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Philippians: Battle of Our Thoughts

Radiant Church Visalia
Radiant Church Visalia
Episode • Nov 20, 2011 • 1h 10m

Scripture References: Ephesians 6, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12, John 3:19, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Proverbs 16:32, Romans 12:2

Intro:

  • The challenge of living a Christ-like life.
  • The reality of spiritual warfare and the enemies we face: the world, the flesh, and the devil.
  • Focus on the mindset of worldliness and its opposition to Christ.

Key Points:

  • Worldliness as a Mindset:
    • A focus on the here and now, the material, and appearances.
    • Neglecting the spiritual and eternal perspective.
    • A mindset that opposes spiritual growth and Christ-likeness.
  • The Influence of the World:
    • Commercials, media, and cultural messages shape our desires and longings.
    • They often promote self-absorption, pleasure-seeking, and consumerism.
    • This influence can be subtle and pervasive.
  • The Battle for Our Affections:
    • Our desires, longings, and loves drive our behavior.
    • The world seeks to capture our affections and turn them away from Christ.
    • Discipleship involves shaping our affections toward Christ.
  • Taking Thoughts Captive:
    • 2 Corinthians 10:3-5: We must demolish arguments and take captive every thought.
    • This is a battle for our minds, and we must be vigilant.
    • We have authority through Christ to fight against these influences.
  • The Nature of Deception:
    • 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12: Satan uses deception and wickedness to lead people astray.
    • People perish because they refuse to love the truth.
    • The world often celebrates evil and hates what is good.
  • The Call to Transformation:
    • We are called to be transformed into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18).
    • This involves a change in our thinking, our desires, and our behavior.
    • True discipleship is more than just intellectual assent; it's a transformation of our whole being.
  • The Importance of the Word of God:
    • The Bible reveals Jesus and shapes our understanding of God.
    • It is a source of truth and guidance for living a Christ-like life.
    • We must approach the Word with humility and a hunger to know Jesus.
  • The Need for the Holy Spirit:
    • The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a Christ-like life.
    • He helps us to discern truth from error and to resist the world's influence.
    • We need the Holy Spirit to transform our desires and affections.

Conclusion:

  • We are in a battle for our thoughts, our affections, and our lives.
  • The world, the flesh, and the devil are constantly trying to lead us astray.
  • We must resist these influences and set our minds on Christ.
  • Discipleship is a call to transformation, not just information.

Call to Action:

  • Be aware of the world's influence on your thinking and desires.
  • Actively engage in spiritual warfare, taking captive every thought.
  • Set your mind on things above (Colossians 3:1-4).
  • Pursue a deeper relationship with Christ and allow Him to shape your affections.
  • Rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to live a Christ-like life.
  • Make the Word of God the foundation of your life.

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