Discipline: What is it?
Introduction:
Life in America IS about comfort. If something
is uncomfortable we tend to avoid it or get rid of it. The uncomfortable is
replaced w/the more comfortable. Sometimes it is hard to imagine that some
discomforts are in our best interest: Healthy diet & exercise, medical
treatments, changing lifestyles for the better, etc. are a few things that come
to mind. Think of how salvation contains elements of great comfort. A few
examples are the destruction of guilt, forgiveness, mercy; and grace. But it also
contains things that are not comfortable (Repentance and confession of sin). To
do the things that are uncomfortable requires discipline. While it is
unpleasant, it is necessary – since an undisciplined life leads to a
person’s destruction.
I. The disciplined Christian is described
in 1 Cor. 9:24-27
A.
Paul is one of the greatest examples of a disciplined
life.
1.
Acts 9 – face to face experience w/the Savior.
Obeys gospel & begins teaching the lost. Went from violence; insolence to….
Gal. 2:20
2.
Paul let Jesus determine WHO he was and WHAT he did.
B.
1 Cor. 9:24-27
II. Discipline involves
self-control.
A.
Some versions use “temperate” here.
1.
to exercise self-restraint; to be in control of ones
passions & appetites.
B.
During Paul’s day – runners were to be temperate
in their preparation for approaching games. Runners subjected themselves to
rules of their trainer.
C.
Our trainer is Jesus! He wants us to compete for an
imperishable crown!
1.
Mt. 16:24; Col. 3:5-11; Gal. 5:24
D.
We do away w/these things since we’re striving for an
incorruptible crown!
E.
Are we fully committed to exercising self control?
1.
No half hearted service – Rev. 3:15-16
2.
1 Cor. 9:25 – self control must be evident in
ALL aspects of life!
F.
Self control must be continuous.
III. Discipline requires
decisiveness.
A.
1 Cor. 9:26 - - run …as not w/o aim.
1.
We are heavenward bound. Phil. 3:13-14 – NIV; Pro.
4:25-26
B.
To best understand decisiveness – look at Jesus.
1.
Isa. 50:7 – set face like flint. Denotes
courage; firmness; resolution
C.
Heb. 12:1-3 – must keep our mind on where we are
going.
D.
Every deed; decision; choice we make either moves us
closer to God or farther away from Him. 1 Cor. 9:26 – where are you
aiming?
IV. Discipline requires
effectiveness.
A.
1 Cor. 9:26-27. Paul did not waste his energy.
1.
Eph. 6:10-13 – we can’t win the fight on our
own!
2.
9:27 – Paul fought himself first.
B.
Disciplined himself by
bringing every thought & evil inclination into subjection.
C.
Self is often the greatest enemy we face.
Conclusion:
A.
Nothing wrong w/desiring to be comfortable.
B.
If you want to lead a disciplined life: Be temperate;
decisive; effective!
1.
There will not be anyone in heaven that is not
self-disciplined.
C.
How is your heart? Give it to God.