Finding Favor for Conscience’ Sake before God!
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Text:1 Peter 2:13-20 and Romans 13:1-7
Introduction:There is a huge difference between internal and external motivation. There is also a big difference between our love for God and His purpose and the fear of the Law and its punishments. Once again the lesson will be about doing the right thing for conscience sake in the sight of God and man.
Point 1: Subjection for Wrath & Conscience Sake
- We must obey because of our conscience before God
- Context of Romans Letter
The letter to the Romans was near the end of Paul’s third missionary journey. Paul was in Corinth for about three months
- Importance of Authority
Without civil authority there is chaos and social breakdown. Authorities are established by God. To rebel against reasonable authority is to rebel against God.
- Obey for both Wrath and Conscience Sake
We need to be subject to civil authorities to avoid punishment. We need to be subject to civil authorities to please God.
Point 2: Subject and Honor for Conscience Sake
- We honor God when we live by Christ’s Conscience!
- The Will of God
*Rejoice and abstain from sexual immorality
*Doing right to silence ignorant and foolish people and to set an example.
- Honor and Respect
*To honor means to value and esteem all men
*To respect means to with reverence
- Favor from God for conscience sake
If we are willing to do what is right according to God’s Word regardless of suffering unjustly we find favor with God and are blessed.
Practical Applications:
What should you apply from this morning’s sermon?
Why do you think civil authority was established by God?
Why is it God’s will we be in subjection to every governing authority? Give both practical and spiritual reasons.
What do you think “Honor all people” means? Explain.
Based on what you see in our culture and Christiandom, has our consciences been defiled when it comes to honoring authority? Explain.
Points for Prayer:
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