Boasting That Brings Blessing!
The sermon emphasizes the importance of boasting in the cross of Christ and living a life empowered by His resurrection.
Theodore Epp emphasizes that the crucifixion of Christ is not merely a historical event but a transformative way of life that leads to resurrection and freedom from sin. He contrasts the self-glory sought by the Judaizers through fleshly accomplishments with the true glory found in the cross of Christ. Epp warns against living a Christian life based on fleshly efforts, urging believers to find their boast in the crucified and risen Savior. The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on what they truly boast about in their lives.
Text
Galatians 6:11-18
It is remarkable to realize that the crucifixion is a way of life, not just a way of death. Christ's crucifixion was not the end of His redemptive work, for He arose from the grave and provided us with the resurrection life.
Romans 6:7 says, "But he that is dead [has died] is freed from sin." This means that the person who has died is free from the claims, power, slavery and allurements of sin.
The basis for Paul's glorying is the cross of Christ. The Judaizers had sought their own glory, but this led only to failure. The kind of self-life they lived through imposing rules and regulations ended in accomplishments that produced self-glory.
But all of these self-accomplishments were reached in the sphere of the flesh nature and therefore ended in pride.
This has always been a danger facing Christians, and it is no less today. There is too much Christian life and testimony on a fleshly level.
Paul's boast and joy and delight was in the One whom the world had crucified. God set His hand of approval on His Son, who was crucified, by raising Him from the dead.
What is your boast today?
"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts" (Gal. 5:24).
Sermon Outline
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I
- Understanding the significance of the crucifixion
- The resurrection as a continuation of Christ's work
- Freedom from sin through death
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II
- The danger of self-glory in Christian life
- The impact of Judaizers on early Christians
- The contrast between fleshly accomplishments and spiritual glory
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III
- Paul's source of joy and boasting
- The importance of focusing on Christ's sacrifice
- Personal reflection on one's own boast
Key Quotes
“The crucifixion is a way of life, not just a way of death.” — Theodore Epp
“The basis for Paul's glorying is the cross of Christ.” — Theodore Epp
“What is your boast today?” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Evaluate what you boast about in your life and ensure it aligns with your faith in Christ.
- Seek to live out the resurrection life by rejecting sin and embracing your identity in Christ.
- Be aware of the dangers of pride and self-reliance in your Christian walk.