Pharaoh, Pharaoh Series

1 Peter 2:21

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

Would Jesus do this activity? Would He watch this? Would He talk this way?

2. Is God your top priority?

Does He take the back seat to anything else? What are you more committed to? Am I in conflict between God and the world? Why am I torn? As Jesus asked Peter, ‘Lovest thou me more than these?’

3. Will this help or hinder my Christian walk?

We should not only consider what’s wrong w/ something, but what is right with it? Is it of any lasting value in eternity? Would my time and efforts be better spent on something more profitable?

4. What is the atmosphere around this?

The context is important. It’s not just about what are you doing, but what are others doing in this place. It is guilt by association.

Ephesians 5:11

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

Romans 13:12

...let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

5. How will this affect others?

No man is an island. We have a responsibility to consider how we affect others around us. Paul said there’s some things I could do that are ok, but if they offend my brother, I won’t do them for his sake.

Serve God, but stay in Egypt...

2nd Compromise—

8:28

Worship God, but don’t go very far away. Don’t go overboard w/ this Jesus stuff. Be a borderline Christian / a compartment Christian – have a life – have a work life, a home life, a recreation life, and a church life.

But we cannot put God in a box...don’t lock Him into one room...allow Him to roam freely and permeate every area of your life. Not just another spoke in the wheel, but the hub out of which all the other areas are firmly rooted and revolve around!

What little word do we get from the word ‘fanatic’? ‘Fan’! It’s ok to be a sports fan, but if you are a Jesus fan that’s bad?

"I’ll go where you want me to go, Dear Lord,

Real service is what I desire;

I’ll say what you want me to say, Dear Lord,

But don’t ask me to sing in the choir.

I’ll say what you want me to say, Dear Lord,

I’d like to see things come to pass;

But don’t ask me to teach girls and boys, Dear Lord;

I’d rather just stay in my class.

I’ll do what you want me to do, Dear Lord.

I yearn for your kingdom to thrive.

I’ll give you my nickels and dimes, Dear Lord,

But please don’t ask me to tithe.

I’ll go where you want me to go, Dear Lord,

I’ll say what you want me to say;

I’m busy just now with myself, Dear Lord.

I’ll help you some other day."

3rd Compromise—

10:7-11 Worship God, but don’t take your family. Just the men were allowed to go. Today the devil says, let your kids make up their own mind. Don’t turn your spouse off to God...just keep quiet about it all. It’s time for men to get back to being the spiritual leaders in the home!

This attitude also surfaces today as adults lead their own lives, and leave the kids in front of the automated baby sitter [TV or game system] and leave their education up to the school and leave their salvation up to their s.s. teacher. We need to claim our kids for Christ and take charge and make things happen. “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!”