Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

INTRODUCTION
Disappointments New Christians Face
1. There is great joy in seeing new Christians grow in the faith - 2 Jn 4; 3 Jn 3-4
2. Unfortunately not all new Christians grow as they should - cf. Lk 8:13-14
3. Problems and disappointments often overwhelm them, and some even fall away
Mark A. Copeland
4. This ought to concern older Christians, for we have a responsibility to those who are young in the
faith - Ga 6:1-2; Ro 15:1-2
[This lesson is designed to help us understand and deal with some of the disappointments new Christians
face. For example, a problem that is troubling to some is...]
I. SAME WEAKNESSES AS BEFORE (Disappointed with themselves)
A. MANY BECOME CHRISTIANS WITH JOYFUL ANTICIPATION...
1. Excited about forgiveness of sins - cf. Ac 8:39
2. “ “ the chance to start over
3. “ “ the help God is going to give them to change
B. BUT WHEN THEY SOON DISCOVER...
1. That the temptations are just as strong as before (sometimes even stronger!)
2. They can easily be discouraged and overcome - cf. Lk 8:13
C. HOW CAN WE HELP...?
1. By teaching them that “transformation” is an ongoing process - Ro 12:1-2; Co 3:5-11
2. By reminding them of God’s willingness to forgive and provide strength - 1 Jn 1:9; 2:1; Ph
2:12-13
[A stumbling block to many new Christians is...]
II. IMPERFECT CHRISTIANS (Disappointed by their brethren)
A. THEY WITNESS INCONSISTENCY IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS...
1. They see those who do not practice what they preach
2. It really hurts when seen in those they had looked up to
3. But this problem is not a new one - Ga 2:11-14
B. ILL TREATMENT BY CHRISTIANS...
1. May occur in Bible classes, business meetings, at work, at play
2. Where harsh words can be devastating to those new in the faith
C. WHAT CAN WE DO...?
1. First, set better examples! - cf. 1 Ti 4:12
2. Confess wrong when it occurs
Topical Sermons 101