Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

Mark A. Copeland
II. THE CHRISTIAN AS CITIZEN
A. OBEY THOSE IN AUTHORITY...
1. To be subject to rulers authorities - cf. Ti 3:1; Ro 13:1-5
2. To obey their laws, unless they conflict with God’s law - cf. 1 Pe 2:13-16; Ac 5:27-29
B. GIVE HONOR AND PAY TAXES...
1. Honor all, including those in government - cf. 1 Pe 2:17
2. Pay taxes and customs, rendering fear (respect) and honor - cf. Ro 13:6-7
C. PRAY FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY...
1. For kings and all who are in authority - cf. 1 Ti 2:1-2
2. That we might lead quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and reverence - cf. 1 Ti 2:2-3
[Christians are a valuable asset for any country in which they live. Not only by their lawful obedience
and prayers for those in authority, but by sharing the good news of God’s love (cf. 1 Ti 2:4-6)...]
III. THE CHRISTIAN AS EVANGELIST
A. HOLDING FAST THE WORD OF LIFE...
1. We are to shine as lights in the world - cf. Ph 2:14-15
2. Holding fast the Word of life - cf. Ph 2:16
a. Some translations say “holding forth” (KJV, ASV) or “hold out” (NIV)
b. Certainly a duty expressed elsewhere - cf. Mk 16:15; 1 Pe 2:9
3. In our communities, we have a duty to spread the Word!
B. INFLUENCING PEOPLE BY EXAMPLE...
1. Sometimes people won’t listen to our message
2. But we can still influence them for good by our example - e.g., 1 Pe 3:1-2
3. In our communities, we have a duty to confirm the Word by our lives!
CONCLUSION
1. Living in our community is a wonderful opportunity...
a. To be a positive influence on our friends and neighbors
b. To be a blessing for whatever country in which we find ourselves
2. Let your faith in the community be an opportunity...
a. To demonstrate the value of a vibrant faith in Christ!
b. To reach others for Jesus Christ through the gospel!
What kind of neighbors and citizens are we? Do we encourage others to glorify God...?
Topical Sermons 122