Confronting Inner Demons: A Call to Action
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. As we gather on this Memorial Day weekend, we are reminded of the sacrifices made for our freedom. We honor and celebrate those who have given their lives, and we extend our gratitude to their families. This weekend is about remembrance, and we also remember the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for our sins.
We began our service by focusing on the importance of giving and being cheerful givers. God wants us to give out of love and appreciation, and to be stewards of what He has entrusted to us. This is not just about tithing, but about being part of something bigger than ourselves. We have had fantastic opportunities to get out into our community and share the love of Jesus, and we want to continue to do so.
We then turned to the Gospel of Mark, chapter 5, where we read about Jesus and the disciples encountering a demon-possessed man. This story is a powerful illustration of spiritual warfare and the transforming power of Christ. The man, who was possessed by a legion of demons, was living among the tombs and could not be restrained. Jesus cast the demons out of the man and into a herd of pigs, which then drowned in the sea. This man's life was completely transformed, and he went on to share his testimony with others.
This story teaches us several important lessons about confronting our inner demons and engaging in spiritual warfare. First, we must recognize the severity of our problems. Just as a dentist needs to identify the exact problem in our mouth, we need to be specific about the issues we face. It's not enough to say, "God, forgive me for all my sins." We need to get real with God and ourselves, identifying the specific areas where we need His help.
Second, we need to own our problems by name. Just as Jesus asked the demon for its name, we need to identify the specific issues we are dealing with. This helps us to confront them more effectively. Often, we think we have one problem, but as we dig deeper, we find that there are multiple issues that need to be addressed.
Third, we need to take extreme action to cast out our inner demons. Jesus took extreme measures by casting the demons into the pigs and drowning them. Similarly, we need to be willing to take drastic steps to remove the sin from our lives. This might mean making significant changes in our behavior, relationships, or environment.
We also discussed the importance of community and support in our spiritual journey. We need a group of Christian men and women to come alongside us, encourage us, and hold us accountable. This helps us to grow in our faith and be effective witnesses for Christ.
Finally, we celebrated the Lord's Supper, remembering the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We are reminded that His blood was shed for us, and we are called to live lives worthy of that sacrifice. As we partake of the bread and the cup, we do so with gratitude and a commitment to live in the victory that His blood has bought for us.
### Key Takeaways
1. Recognize the Severity of Our Problems: Just as a dentist needs to identify the exact problem in our mouth, we need to be specific about the issues we face. It's not enough to say, "God, forgive me for all my sins." We need to get real with God and ourselves, identifying the specific areas where we need His help. This specificity allows us to confront our issues more effectively and seek God's guidance in overcoming them. [27:05]
2. Own Our Problems by Name: Just as Jesus asked the demon for its name, we need to identify the specific issues we are dealing with. This helps us to confront them more effectively. Often, we think we have one problem, but as we dig deeper, we find that there are multiple issues that need to be addressed. Naming our problems gives us power over them and allows us to take targeted action. [46:10]
3. Take Extreme Action to Cast Out Our Inner Demons: Jesus took extreme measures by casting the demons into the pigs and drowning them. Similarly, we need to be willing to take drastic steps to remove the sin from our lives. This might mean making significant changes in our behavior, relationships, or environment. Extreme problems often require extreme solutions, and we must be willing to take those steps for our spiritual well-being. [48:07]
4. The Importance of Community and Support: We need a group of Christian men and women to come alongside us, encourage us, and hold us accountable. This helps us to grow in our faith and be effective witnesses for Christ. Community provides the support and accountability we need to stay strong in our spiritual journey and to confront our inner demons effectively. [01:01:24]
5. Live a Life Worthy of Christ's Sacrifice: As we partake of the Lord's Supper, we are reminded that Jesus' blood was shed for us. We are called to live lives worthy of that sacrifice. This means living in the victory that His blood has bought for us and striving to be more like Him every day. Our gratitude for His sacrifice should be reflected in our actions and our commitment to living a holy life. [01:18:37]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[08:25] - Memorial Day Remembrance
[12:17] - The Joy of Giving
[26:19] - Introduction to Mark 5
[27:05] - Confronting Our Inner Demons
[40:47] - Jesus Meets the Demon-Possessed Man
[46:10] - Naming Our Problems
[48:07] - Extreme Measures for Extreme Problems
[01:01:24] - The Role of Community
[01:18:37] - The Lord's Supper
[01:24:38] - Exciting Church Opportunities
[01:33:43] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Mark 5:1-20 (ESV)
> They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him, saying, “Send us to the pigs; let us enter them.” So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out, and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea. The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled.
