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Part 6: Self-Control

PRACTICING THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

PART 6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

1 Corinthians 9:23-27; 10:11-13

THE WAY THE RACE IS WON

1.  SELF-CONTROL STARTS WITH THE HEART.

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 (NIV)

“So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 (ESV)

2.  THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL. 

“I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:23-24 (NIV)

“These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:11-13 (NIV)

  • Look at Jesus’ example.  

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)

  • Before the cross, what did Jesus not have that He wanted?   YOU

MY NEXT STEP TODAY IS: 

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This week’s Reading Plan and blog/podcast:

  • YouVersion® Bible App Reading Plan:
    “Walking with Jesus (Self Control)” (7 days) 

  • Blog and Podcast: Revisit: “Powerful Gentleness”

PCTLDr. John Gerlach