Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

Mark A. Copeland
[Because of these “tendencies,” the use of such measures is wrought with the potential of misjudging
and condemning one another. This is something we want to avoid (Ja 4:11-12). What, then, ought to
be the measure of a strong Christian?]
II. THE MEASURE OF A STRONG CHRISTIAN
A. IS FOUND IN SCRIPTURES SUCH AS...
1. Ga 5:22-23
a. Here are qualities of man who is truly spiritual
b. This is evidence that is truly led by the Spirit of God
c. Now one who is truly “spiritual” will certainly be involved in various “activities” of the
church - e.g., Ga 6:1-2
d. But this measure requires that the “inner man” be changed first!
2. Co 3:12-17
a. Again, this measure begins with the “inner man”
b. But it carries over to our relationship with one another in such activities as Bible study
and singing
3. Consider other passages, such as those given to:
a. Preachers
1) One may preach a great sermon, but what of his personal life? - 1 Ti 6:11; 2 Ti
2:22
2) He may be willing to contend for the faith, but in the right spirit? - 1 Ti 6:12; 2 Ti
2:23-25
b. Bishops (elders, pastors)
1) They may be married and have children who believe - cf. Ti 1-5
2) But are they quick to anger, unable to teach others? - cf. Ti 1:7-9
c. Members, young and old
1) They may be attending the services faithfully
2) But is their conduct becoming their stage in life? - cf. Ti 2:1-8
B. THE CHALLENGES OF SUCH A MEASURE...
1. It emphasizes the reformation of the inside of a person first, trusting that the outside will
naturally follow
a. I.e., it requires “transformation,” when conformation would be a lot easier
b. Such transformation takes more time than simple conformation
1) Time some brethren may not wish to take
2) Either for themselves, or for those whom they want to quickly conform to their ideas
and programs
3) E.g., trying to get involved in teaching before one is ready, just to make oneself look
good - cf. Ja 3:1-2
2. This is a measure that often only the Lord sees
a. We see each other only for a short time each week
1) It is easy to “put on a front”, to pretend to be something we are not
2) But the Lord sees us as we really are!
b. On the other hand, brethren who may seem “passive” when we are together may be
extremely “active” when apart
1) Active in their warfare against personal sin
2) Active in their daily service to others in the name of Christ
-- Activity which we may never see, but the Lord knows!
Topical Sermons 231