How Should We Face the Trials in Our Lives?

January 29, 2026 Reflexions

How Should We Face the Trials in Our Lives?

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:12–16; Acts 14:22

INTRODUCTION

The Certainty of Trials As children of God, we must face a sobering reality: trials are not an "if," but a "when." We cannot run from them, nor can we hide. In fact, the Bible tells us that these challenges are necessary for the refining of our faith (Acts 14:22).

The Example of Jesus Christ Our Savior did not live a life free of conflict. He faced every imaginable trial and emerged victorious. He told us plainly in John 16:33: "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

The Need for Preparation Jesus spent significant time preparing His disciples for the coming storms (Matthew 10:17, 21–22). We are warned that Satan prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8), and desires to "sift us like wheat" (Luke 22:31). Many Christians fail not because God isn't with them, but because they do not take His warnings seriously.

I. THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF TRIALS

Trials come in many shapes and sizes. To overcome them, we must first recognize them:

• Verbal Attacks (Murmuring & Slander): People may speak evil of you or invent lies to damage your reputation (1 Peter 3:16). Even the Apostle Paul was defamed, yet he remained steadfast (1 Corinthians 4:13).

• Outrages and Insults: These are grave offenses, whether verbal or physical. Many suffer simply because they follow Christ (1 Peter 4:4).

• Reproach (Vituperios): This involves public shame or censure. Job felt this weight from his own friends (Job 19:1–3). Yet, Jesus calls those reproached for His sake "blessed" (Matthew 5:11).

• Physical Health: Sometimes the trial is in our own bodies. Paul had his "thorn in the flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7–9), and Timothy struggled with frequent illnesses (1 Timothy 5:23).

• Economic & Labor Hardships: The stress of unemployment or lack of basic needs is a real trial. Paul spoke of being in hunger, thirst, and nakedness for the Gospel (2 Corinthians 11:27).

• Discouragement: The heavy feeling that the world is crashing down, tempting us to abandon our faith.

II. WHAT WE MUST NOT DO IN THE MIDST OF TRIALS

When the pressure is on, our natural "fleshly" reactions are often wrong. We must avoid:

1. Responding with Curses or Threats: We must follow Christ’s example, who, when reviled, did not revile in return (1 Peter 2:23). Vengeance belongs to God.

2. Giving in to Fear: Do not be terrified by the threats of the world (1 Peter 3:14). Look at the apostles who stood boldly before the councils that threatened them (Acts 5:29).

3. Losing Our Peace: Do not become desperate. Remember that these trials are "light" and "momentary" compared to the eternal glory awaiting us (2 Corinthians 4:17).

4. Thinking it is "Strange": Do not be surprised when trials come (1 Peter 4:12). It is the standard path to the Kingdom.

5. Blaming God: God is not the author of temptation or evil (James 1:13). Do not let bitterness take root.

III. WHAT WE SHOULD DO IN THE MIDST OF TRIALS

To emerge as conquerors, we must adopt the divine strategy:

• Entrust Yourself to God: Just as Jesus committed His Spirit to the Father, we must commit our souls to our faithful Creator (1 Peter 4:19). He always provides a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).

• Find Joy in the Storm: This seems impossible to the world, but the Christian can rejoice because trials produce endurance (Romans 5:3).

• Glorify God Through Your Actions: Let your conduct be so good that even those who speak against you are silenced by your good works (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 4:16).

• Overcome Evil with Good: Do not let the trial turn you into a bitter person. Bless those who curse you (Romans 12:21; 1 Peter 3:9).

• Cast Your Cares: Don't carry the weight alone. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7).

• Watch, Pray, and Use the Word: Jesus defeated Satan in the wilderness by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4:4). Prayer and the Word are your primary weapons.

How Should We Face the Trials in Our Lives?

See Also

CONCLUSION

Trials are inevitable, but defeat is optional. The trials you face today are not meant to destroy you, but to prove the genuineness of your faith. When you face the fire, don't look at the flames—look at the One who is walking in the fire with you.

Next Step: Would you like me to create a "Scripture Memory Card" list with these key verses so you can have them ready the next time a trial strikes?

Can One Be Just in Such an Unjust World?

January 29, 2026 Reflexions

Can One Be Just in Such an Unjust World?

Scripture Reference: 2 Peter 2:8, Genesis 6:9, Psalm 34:15–19

INTRODUCTION

The Reality of Today’s World We live in a world saturated with injustice. We see it in corrupt workplaces, biased laws, broken homes, and violent streets. It is a world where the guilty often walk free while the innocent are oppressed. Whether it is between parents and children, husbands and wives, or authorities and citizens, injustice seems to dominate every sphere of life.

Questions of the Heart When we face this reality, our hearts naturally cry out:

• Is it actually worth it to be a just person?

• What do I gain by doing what is right when everyone else is cutting corners?

• Is God truly on the side of the righteous?

The Purpose of This Message Today, we will explore the biblical definition of being "just" and the immense blessings reserved for those who remain upright, even when the world around them falls into decay.

Definition of "Just" The biblical word is Dikaios. It refers to someone who is upright, conforming to the divine standard, and maintaining correct conduct before both God and men. While the world says it’s impossible, the Bible shows us that—through God—it is entirely possible. Look at Lot: the Bible calls him "just" even while he lived in the middle of a perverse society (2 Peter 2:8).

I. EXAMPLES OF JUST INDIVIDUALS

A. A Necessary Clarification Many use Romans 3:10–12 ("There is none righteous, no, not one") as an excuse to continue in sin. However, Paul is describing the state of humanity without God. As Christians, we cannot use this text as a shield for disobedience. The Bible is full of people who, by God’s grace, lived justly.

B. Heroes of Righteousness

• Noah: In a generation so evil that God regretted creating man, Noah was "just" and "perfect" because he walked with God (Genesis 6:9). He didn't follow the majority; he followed the Maker.

• Job: Described as blameless and upright, Job remained just even when he lost everything (Job 1:1).

• Joseph (Husband of Mary): A man of mercy and justice who sought to protect Mary rather than publicly shame her (Matthew 1:19).

• Zacharias and Elizabeth: A couple who walked in all the commandments of the Lord blamelessly (Lucas 1:6), proving that holiness is possible within a marriage.

