Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:18 …as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Summary: We are constantly inclined to depend on our own abilities, strengths, and resources, and we must shift our dependence back onto the power of the Holy Spirit. Three focal points will help us to make this shift: 1) we must see our desperate weakness and helplessness so that we will stop trying to rely on ourselves and depend on the power of the Holy Spirit; 2) we must see the reliable power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish all his will in us; and 3) we must reject self-reliance and cultivate humility and godliness in its place. Humility and godliness grow when we meditate on what Christ did for us on the cross. Finally, when we depend on both the righteousness of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, "we work hard in the strength he provides, not to earn merit but to glorify and enjoy him." (146)
Discussion: Do you believe the last two sentences on page 137 are true? If so, how can you apply this to your life?
What is godliness and how does it address our self-reliance at its roots? (143-144)
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Sunday, November 15, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
November 9 Chapter 9 Gospel Enemy #3: Self-reliance
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.
Summary: At first glance, self-reliance seems to be an admirable quality. In fact, though, the person who is self-reliant is relying on himself instead of relying on Christ. Anyone who tries to live the Christian life in his own strength will fail eventually, falling into legalism, frustration, or ungodly living—no one can live successfully without relying on the grace of God. Self-reliance is a subtle, ever-present sin; we are all guilty of self-reliance when we fail to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit to live faithfully for Christ.
Discussion: The last paragraph on page 126 states that all believers are inclined to fall prey to self-reliance every day! Do you agree? Why or why not?
What insights and applications do you find in the description of Paul’s thorn in the flesh? (132-133)
Summary: At first glance, self-reliance seems to be an admirable quality. In fact, though, the person who is self-reliant is relying on himself instead of relying on Christ. Anyone who tries to live the Christian life in his own strength will fail eventually, falling into legalism, frustration, or ungodly living—no one can live successfully without relying on the grace of God. Self-reliance is a subtle, ever-present sin; we are all guilty of self-reliance when we fail to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit to live faithfully for Christ.
Discussion: The last paragraph on page 126 states that all believers are inclined to fall prey to self-reliance every day! Do you agree? Why or why not?
What insights and applications do you find in the description of Paul’s thorn in the flesh? (132-133)
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