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Abstinence - Asceticism or Christian Living?
'Ready Answer' by Martin G. CollinsAbstinence, often linked with religious asceticism, embodies strict self-denial as a form of spiritual discipline. While human nature frequently leans toward overindulgence rather than self-denial, Christians face the challenge of determining the proper extent of abstinence. As Christians, we abstain not only from sinful actions but also from behaviors that may appear wrong to others, recognizing that some actions, though not inherently sinful, can be perceived as such and thus harm our witness of God's way of life. When uncertain about whether conduct might seem evil, wisdom dictates caution, adhering to the principle of avoiding even the appearance of wrongdoing. Safe and proper behavior is to always lean toward virtue, ensuring that we commit no sin by abstaining when in doubt. An action may be permissible, but if it causes another to stumble or be offended, a Christian should refrain from it, unless such restraint conflicts with obedience and worship of God. A servant of God, aided by the Holy Spirit, strives to abstain from sin and to grow in spiritual perception to discern when to act and when to abstain, balancing the need to avoid offending others with the duty to remain a faithful witness to God's way of life.
The Curse of Teen Pregnancy
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughPublic acceptance of celebrity promiscuity is partly to blame for the United States having the highest teen-pregnancy rate among developed nations.
Optimus Modus
Sermonette by Mike FordProverbs 25:16 stresses that moderation is the best policy. Of all the fruits of God's Holy Spirit, self-control is the most difficult to attain.
True Self-Control
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughSelf-control is the ability to focus our attention so that our decisions will not be directed by wrong thoughts. If we change our thoughts, we change our behavior.
Christian Marriage (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsCohabitation has led to increased divorce, marital violence, and lack of fidelity after marriage. Mass media has shamelessly used sex to promote materialism.
Abstaining From Evil
'Ready Answer' by John O. ReidGod does not just want us not to sin, He also wants us not even to appear to be doing evil. We must guard their thoughts, words and deeds at all times.
The Secret Sin Everyone Commits
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSelf-righteous people tend to trust in their own heart, be wise in their own eyes, justify themselves, despise or disregard others, and judge or condemn others.