• Joseph of Arimathea: A member of the council who did not consent to the unjust decision to crucify Jesus (Luke 23:50–51).

• The Supreme Example: Jesus Christ, the "Holy and Just One" (Acts 3:14). Even His enemies, like Pilate and the Roman centurion, had to admit: "Certainly this was a righteous man" (Luke 23:47).

Conclusion of this point: If they could be just in their dark times, we have no excuse for failing to be just in ours.

II. WHAT DO WE GAIN BY BEING JUST?

Being just isn't just a moral obligation; it is the path to divine favor.

• Divine Reward: God never leaves the upright empty-handed. He keeps His eyes on the righteous (Job 36:7) and His ears are open to their prayers (Psalm 34:15).

• Deliverance: "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all" (Psalm 34:19). Consider Daniel in the lions' den or Mordecai, who was honored while his enemy Haman fell into his own trap.

• Provision: God promises that the righteous will not be left hungry. As David wrote, "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread" (Psalm 37:25).

• Hope in Death: Even at the end of life, the just man has a refuge (Proverbs 14:32). To God, the death of His saints is precious (Psalm 116:15).

• Divine Love: God loves the righteous because He Himself is righteous (Psalm 11:7).

III. WHEN ARE WE TRULY JUST?

Righteousness is not an occasional act; it is a consistent lifestyle.

1. In the Family: Children who obey their parents and parents who lead with integrity (Ephesians 6:1).

2. At Work: Masters who provide what is "just and equal" to employees, and employees who work with sincerity as if working for the Lord (Colossians 4:1; 3:22).

3. In Business: Using "just balances" and honest weights (Leviticus 19:36). God hates "double standards" or dishonest gain (Proverbs 20:10).

4. In Judgment: We are just when we stop judging by appearances and start judging with "righteous judgment" (John 7:24).

Can One Be Just in Such an Unjust World?

See Also

CONCLUSION

So, is it worth it to be just?

The world may offer a "shortcut" through injustice, but that path leads to a dead end. The path of the just is like the shining sun, shining ever brighter until the perfect day (Proverbs 4:18). In a world of darkness, being just is the greatest testimony you can give.

Choose today to walk the straight path, for there is a reward for the righteous, and there is a God who judges on the earth (Psalm 58:11).

The Wiles of the Devil: Understanding the Art of Deception

January 29, 2026 Reflexions

The Wiles of the Devil: Understanding the Art of Deception

Scripture Reading: Genesis 3:1–5

INTRODUCTION

The Reality of Satanic Deception The Bible is clear: the spiritual realm is not a playground, but a battlefield. The Devil uses calculated schemes and "wiles" to deceive humanity, leading many toward eternal perdition. As Jesus warned in Matthew 25:46, the consequences of falling for these deceptions are everlasting.

The Apostolic Warning Centuries after the fall of man, the Apostle Paul shared a deep concern for the church. In 2 Corinthians 11:3, he expressed his fear that just as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, our minds might be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

The Deception Today The enemy hasn't updated his playbook because the old tricks still work. The same strategies used in the Garden of Eden are being deployed against you today. We must remain spiritually vigilant. Today, we will expose the "best sermon" the Devil ever preached—a message designed to seduce and destroy.

I. THE DEVIL TEACHES THAT GOD’S WORD IS NOT TRUE

A. Questioning the Truth of God

In Genesis 3:1–5, Satan’s first move was to plant a seed of doubt: "Has God indeed said...?" He insinuated that God was holding out on them or outright lying.

• The Contrast: Jesus identifies Satan as the "father of lies" (John 8:44), whereas Titus 1:2 reminds us that God cannot lie.

• The Verdict: If the message contradicts Scripture, it is a lie from the pit of hell.

B. Denying the Truth of the New Birth

God declares that a radical transformation is necessary to enter His kingdom.

• The Command: Jesus said, "Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3), clarifying this means being born of water and the Spirit (John 3:5).

• The Method: In Acts 2:37–38, Peter identifies baptism for the remission of sins as essential.

• The Devil’s Alternative: Satan offers "easy-believism." He suggests you can just "raise a hand" or "accept" without obeying. He offers a crown without a cross and salvation without the New Birth.

C. The Crucial Decision

You are faced with a choice today: Will you believe God, who is Truth, or the Devil, who is the author of confusion?

D. Minimizing Sin and the Works of Darkness

Ephesians 5:11 commands us to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.

• The Devil’s Whisper: He tells you there is no harm in the "desires of the flesh." He says drinking, partying, or living worldly lifestyles are just "living life."

• God’s Order: We are told to abstain from every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22) and to cast off the works of darkness (Romans 13:13–14).

E. Denying the Reality of Hell

One of Satan's greatest masterpieces is convincing the world that Hell is a myth. He appeals to a distorted view of God's love, suggesting a "loving God would never punish anyone."

• The Truth: God is Love, but He is also Just and Severe (Romans 11:22).

• The Precedents: God did not spare the fallen angels (2 Peter 2:4), the ancient world of Noah (2 Peter 2:5), or Sodom and Gomorrah (2 Peter 2:6).

• Jesus’ Confirmation: Our Savior spoke more about Hell than anyone, confirming the reality of eternal punishment in Matthew 25:41.

F. The Lie of "No Consequences"

Satan promotes a life without spiritual accountability. He says, "Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die" (Isaiah 22:13).

• The Law of the Harvest: Galatians 6:7–8 warns us that God is not mocked; whatever a man sows, he will reap.

• The Wage: The "paycheck" for sin is death (Romans 6:23). God declares clearly: "The soul who sins shall die" (Ezekiel 18:20).

G. The Myth of Self-Salvation

In Genesis 3:5, the serpent promised, "You will be like God." Today, he teaches that man can save himself through good works, philosophy, or human effort.

• God’s Reality: Our "righteousness" is like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). Pride is the Devil’s snare. No one is saved without obeying the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Wiles of the Devil: Understanding the Art of Deception

See Also

CONCLUSION

The Devil's Final Lie Satan’s ultimate goal is to make you believe that death is the end—that there is no judgment, no heaven, and no hell. He wants you to live for the "now" so you lose your "forever."

Adan and Eve believed the lie and lost Paradise. Many today are repeating that same tragic mistake. The path of deception may look attractive and broad, but its end is the way of death (Proverbs 14:12).

