Self-ControlADD TO YOUR FAITH…

(2 Pet. 1:5-9)

Previous Characteristics faith - conviction of truth of divine things virtue - courage to choose right from wrong knowledge - understanding of God’s word

Introduction self-control (egkrateia) – mastery over one’s desires and passions◦ a war within each of us, spirit against flesh, flesh against spirit (1 Pet. 2:11)(Gal. 5:16-17)

◦ may have some level of faith/virtue/knowledge, yet still slaves of sin (Rom. 7:14-24)

there is hope for those in Christ (Rom. 7:25)◦ set free from sin by the gospel (Rom. 6:17-18)

The Role of Self-Control self-control essential in denying oneself and putting God first (Lk. 9:23)(Mk. 12:30-31)◦ submission is not natural or easy (Mt. 7:13-14)

◦ but we are stronger for it (1 Pet. 5:6-9)

also defines whether we give to temptation◦ how well we are able to control our mind and body will determine our eternal home (2 Pet. 2:19-20)(James 1:12)

Growing in Self-Control

know self-control is needed and possible◦ (Mt. 26:41)(Rom. 7:25)

set our minds on spiritual things◦ (Rom. 8:5-8)(Ps. 119:97-104)(Phil. 4:8)

do not surround self with stumbling blocks◦ (1 Cor. 15:33)

exercise spirit to choose right (1 Tim. 4:7-8)

Conclusion the war for self-control is the struggle to bring the flesh under the spirit’s rule◦ while we will never be able to fully ignore sin, mastery of self will bring peace to our lives

even if we have lost a few battles in the war for our soul, let us not lose hope◦ there is forgiveness for the child of God and the strength of Christ to help persevere in our fight