The Christian Characteristics - Temperance
2 Peter 1:5-11

Introduction:

  1. Peter in this passage reminds us we must grow in our service to God.
  2. Eight areas for growth listed here.
  3. In this lesson we will look at temperance

Discussion:

I. What Is temperance?

  1. Webster defines as
    1. Moderation in action, thought, or feeling: restraint
    2. habitual moderation in the indulgence of the appetites or passions
    3. moderation in or abstinence from the use of intoxicating drink
  2. BDB/Thayer defines as
    1. 1466 egkrateia temperance 4; 4
    2. self-control (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, esp. his sensual appetites)
  3. Bible defines as
    1. Daniel Dan 1:8-16
    2. Daniel used temperance in this strange land
    3. He had always followed the law and now was able to refuse that which was unclean
    1. Paul 1Cor 9:25-27
    2. Paul uses the example of an athlete that refuses to indulge his appetites while preparing for competition
    3. Paul said "I keep under his body" he controlled himself
  4. A practical definition would be
    1. That quality which causes us to refuse to overdo anything which may be right in and of itself
    2. It also keeps us from partaking of things that are wrong, especially the desires of the flesh
    3. Controlling self according to the Scriptures

II. Why Do We Need Temperance?

  1. In our relationship with God
    1. We must control the spirit Prov 16:32; Eph 4:31-32; Rom 8:9-10
    2. Must control our thoughts and minds
      1. Keep our minds alert and on God 1Pet 1:13
      2. Keep heart with diligence Prov 4:23
      3. From heart man speaks Mt 12:34-35
      4. From heart proceeds evil thoughts Mk 7:21-23
    3. Christian useless without self control
      1. Do you want a new car with no steering or braking system?
      2. How about a brand new fishing boat with no engine throttle?
  2. In our own lives
    1. We must control our body
      1. Judged by deeds done in body 2Cor 5:10
      2. Paul controlled his body 1Cor 9:27
    2. Our bodies are to serve us not master us
      1. Thirst (drunkard)
      2. Sexual desires (adultery, fornication) 1Cor 7:1-2
      3. Glorify God in our bodies 1Cor 6:20
  3. In our relationship with others
    1. Avoid sins against others
      1. Covetousness Lk 12:15; Col 3:5
      2. Adultery and fornication 1Cor 7:1-2
    2. Avoid being a bad influence
    3. Drunkenness 1Cor 6:9-10
    4. Evil thoughts Mt 5:28; Prov 23:7; Phil 4:8

III. How Do We Get Or Develop Temperance?

  1. Bible knowledge
    1. Knowledge of what God expects of us is necessary
    2. Cannot keep self on right track if we don't know right 2Tim 2:15
  2. Self-knowledge
    1. It is an individual responsibility 1Cor 9:27
    2. Accept practice is sin and stop all excuse for doing it 2Cor 13:5
  3. Must want to exercise temperance (self-control)
    1. Knowledge of value only when you decide to use it
    2. Will controlled by ideas
      1. Paul states principle Phil 3:13
      2. Self-control comes when we concentrate on what we must do, rather than what we must not do
  4. Develop habits by putting knowledge into practice
    1. By practicing temperance each and every day in the little things we will have temperance when the big problems confront us
    2. Young especially need to realize importance of right habits "Each victory will help you, some other to win"

IV. What Is The Result Of Strengthening Our Temperance?

  1. In the physical realm
    1. The glutton would be healthier if he practiced temperance
    2. The impulse spender would be more financially secure
    3. The covetous would be satisfied with what he has and willing to help others in need 1Tim 6:9; Mt 19:16-22
  2. In the spiritual realm
    1. We will put off those things that hinder us in our service to God Mt 5:29-30; Prov 25:16
      1. Using our time wisely
      2. Make plans to attend services instead of fishing, sleeping in, hunting, unnecessary work, or leaving town for vacation on Sunday morning
    2. Will flee youthful lust 2Tim 2:22
    3. Temperance makes use useful for the Master's work
    4. We will avoid stumbling in sin 2Pet 1:10
  3. In our dealing with others
    1. We will lead others from sin by our example
    2. Because we are in control of self we will be able to deal with others who may be difficult

Conclusion:

  1. What about you?
  2. How strong is your Temperance?
  3. What changes should you make to begin growing as you should?
  4. Invitation to the lost.