Celebration of Discipline -Fasting, Study
Sermon • Submitted • Presented
0 ratings
· 3 viewsNotes
Transcript
Week 4: Fasting (Inward Discipline)
Week 4: Fasting (Inward Discipline)
Big Idea: Fasting reveals the things that control us and makes space for God.
Introduction
Fasting is often ignored in modern Christianity, but it was a normal rhythm in the Bible and throughout church history.
Outline
- Biblical examples of fasting.
- Physical benefits vs. spiritual purpose.
- Practical guidance for starting fasting.
Key Scriptures: Matthew 6:16–18; Isaiah 58:6–11
16 “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
6 “Is not this the fast that I choose:
to loose the bonds of wickedness,
to undo the straps of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover him,
and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?
8 Then shall your light break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up speedily;
your righteousness shall go before you;
the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.’
If you take away the yoke from your midst,
the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness,
10 if you pour yourself out for the hungry
and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
then shall your light rise in the darkness
and your gloom be as the noonday.
11 And the Lord will guide you continually
and satisfy your desire in scorched places
and make your bones strong;
and you shall be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water,
whose waters do not fail.
Illustration
Use the e
In the desert, Jesus faced hunger and temptation, yet He chose to rely on the Word of God. When Satan taunted Him to turn stones into bread, Jesus responded, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.' In moments of weakness, we too must lean on Scripture, finding strength and sustenance in God's promises rather than our immediate desires.
Application
Fast from one meal and spend that time in prayer.
Reflection
What idols surface when you fast?
Conclusion
Encourage the church to see fasting not as deprivation, but as feasting on God’s presence.
Week 5: Study (Inward Discipline)
Week 5: Study (Inward Discipline)
Big Idea: Study renews our mind and conforms us to Christ.
Introduction
Bible study is more than information gathering—it is about transformation of the mind.
Outline
- Difference between devotional reading and study.
- Four steps of study: repetition, concentration, comprehension, reflection.
- Importance of community in study.
Key Scriptures: Romans 12:2; 2 Timothy 2:15
2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
Illustration
Tell how Jonathan Edwards disciplined himself to study God’s Word deeply, shaping his sermons and life.
Consider Jonathon Edwards, who exemplified self-discipline in his pursuit of knowledge. He often set strict study schedules and adhered to them, recognizing that growing in faith necessitated dedication. One might think of how he would wake up at dawn to read and pray, a habit that would shape him into one of America's greatest theologians. His life forces us to confront our own disciplines – are we setting aside time to learn about and connect with God in meaningful ways?
Application
Study one passage in depth this week (cross-references, commentaries, journal).
Reflection
How does study lead to transformation in your life?
Conclusion
Challenge believers to not just read, but dig deeply into the Word.
