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Building A Christian Character Introduction: 2 Peter 1.5-11 1. The text reveals that developing certain characteristics in life will result in "an abundance entrance in to the everlasting kingdom of our Lord." A worthwhile endeavor. 2. Christian character must be built, adding proper materials to our lives. 3. Notice the following about character. I) The Importance of Character A) It determines our destiny, for it determines how we think, act, and react, Acts 10.34,35 Cornelius was a devout man, seeking the truth, we see this in his manner of life, but primarily in his acceptance of the Gospel. B) It influences others, Acts 11.22-24 II) Potent Factors in Developing Character A) Heredity- like father like son. 1. This is often true with physical characteristics, and sometimes we can see the spiritual qualities or lack of instilled in the child. 2. However, spiritually we are responsible for ourselves. B) Environment 1. What we are exposed to: teaching, what we have seen, etc. 2. While environment can be important it is not the only or main thing. C) Will 1. We are creatures of choice. 2. We do what we want to and decide that for ourselves. Of the three, the will is the most important III) Essentials In Building Christian Character A) Believe in the ultimate triumph of right over wrong. 1. This is often difficult(David wondered why the wicked prospered so) but God assures us that the bottom line for truth and right is victory. 2. Our recent study in Revelation is one of victory of Christ over Satan, the church over the world. See 1 Corinthians 15.24; 2 Timothy 4.7,8; Phil. 3.18-21 B) Discipline the mind. Where the head goes, the body follows. 1. See Proverbs 4.23; 23.7, and Phil. 4.8. 2. "Sow a thought, reap and act. Sow an act, reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap a character. Sow a character, reap a destiny." C) Do not overlook small things 1. Every little duty done well equips one for greater service, Matthew 10.42; and 25.21. (Big bear, little bear story). 2. Small things often make up the big picture. D) Recognize that God requires our best efforts. The Bible is clear on this. 1. Old Testament offerings had to be without blemish, Mal. 1.14 2. Every act of service to be done with diligence, Ecc. 9.10. 3. The lazy servant was condemned, Matthew 25.14-30. E) Recognize a key word in character is "service" 1. Christ did not come to be served, but to serve, Matthew 20.27,28 2. "More blessed to give than receive" Acts 20.35 F) Choose companions wisely 1. Evil companions corrupt good morals, 1 Corinthians 15.33. 2. A little leaven will leaven the whole lump, 1 Corinthians 5.6. G) Remember temporary nature of material things and the lasting nature of spiritual things. 1. 1 John2.15-17 a lot of people place the emphasis on the wrong things. 2. Jesus often used physical things to make a point about spiritual things. Building a tower, going to war, etc. H) Recognize the importance of time. Psalm 90.10 1. We don't have much of it, James 4.14. Job compared time to a weaver's shuttle, Peter to grass and a flower, James to a vapor. 2. It is important that you get an early start. The greatest athletes, musicians, etc., start early in life to develop their skills. Conclusion: Have you become a Christian? Are you building the kind the kind of Christian character that will endure the storms of life? |