Don't listen to the "sermon" of the deceiver. Listen to the Voice of the Good Shepherd.

How do people behave when the gospel is preached?

January 27, 2026 Reflexions

In the heart of Athens, the intellectual capital of the ancient world, the Apostle Paul stood on the Areopagus and delivered a profound message about the "Unknown God." However, the most telling part of the story isn't just what Paul said, but how the people responded.

As we look at Acts 17:32–34, we see a spiritual "sorting" that takes place whenever the Gospel is preached. These three reactions weren't unique to Athens; they are mirrored in our hearts and churches today.

The Gospel on Trial: Three Responses to the Word

Base Text: Acts 17:32–34

Proposition: Every listener of the Gospel must decide whether to ridicule the message, delay their response, or obey the truth.

I. The Scoffers: Those Who Ridicule

Text: Acts 17:32 ("And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked...")

To the sophisticated Greek mind, the idea of a physical resurrection was absurd. Instead of weighing the evidence, they chose to mock.

• A History of Mockery: Mockery has always been the shield of the prideful.

◦ They mocked Jesus concerning Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:39–40).

◦ The Pharisees mocked Him because they loved money (Luke 16:14).

◦ Even at the foot of the Cross, the elite and the soldiers ridiculed the Savior (Luke 23:35–36).

• The Warning: Peter and Jude warned that "scoffers" would increase in the last days (2 Peter 3:3; Jude 18).

• The Reality: Mockery isn't just a "non-believer" problem. In the church, we "mock" the Word when we treat biblical instructions as outdated, "unrealistic," or a joke. When we mock the Word, we aren't insulting the preacher; we are insulting the God who gave the Word.

The Contrast: Instead of mocking, we should be like the Bereans, who received the word with all readiness and searched the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so (Acts 17:11–12).

II. The Procrastinators: Those Who Say "Tomorrow"

Text: Acts 17:32 ("...others said, 'We will hear you again on this matter.'")

This is perhaps the most dangerous group. They weren't angry or rude; they were simply indifferent. They didn't say "No," but they wouldn't say "Yes."

• The Trap of Tomorrow: Procrastination is the thief of souls.

◦ Pharaoh wanted the plague of frogs removed, but when asked when, he said, "Tomorrow" (Exodus 8:8–10).

◦ The Rich Fool planned for "many years," but his soul was required that very night (Luke 12:15–21).

◦ Governor Felix told Paul, "When I have a convenient time I will call for you" (Acts 24:25).

• The Uncertainty of Life: Scripture is clear: our lives are but a vapor (James 4:13–17). We have no claim on tomorrow.

• Application: For the Christian, this looks like "I'll start that ministry tomorrow" or "I'll forgive that brother tomorrow." Delaying obedience is, in itself, an act of disobedience.

The Truth: 2 Corinthians 6:2 declares, "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

III. The Obedient: Those Who Act

Text: Acts 17:34 ("However, some men joined him and believed...")

Amidst the mockers and the procrastinators, a few individuals—like Dionysius and a woman named Damaris—recognized the truth and aligned their lives with it.

• Beyond Hearing: God is not looking for people who simply "listen" to sermons. He is looking for doers of the Word (Matthew 7:21; James 1:22).

• Immediate Response: True faith is characterized by immediate action. When the Spirit of God convicts, the only safe response is submission.

• The Cost of Obedience: Sometimes obedience means standing alone against the majority. Like the apostles, we must decide to obey God rather than men (Acts 4:19; 5:29).

How do people behave when the gospel is preached?

See Also

What Happens When We Turn Away from God?
How to Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus 1 Peter 2:21
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1–15

Conclusion:

Which Group are You In?

Every time a biblical truth is presented, you are standing in that Athenian crowd.

1. Are you mocking the truth because it challenges your lifestyle or intellect?

2. Are you delaying the truth because you want "one more night with the frogs"?

3. Or are you obeying the truth, regardless of the cost?

The Gospel is not a suggestion to be debated; it is an invitation to be accepted.

What Happens When We Turn Away from God?

January 27, 2026 Reflexions

The Bible is remarkably clear about the beauty of our walk with Christ, but it is equally honest about the tragedy of turning away. This message is not intended to create fear, but to foster a healthy vigilance. To be "apart from God" is not a minor detour; it is a spiritual crisis that affects our identity, our peace, and our eternal destination.

The Downward Spiral: What Happens When We Turn Away from God?

Base Text: 2 Peter 2:20

"For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning."

Introduction

The Holy Spirit provides these warnings not to discourage us, but to protect us. Just as a shepherd warns his sheep about the cliff’s edge, God warns us about the dangers of backsliding. When we walk away from the Light, we don't just find "freedom"—we find a darkness that is deeper than the one we originally left.

I. Entanglement and Defeat

Text: 2 Peter 2:20; John 16:33

When we are in Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). However, turning away reverses our spiritual status:

• The Trap of the World: The Bible describes the world as something that "entangles." It is like a net or a thicket that catches those who wander.

• From Victory to Victim: In Christ, we overcome the world (1 John 5:4–5). But when we step away from His presence, the world begins to overcome us. We lose the ground we once gained.

II. A Condition Worse Than the First

Text: 2 Peter 2:20; Luke 12:47–48

There is a unique weight to sinning against the light.

• Responsibility of Knowledge: Once you have tasted the goodness of God and known the truth, returning to sin is more damaging. You are no longer sinning in ignorance; you are sinning against experience.

• The spiritual void: Jesus taught that when a person is "swept clean" but remains empty of the Holy Spirit, the return of evil is even more severe (Matthew 12:45).

• The Price of Persistent Sin: Choosing to return to the path of death after being shown the path of life leads to a spiritual hardening that is difficult to break.

III. The Folly of the "Vomit" and the "Mire"

Text: 2 Peter 2:22; Proverbs 26:11

Peter uses two graphic, uncomfortable images to describe backsliding: a dog returning to its vomit and a washed sow returning to the mud.

• The Absurdity of Sin: Why would anyone return to what they were once freed from? These metaphors show the irrationality of backsliding. It is returning to the very thing that made us sick and unclean in the first place.

