Chris Teien | Well Faith Sermons

What does sanctification actually look like in everyday Christian life? Teaching from John 17:13–19, Pastor Chris Teien explains how Jesus prayed for His followers to be set apart by the truth and protected from the influence of the world.

Sanctification is more than a theological term. It is the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ as God uses His Word, His Spirit, our choices, and even difficult experiences to shape us. This message explores how spiritual growth can make us more useful to God and lead to greater joy as we learn to live faithfully for Jesus.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: SANCTIFICATION COMES THROUGH GOD’S WORD

Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” God’s Word exposes what needs to change, renews our thinking, strengthens our faith, and helps us know how to live. Make regular time for Scripture and allow the Holy Spirit to use it to shape your thoughts, decisions, and character. (John 17:17; Hebrews 4:12; Psalm 119:9–11)

2: SANCTIFICATION IS A LIFELONG PROCESS

Believers are set apart to God when they trust in Christ, but spiritual growth continues throughout the Christian life. God patiently works in us as we learn, repent, endure difficulties, and become more like Jesus. Look back at how God has already changed you, and keep cooperating with His work in your life. (John 17:19; Philippians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 3:18)

3: SANCTIFICATION HELPS US LIVE DIFFERENTLY FROM THE WORLD

Jesus did not pray that His followers would be removed from the world, but that they would be protected from the evil one. Christians are called to participate in everyday life without being shaped by a godless value system. Ask God to help you think biblically, resist compromise, and live as a faithful representative of Christ wherever He has placed you. (John 17:14–16; Romans 12:2)

4: SANCTIFICATION PREPARES US TO BE USEFUL TO GOD

God saves us by grace, not because we have earned His favor. Yet He also prepares His people for good works. As we pursue purity, faithfulness, love, peace, patience, and spiritual maturity, we become more prepared for the opportunities God gives us to serve others and advance His purposes. (John 17:18; 2 Timothy 2:20–22; Ephesians 2:8–10)

5: SANCTIFICATION LEADS TO TRUE JOY

Jesus prayed that His followers would experience the full measure of His joy. Growth in Christ brings the joy of knowing we are walking in obedience, becoming more like Jesus, serving with purpose, and encouraging others in their faith. Spiritual maturity is not always easy, but God uses the process to deepen our faith and produce lasting joy. (John 17:13; Hebrews 10:24–25)

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not have to become spiritually mature all at once. Keep opening God’s Word, responding to what He shows you, confessing sin, pursuing holiness, and taking faithful steps forward. God is still working in you, and the same grace that saved you will continue shaping you into the person He wants you to become.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

Who helped you come to faith in Jesus, and who could you help follow Him? Teaching from John 17:20–26, Pastor Chris Teien explores Jesus’ prayer for future believers and what it means to follow Christ faithfully together.

Jesus prayed for His followers to experience unity, love, and a shared commitment to His mission. This message encourages believers to remember those who invested in their faith, pursue healthy relationships within the church, work through disagreements, and intentionally help others grow as followers of Jesus.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: REMEMBER YOUR SPIRITUAL LINEAGE

Jesus prayed not only for His first disciples but also for those who would believe through their message. That includes generations of believers who have heard the gospel because someone faithfully passed it along. Think about the people God used to introduce you to Christ and help you grow, then consider whom you can encourage, disciple, pray for, or introduce to Jesus. (John 17:20)

2: PURSUE THE UNITY JESUS PRAYED FOR

Jesus prayed that His followers would be one so that the world would recognize that the Father sent Him. Personal preferences, hurt feelings, unresolved disagreements, and unnecessary divisions can distract a church from its mission. Pursue biblical unity through humility, honest conversations, forgiveness, prayer, and commitment to truth. (John 17:21–23; Ephesians 4:3; 1 Corinthians 1:10)

3: PARTICIPATE FAITHFULLY IN THE CHURCH FAMILY

Following Jesus together involves more than attending a worship service. The early church prayed together, learned together, gave generously, shared life, and cared for one another. Church membership and participation give believers practical opportunities to serve, encourage, give, pray, and help carry the responsibilities of ministry together. (Acts 2:42–47; Hebrews 10:24–25)

