One of the most difficult relationships to navigate is our relationship with an enemy. We talked about how God calls us as Christians to do what seems to be impossible - love our enemies. This requires the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit.
Big Idea: Don't be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
We are commanded not to:
- Repay evil for evil
- Avenge ourselves
Result: If we do these things, we will be overcome by evil!
We are commanded to:
- Give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all
- Live peaceably with all (so far as it depends on us)
- Leave vengeance to God
- Love our enemies in practical ways
Result: If we do these things, we will overcome evil with good!
God is passionate about us loving our enemies, because He loved us when we were His enemies. That is the heart of the gospel!
High School - Proverbs 9
The "Tale of 2 feasts"
Big Idea: The skillful, Christ-like individual will choose the nourishment of wisdom instead of the initial burst of sin.
The Nourishment of Wisdom v. 1-6
Rich - meat and wine
*spiritual enjoyment stands head and shoulders above the physical enjoyment of sin
Psalm 16:11
Authentic - God built and designed wisdom, Lady folly simply stole her food.
Difficult --> Enjoyment
*Living a wise life requires difficult sacrifice, but the future holds enjoyment.
Wisdom Interlude vs. 7-12
*Effects of wisdom
*Heart of wisdom - fear and knowledge of the Lord
The Initial Burst of Sin v. 13-18
Chintzy - sinful folly is cheap imitation, yet Satan masquerades it as sumptuous fare
Tantalizing - It is undeniable that sin is attractive, just like fast food ads. But the food in those pictures is actually fake and inedible. Sin is likewise rotten, yet appears attractive.
Fraudulent - Sinful pleasure is hijacked happiness, it is a robbery of something good God created.
Enjoyable --> Difficult
Sin is enjoyable at first, but not only leads to difficulty but death. This is the exact opposite of wisdom.
We must follow v. 10 -
Fear God!
Know God!
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