• The Lack of Value: A pig does not understand the value of a bath; it prefers the mire. Similarly, when we walk away, we show that we have stopped valuing the "precious blood of Christ" that washed us (1 Peter 1:19).

IV. Following the Wrong Master

Text: 1 Timothy 5:15; Matthew 6:24

Spiritual neutrality is an illusion. We are always following someone.

• No Middle Ground: If we are not following the Shepherd, we are following the enemy. Paul speaks of those who "turned aside after Satan" (1 Timothy 5:15).

• The Snare: Walking away from God’s protection is effectively stepping into the devil's trap (2 Timothy 2:26).

V. The Descent into Misery and Vanity

Text: Lucas 15:16; 1 Timothy 1:6

Backsliding always promises "freedom" but delivers "famine."

• Vain Talk: The backslider often drifts into "vain jangling"—empty, useless talk that has no spiritual fruit.

• The Prodigal's Poverty: Like the Prodigal Son, we often have to lose everything to realize how good we had it in the Father's house. Separation from God leads to a spiritual hunger that nothing in the world can satisfy.

VI. The Final Warning: Judgment and Fire

Text: John 15:6; Hebrews 10:26–27

If a branch does not remain in the vine, it withers and is eventually burned.

• Deliberate Rejection: For those who deliberately trample the truth after receiving it, the Bible warns of a "fearful expectation of judgment."

• Final Call to Persistence: We must not be like those who shrink back to destruction, but like those who have faith to the saving of the soul (Hebrews 10:39).

What Happens When We Turn Away from God?

See Also

How to Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus 1 Peter 2:21
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1–15
Reconciled with God: From Enemies to Friends

Conclusion: A Call to Faithfulness

The description of the backslider is tragic, but it is preventable. God’s grace is sufficient to keep you from falling, provided you stay in the Vine. Don't look back to the pollutions of the world. Instead, look forward to the "crown of life" promised to those who are faithful until the end (Revelation 2:10).

"We are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul." — Hebrews 10:39

How to Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus 1 Peter 2:21

January 26, 2026 Reflexions

This sermon explores the practical "footprints" of our Lord. In 1 Peter 2:21, we are given a clear calling: Jesus didn't just come to be our Savior; He came to be our Path. He left behind a specific "pattern" (the Greek word is hypogrammos, like a tracing guide for students) so that we could walk exactly where He walked.

Walking the Way: How to Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus

Base Text: 1 Peter 2:21

"For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps."

Introduction

Jesucristo is the perfect template for human life. While He is fully God, He lived as a man, experiencing the full range of our human struggles—hunger, tiredness, betrayal, and pain—yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15).

When Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (John 16:33), He wasn't just making a statement about His own power. He was proving that in a human body, through the power of the Spirit and the Word, victory is possible for us, too. To follow Him is to place our feet in the imprints He left in the dust of this earth.

I. The Footstep of Victory Over Temptation

Text: Matthew 4:1–11

Jesus was tempted in every way that we are, yet He never stumbled.

• The Weapon of Choice: Every time Satan attacked, Jesus responded with, "It is written." He didn't rely on His own arguments; He relied on the authority of the Word.

• Consistency: He wasn't just tempted once. The enemy left Him "until an opportune time" (Luke 4:13).

• The Promise: We can follow this step because God is faithful. He will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear and will always provide a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).

II. The Footstep of Active Mercy

Text: Matthew 14:14

Jesus didn't just feel sorry for people; He was "moved with compassion."

• Holistic Care: He saw the physical hunger and the spiritual blindness of the crowds and addressed both.

• The Standard: We are called to be merciful just as our Father is merciful (Luke 6:36). In a world that is often harsh and "canceled," the Christian footprint is one of grace.

III. The Footstep of Civil Responsibility

Text: Matthew 17:24–27

Jesus showed us how to live as citizens of Heaven while being responsible citizens on Earth.

• Avoiding Offense: Even though He was the Son of God and exempt from the temple tax, He paid it so as not to cause a stumble.

• Submission: He taught us to "render to Caesar what is Caesar’s" (Matthew 22:21). Following Jesus means being the best citizens, employees, and neighbors in our community (Romans 13:1–7).

IV. The Footstep of Forgiveness (No Revenge)

Text: Lucas 23:34

On the cross, at the height of His agony, Jesus’ first words were not a curse, but a prayer: "Father, forgive them."

• The Silence of the Lamb: When He was reviled, He did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten (1 Peter 2:23).

• Vanquishing Evil: We follow Him when we "overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:17–21). If we hold onto a desire for vengeance, we stop following Jesus and start following our own pride.

V. The Footstep of a Clean Heart (No Grudges)

Text: John 13:1–11

Jesus knew Judas was going to betray Him and Peter was going to deny Him. Yet, what did He do? He knelt down and washed their feet.

• Love Keeps No Record: True love, the kind Jesus modeled, "thinks no evil" and keeps no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5).

• The Call: If the Master washed the feet of His betrayer, how can we justify holding a grudge against a brother?

VI. The Footstep of a Life of Prayer

Text: Matthew 26:36–44

If the Son of God needed to pray, how much more do we?

• Prioritizing the Father: Jesus prayed in the morning, late at night, and in the mountains. Prayer wasn't an "event" for Him; it was His atmosphere.

• Application: We cannot follow the steps of Jesus if we are not talking to the One who sent Him. We are called to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

VII. The Footstep of Sacrificial Love

Text: John 10:17–18

Finally, Jesus’ steps led Him to the Cross. He didn't go because He was trapped; He went because He chose us.

• Voluntary Sacrifice: No one took His life; He laid it down.

• The Brotherhood: Because He gave His life for us, we ought to lay down our lives—our time, our comforts, our rights—for our brothers and sisters (1 John 3:16).

How to Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus 1 Peter 2:21

See Also

Conclusion

Following Jesus is not a matter of "WWJD" (What Would Jesus Do?) as a hypothetical question; it is a matter of looking at what He did and doing the same. He gave us the map, the strength of His Spirit, and the promise of His presence.

• Are you struggling with a grudge? Look at the basin and the towel.

• Are you facing a "cross" of suffering? Look at the joy set before Him.

• Are you being tempted? Look at the Word.

Final Thought: Jesus didn't just leave a trail for us to admire; He left a trail for us to walk. Which of these footprints is the hardest for you to step into today?