4: LET JESUS’ LOVE FLOW THROUGH YOU

Jesus prayed that His followers would know the Father’s love and eventually be with Him and see His glory. That love should become visible in the way Christians treat one another. Encourage people, forgive freely, serve patiently, give generously, and make room for believers of different ages and backgrounds to participate in the life and mission of the church. (John 17:24–26)

5: HELP ANOTHER GENERATION FOLLOW JESUS

Every generation has an opportunity to pass the gospel to the next. Children, teenagers, adults, and seniors all matter in Christ’s church. Invest in people who are younger in the faith, share what God has taught you, and help prepare others to faithfully serve Christ long after your own season of ministry has passed.

BE ENCOURAGED

Your faithfulness can strengthen someone else’s walk with Jesus. Thank God for someone who helped you grow, then look for one person you can encourage in return. If a disagreement needs attention, take a humble step toward peace. Pray, serve, forgive, and participate faithfully in your church family as you help others know and follow Christ.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What would change if glorifying God became the guiding priority behind your everyday choices? Teaching from John 17:1–12, Pastor Chris Teien looks at Jesus’ prayer to the Father and what it reveals about living for God’s glory.

Glorifying God is not limited to singing in church. It includes the way we work, serve, spend our time, use our resources, respond to opportunities, and represent Christ to others. This message encourages you to examine your daily choices and ask how your life can point people toward the greatness and goodness of God.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: MAKE GLORIFYING GOD YOUR PRIORITY

Jesus prayed that the Father would be glorified through the work He had come to accomplish. In the same way, believers can ask how their time, talents, resources, relationships, and decisions can honor God. Before making a choice, consider whether it reflects God’s character and advances His purposes. (John 17:1–2; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Isaiah 42:8)

2: GLORIFY GOD THROUGH DAILY OBEDIENCE

Jesus could say that He had completed the work the Father gave Him to do. Faithfulness is often expressed through ordinary obedience, doing what is right even when nobody is watching or when another choice would be easier. Let your actions, attitude, and work reflect your commitment to Christ. (John 17:4–5; Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:14–15)

3: GLORIFY GOD BY KNOWING YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST

Jesus prayed for the people the Father had given Him and described them as belonging to God. Believers can live with confidence because they are forgiven, adopted into God’s family, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and called to represent Him. Knowing who you are in Christ helps you live with purpose instead of being shaped by the approval of the world. (John 17:6–10; 1 Peter 2:9)

4: GLORIFY GOD THROUGH SERVING HIM IN THE WORLD

Jesus knew He would return to the Father while His followers remained in the world to continue His mission. God has placed you in particular relationships, workplaces, neighborhoods, schools, and communities where you can serve Him. Look for opportunities to encourage others, share Christ, meet needs, and faithfully use what God has entrusted to you. (John 17:11–12; John 12:24–26)

5: WORSHIP GOD WITH YOUR TRUST, TIME, AND TREASURE

Worship is larger than what happens during a church service. What you trust, how you spend your time, and what you value reveal what matters most to you. Offer your whole life to Christ and ask whether your priorities, possessions, and schedule demonstrate that Jesus is worthy of your worship. (Romans 12:1; Colossians 3:17)

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not have to accomplish something spectacular to glorify God. Faithfulness in small choices matters. Ask God what you should start, stop, or continue doing. Use what He has given you, serve the people He has placed around you, and make choices that allow others to see His goodness through your life.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

Can your everyday work become an act of worship? Teaching from Colossians 3:23–24, Pastor Chris Teien explains how students, employees, parents, retirees, volunteers, and leaders can approach their responsibilities with purpose and joy.

