1 Samuel 14:24-52 | One Bad Apple

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Slides:

Theme: Legalism is a heart condition that overflows in our words and actions.

Pastors and parents are called to lead from gentleness.

Psalm 19:8-10

The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. 10 They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.

Psalm 66:18

If I regard wickedness in my heart, The Lord will not hear;

Words often reveal the heart and character of a person.

Matthew 12:35-37

"The good man brings out of [his] good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of [his] evil treasure what is evil. 36 "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. 37 "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

Legalism – an overemphasis on keeping rules and regulations as a means of salvation and/or spiritual growth

The legalist:

• Seeks approval in oaths, promises, and performance.

• Is caught up in his/her “rightness.”

• Struggles with the “spirit” of situations and circumstances.

Legalism:

• Often mistakes victories for personal, spiritual fruitfulness.

• Is often used as cover for a sinful heart condition.

• Is manifested in rules without relationship that lead to rebellion.

• Cultivates foolish commands that can lead to temptation to break obvious commands.

• Creates a dangerous state of spiritual independence.

Colossians 2:20-23

If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, 21 "Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!" 22 (which all [refer] [to] things destined to perish with use)--in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? 23 These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, [but are] of no value against fleshly indulgence.