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Below is the set of notes
from these two sessions. Its purpose is simply to enhance the teaching session
that was presented in person and recorded onto the audio tape. Please
call (847) 894-2893 for information on how you can obtain a copy of this
audio tape.
GROWING IN GRACE (Sept
14, 2003)
“...that we henceforth be no longer children...”
Ephesians 4:14
Spiritual growth is God’s desire for all of His children.
There is a specific method of growth prescribed by God for believers.
The family and the local assembly are the main locations of this “Grace School”.
Growth is not optional, it is critical!
First, we must understand our “transformation” and our position in Christ.
Our transformation takes place the instant we are saved and placed in union with (baptized into) Christ.
This transformation is POSITIONAL! (a change may be evident in our experience/walk but not necessarily).
Do not confuse Position and Experience!
Spiritual maturity/growth in Grace is “simply” bringing our Experience closer and closer to our Position.
This can only be done by Faith!
Spiritual growth is God’s desire for all of His children.
There is a specific method of growth prescribed by God for believers - growth comes by no other means!
There is a specific method of propagation of growth prescribed by God for believers.
As we grow, specific choices are made that either hinder or help our walk - “set your affection on things above,” “put off...put on,” “flee...follow”.
The family and the local assembly are the main locations of this “Grace School”.
Growth is not optional, it is critical! Our level of maturity is inversely related to the level of spiritual danger we face.
GOAL: Unashamed workmen, able ambassadors, able to defend our beliefs and convince others.
SPIRITUAL DANGER (Sept
21, 2003)
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
Ephesians 6:12
The World
The Flesh
The Devil
...The World
This world is evil.
This world is no friend of Grace!
This world is under the control of the adversary.
The world is a magnet for the old nature.
...The Flesh
Our flesh contains nothing good.
Our flesh rebels against God’s Word.
Our flesh drives us toward the world in its pursuit of the “pleasures of sin” - with consequences.
We must understand the battle between our old and new natures!
...the Devil
Satan is in an all-out attack mode against the Body of Christ and God’s Word.
He presents himself as an “messenger of light”.
He uses a three-pronged attack plan:
Attack the message
Attack the messenger
Discourage and discredit the messenger
To defend yourself against the pull of the world, the passions of the flesh and the fiery arrows of Satan - dress yourself in the “panoplia” of God!
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