Sermons

Reading: Galatians 5:13-26

Introduction

Self Control / Egkrateia is “self-mastery, self-restraint, self-control.”

E.g. Athletes: “Every athlete exercises self control in all things” (1 Corinthians 9:25).

“Self control” is life ruled by conviction and reason rather than impulse, passion and desire.  

“Self control” proceeds from within and exercises dominion over my members.

Outline

1. Self Control and the Conflict Between Flesh and Spirit
   1. Self Control is Core Gospel (Matthew 16:24; cf. Galatians 2:20)
   2. Self Control is Counter Culture
   3. Self Control is in Opposition to the Flesh (Galatians 5:17, 19-21)
2. We Must Exercise Self Control
   1. I Must Control My Actions (1 Corinthians 9:27; Romans 6:12-13; 8:12-13; 12:1; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15)
   2. I Must Control My Words (Ephesians 4:29; James 3:9-10)
   3. I Must Control My Thoughts (Matthew 5:28; 6:25, 31, 34; Romans 8:6-8)
   4. I Must Control My Emotions (Ephesians 4:26-27)

Conclusion

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). 

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:24-25).