Christian Counseling PDF

Overview Christian Counseling What is Christian Counseling? Christian Counseling is providing guidance and instruction based upon the principles set forth in the Bible and taught and adhered to by Jesus Christ. The tenets of Christian Counse...

Overview Christian Counseling What is Christian Counseling? Christian Counseling is providing guidance and instruction based upon the principles set forth in the Bible and taught and adhered to by Jesus Christ. The tenets of Christian Counseling are: x The Bible is the eternal, unchangeable Word of God and provides the sole authoritative source of the model of man and the principles that dictate and govern man's behavior. x There is a moral and ethical right and wrong, and these are clearly defined in the Word of God. x Man is held accountable to the moral and ethical principles found in the Bible Why do people act the way that they do? People choose the way they behave. They make a choice to obey God or disobey God. Their choices are based upon their perception of what is the best way to meet their needs. What is the reason people need counseling? People need counseling because they have not been able to meet their needs in a Biblically correct manner. The meeting of these needs begin with a realistic and right relationship with God and can be summed up by fulfilling the following: Love God and Love Your Neighbor. The Bible provides extensive and practical instruction on how to obey these two commands. Defining "mental illness" Biblically. In the absence of a pathology, "mental Illness" is the feeling and state one is in, when his thought and behaviors bring him into conflict with God's laws. This state may be the result of deliberate rebellion to or lack of knowledge of God's laws. Counseling therefore takes on the responsibility to not only educate, but in some instances re-educate the client. Not only must the client learn certain laws and behaviors, but also others must be un-learned. 6 The Cure for "Mental Illness" x Obey God and follow His laws x Confess our sins and accept God's forgiveness x Examine ourselves and correct our behavior x Renew our minds through study and acceptance of God's ways x Choose to not be conformed to the world x Walk in the Spirit and not in the Flesh x Restore damaged relationships with others Terminology Christian Counseling does not label an individual but evaluates and compares (confronts) the person’s attitudes, thoughts, values, beliefs, and behavior with Biblical principles. Types and Degrees of "mental illness". People behave the way they do in an attempt to meet their needs. Since "mental illness” is the feeling and state one is in, when his thought and behaviors bring him into conflict with God's laws, it does not matter what the variation or the manifestation of the behavior is, or the degree of its intensity. People's un- Biblical thoughts and behaviors are not the result of mental illness; their mental illness is a result of their un-Biblical thoughts and behaviors. The answer, or the cure, is the same. Help is in the present - not the past. The reason that people have problems, or have had problems in the past is because of their un-Biblical thoughts and behaviors dictating their response to the event. Whether these thoughts and behaviors are actions or re-actions is irrelevant. Therefore, the solution required is to focus on the present thoughts and behaviors and not on the past event. Since the past is un-changeable, there is no benefit on focusing on the past. The reason that people have problems is their present thoughts, perceptions, and behavior relative to an event. Since it is not the event that produces emotions, then focusing on the event or the emotion associated with the event is non-productive. A counselor should explore the past only to the extent necessary to understand what event the person is reacting to and to identify past thoughts and behaviors that are contributing to the problem. Biblical Change Change is accomplished by the conscious decision to follow God's laws and principles. These are summed up in the following way: x Put off the old nature x Put on the new nature x Renew your mind x Be not conformed to the world. 