SERIES: CHRISTIANITY Q AND A (6 OF 6)

NOTE: This sermon is part 11 and 12 of a 12 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 11: What Is the Sanctity of Life?
Series: Christianity Q and A
Stuart Briscoe

In recent years there has been a tendency to talk about the "quality of life" rather than the "sanctity of life." Without in any way suggesting that quality of life is without importance, we need to understand the change of emphasis and where it might lead.

I. The Importance of the "Sanctity of Life" Position.

A. Man is created in the divine image. Genesis 1:26 28
1. Intelligence: planning, executing, evaluating-"Let there be…"
2. Creativity: imagination, production-"It was so…very good."
3. Leadership: develop, direct-"Have dominion."
4. Community: togetherness, related-"Let us…"

B. Man is capable of divine fellowship.
1. Ability to know God - mind.
2. Capacity to love God - emotion.
3. Capability to obey God - will.

C. Man is called to divine purpose.
1. To glorify God…
2. And to enjoy Him forever.
Summary: Man's significance determined by reference to God.

II. The Impact of the "Quality of Life" Position.

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Part 12: What About Pain and Suffering?
Series: Christianity Q and A
Stuart Briscoe
1 Peter 1:3-9

The German theologian, Helmut Thielecke said, "Americans have an inadequate view of suffering." Whether or not he was right, there is no shortage of suffering in America. We need to ensure our view of it is "adequate."

I. The Realities of Pain and Suffering.

A. The immensity.
B. The intensity. e.g. Job.
"If we are one in body, mind, and spirit, we are one in suffering and health."
- McKenna
1. Physical.
2. Psychological.
3. Relational.
4. Spiritual.

II. The Reasons for Pain and Suffering.
When suffering comes we ask, "Why me? Why this? Why now?"

A. Physical factors.
1. The nervous system.
2. The aging process.

B. Human factors.
1. Man's independence of God.
2. Man's inhumanity to man.