Choosing the Right Battles in Faith and Unity
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the concept of "A Hill to Die On," a phrase that signifies standing firm on a principle or belief, even at great personal cost. This idiom, rooted in military strategy, symbolizes the importance of holding one's ground, especially when it comes to matters of faith and doctrine. In our modern context, it often refers to the various social, political, and cultural issues that people passionately defend. However, not all hills are worth dying on, especially when they distract us from our true mission as followers of Christ.
We must prioritize unity and peace within the church. The Apostle Paul emphasized the importance of being like-minded and living in harmony, even when we have differing opinions. Unity is crucial for the church to function effectively and to avoid distractions that can lead to internal conflicts. Outside the church, we are called to be patient and gentle, even with those who oppose us. Our goal is to reach the lost, not to engage in fruitless arguments.
There are, however, certain hills that are worth dying on. These include the core doctrines of our faith, such as the belief in the historical and biblical Jesus, the importance of repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit. We also stand firm on the principles of living a life of holiness and separation from the world. These are non-negotiable beliefs that we must defend, regardless of the consequences.
In our current political climate, it's easy to get distracted by worldly issues. While it's important to be informed and to vote, our ultimate allegiance should be to the Kingdom of God, which is eternal. Earthly governments will fail, but God's Kingdom will endure forever. Therefore, we must focus on what truly matters—preaching the gospel and making disciples.
As we navigate through life, it's essential to pick our battles wisely. Not every issue is worth our time and energy. We should focus on the meaningful things that have eternal significance. By doing so, we can live a life that is pleasing to God and impactful for His Kingdom.
### Key Takeaways
1. Unity and Peace in the Church: Unity is essential for the church to function effectively. Paul emphasized being like-minded and living in harmony, even when we have differing opinions. This unity helps us avoid distractions and internal conflicts, allowing us to focus on our mission. [06:10]
2. Patience with the World: We are called to be patient and gentle with those outside the church. The things of the church often don't make sense to the world, so we must be patient and loving, aiming to reach the lost rather than engaging in fruitless arguments. [08:12]
3. Core Doctrines Worth Defending: Certain beliefs, such as the historical and biblical Jesus, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit, are non-negotiable. These core doctrines are worth defending, regardless of the consequences. [15:51]
4. Focus on Eternal Significance: In our current political climate, it's easy to get distracted by worldly issues. While it's important to be informed and to vote, our ultimate allegiance should be to the Kingdom of God, which is eternal. Earthly governments will fail, but God's Kingdom will endure forever. [25:56]
5. Choosing Battles Wisely: Not every issue is worth our time and energy. We should focus on the meaningful things that have eternal significance. By doing so, we can live a life that is pleasing to God and impactful for His Kingdom. [35:07]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:02] - Introduction: A Hill to Die On
[02:03] - Origin of the Phrase
[03:00] - Modern Context and Metaphor
[03:57] - Importance of Choosing the Right Hill
[04:49] - Unity and Peace in the Church
[06:10] - Biblical Basis for Unity
[07:31] - Patience with the World
[08:12] - Love Your Enemies
[09:19] - Standing Strong Without Compromise
[10:27] - Paul's Example
[11:02] - Avoiding Petty Conflicts
[12:12] - Music and Other Minor Issues
[13:13] - Focus on Eternal Significance
[15:51] - Core Doctrines Worth Defending
[19:20] - The Importance of Doctrine and Theology
[22:40] - Living a Life of Separation and Holiness
[24:29] - Core Family Values
[25:56] - Trusting God's Sovereignty
[28:25] - The Church's Resilience
[30:19] - Submission to Governing Authorities
[31:03] - Eternal Consequences
[32:35] - The Great Commission
[33:55] - Freedom of Worship
[35:07] - Choosing Battles Wisely
[36:36] - Self-Inventory and Commitment
[37:59] - Closing and Altar Call
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 2:2 - "Fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind."
2. 2 Timothy 2:24 - "And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient."
3. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 - "If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Philippians 2:2 emphasize about the attitude believers should have towards one another? ([06:10])
2. According to 2 Timothy 2:24, what qualities should a servant of the Lord exhibit when dealing with others? ([08:12])
3. In 1 Timothy 6:3-5, what are the consequences of teaching doctrines that do not align with the words of Jesus Christ? ([17:13])
4. What are some examples given in the sermon of issues that are not worth fighting over within the church? ([12:12])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is unity within the church so crucial according to Philippians 2:2, and how does it help avoid distractions and internal conflicts? ([06:10])
2. How can the qualities mentioned in 2 Timothy 2:24 help in reaching out to those outside the church without compromising our beliefs? ([08:12])
3. What does 1 Timothy 6:3-5 suggest about the importance of sound doctrine, and how should the church respond to false teachings? ([17:13])
4. How does the sermon suggest we balance standing firm on core doctrines while maintaining peace and unity within the church? ([06:47])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent disagreement you had within the church. How could you have approached it differently to promote unity and peace? ([06:10])
2. Think of a person outside the church who challenges your beliefs. How can you show patience and gentleness in your interactions with them this week? ([08:12])
3. Identify one core doctrine of your faith that you feel strongly about. How can you defend this belief in a way that is both firm and loving? ([15:51])
4. Are there any social or political issues that have been distracting you from your mission as a follower of Christ? How can you refocus on what truly matters? ([25:56])
5. Consider a minor issue within the church that has caused conflict. How can you contribute to resolving this issue in a way that promotes unity? ([12:12])
6. What steps can you take this week to ensure that your ultimate allegiance is to the Kingdom of God rather than earthly governments or political causes? ([25:56])
7. Make a list of the "hills" you are currently standing on. Are they worth the time and energy you are investing in them? How can you prioritize those with eternal significance? ([35:07])
Devotional
Day 1: Unity and Peace in the Church
Description: Unity within the church is essential for its effective functioning. The Apostle Paul emphasized the importance of being like-minded and living in harmony, even when we have differing opinions. This unity helps us avoid distractions and internal conflicts, allowing us to focus on our mission. When the church is united, it can better serve its purpose of spreading the gospel and making disciples. Unity does not mean uniformity; it means working together despite our differences for the greater good of God's Kingdom. [06:10]
Romans 15:5-6 (ESV): "May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Reflection: Think of a recent disagreement you had with a fellow believer. How can you take steps today to promote unity and peace in that relationship?