7 Evaluating behavior rather than interpreting behavior A person chooses his behavior based upon his best effort to meet his needs or cope with situations in his life. Mental illness results from choosing to meet these needs in an un-Biblical way. Therefore, it is important to focus on the behavior and the thoughts that select this behavior, rather than try to interpret what the behavior represents. The severity of the behavior is a measurement of how much problem the client is having in having his needs met. Also, no matter how severe or irrational his behavior may appear, the behavior is chosen and has a meaning to the person exhibiting the behavior. When the person finally is able to meet his needs in a Biblical and realistic manner, his symptoms disappears; i.e. he is cured. This is not to say that the problem disappears…this is to say that he can now deal with his problem in an appropriate way and day-to-day functioning is not hindered or impossible. Biblical Recovery 2 Tim. 2:25-26 (KJV) In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. Note the following: The counselor’s role... In meekness instructing The Problem 1. We have believed a lie – The snare 2. We are not in control – taken captive 3. We are our own enemy – oppose themselves 4. We need to turn to God – repent 5. We must face reality – acknowledge the truth 6. We must assume personal responsibility – recover themselves 8  Scriptures Completely Furnish Us The Foundational Truth 2 Tim. 3:15-17 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Notice the attributes 1. Holy. Set apart from any other writing. 2. They are able… they have power 3. Inspired by God. Beyond the mind and thoughts of a mortal. 4. Profitable. Pursuing the scriptures is not a vain pursuit. 5. The categories of God’s law affect every aspect of man’s walk. 6. Sufficient. All that is necessary to equip and perfect a man. Psalm 19:7-11 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Notice the Attributes 1. Perfect and sure 2. Contains statutes which are right 3. Is the authority of God (commandments) 4. Is pure (uncorrupted and incorruptible) 5. True and Righteous 6. Worth more than gold 7. Sweet as opposed to bitter and harsh 8. Warns and protects 9. Brings great rewards for obedience 9  Section Two The Root of All Emotional Problems 10  Lust Definition “Lust” means to set your heart upon something that is forbidden, in an exaggerated, twisted, distorted way. It is possible to want or desire things that are legal and permissible, but they are desired in an inappropriate or wrong way. Lust is a sinful longing; the inward sin which leads to the falling away from God “Lust, the origin of sin, has its place in the heart, not of necessity, but because it is the centre of all moral forces and impulses and of spiritual activity.” In Mark 4:19 “lusts” are objects of desire. (Easton’s Bible Dictionary) Lust includes: x Mental, emotional, and physical desires. x Desiring things that are forbidden x Desiring things for the wrong reason x Both Thoughts and Behavior Psalm 81:12 So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels. sheriyruwth, (Hebrew 8307, Strong’s) sher-ee-rooth'; from Hebrew 8324 (sharar) in the sense of twisted, i.e. firm; obstinacy :- imagination, lust. Exodus 20:17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. chamad, (Hebrew 2530, Strong’s) khaw-mad'; a primitive root; to delight in :- beauty, greatly beloved, covet, delectable thing, (× great) delight, desire, goodly, lust, (be) pleasant (thing), precious (thing). Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. epithumeo, (Greek 1937, Strong’s) ep-ee-thoo-meh'-o; from Greek 1909 (epi) and Greek 2372 (thumos); to set the heart upon, i.e. long for (rightfully or otherwise) :- covet, desire, would fain, lust (after). 11 Three Classes of “lusts” in the World System 1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. epithumia, (Greek 1939, Strong’s) epithumia, ep-ee-thoo-mee'-ah; from Greek 1937 (epithumeo); a longing (especially for what is forbidden) :- concupiscence, desire, lust (after). God created man with free will. Man was given the ability to make choices. From the beginning, man has exercised his free will in the satisfying of the carnal and physical rather than in obedience to God. The root of these wrong choices falls into one or more of three categories: lust of the eyes, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Genesis 3:6 And when the 1 John 2:16 (KJV) Temptation of Jeus woman saw that the tree … For all that is in the Matthew 4:1 - 11 world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. was good for food, Lust of the Flesh v. 3 Turn stones into bread and that it was pleasant to Lust of the Eyes v. 8 all the kingdoms of the the eyes, world and a tree to be desired to Pride of life v. 6 Jump and let the angels make one wise, catch you she took of the fruit thereof, People share their desires Hebrews 4:15 For we have and did eat, and gave also with others close to them. not an high priest which unto her husband with her; cannot be touched with the and he did eat. feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 12  Lust of the Flesh Definition Not only does the Bible warn us against “lust of the flesh”, the Bible identifies what “lust of the flesh” is. Lust of the Flesh Galatians 5:19-21 (KJV) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Note that “lust of the flesh” is contrasted with “Fruit of the spirit”. Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Seventeen Works of the Flesh (Notes from Dake’s Annotated Bible) 1. Adultery. (GSN-3430), unlawful sexual relations between men and women, single or married (Matthew 15:19; Mark 7:21; John 8:3; Galatians 5:19). Note the related Greek: verbs, (GSN-3429) ( Matthew 5:32, notes; Matthew 19:9; Mark 10:11-12), and (GSN-3431) (Matthew 5:27-28; Matthew 19:18; Mark 10:19; Luke 16:18; Luke 18:20; John 8:4; Romans 2:22; Romans 13:9; James 2:11; Rev. 2:22). 2. Fornication. (GSN-4202), same as adultery above besides all manner of other unlawful relations 3. Uncleanness. (GSN-167), whatever is opposite of purity; including sodomy, homosexuality, lesbianism, pederasty, bestiality, and all other forms of sexual perversion (Galatians 5:19; Matthew 23:27; Romans 1:21-32; Romans 6:19; 2 Cor. 12:21; Ephes. 4:19; Ephes. 5:3; Col. 3:5; 1 Thes. 2:3; 1 Thes. 4:7; 2 Peter 2; Jude). 13 4. Lasciviousness. (GSN-766), licentiousness, lustfulness, unchastity, and lewdness. Translated "lasciviousness" (Mark 7:22; 2 Cor. 12:21; Galatians 5:19; Ephes. 4:19; 1 Peter 4:3; Jude 1:4); "wantonness" (Romans 13:13; 2 Peter 2:18); and "filthy" (2 Peter 2:7). Lasciviousness is the promoting or partaking of that which tends to produce lewd emotions, anything tending to foster sex sin and lust. That is why many worldly pleasures have to be avoided by Christians— so that lasciviousness may not be committed. 5. Idolatry. (GSN-1495), image-worship (1 Cor. 10:14; Galatians 5:20; Col. 3:5; 1 Peter 4:3). Idolatry includes anything on which affections are passionately set; extravagant admiration of the heart (Ephes. 5:5; Col. 3:5). 6. Witchcraft. (GSN-5331), sorcery, practice of dealing with evil spirits; magical incantations and casting spells and charms upon one by means of drugs and potions of various kinds (Galatians 5:20; Rev. 9:21; Rev. 18:23; cp. Rev. 21:8; Rev. 22:15. Enchantments were used to inflict evil, pains, hatred, sufferings, and death, or to bring good, health, love and other blessings. 7. Hatred (GSN-2189), enmity (Luke 23:12; Romans 8:7; Ephes. 2:15-16; James 4:4); hatred (Galatians 5:20). Bitter dislike, abhorrance, malice and ill will against anyone; tendency to hold grudges against or be angry at someone. 8. Variance (GSN-2054), Romans 1:29. Dissensions, discord, quarreling, debating; and disputes. 9. Emulations. (GSN-2205), envies, jealousies; striving to excel at the expense of another; seeking to surpass and out do others; uncurbed rivalry spirit in religion, business, society, and other fields of endeavor. Translated "zeal" (John 2:17; Romans 10:2; 2 Cor. 7:11; 2 Cor. 9:2; Phil. 3:6; Col. 4:13); "fervent mind" (2 Cor. 7:7); "envy" (Acts 13:45; Romans 13:13; 1 Cor. 3:3; 2 Cor. 12:20; James 3:14-15); "jealousy" (2 Cor. 11:2); "indignation" (Acts 5:17; Hebrews 10:27); and "emulation" (Galatians 5:20). 10. Wrath. (GSN-2372), "wrath" (Galatians 5:20; Luke 4:28; Acts 19:28; 2 Cor. 12:20; Ephes. 4:31; Col. 3:8; Hebrews 11:27; Rev. 12:12; Rev. 14:8,10,19; Rev. 15:1,7; Rev. 16:1; Rev. 18:3); "indignation" (Romans 2:8); and "fierceness" (Rev. 16:19; Rev. 19:15). Turbulent passions; domestic and civil turmoils; rage; determined and lasting anger. 11. Strife. (GSN-2052), "strife" (Galatians 5:20; 2 Cor. 12:20; Phil. 2:3; James 3:14,16); "contention" (Phil. 1:16; Romans 2:8). Disputations; jangling; strife about words; angry contentions; contest for superiority or advantage; strenuous endeavor to equal or pay back in kind the wrongs done to one. 14  12. Seditions (GSN-1370), "divisions" (Romans 16:17; 1 Cor. 3:3); "seditions, parties, and factions" (Galatians 5:20). Popular disorder; stirring up strife in religion, government, home, or any other place. 13. Heresies (GSN138), properly a choice, i.e. (special) a party or (abstract) disunion :- heresy [which is the Greek word itself], sect. False doctrines (Matt 15:9; 2 Peter 2:1; ); reject a heretick (Titus 3:10);. 14. Envyings. (GSN-5355) (Galatians 5:21; Matthew 27:18; Mark 15:10; Romans 1:29; Phil. 1:15; 1 Tim. 6:4; Titus 3:3; James 4:5; 1 Peter 2:1) Pain, ill will, and jealousy at the good fortune or blessings of another; the most base of all degrading and disgraceful passions. 15. Murders. (GSN-5408) (note, Matthew 15:18) to kill; to spoil or mar the happiness of another; hatred (1 John 3:15). 16. Drunkenness. (GSN-3178) (Galatians 5:21; Luke 21:34; Romans 13:13). Living intoxicated; a slave to drink; drinking bouts. 17. Revellings. (GSN-2970) (Galatians 5:21; 1 Peter 4:3); rioting (Romans 13:13). Lascivious and boisterous feastings, with obscene music, and other sinful activities; pleasures; carousings. Look at the warning given to people who do such things. Galatians 5:21 (KJV)..and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Cor. 6:9-10 (KJV) Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. Ephes. 