Series – Vital Signs
Series #6 – Goodness
October 8-9, 2005
TEXT – Matthew 19:16-26 TLB
INTRODUCTION
Goodness is certainly about activity and behavior but it’s more about motive.
•… for God alone is truly good. — Matthew 19:17 (TLB)
• And there is not a single man in all the earth who is always good and never sins.
—Ecclesiastes 7:20 (TLB)
• For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are-- yet was without sin. —Hebrews 4:15 (NIV)
• Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love — Ephesians 1:4 (NKJ)
· …being Faithful to God’s commands.
• … if you keep the commandments. — Matthew 19:17 (TLB)
• His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' — Matthew 25:21 (NIV)
· ...being Obedient to God’s next command
• … if you want to be perfect, go and _____________________ (you fill in the blank) — Matthew 19:21(TLB)
• The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us do what is right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone. — 2 Tim 3:16-17 (TLB)
· …God’s eternal work in our lives!
•… with God, everything is possible. — Matthew 19:26 (TLB)
• And I am sure that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns. — Philippians 1:6 (TLB)
CONCLUSION
• Living a consistent life of goodness will only happen as we allow the Spirit of God who is goodness to be our example and source of life.
Abbreviations
(NIV) New International Version
(NKJ) New Kings James Version
(TEV) Today’s English Version
(TLB) The Living Bible