Selfishness
Introduction:
Selfishness is
rampant in our society. People are more and more concerned about
“Me”. Selfishness is behind many of society’s problems. A minister
once said during a wedding ceremony that “most every problem that
develops between a husband and wife can be traced back to
selfishness.”
This is
something Christians must be careful about so it doesn’t creep into
their lives. It can surface in many different areas and hurt or
destroy our character.
Body:
I.
Selfishness Leads to Other Sins
-
Philippians 2:20-21
Selfish people are controlled by the flesh, not by Christ. It
keeps us from being concerned for others. (Philippians
2:3-4)
Self should never rank first. It should never be our top
priority. (Matthew
22:36-40)
-
Galatians 5:19-21
Works of the flesh – “selfish ambitions”
-
James 4:1-4
Our own selfish desires are a source of many sins. We should
never make our own desires of greatest importance.
-
Ephesians 2:3
Selfishness is “gratifying the cravings of the flesh and
following its desires and thoughts.”
II.
Selfishness Must Be Put to Death
-
Colossians 3:5-9
Being in Christ involves dying to self. (Galatians
2:20)
-
This means
learning to say “No.” Don’t blame parents, background,
environment, genetics, or anything else. Being selfish is a
choice.
-
We must
take responsibility.
-
We can have
no excuses. (Romans
2:8-9)
III.
Selfishness Is a Trait of Satan, Not Christ
-
Philippians 2:1-5
Example of Jesus If we really belong to the Lord, then we will
follow His example. (Romans
14:7-8)
-
Jesus came
to serve others, not Himself. (John
13:13-17)
Conclusion:
Controlling
self is of utmost importance. If we don’t, Satan wins!
Bobby Stafford
May 20, 2012
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