Preaching on Titus 2:12 - How to Live in This World

January 26, 2026 Reflexions

In a world that often feels chaotic and contradictory, the Bible provides a clear compass for our daily conduct. The Christian life is not just a destination; it is a way of "walking" or "conducting oneself" in the here and now. In Titus 2:12, the Apostle Paul reveals that God’s grace does more than just save us—it educates us.

Navigating the Present Age: How to Live in This World

Base Text: Titus 2:12

"...teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age."

Proposition: God’s grace teaches us to renounce sin and to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this world.

Introduction: Grace as a Teacher

Many people view grace only as a means of forgiveness, but according to Titus 2:11, grace is also a teacher. It instructs us to "renounce"—to shut the door and deny entry to—anything that displeases God.

If we claim to have received grace but still indulge in the "deadly" pleasures of sin, we are spiritually stagnant (1 Timothy 5:6). To truly live, we must follow the three-fold path laid out in our base text: an inward discipline, an outward integrity, and an upward devotion.

I. Living Soberly: The Inward Life

Focus: Self-Control and Prudence

To live soberly means to possess a "sound mind." It is the ability to maintain self-control and clear judgment, even when the world around us is intoxicated by passion or distraction.

• Clarity of Mind: Sobriety is the freedom from influences that cloud our spiritual judgment.

• The Need for Vigilance: Scripture repeatedly calls us to be sober so that we can:

◦ Pray effectively (1 Peter 4:7).

◦ Resist the Devil, who looks for the distracted and the unguarded (1 Peter 5:8).

◦ Keep our heads in all situations (2 Timothy 4:5).

• A Standard for All: This isn't just for church leaders; it is a requirement for every believer who wants to remain firm in the Lord (1 Timothy 3:11).

Application: Sobriety guards the "gate" of our minds, ensuring that we are alert to God’s voice rather than the world's noise.

II. Living Righteously: The Outward Life

Focus: Rectitude and Relationships

To live righteously (or justly) means to conduct ourselves with integrity before God and our fellow man. It is the practical application of God's standards to our everyday interactions.

• Horizontal Integrity: True righteousness shows up in how we treat people.

◦ At Home: Children obeying parents (Ephesians 6:1).

◦ At Work: Fair and just treatment between employers and employees (Colosians 4:1).

• Examples to Follow: We see this in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were "righteous before God" (Luke 1:6), and in Paul, who lived blamelessly among the people (1 Thessalonians 2:10).

• The Reward: God promises to bless, guard, and shine His light through the path of the righteous (Psalm 5:12; Proverbs 4:18).

Application: Our "just living" acts as a light, reflecting the character of Christ to a watching world (Matthew 5:14-16).

III. Living Godly: The Upward Life

Focus: Devotion and Sincerity

To live godly means to live with a sincere, heart-level devotion toward God. It is the "vertical" dimension of our lives—ensuring that our primary motivation is to please our Father.

• Intentional Discipline: Godliness doesn't happen by accident. We must "train ourselves" for it (1 Timothy 4:7) and actively "pursue" it (1 Timothy 6:11).

• The Cost of Devotion: We must be intellectually honest: living godly in a world that rejects God often leads to friction. Paul warns that those who desire to live godly lives will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).

• Focus in the Storm: Godliness keeps us anchored to the eternal when the temporary world becomes difficult.

Application: Godliness regulates our relationship with the Creator, ensuring that our hearts are always positioned toward Heaven.

Preaching on Titus 2:12 - How to Live in This World

See Also

Conclusion: A Life Aligned

God does not want us to simply "get by" until we go to Heaven; He wants us to be a distinct people right here in "this present age."

Direction	Keyword	Result
Inward	Soberly	Self-Control & Protection
Outward	Righteously	Integrity & Witness
Upward	Godly	Devotion & Peace

When we lean into God’s grace, we find the power to say "No" to the world and a resounding "Yes" to a life of purpose.

The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1–15

January 25, 2026 Reflexions

This sermon revisits one of the most famous scenes in the New Testament: the moment Jesus of Nazareth officially presented Himself to the capital of Israel. It was a day of high emotion, prophetic fulfillment, and divine authority.

The Arrival of the King: Understanding the Triumphal Entry

Base Text: Matthew 21:1–15

Context: Jerusalem was a city accustomed to rulers and festivals, but it had never witnessed an entry like this. This wasn’t just a parade; it was a public proclamation of Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling the ancient words of the prophet Zechariah.

I. Jesus is King

Text: Matthew 21:5

The first thing we must realize is that this event was a perfectly choreographed fulfillment of prophecy. Hundreds of years earlier, Zechariah 9:9 declared: "Behold, your King is coming to you... lowly and riding on a donkey."

• A Recognized Title: Throughout His life, the title of "King" followed Him:

◦ At His Birth: The Magi asked, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?" (Matthew 2:2).

◦ In His Ministry: Nathanael confessed, "You are the King of Israel!" (John 1:49).

◦ At His Trial: He confirmed His royalty to Pilate (John 18:37).

◦ At His Death: Even as a mockery, the truth was nailed above His head (Matthew 27:42).

• A Different Kind of Royalty: Unlike earthly kings who come in pride on warhorses, Jesus came in meekness and humility. He is a King of love, accessible to anyone who approaches Him.

• The Eternal King: The apostles later proclaimed Him as the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16).

Reflection: Many in Jerusalem saw the donkey but missed the King. Today, do you recognize Him as your Sovereign Lord, or just as a historical "good man"?

II. A King Who Stirs the Soul

Text: Matthew 21:10

The Bible says that when Jesus entered the city, "all the city was moved" or stirred. The presence of Jesus creates a commotion; it demands a reaction.

• The Great Question: The people asked, "Who is this?" (v. 10). It is the most important question anyone can ask.

• The Impact of the Gospel: Wherever the message of Jesus arrives, it agitates the status quo. It forces decisions. In the book of Acts, the Gospel was said to have "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6).

• No Neutral Ground: The preaching of the Cross never leaves people indifferent. It is either a "stumbling block" to some or the "power of God" to others.

III. A King of Cleansing

Text: Matthew 21:12–13

Immediately after His "triumphal" entry, Jesus went to the Temple. He didn't go there to admire the architecture; He went to inspect the heart of the nation’s worship.