Work is more than a paycheck. God can use your effort, attitude, skills, relationships, and opportunities to provide for needs, bless others, strengthen your character, and glorify Christ. This message encourages you to see your work as service to Jesus and to remain faithful even when your circumstances are difficult or your efforts seem unnoticed.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: WORK WITH YOUR WHOLE HEART

Paul tells believers to work wholeheartedly in whatever they do. Whether your work is paid, unpaid, academic, at home, or volunteer service, approach it with dedication and integrity. Doing quality work can honor God, serve others well, and create opportunities to reflect Christ. (Colossians 3:23; Proverbs 16:3)

2: REMEMBER THAT YOUR TRUE MASTER IS JESUS

Your employer may supervise your work, but ultimately believers serve Christ. Ask how your attitude, honesty, effort, and treatment of other people would change if you remembered that Jesus was the One you were serving. Let your work become an offering of worship to Him. (Colossians 3:23–24; Ecclesiastes 9:10)

3: TRUST GOD IN DIFFICULT WORK SITUATIONS

Joseph served faithfully through slavery, false accusation, and imprisonment before God placed him in a position of great responsibility. Daniel also served faithfully in a culture that did not share his faith. Difficult seasons of work can become places where God develops your character, prepares you for future opportunities, and teaches you to depend on Him.

4: ANTICIPATE THE REWARD THAT COMES FROM GOD

Paul reminds believers that the Lord sees faithful service and promises an inheritance as a reward. Much of what you do may never receive recognition from people, but God sees the hours spent serving, helping, teaching, giving, encouraging, and caring for others. Work with eternity in mind. (Colossians 3:24; Proverbs 11:18)

5: USE YOUR WORK TO SERVE AND BLESS OTHERS

Some of the greatest opportunities connected to work are found in relationships. Your workplace, volunteer role, neighborhood, or project may put you beside people who need encouragement, practical help, or the hope of Christ. Ask God how your skills, time, experience, and resources can become a blessing to someone else.

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not need a perfect job to find purpose in your work. Ask God to help you work with integrity, serve people well, and recognize the opportunities He has placed around you. Whether your work feels important or ordinary, do it faithfully as service to Christ and trust Him with the results.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

How should Christians respond when following Jesus brings criticism, rejection, or even persecution? Teaching from John 15:18–16:4, Pastor Chris Teien explains why Jesus warned His disciples to expect opposition and how believers can remain faithful when the world stands against them.

Jesus did not promise His followers an easy path. He prepared them for hostility, reminded them that the world had rejected Him first, and promised the help of the Holy Spirit. This message encourages you to stand firm in your faith, keep sharing Christ, and remember that present suffering cannot compare with the eternal hope Jesus gives.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: EXPECT OPPOSITION TO YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST

Jesus told His disciples that if the world hated Him, it would also hate those who belonged to Him. Faithfulness to Christ can bring criticism, rejection, misunderstanding, or pressure to compromise. Do not automatically assume something is wrong when following Jesus becomes difficult. (John 15:18–25; 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 4:12–14)

2: REMEMBER WHO YOU BELONG TO

Believers have been chosen out of the world and now belong to Christ. The values and priorities of the world will not always line up with the teachings of Jesus. Stay rooted in your identity as a follower of Christ rather than allowing fear of rejection or the desire for approval to determine what you believe and how you live. (John 15:19–21)

3: RELY ON THE HOLY SPIRIT TO HELP YOU TESTIFY ABOUT JESUS

Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would testify about Him and empower His followers to do the same. Sharing your faith can feel uncomfortable or risky, but you do not have to depend only on your own courage or ability. Pray for opportunities, wisdom, and boldness to speak about Christ with truth and compassion. (John 15:26–27; Acts 1:8)

4: DO NOT LET PERSECUTION SILENCE YOUR WITNESS

Opposition can make believers tempted to become quiet about their faith. Jesus warned His disciples in advance so they would not fall away when persecution came. Even when previous experiences have made you hesitant, ask God to restore your courage and help you remain faithful to Him. (John 16:1–4)

5: ENDURE WITH ETERNITY IN VIEW

Jesus never hid the cost of discipleship, but He also promised eternal hope. Christians throughout history have remained faithful through rejection, hardship, and persecution because they knew this life was not the end. Keep your eyes on Christ and remember that faithfulness to Him carries an eternal reward. (Matthew 5:10–12; Romans 8:18)

BE ENCOURAGED

You may never face the level of persecution experienced by believers in other parts of the world, but every Christian will encounter moments when following Jesus costs something. Do not let fear, criticism, or rejection push you away from Christ. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you courage, stay faithful to Scripture, and keep looking for opportunities to lovingly point people to Jesus.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What does it really mean to abide in Christ? Teaching from John 15:1–17, Pastor Chris Teien explains why Jesus used the picture of a vine and branches to describe the Christian life.

