Apathy: A Spiritual Rut

Text: Revelation 3:14-22

Introduction: What is apathy? The definition can be stated with one word: indifference. In Revelation, Jesus talks to the churches about their flaws. This flaw, apathy, is one that plagues not only churches, but individuals and relationships all over the world.

I. Lukewarm water is good for nothing.

A. Jesus said that it is better to be hot or cold rather than in-between.

B. We cannot be used by God if we are apathetic.

1. Apathy has the mindset that mediocrity is o.k.

a. Apathy is evidenced by your lack of progress for Christ, but your lack of backsliding.

“All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”

b. If left unopposed, it will lead to backsliding.

2. When you are lukewarm, you don’t realize your true state

a. You may think you are a good Christian, but the truth is far from it.

b. Apathy hides your true state from you.

C. Apathy separates you from God.

1. It will deeply sever your fellowship with God.

2. It is just like a rut; it starts off slowly—so you don’t notice it—but when it has finished, it leaves you stranded with no way of getting out.

II. God does not want you to be apathetic.

A. God will chasten you to get your attention.

1. Be aware, trials will come.

B. Be Zealous!

1. Put forth your best effort, give it all you got!

“Christianity has not been tried and found wanting; it’s been found difficult and not tried.”

C. God will not make you repent and serve him, he simply requests it.

III. You cannot overcome Satan if you are in a spiritual rut.

A. Do not expect to do great things for God if you do not try.

B. Will you take Jesus’ advice tonight? Let God light your fire.

“Between the great things we can’t do and the little things we won’t do, the danger is we shall do nothing at all.”