Facing Warfare Against The Soul
Warren Henderson teaches that believers must abstain from fleshly lusts and submit to God's ordained authorities to protect their souls and glorify God amid spiritual warfare.
This sermon delves into 1 Peter chapter two, focusing on the theme of facing warfare against the soul. It emphasizes the importance of abstaining from fleshly lusts, following the example of Christ in suffering patiently for wrongdoing, and submitting to God's ordained authority. The message highlights the need to trust God's justice, prioritize behavior over asserting facts when wronged, and expect opposition while staying on target in imitating Christ.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Believer's Identity and Warfare
- Believers are strangers and pilgrims in the world
- Abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul
- The soul is the battleground of spiritual warfare
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II. The Importance of Honorable Conduct
- Live honorably among unbelievers
- Good works can lead to glorifying God
- Respond to hostility with kindness to reflect Christ
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III. Submission to God-Ordained Authorities
- Submit to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake
- Submission teaches obedience and respect
- Resisting authority is resisting God
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IV. Practical Implications for Christian Living
- Gird up the loins of your mind for trials
- Avoid depression and carnal thinking
- Live out the new behavior of Christ to glorify God
Key Quotes
“Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” — Warren Henderson
“We are exhorted to abstain from fleshly lusts. We are not called to war against these lusts, but rather to abstain from them.” — Warren Henderson
“Submission has the aspect of obedience and respect. When we submit to authorities over us, even when we know they're not right, God is honored.” — Warren Henderson
Application Points
- Make a personal decision to abstain from fleshly desires that harm your soul.
- Live honorably and kindly among unbelievers to reflect the gospel.
- Respect and submit to God-ordained authorities as an act of obedience to God.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'fleshly lusts' mean in this sermon?
Fleshly lusts refer to sinful appetites and desires that are contrary to God's will and war against the soul.
Why is submission to authority important according to the sermon?
Submission to God-ordained authorities teaches obedience and respect, honors God, and prevents believers from coming under satanic authority.
How can believers face trials without harming their souls?
Believers should gird up their minds, yield to the Lord, and avoid depression or carnal thinking to maintain spiritual health during trials.
What is the significance of living honorably among unbelievers?
Living honorably allows believers' good works to be observed, which can lead to glorifying God and potentially drawing others to salvation.
How does the sermon describe the soul?
The soul is the unique, self-conscious part of a person that includes intellect, desires, emotions, and decisions, and it continues after death.