A Biblical Heart

Introduction:

Hope you have enjoyed our series of lessons this month. We have talked about a church that is just a church. This church is committed to having a Biblical identity. We are also committed to a Biblical mission. Today we will discuss two things: Brownsburg Church of Christ works to have a Biblical Heart and our dedication to having a Biblical Spirit.

I. We work to have a Biblical Heart.

A.         Mk. 12:28-31 – Jesus spoke to the heart in this verse.  Note 2 things our heart needs to be full of:

1.          Love of God

2.         Loving others as self.

3.          A church that has a Biblical heart will have an atmosphere of love & warmth.

B.          Christians here demonstrate love for God through their obedience to God.

1.          Jhn. 14:15 – Love Jesus?  Keep His commandments!

2.         1 John 5:1-4 - Saved by grace – not through works of our own devising – by through keeping God’s commandments

C.          John 13:34-35 - Christians here demonstrate love for Jesus by loving each other.

1.          Heb. 12:5-6, 11 – a Biblical heart learns from chastisement & discipline.

II. We are committed to a Biblical Spirit.

A.       2 Tim. 1:7 – God has given us a spirit of power, love, and discipline.

1.            Our power is found w/in the gospel!  Rom. 1:16.  We believe in the power of Christ’s good news to change lives!

2.           We help people learn to live for Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. 5:15, 17-20

B.        Love is seen through our correcting error when necessary. We are a family.

1.            We are governed by Christ’s principles in Mt. 18:15-17

2.           Mt. 5:23-24 – someone has something against us?  We go to them.

3.            We also put our love into practice by forgiving each other.

4.           Mt. 6:14-15; Lk. 17:10

C.        Having a biblical spirit is seen on our emphasis on spiritual growth.

1.            1 Cor. 9:25-27 – we’re in a race to heaven.

2.           2 Tim. 2:15 - we encourage each member to be disciplined in the area of Bible study! Must be diligent to study & learn

3.            Heb. 10:24-25 – we encourage each member to assemble regularly.

4.           Acts 2:42 – fellowship w/devotion.

1.          Christians should be devoted to God; family; and each other.

2.         Christianity is more than a hobby or a pastime – it has to become part of who we are. A lifestyle.

Conclusion:

A.       What are you looking for in the right church?

1.          Commitment to a Biblical identity; Biblical heart; Biblical Spirit?

2.         A Church That’s Just a Church?

B.        1^st Century church does exist in the 21^st century!

C.        You can be a part – 1 Cor. 12:13; Acts 2:38