Fremont Community Church - Pastor Josh Hawkins

Trusting in God Alone: Overcoming the Idols in Our Hearts


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In this powerful sermon, Pastor Josh examines the encounter between Jesus and the rich young man in Matthew 19, using it as a springboard to explore the deeper issue of idolatry in the lives of believers.The pastor begins by highlighting the young man's question, "What good thing must I do to get eternal life?" and Jesus' response, which challenges the man's reliance on his own works and wealth. The pastor suggests that the young man's real question was likely, "How much do I need to pay you?" revealing his trust in his own capabilities and possessions rather than in God.The pastor then delves into the nature of idolatry, explaining that it is not just about loving certain things more than God, but about trusting in them more than in God. The pastor emphasizes that idols are often good things that have become functional saviors, things we use to get things done and accomplish our desires.Using examples from 2 Corinthians 12 and personal experiences, the pastor explains that God often allows our idols to be threatened in order to reveal where our true trust lies. The sermon then outlines four key steps in overcoming idolatry:

  1. Identifying the idols in our hearts, which can be a difficult and uncomfortable process.
  2. Dealing with the idols, recognizing that cold turkey rarely works and that we need the help of the Holy Spirit.
  3. Seeking accountability through deep friendships, as our spouses cannot be our sole accountability partners.
  4. Replacing the idols with a deeper trust in God as the only true source of acceptance, safety, and significance.
  5. The sermon concludes by challenging the congregation to examine their own hearts, to identify and surrender their idols, and to place their full trust in the God who alone can save and sustain them. The pastor emphasizes that this is a lifelong journey, but one that is essential for experiencing the fullness of God's power and presence in their lives.

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    Fremont Community Church - Pastor Josh HawkinsBy Joshua Hawkins

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