Sermon Notes 111313WED

Philippians 4:7-8

Thoughts that Transform Us

November 13, 2013

Statement of Truth:

Truth is easier to retain than it is to release. Only when it is released do I find real freedom.

A.     INWARD tools God has given to us:

1.     “Pureness” – morally clean; life and motive

2.     “Knowledge’ – comprehension of God’s truth and His ways

3.     “Long-suffering” – patience with difficult people; enables one to avoid retaliation when opposed.

B.     OUTWARD tools God has given us:

1.     “Kindness” – goodness put in action

2.     “In the Holy Spirit” – empowers for effective service

3.     “Genuine Love” – genuine and sincere love

4.     “The Word of Truth” – the message from God which was the basis for all of Paul’s ministry; all His promises

5.     “Power of God” – divine energizing which lifts the labors of the ministry above mere human effort

6.     “Armor of Righteousness” – spiritual armor for ever sort of struggle; defensively and offensively; sword – shield gave complete protection against the enemy’s assault

I.        THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BIBLICAL MIND

A.    BUILT ON TRUTH v8

B.    BUILT ON HONOR (NOBLE)

C.     BUILT ON DIVINE STANDARD.  (“JUST”)

D.    BUILT ON PURITY

Quotable?  “If a person once lets his thoughts wander down some impure path, hidden legions joyfully emerge and stampede, pushing the mind into all kinds of sin.”

-John Phillips