Higher Ground

What Does “Higher Ground” Mean? Is this a song about being a better Christian and becoming more spiritual? Or, is this song about going to heaven? And wanting to go now.

Strict Construction v. Judicial Activism Do we interpret the Bible to mean exactly what it says? Or do we allow our personal views to shape our understanding? And why do some denominational folks seem to esteem the Constitution higher than the Bible?

Strict Construction v. Judicial Activism Which method of interpreting the Bible will get us to heaven? Our attitudes matter!

Constitution v. Bible Just like the Constitution outlines the powers of government and the rights of the people… The Bible details the purpose and function of the church as well as how we should conduct ourselves individually. Following God’s will demands obedience in all things, e.g. work of the church, worship, personal conduct, etc.

To reach “heaven’s table land,” we must do it God’s way. From the beginning, God has demanded that His word be interpreted to mean exactly what He says: Gen. 3:17 Deut. 4:2 Prov. 30:5-6 Rev. 22:18-19

The Bible Speaks Clearly What is most important. Mt. 22:36-39 How to be saved. Ax. 2:37-38 How to worship. Jn. 4:24 How to reach our goal. Phil. 3:10-16 If reaching heaven is via grace alone, why does Paul need to “press on”? If “once saved, always saved,” why hadn’t Paul “already attained” it?

Positive v. Negative Many scriptures contrast bad/good behaviors. Works of Flesh v. Fruit of Spirit Gal. 5:19-23 Earthly v. Holy Col. 3:5-10,12-17 Abstain from... v. Exhort to... 1 Ths. 4:3-6; 5:12-22 No longer walk… v. Walk in… Eph. 4:17—5:21

Works of Flesh v. Fruit of Spirit Love Joy Self-control Peaceful Faithfulness Righteousness Humility Giving/Generous Thankfulness Patience Truth Kindness/Goodness Gentleness Forgiveness Hatred/Bitterness Wrath/Anger Sexual immorality Contentions/Quarreling Uncleanness/Lewdness Idolatry/Sorcery Jealousy Selfishness/Greed Covetousness Drunkenness Lying Filthy language Blasphemy Stealing

Achieving Great Feats Mountain climbing is tough—no one reaches the top without hard work. Preservation of the Constitution and our nation has come through blood and sweat. Similarly, if heaven is our goal, we must actively work toward getting there every day. God has provided the map—we must use it and let Jesus be our guide.

Are you actively climbing to “higher ground”? Are you asking the Lord to lift you up so you can get there? If you’re failing to climb and disregarding the guide, you have no hope of reaching the top!