Date:
July 19-20, 2021Testy Critics and Dull Disciples
In his sermon on Matthew 16:1–12, Pastor Chuck Swindoll helps you avoid dullness and deception in your journey so you can be spiritually whole.
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Leadership
Vision, integrity, articulation, courage, and a thick skin—all are the basic requirements for leadership. Other requirements could be added; for the follower of Christ, godliness is essential. Whether in government, business, education, ministry, or the home, these six traits form the foundation of successful Christian leadership. These qualities do not come through osmosis but through disciplined study and practice, often marked by failure. However, the greatest leaders are not deterred by hardship and failure. Theirs is a high calling with deep responsibility.
If you are in a position of leadership—and chances are good that you are—you may need to sharpen your vision for the future, strengthen your integrity, and find new sources of courage. Insight for Living, by introducing you to godly leaders of the past, is committed to encouraging you in this pursuit, as well as challenging you to grow in godliness.
Someone's Always in Your Corner
When you accept Christ as your Saviour you have someone who is always your advocate; always in your corner. And when you forgive those who hurt you, you model Christ. And you become a little more like Him.
Studying Hard
God offers to each of us at least two great moments in life: the moment when we were born—though we might not wish to dwell on the number of birthdays from that day to this—and the moment we realize why we were born.
Respecting Authority
Rebellious; selfish; litigious: each an apt description of modern society. Gone are the days, or so it seems, of teachable spirits, humility, and respect for authority.
Standing Alone
History is replete with the power of one; with those who owned the rare commodity of moral courage—those daring individuals who were “willing to brave the disapproval of their fellows, the censure of their colleagues, and the wrath of their society.” Esther was one of those.
Taking Responsibility
Nehemiah was known and respected for his diligence as a contractor and builder, while his contemporary, Ezra was a dedicated scribe and priest.
The Glory of God
Our belief or disbelief in God adds nothing to nor takes anything away from His glory, any more than our sight or hearing commands the sun and the birds. But if we were suddenly struck by disobedience and self-conceit to steal God's glory, even then He would remain undiminished. God's glory is His and His alone, and with no other does He share it.
God Humbles a Proud Heart
Paul went from a Judaistic terrorist to a chosen instrument of God. How could that be? Because God is in the process of cutting down a tall poppy, bringing him to his knees.
Every Pastor’s Job Profile
Paul wrote to Timothy without panic and with purpose. The days were depraved and dangerous, and Timothy needed to read Paul’s never-to-be-forgotten final charge in order to complete his ministry. Pastors today who carry on the ministry, regardless of age, location, or culture, need to hear and heed that same timely and timeless charge.
God-Breathed Truth
No one enters a race hoping to come in second. Runners run to win. Paul ran to win (2 Timothy 4:7-8). And he wanted the same for Timothy—for him to finish well. But how? Second Timothy 3:14–17 provides the answer.