5:5 (KJV) For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Romans 8:13 (KJV) For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. There is a common theme among the scriptures: 1. Do not be deceived 2. Those who do these things will not inherit the Kingdom of God 15 What about people who did such things? 1 Cor. 6:11 (KJV) And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. Acts 26:18 (KJV) To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. 1 Peter 1:22 (KJV) Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: The Bible teaches that man can contain and control his lusts through the help of the Holy Spirit. Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Job 23:11 My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Psalm 17:4 Concerning the words of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. Psalm 18:21 For I have kept the ways of the Lord, and have not wickedly departed from my God. Psalm 119:106 I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments. Psalm 119:115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God. Acts 11:23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 16  Romans 8:4-6 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Galatians 5:19-21 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Galatians 6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. Ephes. 5:3-5 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Col. 3:5-6 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: The Key to Victorious Living Galatians 5:16-17 (KJV) This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 1. Stand fast in the liberty of the gospel and renounce all keeping of the law (Galatians 5:1-3). 2. Maintain justification in grace and obey the truth (Galatians 4-15). 3. Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-17). 4. Be led by the Spirit (Galatians 5:18). 17 5. Crucify the flesh with the affections and lusts (Galatians 5:19-21,24). 6. Demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit in daily life (Galatians 5:22-23). 7. Live in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25-26). 18  Lust of the Eyes Definition We covet what we see when we allow ourselves to remain fixated upon that which we know is not allowed. Genesis 3:4-5 (KJV) And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. Matthew 6:22-23 (KJV) The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! When the eye of man was opened to know good and evil, he opened himself up to all of Satan's temptations 1. Lust for women (Matthew 5:28; Job 31:1) 2. Eyes full of adultery—even men with men and women with women (2 Peter 2:14; Romans 1:18-28) 3. Covetousness (Psalm 10:8; Luke 12:15) 4. All things desired (Eccles. 2:10) 5. Idolatry (Ezekiel 6:9; Ezekiel 18:6-15) 6. All kinds of evil (Matthew 6:23; Matthew 7:22) The Root of the Problem - Covetousness Luke 12:13-15 …Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. 19 The Problem The Answer Exodus 20:17 Thou shalt not covet thy 1 Cor. 9:27 But I keep under my body, and neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his when I have preached to others, I myself maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing should be a castaway. that is thy neighbour's. Ephes. 4:22 That ye put off concerning the Psalm 81:12 So I gave them up unto their own former conversation the old man, which is hearts' lust: and they walked in their own corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; counsels. 2 Tim. 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow Proverbs 6:24-25 To keep thee from the evil righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. strange woman. Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids. Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present looketh on a woman to lust after her hath world; committed adultery with her already in his heart. 1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you Mark 4:19 And the cares of this world, and the as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other lusts, which war against the soul; things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. Romans 8:13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the the deeds of the body, ye shall live. lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, Col. 3:5 Mortify therefore your members which because there is no truth in him. When he are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and liar, and the father of it. covetousness, which is idolatry: 1 Cor. 10:6-7 Now these things were our Romans 12:1-3 I beseech you therefore, examples, to the intent we should not lust after brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up service. And be not conformed to this world: to play. but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For I say, James 1:14-15 But every man is tempted, when through the grace given unto me, to every man he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. that is among you, not to think of himself more Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth highly than he ought to think; but to think sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth soberly, according as God hath dealt to every death. man the measure of faith. 