Principle of Christian Liberty 1 Corinthians 10:23b
“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
The apostle Paul reminds the Corinthians that while they have freedom in Christ, not all things are beneficial or constructive. As Christians, we are called to exercise discernment in our actions and decisions. While we are freed in the gospel, it does not mean we are freed from the consequences of doing things that are not good or things that build up of the body or soul.
1. Not all things are beneficial
2. Not all things are constructive
3. Exercise discernment
II. The Priority of Seeking the Good of Others 1 Corinthians 10:24
II. The Priority of Seeking the Good of Others 1 Corinthians 10:24
Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.
A. Following Christ's Example Philippians 2:3-4
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Jesus Christ exemplified selflessness and humility in His earthly ministry. He always prioritized the needs of others above His own.
B. Putting Others Before Ourselves Romans 15:1-2
We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.
As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate His example by considering the welfare of others. Our actions should be motivated by love and compassion, seeking the good of those around us.
III. Living for the Glory of God 1 Corinthians 10:31
III. Living for the Glory of God 1 Corinthians 10:31
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
A. Everything Done for God's Glory Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
The apostle Paul exhorts believers to do everything for the glory of God. Whether we eat or drink or whatever we do, it should be done with the intention of honoring and glorifying God.
B. Reflecting God's Character Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Our lives are a reflection of God's character to the world. When we live in a manner that brings glory to God, we become beacons of light, shining His love and truth to those around us.
IV. Consideration of Conscience and Others 1 Corinthians 10:28-30
IV. Consideration of Conscience and Others 1 Corinthians 10:28-30
A. Conscience before God Romans 14:22-23
The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.
We must be mindful of our conscience before God. If something causes us to stumble or goes against our conscience, we should refrain from it.
B. The Importance of Edification Romans 14:19
So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
Our actions should aim to build up and edify others in the faith. We should be willing to set aside our preferences for the sake of unity and the spiritual growth of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Conclusion:
As we journey through this Lenten season, may we strive to live for the glory of God in all that we do. Let us exercise discernment, prioritize the needs of others, and reflect God's character to the world. May our lives be a testimony to His grace and goodness, drawing others into His loving embrace. Let us pray.
