Sunday Morning Worship
August 14, 2011
Series: “Life Path”
Today: “Advance”

Scripture:  Ephesians 4:14-15 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.

1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you
may grow up in your salvation,

2 Peter 1:5a For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith…

2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

Intro:  The devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to       devour     .

* The question we are dealing with today is: Are you      advancing      in your walk with God?

I.    THE     INTENSITY      OF OUR GROWTH.

A.   2 Peter 1:5 lays out the intensity expected: “Make      every       effort to add to your faith.”

B.   Our job is not to earn our salvation; our job is to      advance      in our salvation.

II.   THE     METHOD        OF OUR GROWTH.

A.   Personal disciplines that aid growth.

1.   Daily      alone       time with God.

2.   Read small sections of     Scripture      , writing down any questions or comments that come to your mind while reading.

B.   Corporate disciplines.

1.   Be regular in your      church attendance      .

2.   Be involved in a       small group      .

3.       Celebrate Recovery       .

III.  THE      MARKERS       OF OUR GROWTH.

A.   The Apostle Peter gave some “markers,” areas to watch for that would indicate     our spiritual growth     .

B.   Score yourself with these markers:

Conclusion:  1 Peter 1:9 reminds us that either we are advancing or we are retreating into       spiritual darkness      .

Verse 9 – speaks of  Christ followers becoming      near-sighted       and      blind     .