1 John 2:16-17 For all that is in the world, the 1 John 2:17 …but he that doeth the will of God lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the abideth for ever. pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust 2 Cor. 10:5-6 Casting down imaginations, and thereof: every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. 20  Pride of Life What is Pride? Pride is a boastful, bragging reliance on self or others instead of God. Old Testament Leviticus 26:19 And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass: ga'own, Hebrew (1347, Strong’s) from Hebrew 1342 (ga'ah); the same as Hebrew 1346 (ga`avah) :- arrogancy, excellency (-lent), majesty, pomp, pride, proud, swelling. 1 Samuel 17:28 And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. zadown, Hebrew (2087, Strong’s) zaw-done'; from Hebrew 2102 (zuwd); arrogance :- presumptuously, pride, proud (man). Proverbs 16:5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. gobahh, Hebrew (1363, Strong’s); from Hebrew 1361 (gabahh); elation, grandeur, arrogance :- excellency, haughty, height, high, loftiness, pride. Job 33:17 That he may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man. gevah, Hebrew (1466, Strong’s); the same as Hebrew 1465 (gevah); exaltation; (figurative) arrogance :- lifting up, pride. 21 New Testament Mark 7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: huperephania, Greek (5243, Strong’s); from Greek 5244 (huperephanos); haughtiness :- pride. 1 Tim. 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. tuphoo, Greek (5187, Strong’s); from a derivative of Greek 5188 (tupho); to envelop with smoke, i.e. (figurative) to inflate with self-conceit :- high- minded, be lifted up with pride, be proud. 1 John 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. alazoneia, Greek (212, Strong’s); from Greek 213 (alazon); braggadocio, i.e. (by implication) self-confidence :- boasting, pride. B. What is Humility? Old Testament Exodus 10:3 And Moses and Aaron came in unto Pharaoh, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord God of the Hebrews, How long wilt thou refuse to humble thyself before me? let my people go, that they may serve me. `anah, Hebrew (6031, Strong’s); a primitive root [possibly rather identical with Hebrew 6030 (`anah) through the idea of looking down or browbeating]; to depress literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follow) :- abase self, afflict (-ion, self), answer [by mistake for Hebrew 6030 (`anah)], chasten self, deal hardly with, defile, exercise, force, gentleness, humble (self), hurt, ravish, sing [by mistake for Hebrew 6030 (`anah)], speak [by mistake for Hebrew 6030 (`anah)], submit self, weaken, × in any wise. 2 Chron. 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. kana`, Hebrew (3665, Strong’s); a primitive root; properly to bend the knee; hence to humiliate, vanquish :- bring down (low), into subjection, under, humble (self), subdue. 22 New Testament Matthew 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. tapeinoo, Greek (5013, Strong’s); from Greek 5011 (tapeinos); to depress; figurative to humiliate (in condition or heart) :- abase, bring low, humble (self). James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. tapeinos, Greek (5011, Strong’s); of uncertain derivative; depressed, i.e. (figurative) humiliated (in circumstances or disposition) :- base, cast down, humble, of low degree (estate), lowly. What Pride Can Do Pride makes us want to lash out Numbers 22:29 Pride causes us to seek recognition Judges 8:1-3 Pride causes us to take credit for what others have done Judges 15:14-17 Pride leads to destruction (Absalom) 2 Samuel 17:11 Pride causes us to count the number (David’s census) 1 Chronicles 21:1 Prides leads one to question the man of God (Naaman) 2 Kings 5:12 Pride leads to corruption 2 Chronicles 26:16 Pride wants to be excused from work Nehemiah 3:5 Prejudice grows from pride Esther 3:5-6 Pride and God’s presences incompatible Psalm 10:11 Pride and sexual sins related Proverbs 2:16-17 Pride causes quarrels Proverbs 13:10 Satan attacks us in areas of pride Matthew 4:11 Pride is a barrier to belief in Jesus John 11:45-53 Pride affects our values and spiritual authority Mark 9:34 Pride causes other’s success to hurt you Luke 9:49-50 Pride comes from self-righteousness & causes comparisons Luke 18:11-14 Pride vanishes when we see Jesus John 1:27 Pride vanishes when we see God Job 42:6; Isaiah 6:1-6 Pride