Be On Guard - Ajay Chakravarthy - October 28, 2018
http://rlcfchurch.org/be-on-guard River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the seriousness of being a stumbling block to new or immature believers, citing passages from Luke 17 and Matthew 18. The speaker urges the audience to be on guard both against becoming stumbling blocks themselves and against being affected by them. He uses an analogy of wild versus tamed animals to illustrate the need for spiritual caution regarding subtle dangers.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What does Jesus say about stumbling blocks?Jesus warns His disciples that stumbling blocks will come, but pronounces woe on anyone through whom they come, comparing it to having a heavy millstone hung around one's neck.Luke 17:1
Who are the little ones referenced?The warning applies not only to children physically, but also to young, immature believers in the faith whose spiritual walk can be easily damaged.Matthew 18:6
A childhood lesson on wild versus tamed animalsA personal story from childhood in India regarding rabies and dangerous animals illustrates the importance of keeping a healthy caution and staying away from spiritual danger.
How did opponents oppose Paul's ministry?In every city Paul visited, unbelieving Jews were filled with jealousy, contradicting his message and embittering the minds of the Gentiles against the brethren.Acts 14:2
What is the danger of worldly chatter?Believers are instructed to avoid worldly and empty chatter because it leads to further ungodliness and spreads like gangrene.2 Timothy 2:16
How was the faith of some upset?Certain men like Hymenaeus and Philetus went astray with empty talk, successfully upsetting and shaking the faith of believers who were previously walking fine.
What happened with the Galatians?Paul rebuked the Galatians because they had been running well until false influences came in and hindered them from obeying the truth, reminding them that a little leaven leavens the whole dough.
Why does God allow stumbling blocks to exist?Every difficult circumstance and persecution works together for good to help us grow spiritually and build a spiritual backbone.
Whose opinion should we seek?Paul asks whether he is seeking the favor of man or God, stating that if he were still striving to please men, he would not be a bondservant of Christ.Galatians 1:10
Why must we remain vigilant?After tempting Jesus, the devil left Him until an opportune time, reminding us that we must always be on guard especially when we feel most at ease.
How did David show boldness against threats?David fearlessly ran after lions and bears to rescue lambs from their mouths, and later ran toward Goliath because he cared for God's people and relied on God's boldness.1 Samuel 17:34
Why is following godly examples important?When faced with confusing or dangerous paths, believers should look to the clear teachings of Scripture and follow the counsel and example of proven godly men.Philippians 3:17
What weapons do we have against strongholds?The weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but are divinely powerful through prayer for destroying fortresses, speculations, and spiritual strongholds.2 Corinthians 10:4
