The good works man may see and glorify God!
A. Jesus’ followers are instructed with these instructions:
1. Matt.5:14-16 You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people
light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone
in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works
and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16
2. Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from desires of the flesh,
which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you
of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 1 Pe.2:11-12
3. Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the
king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong
and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the
ignorant talk of foolish men. 1 Peter 2:13-15
*****Jesus’ followers need to be known as law abiding people. Not lawless people!
B. Some specific items of good works:
1Tim 5:9-10à No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.
1Tim 6:17-18 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
Titus 2:7-8 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
Phil 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-- think about such things.
He 10:24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Eph 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
2Tim 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Titus 3:14 Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives.
Ro 14:17-18 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.
May the Lord bless you and keep you always! Preach this on December 9, 2012.