leads to death (Agrippa) Acts 12:23 Resisting Church discipline leads to pride 2 Corinthians 2:11 Pride reveals our hearts Mark 7:21-23 23 Outward Displays of Pride and Humility Displays of Pride Scriptural Display of Humility Refusal to acknowledge weakness Delight in Weakness 2 Cor. 12:10 Refusal to relinquish “rights” Humble Yourself Phil. 2:5-8 Self vindication Vindication from God 1 Peter 5:6 Self Praise Let others praise you Prov. 27:2 Reacts to petty offenses Overlook offenses Prov. 19:11 Glories in intellect Seek God’s Wisdom Prov.9:10 , 1 Cor.3:18-21 Does not seek advice Seeks advice from others Prov. 12:15 Constantly comparing oneself Refuses useless comparisons 2 Cor. 10:12 Self-exalting Honest examination of self Romans 12:3 Constantly seeks approval of men Desires approval of God Galatians 1:10 Wants to rule Wants to serve Matthew 20:25-26 Perceives humility as weakness Perceives humility as strength Matt 18:4 Perceives weakness as negative Perceives weakness as a positive 2 Cor. 12:10 Will not Forgive Will not seek after God Psa. 10:4 Our own opinions Prov. 26:12 Our own possessions Psa. 49:6 Our own position Luke 14:7 Our clothing 1 Pe. 3:3 Spiritual Pride Our Prayers Matt 6:5 Our Fasting Matt 6:16 Our offerings Matt 6:2 Our judgment of self Luke 6 Our ability Gal. 6:3 Our leadership positions 1 Pe. 5:3 Who will be the greatest Luke 9 24 III. Causes of Pride - SELF S - Success Many people seek after success and achievement. Psalm 52:7 Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness. x Achievement x Acceptance x Affluence x Ability E - External Gratification Many people seek after the things of the world… Philip. 2:21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. 1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. x Money x Power x Property x Assets x Sex x Drugs, Alcohol x Experiences x Outward Adorning L - Labor Many people trust their own works rather than God’s mercy. Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. F - Focus on Self People place themselves at the center, rather than putting God in the center. 2 Tim. 3:2-4 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; x Self-interest x Self-reliance x Self-indulgent x Self-satisfying x Self-fulfillment 25 The indictment pronounced by Jesus: John 5:22-23 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. John 5:37-47 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not. Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life. I receive not honour from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words? This passage provides one of the clearest, most succinct descriptions of the attitudes of prideful people. 1. You have not honored the Son or the Father v. 23 2. You have not heard His voice v. 37 3. You have not seen Him v. 37 4. You have not His word abiding in you v. 38 5. You have not believed the One who was sent v. 38 6. You will not come to me v. 40 7. You have not the love of God in you v. 42 8. You receive me not v. 43 9. You seek not the honor that comes from God v. 44 10. You believe not the writings of Moses v. 47 Scriptural References Psalm 12:3 The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: Proverbs 16:5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. 26  Proverbs 28:25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat. Romans 1:30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 1 Tim. 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 2 Tim. 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, The Pharisee and the Publican Luke 18:9-14 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Spiritual Pride (Pharisee) Godly Humility (Publican) 9 Trusts In Themselves 13 Does Not Presume Righteousness 9 Self-Righteous 13 Acknowledges Sin And Faults 9 Despised Others 13 Acknowledges Need For Mercy 11 Acknowledges God Incorrectly 13 Acknowledges God Correctly 11 Does Not Confess Sin 13 Prays For Mercy 12 Trusts In Works 14 Humbled Himself 14 Self-Exalting Result: Not justified and not exalted Result: Justified and exalted by by God. God For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. 2 Cor. 10:12 27 Examples: Ahithophel 2 Samuel 17:23 Committed Suicide because of Pride and Fear 2 Samuel 17:23 And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father. Naaman 2 Kings 5:11-13 Almost Forfeited a blessing because of Pride 2 Kings 5:11-13 But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper. Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage. And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean? Hezekiah 2 Kings 20:13 Drew Attention to His Wealth because of Pride 2 Kings 20:13 And Hezekiah hearkened unto them, and shewed them all the house of his precious things, the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and all the house of his armour, and all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah shewed them not. Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel 4:30-34; 5:20 Claimed Honor for Himself Daniel 4:30-34 The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty? Daniel 5:20 But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him: Uzziah. 2 Chron. 26:16-19 Transgressed because of Pride 2 Chron. 26:16-19 But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the Lord his God, and went into the temple of the Lord to burn incense upon the altar of incense. And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the Lord, that were valiant men: And they withstood Uzziah the king, and 28  said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the Lord, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honour from the Lord God. Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the house of the Lord, from beside the incense altar. Haman. Esther 3:5, 6:6, 7:10 Pride led to Destruction Esther 3:5 And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath. Esther 6:6 So Haman came in. And the king said unto him, What shall be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour? Now Haman thought in his heart, To whom would the king delight to do honour more than to myself? Esther 7:10 So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified. How God Deals with Pride Proverbs 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Brings Wrath Pharoah Exodus 10:3-4 And Moses and Aaron came in unto Pharaoh, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, How long wilt thou refuse to humble thyself before me? let my people go, that they may serve me. 4Else, if thou refuse to let my people go, behold, to morrow will I bring the locusts into thy coast: Brings Scorns Proverbs 3:34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly. Remove the Object of Pride Joseph’s Coat Genesis 37:4-8 And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more. And he said unto them, Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have dreamed: For, behold, we were binding 29  sheaves in the field, and, lo, my sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves stood round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf. And his brethren said to him, Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt thou indeed have dominion over us? And they hated him yet the more for his dreams, and for his words. Rejection by Friend’s and Family Moses Exodus 2:11-14 And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow? And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known. Reversal of Fortune Job Job 2:7-10 So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes. Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips. Refusal of Prayer Requests Paul 2 Cor. 12:7-9 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Humbles the Proud Proverbs 29:23 A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit. 30  Isaiah 2:17 And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be made low: and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. Matthew 23:12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. Luke 1:52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. Luke 14:11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luke 18:14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Note: Notice how many times the proud are warned and what consequence is promised to them. Counseling Direction x Identify the true motives of a person’s desire. x Have counselee confess that lust is a sin. (1 John 1:9) x Confess the specific lust that is overwhelming his thoughts. x Quit giving expression to the lust. (Hebrews 13:5) x Explore the joys of giving and God’s purpose in giving. x Pray for the person you envy. (Matt. 26:41, James 5:16) x Have the client “reckon themselves dead to sin” (Romans 6- 31 Help the client to understand the following Biblical principles: 1. One needs to view pride from God’s perspective. Proverbs 8:13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. 2. Recognize humility as a Christian behavior. 1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. 3. Pray that God will reveal what is hidden in your heart. Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. 4. Focus on the character of Christ, not on other people. Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 5. Understand and respond with a positive attitude Proverbs 3:11-12 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 6. Understand that we do not really own anything Luke 12:18-21 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. Col. 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Scripture References Ahab 1Ki 21:29 Seest thou how Ahab humbleth himself before me? because he humbleth himself before me, I will not bring the evil in his days: but in his son's days will I bring the evil upon his house. 