Self-Control

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Mar 22

Written By West End Community Church

Key Takeaways

Sin is a predator, not a pet - We cannot domesticate or manage sin; we must mortify (kill) it with Christ's help
Self-control is received, not generated - It's a fruit of the Spirit, not a personality trait or achievement of willpower
We walk by the Spirit - Spiritual growth is a daily walk, not a sprint. It requires slow, intentional obedience
Niceness ≠ Self-Control - External behavior management is not the same as Spirit-led transformation
Jesus walks with us - We don't overcome sin alone; Christ accompanies us through every stumble and fall

Study Questions

What "pet sins" might you be trying to domesticate rather than kill?
How does viewing self-control as "active warfare" rather than "passive restraint" change your approach to temptation?
J mentioned Celebrate Recovery's teaching about admitting powerlessness. Why is this admission essential to experiencing real change?
Paul contrasts temporary prizes with imperishable ones. What imperishable prizes motivate you to practice self-control?
How is the presence of struggle actually evidence of the Spirit's work rather than a sign of failure?
How does recognizing that Jesus stays with you through every stumble (like the friend on the ski slope) change your perspective on failure and growth in your spiritual journey?

Seeking God’s Face Devotional

How then do we keep the gospel front and center in this season of shadows known as Lent? The cross keeps our gospel focus clear. Lent is a season to journey with Jesus in his passion, to survey the cross, taking the measure of Christ’s love in his suffering and death.

This year, we’ll be using the devotional “Seeking God’s Face” for our personal daily discipleship. Also, please join us for the last week of our Sunday Morning Class, “Seeking His Face: A Lenten Exploration.” Both youth and adults are invited!

This Week’s Liturgy

Call to worship

Psalm 19:4

All: Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Confession of FAITH | the new city catechism question of the week

New City Catechism Q & A #12

Q: What does God require in the ninth and tenth commandments?

A: Ninth, that we do not lie or deceive, but speak the truth in love. Tenth, that we are content, not envying anyone or resenting what God has given them or us.

Confession of sin

Father, we confess that we are too easily mastered by our impulses rather than by your law. Our lack of self-control has dulled our senses and left us numb. We admit that we have allowed the weeds of sensuality and selfishness to take root in our hearts. Help us, by your Spirit, to uproot them so we might cultivate the fruit of self-control in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.