Church Fights

Sermon #8 in a series in the book of James

Theme: A living faith defeats conflict.

Describing the problem.

1. The nature and source. (1; see also 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 2:3-4, 14; Colossians 3:12)
2. The dynamics. (2-3; see also Matthew 5:21-22; 6:11; John 16:24; James 1:5-7; 1 John 3:15; 5:14)

Rebuking the problem.

1. It is a form of spiritual adultery. (4; see also Isaiah 57:3; Jeremiah 3:9; 20; 5:7; Ezekiel 16:31; 28:37; Hosea 4:13; Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:17-19)
2. It disregards God’s jealousy and grace. (4-6; see also Exodus 20:5; 34:14; Deuteronomy 4:24; 5:9; 6:15; Joshua 24:19; Psalm 138:6; Proverbs 3:34; Matthew 23:12; Romans 5:20; 1 Peter 5:5)

Solving the problem.

1. Return to God. (17; see also Hebrews 4:16; 10:22)
2. Resist Satan. (7; see also Ephesians 6:10-18; Jude 1:9)
3. Restore purity and humility. (8-10; see also 1 Corinthians 11:31; Ephesians 4:29)
4. Refrain from being a critic and judge. (11-12; see also Matthew 7:1; 18:15-20; Luke 17:3; John 7:24; Romans 14:1-23; 1 Timothy 5:20; 2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 2:15)