• Celo for Holiness: He found corruption where there should have been prayer. With divine authority, He overturned the tables.

• Personal Application: When Jesus enters a life, He demands a similar "house cleaning."

◦ A Radical Change: To be in Christ is to be a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).

◦ The Pursuit of Purity: We are called to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1).

• The Standard: "Without holiness no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).

IV. A King of Wonders

Text: Matthew 21:14–15

While the religious leaders were fuming, Jesus was working. He turned the Temple from a marketplace into a place of healing.

• Confirmed Power: The blind received sight and the lame walked. These were the "credentials" of the Messiah (Matthew 11:2–5).

• Two Reactions: 1. The Multitude and Children: They cried "Hosanna!" with joy. 2. The Leaders: They were filled with "indignation."

• The Tragedy of Pride: The greatest tragedy in Jerusalem that day wasn't the people's poverty or Roman oppression; it was the religious leaders who saw wonders and remained spiritually blind.

The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1–15

See Also

Conclusion

The Triumphal Entry was a moment of victory and royal authority. Jesus didn't enter Jerusalem to satisfy people's curiosity; He entered to fulfill His mission as King. He is a King who reigns in humility, a King who disrupts our comfort, a King who demands our purity, and a King who still performs wonders in the lives of those who believe.

Final Thought: Jerusalem was "moved" by His presence. Is your heart moved by Him today?

Reconciled with God: From Enemies to Friends

January 25, 2026 Reflexions

This sermon explores the most vital restoration project in history: the reconciliation between the Creator and His creation. The message focuses on moving from a state of hostility and distance to a state of peace and proximity through the work of Jesus Christ.

Reconciled with God: From Enemies to Friends

Base Text: 2 Corinthians 5:17–20

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ... we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God."

Introduction

In this powerful passage, the Apostle Paul speaks about a profound gift: the gift of reconciliation. To reconcile means to restore a relationship, to change from enmity to friendship, and to return to a state of peace.

Many people feel a "void" or a sense of distance from God, but they don't always understand why that distance exists or how to bridge it. Today, we will look at the reality of our separation, God’s passionate desire to bring us back, and the bridge He built to make it possible.

I. The Great Barrier: Sin Separates Us from God

Before we can appreciate the "Good News" of reconciliation, we must understand the "bad news" of our current condition apart from Christ.

• Falling Short of Glory: In Romans 3:23, we are told that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Sin is not just "breaking a rule"; it is missing the mark of God’s perfect nature.

• The Hidden Face: The prophet Isaiah explains that God’s hand is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear, but "your iniquities have separated you from your God" (Isaiah 59:1–2).

Key Truth: Sin acts as a wall that hides God’s face from us and interrupts the fellowship we were created to enjoy.

II. The Divine Invitation: God Wants You Back

Despite our rebellion, God is not looking for reasons to keep us away; He is actively calling us to return.

• A Personal Call: Through the prophet Zechariah, God gives a simple, heartfelt command: "Return to Me... and I will return to you" (Zechariah 1:3).

• The Gospel Megaphone: God doesn't whisper His invitation in secret. He calls us through the Gospel—the proclamation of what He has done for us (2 Thessalonians 2:14).

• A Rescue Mission: God knows the end result of our separation is death, but His desire is to rescue us and offer us the gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).

III. The Perfect Solution: God Sent Salvation

Reconciliation is impossible through human effort. We cannot climb the wall of sin; God had to come down to us.

• The Word Became Flesh: To reach us, God became one of us (John 1:14). Jesus is the only one who can stand in the gap because He is both fully God and fully man.

• The Lamb of God: Jesus came with a specific mission: to take away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He didn't just cover sin; He removed the legal barrier between us and the Father.

• Reconciliation Through Death: While we were still sinners—and essentially enemies of God—Christ died for us (Romans 5:8–10).

• The Result—Peace and Proximity:

◦ He is our peace, breaking down the middle wall of separation (Ephesians 2:14, 16).

◦ Those who were once "far off" have been brought near by the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13).

◦ Because of Him, we now have access (an open door) to the Father (Ephesians 2:18).

Reconciled with God: From Enemies to Friends

See Also

Conclusion: Your Choice to Be at Peace

God has already done His part. He has sent His Son, paid the debt, and opened the door. The message of the ambassador is simple: "Be reconciled to God."

• The Resisted Invitation: God wants to gather us, but often we are the ones who refuse (Matthew 23:37).

• The Knock at the Door: Jesus stands at the door and knocks. He will not force His way in; the handle is on your side (Revelation 3:20).

The Final Call: Do not remain at a distance. God has provided the way to be at peace with Him. Obey the Gospel today, accept His sacrifice, and step into the new creation that only Christ can provide.

Can Man Justify His Own Sins and Actions?

January 25, 2026 Reflexions

Sermon: Can Man Justify His Own Sins and Actions?

Text: Luke 16:15

Introduction

In the biblical sense, justification is a sovereign act of God. It is a forensic, or legal, term where a sinner is declared righteous before the tribunal of Heaven. To be justified is not to defend oneself; it is to be acquitted by God. It is the glorious opposite of condemnation.

However, in Luke 16:14–15, we encounter a perversion of this concept. The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard the teachings of Jesus and mocked Him. Jesus responded with a piercing indictment: “Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts.”

This spirit of self-justification did not die with the Pharisees. It is alive today. Human nature constantly seeks to find excuses to defend sin rather than finding the humility to repent of it. In our modern world:

• Alcoholism is often rebranded solely as a "disease" to remove moral responsibility.

• Lifestyle choices contrary to Scripture are excused as "natural conditions."

• Theft is argued away as "economic necessity."

• Violence is justified under a broad umbrella of "self-defense."

But we must remember: what man excuses, God may call an abomination when it contradicts His Holy Word. Today, we will examine the danger of self-justification and the only way a person can truly be right before God.

I. The Human Tendency Toward Self-Justification

Text: “Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts…” (Luke 16:15)

Man has been hiding from his sin since the Garden of Eden. We have an innate desire to appear righteous in the eyes of others, even when our hearts are uncleansed.

