We have seen that, as believers, there is still a remnant of sin that remains in us after we are converted. But the continuing presence of indwelling sin means that there is a battle within us and we have to make a choice, and not let sin have dominion over us.
We learn about the opposition within in Romans 7:21-23. We should not make the mistake of denying the reality of this enemy and the consequent struggle within.
We know we are to put to death the resistance and opposition within. But how are we to recognize it? How are we to discern when it is working?
Some of the works of the enemy within are more evident than others. These are the works of the flesh and are evident as such. Sexual sins are some of the evident works of the flesh, which we need to be at war with and mortifying, putting them to death.
Behaviours are clear targets for our warfare. We are to fight against them. These are the works of the flesh, of our sinful nature in ways that are not hidden and less obvious. God's honour is at stake and so we ought to stop making excuses or allowances for ourselves. In Titus 2:11-13 we learn that we are to deny our ungodly thoughts and words.
This is a huge topic. But we have to think carefully about where the less obvious enemies may be at work. We need to be ready to repent and adopt a different perspective if called upon. In that way we are able to grow in grace and sanctification because we better understand ourselves and can guard more intelligently against these influences when we detect them working in the future. Holiness then becomes something more deep-seated within, to the glory of God.
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
