SERIES: FAITH WITH BOOTS ON (4 OF 6)

NOTE: This sermon is part 7 and 8 of a 12 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 7: The Good Life
Series: Faith With Boots On
Stuart Briscoe
James 3:13-18

The good life to which most people seem to aspire is usually related to things that will make them happy, comfortable, and trouble free. They would probably say, "The best things in life are things." James begged to differ.

I. The Good Life-How Do We Define It?

A. Not something we possess.
B. But something we express. Luke 12:13 21
C. Not something glamorous.
D. But something beautiful. ("Kalos") See Matthew 13:45
E. Not something extravagant.
F. But something significant. ("Kalos") See 1 Timothy 4:6

II. The Good Life-How Do We Develop It?

A. Application-Heavenly wisdom. v. 13
1. Wisdom's beginning-fear of the Lord.

2. Wisdom's blooming-understanding-"Well-informed."

3. Wisdom's blessing-that which is:
a. Pure-free from blemish.
b. Peace-loving-peace-making.
c. Considerate-yielding, gently accepting.
d. Submissive-open to reason, persuadable, persuasive.
e. Mercy-responsive to need and helplessness

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Part 8: Trouble and Strife
Series: Faith With Boots On
Stuart Briscoe
James 4:1-10

"Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness," says James. But he is practical enough to know that trouble and strife are all too common and they need to be addressed.

I. Admit the Problem. vv. 1-2

A. Relational tensions are all too common.
1. Fighting-Lit. "Wars."
2. Quarreling-Lit. "Fights"; Metaphorically. See 2 Timothy 2:23-24
3. Killing. See Matthew 5:21:24
Note: Applicable across relational spectrum.

B. Diversionary tactics are all too easy.
1. Denying the tension.
2. Disregarding the tension.

C. Creative treatments are all too rare.
1. Admitting a problem exists.
2. Approaching the issue with care.
3. Asking the questions that will help-"What causes…"

II. Analyze the Problem.