The Cost of Christianity

Introduction:

It is interesting to observe parallels between socio/political attitudes and religious attitudes. Consider that many in our society want all the benefits without the work that goes along with it. What about our religious expectations?  How many expect a no cost salvation? Does scripture teach there is a price associated with acquiring eternal life? Yes!  But…

      I.         There are some dilemma’s we have created, however.

                      A.         By emphasizing the responsibility of godly obedience for years, we have created a false impression in the minds of many Christians.

                                        1.         Too many are convinced they can earn their salvation.

                                                           a)         Self righteousness

                                                          b)         Too many are plagued by constant guilt.

                                                           c)         Too many Christians are victims of hopelessness.

                                        2.         When we properly emphasize that we can never earn our salvation (Ephesians 2:4-10), some are so relieved that they go to an opposite and equally wrong extreme.

                                                           a)         Some refuse all spiritual responsibility.

      1. We desperately need a sound understanding of salvation.

                                                           a)         We need to understand we are saved by God's grace.

                                                          b)         Yet, it is faith that expresses itself in appreciative, grateful obedience.

    1. Many Christians are becoming materialists, sensualists, or both.
      1. A materialist is one whose number one priority in life is the material.
      2. A sensualist is a person who believes life's highest priority is satisfying physical wants and desires.
    2. We also face a dilemma in that many believe we can get by with the minimums of service & still be pleasing to God.
      1. We cannot "buy" God's grace,
      2. But…it takes more than the minimums to continue in that grace.
  1. A Look at 1 Peter 1.
    1. Peter called attention to the great blessings given the Christian found only in Jesus Christ.
      1. 1:3 - Note the stress on our hope.
      2. 1:4 - Note the inheritance.
      3. 1:5 - Note the protection.
    2. Consider the beautiful way Peter emphasizes the beauty of these blessings in verses 10-12.
      1. 1:10 - Christians right now enjoy the finest spiritual privileges God has yet revealed.
    3. Pay particular attention to verses 13-19. The price of these privileges.
      1. 1:13a - Gird up your minds.
      2. 1:13b - Be sober.
      3. 1:13c - Set your hope on the grace in Christ.
      4. 1:14 - he said live righteously in your conduct.
      5. 1:15 - We will accept the responsibility to be holy in our behavior
      6. 1:17 - we must realize the seriousness of our commitment.
      7. 1:18-19 - If we accept His redemption, we must live in awareness of what it cost Him.

Conclusion:

A.     How serious are you about being saved? Is it the most important goal in your life?