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  OUR FIRST PRIORITY
  by Andrew Murray
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Summary: The sermon emphasizes the critical importance of making
humility the foremost priority in our spiritual lives, reflecting the
nature of Jesus and enhancing our relationship with God.

Topics: "Moral Decay", "Gospel Redemption"
Scripture References: Psalm 50:18, Isaiah 9:2, Mark 14:10, Luke 11:48, Acts 8:1, Romans 1:32, Romans 5:8

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DESCRIPTION
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Pastor Ray Stedman delves into the concept of 'suneudokeo,' which means
to give hearty approval or consent to something, as seen in various
Bible verses where individuals approve of sinful deeds. The preacher
highlights the dire moral state of humanity, emphasizing the rebellion
against God's ordinances and the fellowship of evil among wrongdoers. He
points out that the ultimate example of giving hearty approval is seen
in the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot and the psalmist's accusation
of those who associate with wrongdoers. The sermon underscores the
deepening darkness of society when individuals celebrate evil, leading
to disaster and degeneracy, ultimately necessitating the intervention of
the gospel of Jesus Christ for redemption.

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CONTENT
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If this be the root of the tree, its nature must be seen in every branch
and leaf and fruit. If humility be the first, the all-inclusive grace of
the life of Jesus - if humility be the secret of His atonement - then
the health and strength of our spiritual lives will entirely depend upon
our giving this grace first priority in our lives. We need to make
humility the chief thing we admire in Him, the chief thing we ask of
Him, and the one thing for which we sacrifice all else. Is it any wonder
that the Christian life is so often feeble and fruitless when the very
root of Christ's life is neglected - is unknown?

We must have a humility in which we rest in nothing less than the end
and death of self.

A humility which gives up all the honor of men, as Jesus did, to seek
the honor that comes from God alone. A humility which absolutely makes
and counts itself nothing so that God may be all and the Lord alone may
be exalted.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/andrew-murray/our-first-priority/
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