We’ve all come across sayings of Jesus that catch our attention with their striking language or controversial ideas. Pastor Christian Chambliss dives into one such teaching in Matthew 18. Here, Jesus gives a powerful lesson on the severity of sin, using hyperbolic language to make His point. He isn’t suggesting literal self-mutilation but emphasizing the critical need to address sin at its root.
As we explore this passage, we’ll also uncover important lessons about humility, self-denial, and maintaining an eternal perspective. Jesus uses these teachings to show us the great impact of sin and how radical actions are sometimes necessary to protect our faith. These powerful messages go beyond the immediate questions the disciples asked and offer deeper insights into living a life that honors God.
Understanding these profound teachings helps us navigate our daily lives with purpose and clarity. By delving into Pastor Christian’s message, we open ourselves to transformative truths that can guide our steps and strengthen our faith journey. So, let’s turn to Matthew 18 together, and discover what it means to “Cut It Out” as we seek to follow Jesus fully.
Understanding the Severity of Sin
What Jesus Really Meant
In Matthew 18:8, Jesus uses strong language, saying, “If your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away.” He doesn’t mean we should literally cut off parts of our body. Instead, He uses this hyperbole to show how serious sin is. Sin can destroy our lives and separate us from God, making it crucial to address it boldly.
The Dangers of Unrepentant Sin
When we do not repent for our sins, they grow and cause more harm. Unrepentant sin can destroy relationships, create distance between us and God, and numb our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. It acts like a disease that spreads and consumes the good in our lives. Jesus wants us to understand this to protect our faith.
How Sin Affects Our Relationship With God
Sin separates us from God. It creates a barrier that makes it hard to connect with Him. When we sin and don’t seek forgiveness, we start drifting away from God. This separation makes it harder to live in His peace and guidance. Fighting sin fiercely helps us stay close to God and live in His love.
Embracing Self-Denial
The Concept of Self-Denial in Christianity
Self-denial means giving up what we want now for something more important later. In our faith, self-denial means choosing God’s ways over our desires. It’s deciding that what God wants for us is better than what we want in the moment. By practicing self-denial, we grow closer to God and build stronger faith.
Practical Steps for Practicing Self-Denial
1. Identify Temptations: Recognize what leads you to sin.
2. Set Boundaries: Avoid situations that tempt you.
3. Seek Accountability: Find someone to support you in your journey.
4. Pray Regularly: Ask God for strength to deny selfish desires.
Aligning Short-Term Actions With Long-Term Goals
To practice self-denial effectively, align your short-term actions with your long-term spiritual goals. This means making daily choices that reflect your commitment to faith. If you focus on the ultimate goal of hearing “Well done, my good and faithful servant,” it becomes easier to make sacrifices now that honor God.
Living with an Eternal Perspective
The Importance of an Eternal Mindset
Jesus teaches that thinking about eternity changes how we live now. When we focus on heaven, we remember that life is more than just our current struggles and goals. An eternal mindset helps us make better choices that honor God and prepare us for the future He promises.
The Dual Destinies: Heaven and Hell
The Bible speaks clearly about two eternal destinations: heaven and hell. Heaven is a place of joy with God, while hell is eternal separation from Him. Understanding these destinies urges us to live in a way that points us toward heaven. Our daily actions and decisions matter because they affect our eternal future.
Finding Purpose in Daily Struggles
When we see life through an eternal lens, our struggles gain new meaning. The Apostle Paul reminds us that our “light and momentary troubles” are building us an “eternal glory” far greater than we can imagine. This perspective helps us bear hardships, knowing they have a purpose and there’s a reward waiting for us.
Taking Radical Actions for Faith
Why Radical Actions Are Necessary
Sometimes, mild approaches to change aren’t enough. Jesus teaches us to take bold steps to protect our faith from sin. Radical actions may be challenging, but they ensure we stay on the path God has set for us. These actions show our commitment and seriousness about living righteously.
Examples of Actions to Protect Your Faith
1. Remove Temptations: If something consistently leads you to sin, distance yourself from it.
2. Join a Support Group: Surround yourself with people who encourage your faith.
3. Daily Devotions: Make time each day for prayer and Bible reading.
4. Set Clear Boundaries: Be firm about what you will and won’t do, based on God’s standards.
The Rewards of Radical Faith Steps
Taking bold steps for faith comes with great rewards. Removing sin from our lives helps us feel closer to God. We experience His peace and joy more fully. Moreover, living faithfully ensures that when we meet God, we will hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and enjoy an eternity in His presence.
Conclusion
Following Jesus’ teachings calls for understanding the severity of sin, embracing self-denial, and taking radical actions to safeguard our faith. When we live with an eternal perspective, we’re better equipped to handle life’s struggles and remain steadfast in our spiritual journey. It’s crucial to align our immediate actions with our long-term goal of pleasing God.
Understanding these principles enriches our faith, showing us the importance of deliberate action against sin. Every choice we make can either draw us closer to God or push us further away. Armed with this knowledge, we can approach our daily lives with intention and reverence.
At Radiant Church, we strive to help individuals grow in their faith and live victoriously. Let’s journey together towards living a life that reflects the love and teachings of Jesus. Visit our church in Surprise, AZ, to find out more about how we can support you in your spiritual walk.