Abiding in Christ is more than simply remaining in one place. It means staying connected to Jesus, depending on Him, drawing strength from Him, bearing spiritual fruit, and allowing His love and Word to shape your life. This message explores five realities of abiding in Christ and how they lead to a fruitful and joyful walk with God.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: THE REALITY OF CONNECTION

Jesus is the true vine, and His followers are the branches. Spiritual life and fruitfulness begin with a genuine connection to Christ. Religious activity, family background, or church involvement cannot replace personally trusting Jesus as Lord and Savior. Stay close to Him through His Word, prayer, confession, and daily dependence. (John 15:1–4; Colossians 2:6–7)

2: THE REALITY OF DEPENDENCE

Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” Abiding means maintaining a close, continuous, dependent relationship with Him rather than trying to live the Christian life through your own strength. Bring your plans, weaknesses, decisions, and responsibilities to Christ and trust Him to provide what you need to accomplish His purposes. (John 15:5–6; Philippians 4:13)

3: THE REALITY OF FRUITFULNESS

God is glorified when His people bear fruit. That fruit includes Christlike character, answered prayer, faithful service, helping others grow, and pointing people toward Jesus. Instead of becoming obsessed with producing results, focus on abiding in Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to produce fruit through your life. (John 15:7–8; Galatians 5:22–23)

4: THE REALITY OF JOY

Jesus told His disciples that abiding in His love and obeying His commands would lead to fullness of joy. Lasting joy is found not simply in favorable circumstances but in knowing Christ, walking closely with Him, and seeing Him work through your life. Stay connected to Jesus even through seasons of pruning or difficulty. (John 15:9–11; Psalm 16:11)

5: THE REALITY OF LOVE AND OBEDIENCE

Jesus commanded His followers to love one another as He loved them. Abiding in Christ becomes visible through practical love, obedience, sacrifice, and care for other believers. Jesus calls His followers friends and appoints them to bear lasting fruit. Let your relationship with Him shape the way you treat and serve the people around you. (John 15:12–17; John 13:34–35)

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not have to force spiritual growth through sheer effort. Stay close to Jesus. Spend time in His Word, pray honestly, obey what He shows you, and depend on the Holy Spirit. As you abide in Christ, He will shape your character, produce fruit through your life, deepen your joy, and help you love others well.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What does an Army recruiter have to do with following Jesus? Pastor Chris Teien shares a personal story from his younger years that helped illustrate his decision to “sign up for the Lord’s army” and give Christ control of his life.

After trusting Jesus for salvation, Chris reached a point where he wanted Christ to direct his future. While still in high school, he prayed about his career, surrendered his plans to God, and eventually sensed a call to full-time ministry. This short message challenges believers to willingly serve Christ, prepare themselves through God’s Word, and work together to accomplish His mission.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: MAKE SURE YOU BELONG TO JESUS

Serving Christ begins with personally trusting Him as Lord and Savior. Salvation is not earned through ministry or good works. We recognize our sin, believe that Jesus died and rose again, and place our faith in Him. (Romans 10:9–10)

2: VOLUNTEER YOUR LIFE FOR CHRIST’S SERVICE

Chris shares how he moved from simply knowing he was saved to deliberately surrendering the direction of his life to Jesus. Following Christ means being willing to ask, “Lord, what do You want me to do with my life?” and then being willing to follow where He leads.

3: EXPECT SACRIFICE AND DIFFICULTY

Soldiers understand that their mission may involve sacrifice and hardship. Christians should not be surprised when faithfully following Jesus becomes difficult. Serving Christ requires perseverance, commitment, and confidence that His mission is worth the cost.

