Am I The True Child In The Faith Of Christ?
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Text:1 Timothy 1:2 and Philippians 2:19-22
Introduction: We are told by the Apostle Paul to “Test ourselves to see if we are in the faith.” To do this we must honestly ask if we are a true child in the faith. We need to examine our motives and reasoning behind our conversion and our present behavior patterns. Did we become Christians according to the Biblical standard? Am I being true to my vow to be faithful and obedient to the LORD. The lesson today will examine these questions.
Point 1: What does it mean, “True Child in the Faith?”
- Was I legitimately born again of the water and Spirit?
- True: (1103) “Gnesios”
Stgs.:Legitimate of birth or origin, i.e. genuine, true, real
Thayers: Legitimately born, to be not spurious, genuine, true, and sincere
Vines: Lawfully begotten, hence “genuine” or “true”
?-Am I a genuine or counterfeit Christian?
?-Was I legitimately born again of the water & Spirit?
- Related verses:Titus 1:4 and Philippians 4:3
Point 2: What does it mean, “True to my vows of faith?”
- Are you thinking, believing, and acting like Christ?
- Philippians 2:19-22
Verse 19
Am I reliable in serving Christ Jesus?
Can Christ depend on me to build His church?
- Verse 20
- Am I like minded with Christ?
- Do I genuinely care for others well-being?
- Verse 21
Do I have and exhibit a me first attitude “seeking after my own interests?”
Do I put Christ’s priorities1st?
- Verse 22 By my actions and attitudes am I adding value to
Christ’s church?
Am I helping bring people to a saving knowledge
of Christ and to His church?
Conclusions:Are we true Christians? We must test ourselves.
Practical Applications:
What is your genuine attitude and response to this lesson?
On a scale of 1-10, how important do you think this lesson is for you or anyone else who claims to be a Christian?
How important is motive for action when being born again?
How important is motive in living like Christ, being true to your vow of faithfulness to Him?
What would keep a person from “Testing yourselves?”
How can a Christian “Test themselves?”
Points for Prayer:
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