2. James 5:16 (ESV)
> Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
3. 1 John 1:9 (ESV)
> If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
4. Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
> And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
### Observation Questions
1. What actions did Jesus take when he encountered the demon-possessed man in Mark 5:1-20?
2. How did the demon-possessed man respond to Jesus' presence?
3. According to James 5:16, what are we encouraged to do for one another, and what is the result?
4. What promise is given in 1 John 1:9 when we confess our sins?
5. What does Hebrews 10:24-25 say about the importance of community and meeting together?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus asked the demon for its name in Mark 5:9?
2. How does identifying and naming our specific problems help us in our spiritual journey?
3. What might be the significance of the extreme action Jesus took by casting the demons into the pigs?
4. How can confessing our sins to one another, as mentioned in James 5:16, aid in our healing process?
5. Why is community and support emphasized in Hebrews 10:24-25, and how does it relate to confronting our inner demons?
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a specific area in your life where you need God's help. How can you be more specific in your prayers about this issue?
2. Think of a problem you are facing. How can you "name" this problem to better confront it?
3. What extreme action might you need to take to address a persistent sin or issue in your life?
4. Identify a person or group in your church community who can support and hold you accountable in your spiritual journey. How will you reach out to them this week?
5. As you partake in the Lord's Supper, how can you live a life that reflects gratitude for Christ's sacrifice? What specific changes will you make to live more victoriously in Christ?
Devotional
### Day 1: Recognize the Severity of Our Problems
In our spiritual journey, it's crucial to be specific about the issues we face. Just as a dentist needs to identify the exact problem in our mouth, we need to get real with God and ourselves, pinpointing the specific areas where we need His help. It's not enough to say, "God, forgive me for all my sins." We must identify the exact nature of our struggles. This specificity allows us to confront our issues more effectively and seek God's guidance in overcoming them. By being honest and detailed in our confessions, we open the door for true healing and transformation. [27:05]
Bible Passage:
"Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!" (Psalm 139:23-24, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about a specific area in your life where you struggle. Can you name it and ask God for His help in overcoming it today?
### Day 2: Own Our Problems by Name
Just as Jesus asked the demon for its name, we need to identify the specific issues we are dealing with. Naming our problems gives us power over them and allows us to take targeted action. Often, we think we have one problem, but as we dig deeper, we find that there are multiple issues that need to be addressed. By owning our problems by name, we can confront them more effectively and seek God's guidance in overcoming them. This process of naming and owning our issues is a crucial step in our spiritual growth and healing. [46:10]
Bible Passage:
"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." (James 5:16, ESV)
Reflection:
Identify a specific issue you are dealing with and share it with a trusted friend or mentor. How can you work together to confront and overcome this issue?
### Day 3: Take Extreme Action to Cast Out Our Inner Demons
Jesus took extreme measures by casting the demons into the pigs and drowning them. Similarly, we need to be willing to take drastic steps to remove the sin from our lives. This might mean making significant changes in our behavior, relationships, or environment. Extreme problems often require extreme solutions, and we must be willing to take those steps for our spiritual well-being. By taking decisive action, we can break free from the chains of sin and live in the freedom that Christ offers. [48:07]
Bible Passage:
"If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell." (Matthew 5:29, ESV)
Reflection:
What is one drastic step you can take today to remove a sin or negative influence from your life? How can you commit to this change?
### Day 4: The Importance of Community and Support
We need a group of Christian men and women to come alongside us, encourage us, and hold us accountable. Community provides the support and accountability we need to stay strong in our spiritual journey and to confront our inner demons effectively. By surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, we can grow in our faith and be effective witnesses for Christ. This sense of community helps us to stay grounded and focused on our spiritual goals, providing the encouragement and accountability we need to succeed. [01:01:24]
Bible Passage:
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection:
Who are the people in your life that provide you with spiritual support and accountability? How can you strengthen these relationships and be a source of encouragement to them as well?