32 Rehoboam And The Princes 2Ch 12:6 Whereupon the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, The Lord is righteous. Manasseh 2Ch 33:12 And when he was in affliction, he besought the Lord his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, Josiah 2Ch 34:27 Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God, when thou heardest his words against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, and humbledst thyself before me, and didst rend thy clothes, and weep before me; I have even heard thee also, saith the Lord. Job Job 42:5-6 I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. The Prodigal Son Lu 15:18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, The cure for Pride is Love (Charity) from 1 Cor. 13:4-8 x Love Is Patient x Love Is Kind x Love Is Not Jealous x Love Does Not Brag x Love Is Not Arrogant x Love Does Not Act Unbecomingly x Love Does Not Seek Its Own x Love Is Not Provoked x Love Does Not Take Into Account A Wrong Suffered x Love Does Not Rejoice In Unrighteousness x Love Rejoices With The Truth x Love Bears All Things x Love Believes All Things x Love Hopes All Things x Love Endures All Things x Love Never Fails 33  Biblical View of Self Areas in our Life that should be Monitored Self Appraisal Romans 2:1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. Self Control Galatians 5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Self -Deception Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Galatians 6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. Self Denial Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Self Exaltation Ezekiel 31:10 Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Because thou hast lifted up thyself in height, and he hath shot up his top among the thick boughs, and his heart is lifted up in his height; 11 I have therefore delivered him into the hand of the mighty one of the heathen; he shall surely deal with him: I have driven him out for his wickedness. Luke 14:11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Self Examination Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. 34  2 Cor. 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? Selfishness Proverbs 11:26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it. Luke 12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. 1 Cor. 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Self Righteousness Luke 18:9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 1 Cor. 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. Self Pity Proverbs 19:3 The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the Lord. Philip. 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: Philip. 4:11-13 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 35  Biblical Confrontation Luke 6:42-48 A Perfect Example of the Counseling Model Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull Look at yourself, out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not first. the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye. Good fruit comes For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a from good corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. For every tree is known by trees…bad fruit his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a from bad trees bramble bush gather they grapes. Man's actions A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth come from the forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of heart his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. Is there an honest And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I relationship with say? Jesus? The principle: Hear Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth and Do. them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and Stability is the laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the result of stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: obedience. for it was founded upon a rock. 2 Cor. 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 36 Matthew 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: Matthew 7:2-3 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Matthew 22:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. 1 Cor. 11:31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. Matthew 7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Romans 2:1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. Leviticus 20:7-8 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the Lord your God. And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the Lord which sanctify you. Hebrews 5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 2 John 1:8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. James 3:1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 1 Cor. 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 37