Strength To Stand

Introduction

Towards the end of Moses’s life and ministry.

Led 2 generations of Israelites from the Exodus to the edge of the conquest.

Warning this second generation by telling them their history.

God chose Abram and his descendants. Grace.

They forgot but were not neglected. Grace.

They rebelled but were not destroyed. Grace.

They strayed but were still given the land. Grace.

Prefaces this whole story with these words:

Deuteronomy 32:4–5 ESV

“The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he. They have dealt corruptly with him; they are no longer his children because they are blemished; they are a crooked and twisted generation.

You are called to be different.

Being Christlike in 2:1-11. Now, v. 14.

Develop Strength

vv. 12-13

Johnny doing performance course.

Required dedication, but helpful. Results at end of summer.

Paul is encouraging them to…

Take ownership of your personal faith.

Just as salvation is a personal faith, spiritual growth is a personal decision.

“Work out your salvation.” Misinterpreted.

Not work for, towards, nor at your salvation.

“Therefore” (v. 12). Since you are in Christ…now do this.

Grow and develop your salvation. Your sanctification.

Take sanctification seriously!

“With fear and trembling!” The encouragement is that you’ve got a great trainer.

The indwelling Holy Spirit.

To will and to work (v. 13).

Attitude and action.

Will comes before work.

Decision to move beyond the baby bird model of spiritual growth.

Develop Performance

vv. 14-18

“Grumbling & disputing”

Sanctification produces joy.

People who always find the negative in things. Just voting no…

You find yourself avoiding them.

Instead, be pure! Be joyful! Be positive!

Living in a crooked and twisted generation. Exhausting.

Holiness is refreshing.

For you and for those you come into contact with.

Causes you to stand out (v. 15b). “Shine as lights”

Kirby sales.

Paul understands how he has limited time to make an impact.

Use it and be done.

Sprinting in track. Leave it all on the track.

The drink offering that is poured on the alter.

That’s our life. You’ve got just that much time to make a difference.

Conclusion

It’s easy to be lazy.

But, we are called to be dedicated to our spiritual growth.

Decide to develop.

Commitment to Scripture, prayer, worship.

And when those times of laziness creep in, master them.

Remind them how short your life is.