Following the Path of Least Resistance

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Presentation transcript:

Following the Path of Least Resistance

The Path of Least Resistance Rivers are crooked because they follow the “path of least resistance” What does this mean? The easiest way around an obstacle or easiest solution to a problem. The course of least antagonism. The popular way that comes freely without effort.

The Path of Least Resistance In matters of opinion this is admirable (Gen. 13:8-9; Acts 15:36-41), but not in matters of the faith

The Path of Least Resistance Shortcuts in Life School work (neglect homework, skip class, quit practice, cheat on tests, etc.) Employment (Prov. 6:9-11; Eccl. 10:18; Eph. 6:6) Government (bail-out programs, etc.)

The Path of Least Resistance Principles of Excellence Are Not Being Taught Ecclesiastes 9:10 2 Corinthians 8:7

The Path of Least Resistance Principles of Resistance Are Not Being Taught Galatians 2:11 Ephesians 6:10ff

The Path of Least Resistance Shortcuts in the Church Attend irregularly (Heb. 10:25) Lord’s supper only (Ac. 2:42) No works outside the assembly (Mt. 25:26)

The Path of Least Resistance Shortcuts in the Church Little or no Bible study (2 Tim. 2:15) Little or no giving (2 Cor. 8:5; 9:7) Demand a short service (Neh. 8:3)

The Path of Least Resistance Shortcuts in the Church Refuse to stand for truth (Jude 3) Give in to the Devil (Jas. 4:7) Go along with the world (Ac. 2:40; Phil. 2:15)

The Path of Least Resistance Shortcuts in the Church Fail to practice what is preached (Ezek. 33:32) Neglect personal duty (Lk. 10:28-29, 37) Fail to control your temper (Gal. 5:20)

Least Resistance or Great Resolve You Can Take the Path of Least Resistance Like… Samson (Judges 16:16-17) Jereboam (1 K. 12:28) Peter (Mt. 26:69-75; Gal. 2:11-14) Pilate (Mt. 27:24) Demas (2 Tim. 4:10)

Least Resistance or Great Resolve You Can Take the Path of Great Resolve Like… Job (Job 2:9) