Romans 15 - Self-denial in behalf of Others
15 Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not just please ourselves. 2 Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification.
- The title of this message is self denial in behalf of others
o in other words don't just think about yourself that think of others
o sometimes that means that you're gonna have to make some sacrifices personally in order to benefit someone else besides yourself
- now we who are strong ought to bear weaknesses of those without strength
o has God-given you a lot of faith or physical strength
o then you need to use the strength of your faith and your physical strength to go help other people and not just yourself
- each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification
o what have you done recently to please your neighbor?
o Or are you so consumed in your own life that you're not considering your neighbors at all
o edification means to build up
§ what are you doing to build up your neighbor's faith
§ what are you doing that illuminates the Lord Jesus Christ
§ one pastor said it best when he said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary use words
§ your words and your actions should clearly be evident by your neighbors that you are in fact a Christian
3 For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: “The taunts of those who taunt You have fallen on Me.” 4 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
- When you consider the trials and tribulations that the disciples went through
- When you consider the trials and pain and suffering that Jesus went through
- and then you consider how God was at work in each and everyone of those and how he worked out all things for good for those that love him and are called according to his purpose
o it should give you encouragement that God always wins in the end!
o And that you are not experiencing anywhere near the level of difficulty they did
o the point is that whatever you are going through is not that severe and God is going to get you through it no matter what - so be encouraged.
5 Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another, according to Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one purpose and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- Notice that God gives perseverance and encouragement
- and we should be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus
- Do you have the same mind as Jesus Christ?
o Are you trying to do the will of your father or your own will
- so that with one purpose and one voice you may glorify the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ
o when you encourage somebody and you help them persevere through their trials you are serving God and bringing glory to the Father!
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