The podcast discusses the importance of self-control through the story of Jesus healing a demon-possessed man. It explores the problem of self-control, the counterfeit solutions, and the real self-control. The speaker highlights the need for Christ's power to transform lives and emphasizes the role of vision, discipline, and accountability in upholding self-discipline.
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Quick takeaways
Self-control is a result of Jesus' resurrection power transforming chaotic tendencies into composure and discipline.
Relying solely on willpower as a solution to self-control can lead to pride and hinder spiritual growth.
True self-control stems from a foundation in Christ, prioritizing spiritual growth over personal achievements and emphasizing reliance on God's grace.
Deep dives
Growing in Self-Control: Embracing Jesus' Transformational Power
Exercise of self-control is integral to spiritual growth, akin to the transformation of the demoniac into a composed individual sitting at Jesus' feet. Through Jesus' resurrection power, self-control manifests in our lives, replacing chaotic tendencies with clarity and discipline, aligning us with His will.
The Fallacy of Willpower in Self-Improvement
Willpower as a superficial solution to self-control neglects the deeper spiritual implications, often steering individuals towards pride and reliance on personal discipline. Provision of a counterfeit remedy, willpower obscures the transformative influence of Jesus' power within, perpetuating a cycle of bondage to the flesh.
The Deceptive Nature of Moral Reformation
Moral reformation devoid of a foundation in Christ leads to self-righteousness and idolization of personal achievements, steering individuals away from reliance on God's grace. Pursuits of success or humility without recognition of Christ's lordship reinforce bondage to the flesh, distorting true self-control.
Vision, Discipline, and Accountability in Self-Control
Achieving self-control involves envisioning the eternal prize of pleasing God, prioritizing spiritual growth over fleeting desires. Discipline in studying and applying God's Word, coupled with mutual accountability in Christian community, empowers individuals to resist urgent impulses and align actions with their foundational faith.
Learning to Turn Urgent Impulses Towards Godly Vision
Self-control hinges on redirecting immediate urges towards eternal goals of glorifying God, grounded in a deep understanding of Scripture and commitment to disciplined application. Cultivating a spiritual support system fosters resilience against transient temptations, aligning personal choices with the enduring truth of God's word.
When Jesus Christ came into the life of the demon-possessed man in Mark 5, it says the man sat at Jesus’ feet, clothed and in his right mind. That’s the result of Jesus’ resurrection power: self-control.
All of us who look fairly polished on the outside realize, in many cases, our spirits are completely out of control. We look pretty well-manicured, but on the inside, we desperately need to have Christ’s power come into our lives so we can sit as his feet, clothed, and in our right minds.
Let’s look at 1) the problem of self-control, 2) the counterfeit solution, and 3) the real self-control.
This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on April 15, 1990. Series: Fruit of the Spirit. Scripture: Ephesians 2:1–3; Luke 11:14–26; 1 Corinthians 9:23–27.
Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.
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