A. The Impossibility of Justification in the Face of Guilt

When Joseph’s brothers were confronted in Egypt, they cried out, “What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or how shall we clear [justify] ourselves?” (Genesis 44:16). The evidence of their perceived guilt was right there in their hands. Similarly, sin always leaves evidence before God. We may hide our motives from our neighbors, but we cannot hide them from the One whose eyes are like a flame of fire.

B. Justifying the Guilty is an Abomination

We must be careful not to call "good" what God calls "evil."

• Proverbs 17:15 tells us that "He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord."

• God strictly prohibits the use of lies or clever excuses to absolve the guilty (Exodus 23:7).

• To show partiality or preference to the ungodly is a direct sin against the character of God (Proverbs 18:5).

C. Religious Self-Justification

In Luke 10:29, an expert in the law, wanting to "justify himself," asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" He wasn't seeking truth; he was seeking a loophole to limit his responsibility to love others. Modern Christians do the same when they say:

• "I didn't know it was a sin" (ignoring the call to study).

• "Work prevents me from gathering with the saints" (ignoring the command in Hebrews 10:25).

Central Truth: Man can successfully deceive his peers, but he can never deceive the Heart-Searcher.

II. High Esteem in the Eyes of Man vs. Abomination to God

Text: “...for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” (Luke 16:15)

Society often builds monuments to the very things God finds loathsome. God does not judge based on public opinion polls; He judges based on His unchanging Word.

A. God Judges the Heart and the Scripture

Humanity exalts practices based on convenience, tradition, or emotion. But God examines whether those practices align with the pattern revealed in the Bible.

B. Examples of Practices Justified by Men

We see this conflict in religious practices that men hold in high regard but lack biblical authority:

1. Musical Instruments in Worship: While highly esteemed and emotionally moving to many, we must look to the New Testament pattern. God has commanded His people to sing and make melody in their hearts (Colossians 3:16), not to play on mechanical instruments.

2. Mandatory Tithing: Many religious leaders exalt the tithe as a requirement. However, the New Covenant instruction is for believers to give voluntarily, cheerfully, and according to how they have prospered (1 Corinthians 16:1–2).

C. The Danger of Operating Outside the Word

The standard is simple:

• If the Scripture authorizes a practice, we must do it.

• If the Scripture does not authorize it, we must refrain from it. To justify a practice purely because "it feels right" or "everyone does it" is to risk offering "strange fire" before the Lord.

Central Truth: Biblical justification requires biblical authority. Anything else is an abomination.

III. No One is Justified by Their Own Works

Texts: Titus 3:5; Romans 5:1

The greatest error of self-justification is the belief that we can earn our way into God's favor through our own merits.

A. Works Cannot Save

Many believe the "scales" of heaven will weigh their good deeds against their bad. But Titus 3:5 is clear: "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us." Our "good works" are stained by our sinful nature; they cannot serve as a payment for sin.

B. True Justification is by Faith

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:1).

• Faith is not an excuse for sin: True faith produces a heart of obedience.

• Self-justification is the enemy of repentance: As long as you are busy making excuses for your actions, you cannot repent of them.

Central Truth: Only God has the power to justify. Man’s only role is to stop making excuses, repent, and obey the Gospel.

Can Man Justify His Own Sins and Actions?

See Also

Conclusion

The human heart is an "excuse factory." We want to be right, but we don't want to be righteous. We want the title of "justified" without the transformation of the Spirit.

Jesus warns us today: stop trying to justify your sins before men. Stop renaming your transgressions to make them more socially acceptable. God knows your heart. He sees the love of money, the pride of life, and the unauthorized traditions.

Do not seek to justify yourself. Instead, flee to the only One who can declare you righteous—Jesus Christ—through a faith that obeys His Word.

What is the Older Women responsibility in the church?

January 25, 2026 Reflexions

Sermon: The Sacred Calling of Older Women

Text: Titus 2:3–5

Introduction

The Epistle to Titus was written with a specific, surgical purpose: to set in order what was remaining and to establish biblical structure within the local church (Titus 1:5). Paul understood that a healthy church is not merely built on administrative organization, but on the foundation of sound doctrine that translates into holy living.

In Chapter 2, Paul shifts from the qualifications of elders to the conduct of the congregation. He addresses five distinct groups, showing that the Gospel has practical implications for every stage of life. Today, we focus exclusively on one of the most vital, yet often overlooked, pillars of the church: the older women.

In the economy of God, "retirement" from spiritual service does not exist. Instead, maturity brings a heightened responsibility to embody the Gospel and pass it on to the next generation.

I. Reverence in Behavior: Living as in a Temple

Text: “The older women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness...” (v. 3)

The Greek word used here for "reverent" is hieroprepés, which literally means "fitting for a sacred place" or "becoming of a priest."

• A Living Sacrifice: Paul is suggesting that the older woman should carry herself with the same gravity and sanctity as a priestess officiating in a temple. Her life is her liturgy.

• Constant Awareness: This reverence is not just for Sunday mornings; it is a "porte"—an entire manner of life. It implies living with a constant consciousness that she belongs to the Lord.

• The Power of Presence: When a woman lives with this kind of dignity, her very presence commands respect and points others toward the holiness of God.

Central Truth: Spiritual maturity is evidenced by a life that honors God through consistent, quiet dignity and reverence.

II. Guardians of the Tongue: Not Slanderers

Text: “...not false accusers...” (v. 3)

Paul specifically warns against the sin of the tongue. The Greek word for "false accuser" is diabolos—the same word used for the Devil.

• The Satanic Nature of Gossip: When we slander or spread rumors, we are acting like the "Accuser of the Brethren." Gossip is not a "small sin"; it is a destructive force that ruins reputations and divides the Body of Christ.

• The Intent of the Heart: Even if a report is factually true, sharing it with a malicious intent or a spirit of "idle talk" (1 Timothy 5:13) is a sin.

• The Pious Alternative: The godly older woman uses her words to heal, to counsel, and to protect the unity of the church.

Central Truth: A godly woman builds up the community with her words; she does not tear it down with her tongue.

III. Sovereignty of Spirit: Not Enslaved to Wine

Text: “...not given to much wine...” (v. 3)

In the ancient world, as in the modern one, the temptation to find "comfort" in substances was real. Paul calls for sobriety and self-control.

• The Bondage of Vice: To be "given to" or "enslaved" to wine indicates a lack of self-mastery. Any addiction clouds the judgment and prevents a woman from fulfilling her spiritual duties.

