Sermon Overview
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:12
The Bible is not a book of rules, but a book of principles. Rules can be manipulated and laws have loopholes, but principles are timeless and unchanging. Therefore, the Bible is a trusted source to cite when making daily decisions.
There are six positive principles to live by, and questions to ask ourselves for proper daily practice.
- Expediency: Does this bring me to my appointed goal or does it hinder me?
"All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful…” (1 Corinthians 6:12).
We ought to have God-given goals for our lives and a holy ambition to accomplish them. Our decisions should honor the direction we are going.
- Enslavement: Am I brought under the power of anything other than Jesus Christ?
“...all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12).
Jesus came to set us free from our addictions, vices, and bad habits. We experience true freedom under His sovereignty alone.
- Example: Even if this doesn’t hurt me, will it hurt somebody else?
Even if we do not struggle with certain vices, our endorsement of one thing or another could lead others to stumble. Adrian Rogers says, “Don’t let your head run away with your heart; we are here to operate by love. Knowledge puffs you up, but love builds up.”
- Edification: Does this build me up or tear me down?
“...all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not” (1 Corinthians 10:23). Everything we do will either build us up or tear us down; we should value friendships, conversations, and entertainment that refresh, renew, and restore.
- Exaltation: Is God glorified by what I’m doing?
Colossians 3:17 says, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” Every decision we make either honors or dishonors the Lord. We should strive to exalt God in everything we do.
- Evangelism: Is there anything that keeps me from bringing others to Jesus?
Everyone should be closer to Jesus after we’ve met them; above all else, we should radiate that Jesus is the most important thing in our lives.
Apply it to your life
When you study God’s Word, are you looking for rules to follow or principles to live by? Consider the principles above and ask yourself the questions presented.
Downloadable Resources
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Six Positive Principles for Proper Practice