### Day 5: Live a Life Worthy of Christ's Sacrifice
As we partake of the Lord's Supper, we are reminded that Jesus' blood was shed for us. We are called to live lives worthy of that sacrifice. This means living in the victory that His blood has bought for us and striving to be more like Him every day. Our gratitude for His sacrifice should be reflected in our actions and our commitment to living a holy life. By living in a way that honors Christ's sacrifice, we can be a light to others and draw them closer to Him. [01:18:37]
Bible Passage:
"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." (Romans 12:1, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on one area of your life where you can better honor Christ's sacrifice. What specific actions can you take today to live more fully in the victory He has given you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When we love somebody, we want to give good gifts to the people that we love. You know, it wasn't hard for me yesterday when I had a day with my little girl, Emma, to say, you know what, Emma, we're going to, we're going to, I'm going to take you over to King's Dominion and we're going to go to Snoopy World. And I took her over and got a slushy and the smile on my three-year-old's face when she was holding that red slushy. It was like I had given her a million dollars. We know what it looks like to give good gifts to our children. Right. To give good gifts to our spouse because we love them." [13:01]
2. "I don't know if you've noticed, but over the last couple of months, we've had some fantastic opportunities to be able to get out in our community, to be able to show the love and share the good news of Jesus. And you're going to continue to see more opportunities to be able to do that. And we want to give you an opportunity to be a part of it. And so I want to challenge each of you as you think about your relationship with God and how kind of the rubber meets the road to really challenge yourself. Find opportunities to get involved, find opportunities to serve, find opportunities to be to give and be a part of this spiritual community that we call the church and be a part of making a difference for the kingdom of God." [13:47]
3. "There may be some of you who are here this morning if you had to be really honest with yourself, what you would say is that, you know what? My life is broken and I am shackled to the chains of my sin and more than anything else, what I need is to be set free through a relationship with Jesus Christ. And I'm here to tell you this morning, while it may seem more powerful than you, it is not more powerful than God. That he not only created the world and created you, but he left heaven so that as he came and died on the cross and rose from the dead, he could help you experience victory over sin and over your own sin nature." [58:22]
4. "I think that what it teaches us is that if we're going to be effective in being able to combat and effectively win against the forces of evil in our own life and in our own human spirit, we have to, to know what battle we are fighting and who we are fighting. It's not enough just to say, oh God, please forgive me for all of my sins. God, please make me like you. It's like going to the dentist and saying, it hurts somewhere up in there. For us to have victory in our life, we need to get real with God and I think more importantly, get real with ourselves." [44:03]
### Quotes for Members
1. "If you were going to label one thing in your life, that is a quote unquote demon that you continually wrestle with, that this, like this part of your life that hurts, beloved people that hurts your witness, this part of your life, that is the ugly part of you. And, and if you thinking to yourself, well, I don't have one of those. Yes, you do. We all do. We have all, we all sin and fall short of the glory of God. None of us have arrived yet. All right. So you have something in your life. And my guess is you probably know what it is. You probably know what it is and you probably have known what it is for a really long time. So why is it still there? It's not because you don't know it's a problem. It's because you're not willing to take the extreme measures to deal with it." [53:10]
2. "The idea of exercising, whether that's a tooth or whether that's a demon, that's actually a Greek word. It's a combination of two actually called elk below. Which means to both cast out or throw and the preposition out of, or from when put together, the idea is to intentionally and forcibly remove or send something away. It's kind of like people aren't acting right at the club and the bouncer exorcises them by physically and intentionally removing something from the club. And the truth is is that every single one of us has some things in our life that need to be intentionally and forcefully removed because if we don't it's going to take over our life and kill our witness and for some of us it already is." [54:29]
3. "The things that we perceive as little things go from one to the next to the next to the next and we give Satan a little toehold and then he gets a foothold and then he ends up having a stronghold in our life. And the things that started off as what we think about as being no big deal end up completely taking over our life and ruining our life. Our witness. You know what the reality is? God says that all sin is a big deal. And if it's a big deal to God, it should be a big deal to us. So how we confront the demons in our lives? Well, first starts by recognizing the severity of our problems. Secondly, it continues by owning our problems by name." [39:47]
4. "And then finally, we need to take extreme action to cast them out. We need to take extreme action to cast them out. Let's look at the end of the story. And he begged him earnestly not to send him out of the region. A large herd of pigs was there feeding on the hillside. The demons begged him, send us into the, the pigs so that we may enter them. So he gave them permission and the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs. The herd of about 2,000 rushed down the steep banks into the sea and drowned there." [48:07]
5. "We need a group of Christian men and women to come alongside of me to encourage me to hold me accountable so that I can grow in my faith and I can be an effective witness for him. There may be some of you who say, you know what I want to be a part of this church family and I want to come and officially be a member you of this body in Christ but however the holy spirit's speaking to you you respond as we stand and we sing together." [01:01:24]
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained only on this specific sermon. Do you have any questions about it?