Sermon Outline April 27, 2008 Evening Service

Topic: Selfishness Or Servanthood: Who’s Winning In Your Home?      

Text:        John 13:1-20         

Introduction

I.        It has been suggested, and James concurs, that nearly every problem that arises in a relationship can be traced back to selfishness (James 4:2).

A.       Most wars are fought because at least one side wants something the other has.

B.       Crimes are committed because we place our own wants ahead of others.

C.      Nearly every divorce comes about when one person says to the other, “I want…”

D.      Likewise, in the Family of God, as in the world in general, we see how selfishness is one of the most basic causes of problems between people everywhere.

II.       Most of us have experienced selfishness.

A.       We know what it’s like to be around someone who’s selfish.

B.       And, most of us are pretty good at knowing what selfishness looks like (at least we know it when it’s someone else doing it).

III.      When we begin to live for God, our selfish lifestyle is replaced with a lifestyle of servanthood.

Text

I.        Understand that by nature we are selfish.

A.       From the day we’re born, our worlds revolve around ourselves.

B.       That’s logical for someone who’s controlled by what comes naturally; the flesh.

C.      Now, stop and consider what the top priority in your home is. 

1.       What creates the most tension?

2.       What produces the greatest kindness, or lack of it?

3.       Then listen to James (James 4:1-4).

D.      We shouldn’t be shocked by non-believers who are selfish.

II.       In Christ, live for Him, not yourself.

A.       You and I both know that being in Christ means being different.

B.       Consider those whom the Bible presents to us.

1.       Have you thought about the angels?

2.       Have you read from the prophets lately; Isaiah, Daniel, Amos?

3.       What about the leaders God gave to serve His church.

4.       And I’m sure you’re heard of Jesus.

C.      Do you see a pattern here; being in Christ means I live for Him.

III.      In our homes who will win; servanthood or selfishness?

A.       You will make two choices in your life that will decide this for you.

1.       Choice number 1—for whom will you live?

2.       Choice number 2—whose example will you follow?

B.       The decisions you have already made on these two points will decide whether servanthood or selfishness are ruling in your home.

Conclusion

I.        So, who’s going to win out?

II.       You’ve already decided who is winning.

III.      But today, you can decide who’s going to win out from here on: selfishness or servanthood.