Day 2: Patience with the World
Description: We are called to be patient and gentle with those outside the church. The things of the church often don't make sense to the world, so we must be patient and loving, aiming to reach the lost rather than engaging in fruitless arguments. Our goal is to show Christ's love through our actions and words, even when faced with opposition or misunderstanding. By being patient and gentle, we can create opportunities for meaningful conversations about faith and demonstrate the transformative power of God's love. [08:12]
2 Timothy 2:24-25 (ESV): "And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who does not share your faith. How can you show them patience and gentleness in your interactions today?
Day 3: Core Doctrines Worth Defending
Description: Certain beliefs, such as the historical and biblical Jesus, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit, are non-negotiable. These core doctrines are worth defending, regardless of the consequences. They form the foundation of our faith and are essential for our salvation and spiritual growth. While we should strive for unity and peace, we must also stand firm on these essential truths, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Defending these core doctrines helps to preserve the integrity of the gospel message and ensures that we remain faithful to God's Word. [15:51]
Jude 1:3 (ESV): "Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints."
Reflection: Reflect on one core doctrine of your faith. How can you better understand and defend this belief in your daily life?
Day 4: Focus on Eternal Significance
Description: In our current political climate, it's easy to get distracted by worldly issues. While it's important to be informed and to vote, our ultimate allegiance should be to the Kingdom of God, which is eternal. Earthly governments will fail, but God's Kingdom will endure forever. Therefore, we must focus on what truly matters—preaching the gospel and making disciples. By keeping our eyes on eternal significance, we can avoid getting caught up in temporary concerns and instead invest our time and energy in things that have lasting value. [25:56]
Colossians 3:2-4 (ESV): "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory."
Reflection: What is one worldly issue that has been distracting you lately? How can you refocus your attention on what has eternal significance?
Day 5: Choosing Battles Wisely
Description: Not every issue is worth our time and energy. We should focus on the meaningful things that have eternal significance. By doing so, we can live a life that is pleasing to God and impactful for His Kingdom. It's important to discern which battles are worth fighting and which ones are distractions. By choosing our battles wisely, we can ensure that our efforts are aligned with God's will and that we are making the most of the opportunities He gives us to serve Him and others. [35:07]
Proverbs 4:25-27 (ESV): "Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil."
Reflection: Think about a current conflict or issue you are facing. Is this a battle worth fighting, or is it a distraction from your true mission? How can you choose your battles more wisely?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I believe that you can have victory today. I believe that you don't have to live another day with what it is that's going on in your life. I truly believe that we know the miracle worker. I truly believe that we know the divine healer." [01:02] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Because too many people are taking a stand for things in the world while backing down on the things of God. Not everything in this world is worth defending. But when it comes to matters of eternity, our mind must be made up. That I will stand on this hill and die for it if I have to because I believe that's strongly in it." [04:49] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Remember, our goal is to reach the loss, not push them further away. Before I move on to our next section of this message, I will say that, like I said, there is very few things in this world that I have just such conviction and passion about that I would be willing to give up everything in my life to support it." [13:13] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I am glad that I know the King of Kings and Lord of Lords because earthly governments will crumble, but the kingdom of God is forever. What happens on this earth is just a blink in eternity, so don't get so wrapped up in standing for the things of this world that you lose sight of standing on the things of God." [15:10] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So you think that if some authority of the United States government gets into office and is going to somehow shut down the church, I've got bad news for you. The Romans couldn't shut down the church. The church has survived world wars. The church has survived dynasties. The church has survived earthly kingdoms. The church is still running strong." [27:32] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "So before we get into the hills that we should or should not be dying on, I think it is important to lay some groundwork in this and first off, we are to seek unity and peace above all else. Sometimes we're guilty when we talk about dying on a hill or taking a stand. You can be right and still be wrong. You can be right about a situation or right about something but go about it the wrong way." [05:27] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We will die on the heel of our doctrine and our theology. The word translated doctrine means instruction, especially as it applies to lifestyle application. In other words, our doctrine is the teaching imparted by an authoritative source in which we refer to as the Bible or the word of God. And the Bible says of itself that if it is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, we will die on the heel of our doctrine and our theology." [17:55] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I will die on the hill of living a life of separation, holiness, and righteousness. You cannot convince me that being born again does not transform your life. Romans 13 and 14, but put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lust. 1 Thessalonians, 1 Thessalonians 5 and 22 tells us to abstain from all manners of evil." [22:40] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So as I'm getting ready today, getting ready to close, we're getting ready to open up these altars. I'll leave you with another phrase that goes along with this and that's to pick your battles. Means to choose carefully which conflicts and disagreements are worth arguing over or fighting for. In other words, don't waste your time and energy fighting over small unimportant issues. Instead, focus on the meaningful things that really matter in the long run." [35:07] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Take some time and ask yourself today, what am I most passionate about in my life? And then ask yourself, is it really that important? The things that I care so much about right now, the things that I'm so wrapped up in right now, are they really that important in the grand scheme of eternity? Are the hills that I'm defending in my life worth it? If I died on this hill, would it be worth it?" [36:36] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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