• Spiritual Discernment: A mind clouded by substance cannot discern the will of God or offer wise counsel (Proverbs 31:4–5).

• A Stumbling Block: The older woman must be an example. Her freedom in Christ is never used as a license for excess that might cause a younger believer to stumble (Romanos 14:21).

Central Truth: Christian liberty is best expressed through self-control and a blameless testimony.

IV. Teachers of What is Good

Text: “...teachers of good things;” (v. 3)

The older women are called to be kalodidaskalos—instructors of that which is noble, excellent, and beautiful.

• The Sphere of Ministry: While the public preaching of the Word is reserved for the elders, the older women have a massive, indispensable ministry in the private and relational spheres of the church.

• Instruction by Example: The most profound "teaching" an older woman does is through the consistency of her own life. She teaches "the good" by living "the good."

• Wisdom and Discretion: Her teaching is marked by the quiet wisdom that comes from years of walking with the Lord.

Central Truth: An older woman fulfills her calling when she intentionally transmits biblical values through both her speech and her life.

V. The Mentorship Mandate: Training the Next Generation

Text: “That they may teach the young women...” (vv. 4–5)

A. The Nature of the Training

The word "teach" here (sōphronízō) means to "bring to one's senses" or to "train in sobriety and prudence." It is a discipleship of the mind and heart.

B. The Content of the Curriculum

Paul outlines a specific "curriculum" for the home:

1. To Love Their Husbands: A love marked by respect and the fulfillment of the marital covenant.

2. To Love Their Children: A love that includes nurture, discipline, and spiritual guidance.

3. To Be Discreet and Chaste: Maintaining purity in thought and conduct.

4. To Be Homemakers: Being diligent and "workers at home," finding the home to be the primary mission field.

5. To Be Good: Exhibiting kindness and a gentle spirit in all responsibilities.

6. To Be Obedient to Their Husbands: Honoring the divine order of headship within the family.

C. The Ultimate Purpose

“...that the word of God be not blasphemed.” This is the "Why." When a Christian home is in disarray, or when women do not live out these virtues, it gives the world a reason to mock the Gospel. Our lives are the greatest defense—or the greatest detraction—of the Word of God.

What is the Older Women responsibility in the church?

See Also

Conclusion

The "Aged Women" are not the "retired" members of the church; they are the spiritual backbone of the community. God has given you a high and holy calling. Your silver hair is a crown of glory when found in the way of righteousness (Proverbs 16:31).

May the older women of this church embrace this mandate, living as "temple-dwellers," guarding their tongues, mastering their desires, and pouring their lives into the generation that follows, so that the Word of God may be honored in every home.

The School of Christ: What to Unlearn and What to Master

January 24, 2026 Reflexions

The School of Christ: What to Unlearn and What to Master

Base Texts:

• Romans 12:2: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..."

• Philippians 4:9: "What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things..."

Proposition: The faithful Christian must intentionally reject what God condems and diligently learn what God approves.

I. The "Unlearning" List: Things We Must Reject

The world is a loud teacher. If we are not careful, we will find ourselves "graduating" in behaviors that distance us from the Father.

• Idleness: (1 Timothy 5:13; Proverbs 28:19) The world often celebrates "living for the weekend" or avoiding responsibility. However, idleness is the playground of sin. It leads to empty talk and a life without purpose. God calls us to a life of diligence and meaningful work.

• The Ways of Anger: (Proverbs 22:24–25; Efesios 4:31) Anger is contagious. If you spend your time with hot-tempered people, you will "learn their ways." We must unlearn the habit of reacting with bitterness or violence and instead put away all clamor and malice.

• Worldly Customs: (Jeremiah 10:2–5; Romans 12:1–2) Israel often failed because they wanted to look like the nations around them. Today, the pressure to "fit in" with secular culture or syncretic religious practices is immense. We are called to be a peculiar people, not a carbon copy of the world.

• Human Reasoning: (Proverbs 19:27; Isaiah 55:8) Our logic is often flawed by self-interest. God says, "My thoughts are not your thoughts." We must unlearn the habit of relying solely on "common sense" or secular philosophy and start reasoning through the lens of Scripture.

• Expertise in Evil: (Romans 16:19; Jeremiah 4:22) The world teaches us how to "get ahead" through deceit or how to enjoy "dark" entertainment. Paul’s instruction is clear: be wise about what is good, but innocent about what is evil.

II. The "Learning" List: What to Master

Transformation happens when we fill the space left by unlearning with the virtues of Heaven.

1. The Fear of the Lord

This is not a "scared" fear, but a profound reverence that leads us to hate what God hates (Proverbs 8:13). Without this, our spiritual education has no foundation.

2. Practical Goodness and Humility

• Doing Good: We must learn to be "zealous for good works" (Tito 3:14). It is a skill developed through practice.

• Humility: Jesus said, "Learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart" (Matthew 11:29). Humility is the antidote to the pride that causes most of our conflicts.

3. The Secret of Contentment

(Philippians 4:11–13) Paul didn't just "feel" content; he learned it. Contentment is a spiritual muscle that grows when we trust that Christ is our sufficient strength, regardless of our bank account or our circumstances.

4. Holiness, Justice, and Love

• Holiness: This is the standard of the Kingdom—living a life set apart for God’s use (1 Peter 1:15).

• Love: This is the "new commandment" (Juan 13:34–35). It is the visible evidence that we have actually passed the course.

III. The Final Exam: Practice What You Learn

A student who memorizes the textbook but fails the lab has not truly learned.

• Philippians 4:9 tells us to practice what we have heard and seen.

• James 1:22 warns that hearing without doing is a form of self-deception.

The goal of our "spiritual education" is not to become "smarter" than our neighbors, but to become more like our Savior. Obedience is the only way to confirm that our learning is real.

The School of Christ: What to Unlearn and What to Master

Conclusion

We are all learning from someone. Every movie we watch, every conversation we have, and every habit we form is a "lesson."

Are you learning the world's cynicism, or are you learning Christ's compassion? Are you unlearning the pride of your past, or are you letting it grow? Let us commit to being lifelong students in the School of Christ, rejecting the curriculum of the world and embracing the wisdom of the Word.