January 1, 2006

2 Corinthians

A Disciplined Life for 2006
Steve Lane

A. Introduction

Behind the sacrificial giving of the Macedonian Christians is a disciplined life, not just an isolated good deed.

How did they hear the call; how were they ready and hose did they have such joy in the sacrifice?

B. The example of the Macedonians

2 Corinthians 8: 1 Grace to match the task
2 Corinthians 8: 2 No excuses
2 Corinthians 8: 3 - 4 Grace again, its not all about me
2 Corinthians 8: 5 Discipline always involves seeking God first, serving the body
2 Corinthians 8: 6 Discipline involves following through; completing
2 Corinthians 8: 7 Capitalize on the strengths and build up the weak areas - obey

C. More thoughts on discipline

Elisabeth Elliot -- Discipline, the glad surrender

Whatever our plans might have been for ourselves, God's plan now takes precedence.
The work of God is appointed
Have you heard His call? Are you forever at His disposal, saying yes to whatever is His will?
So discipline too requires faith

2 Timothy 2: 4
Many times, our thinking is just backwards. We think of God as available to us, when it is us who are to be at His disposal.

2 Corinthians 5: 15
We are to put ourselves daily at His disposal
We have the time to do EVERYTHING God has for us to do each day.

D.
Conclusion

We are not just spiritual beings.

Have you heard His call?