4: TRAIN YOURSELF TO HANDLE GOD’S WORD WELL

Paul told Timothy to work hard so he could accurately explain the word of truth. Christians who want to serve effectively should continue learning Scripture, growing spiritually, and preparing themselves for the opportunities God provides. (2 Timothy 2:15)

5: SERVE CHRIST TOGETHER

Christian ministry was never intended to be a solo mission. Paul described Epaphroditus as his brother, coworker, and fellow soldier. God uses believers working together to encourage one another, meet needs, share the gospel, and make disciples. (Philippians 2:25)

BE ENCOURAGED

You may not know exactly where serving Jesus will lead you. Start by making yourself available. Ask God how He wants to use your abilities, experiences, time, and relationships. Keep growing in His Word, find other believers to serve alongside, and faithfully take the next step He puts in front of you.

Full message: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335520

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What does the Holy Spirit actually do in the life of a Christian? Teaching from John 14–16, Pastor Chris Teien looks at what Jesus told His disciples about the Holy Spirit before His departure.

The Holy Spirit is not an optional part of the Christian life. Jesus promised that He would help, teach, remind, testify, convict, guide, and glorify Christ. This message encourages believers to depend on the Holy Spirit, stay grounded in Scripture, respond to His conviction, and make themselves available for God to use.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: THE HOLY SPIRIT ADVOCATES

Jesus promised another Advocate who would be with His followers forever. The Holy Spirit comes alongside believers as Helper, Counselor, Comforter, and Encourager. When you feel weak, confused, discouraged, or unable to accomplish what God has called you to do, remember that you have not been left on your own. (John 14:16–17)

2: THE HOLY SPIRIT TEACHES

Jesus said the Holy Spirit would teach His disciples and remind them of what He had said. The Spirit continues to help believers understand and apply God’s Word. Spend time in Scripture, learn it carefully, and ask God to bring biblical truth to mind when you need wisdom, encouragement, or the right words to say. (John 14:26; 2 Timothy 3:16–17)

3: THE HOLY SPIRIT TESTIFIES ABOUT JESUS

The Holy Spirit points people toward Christ and works through believers as they share the gospel. You do not have to manufacture spiritual results. Pray for opportunities to speak about Jesus and trust that the Holy Spirit may already be working in someone’s heart before you ever begin the conversation. (John 15:26–27)

4: THE HOLY SPIRIT CONVICTS

Jesus said the Holy Spirit would convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment. He helps people recognize their need for Christ and calls them toward repentance. Believers should also remain sensitive to His conviction, confessing sin and changing direction when God shows them something that needs to change. (John 16:7–11; Acts 2:37–38)

5: THE HOLY SPIRIT GUIDES

Jesus promised that the Spirit of truth would guide His followers. The Holy Spirit can direct believers through Scripture, prayer, wisdom, circumstances, and the experiences God has already used to shape them. Stay yielded to God and ask Him to guide your decisions, relationships, conversations, and opportunities to serve. (John 16:13; Psalm 143:10)

6: THE HOLY SPIRIT GLORIFIES JESUS

The Holy Spirit does not draw attention to Himself. Jesus said that the Spirit would glorify Him. When the Spirit works through believers, Christ is honored as lives change, sinners are saved, Christians grow, and God’s truth becomes visible through faithful obedience. (John 16:14–15)

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not have to live the Christian life in your own strength. Make yourself available to God. Spend time in His Word, respond when He convicts you, pray for His guidance, and look for opportunities to point others toward Jesus. The Holy Spirit is present to help you follow Christ and accomplish what God has called you to do.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What does it mean to trust Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life? Teaching from John 14:1–6, Pastor Chris Teien looks at Jesus’ words to His troubled disciples and the hope they offer believers today.

Jesus was preparing His followers for His departure, but He did not leave them without direction. He called them to trust Him, promised an eternal home, answered their doubts, and made one of the clearest statements in Scripture about who He is and how we come to the Father.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: TRUST JESUS WHEN YOUR HEART IS TROUBLED

Jesus told His disciples not to let their hearts be troubled but to trust in God and also trust in Him. Their circumstances were uncertain, and they did not understand everything that was about to happen. Faith means trusting the character and promises of Christ even when you cannot see how the situation will unfold. (John 14:1; Colossians 1:15–17)

2: LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR ETERNAL HOME

Jesus promised that He was preparing a place for His followers and would bring them to be with Him. Heaven is not ultimately about mansions, possessions, or imagined pleasures. Its greatest promise is being forever in the presence of Christ, free from sin, suffering, sickness, and death. (John 14:2–3; Philippians 3:20–21)

3: BRING YOUR DOUBTS TO JESUS

Thomas admitted that he did not understand where Jesus was going or how to get there. His question opened the door for one of Jesus’ most important teachings. When you struggle with doubts or questions, do not simply remain confused. Bring them to Christ, search the Scriptures, and seek trustworthy answers. (John 14:4–5)

4: JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY TO THE FATHER

Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Christianity does not present Jesus as one spiritual path among many. Salvation rests on who Christ is and what He accomplished through His death and resurrection. (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5–6)

5: JESUS IS THE TRUTH THAT SETS US FREE

Truth is not merely a set of ideas. Jesus embodies and reveals the truth of God. His Word gives us a reliable foundation in a culture where truth is often treated as relative or changeable. Trust what Christ has revealed and allow His truth to shape the way you think and live. (John 14:6; John 8:31–32)

6: JESUS GIVES ETERNAL AND ABUNDANT LIFE

Eternal life begins when a person trusts Christ, not merely when that person dies. Jesus offers forgiveness, a restored relationship with God, purpose for this life, and the promise of eternity with Him. Abundant life is not a guarantee of wealth or easy circumstances, but a life rooted in Christ’s presence, grace, and purposes. (John 14:6; John 3:16; John 10:10)

BE ENCOURAGED

When life feels uncertain, return to what Jesus said. Trust Him with your present circumstances and your eternal future. Bring Him your questions, follow His truth, and remember that your hope is not ultimately found in having every answer. Your hope is found in Jesus Himself, the way, the truth, and the life.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

Why does revenge often hurt us more than the person we are trying to punish? Pastor Chris Teien shares a memorable story about anger, retaliation, and the costly consequences that can follow when we act before we think.

Scripture offers a better way. Instead of allowing anger to control us or trying to settle the score ourselves, Christians are called to pursue peace, act honorably, and trust God with justice. This short message encourages you to resist revenge and overcome evil with good.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: UNCONTROLLED ANGER CAN LEAD TO DESTRUCTIVE CHOICES

Anger can push us toward words and actions we would never consider when thinking clearly. A moment of retaliation can create consequences that last far longer than the original offense. Learn to slow down, control your emotions, and resist making permanent decisions in moments of temporary rage. (Proverbs 29:22)

2: REVENGE RARELY GIVES US WHAT WE EXPECT

Getting even may feel satisfying in the moment, but revenge often creates another round of anger, retaliation, and pain. Instead of evening the score, it can trap both people in an escalating conflict. Consider the long-term consequences before acting on the desire to hurt someone who has hurt you. (Job 31:29–30)

3: LOVE RESPONDS DIFFERENTLY

First Corinthians 13 describes love as patient, kind, humble, and unwilling to keep a record of wrongs. Revenge moves in the opposite direction. Ask whether your response reflects the love and character of Christ rather than simply satisfying your anger. (1 Corinthians 13:4–6)

4: LEAVE REVENGE TO GOD

Scripture does not tell us to pretend that wrongdoing does not matter. There are appropriate ways to pursue justice, seek protection, establish boundaries, or involve proper authorities. But personal revenge belongs to God, not us. Do what you can to live at peace and trust Him to deal rightly with wrongdoing. (Proverbs 20:22; Romans 12:17–19)

5: OVERCOME EVIL WITH GOOD

Paul gives Christians a radically different response to enemies: if they are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink. Refusing revenge does not mean approving of evil. It means refusing to let someone else’s wrongdoing determine the kind of person you become. (Romans 12:20–21)

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not have to carry the burden of settling every score. If someone has hurt you, ask God for wisdom about the right response. Pursue justice where necessary, establish healthy boundaries when needed, but refuse to let anger control your life. Entrust the final outcome to God and choose to overcome evil with good.

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]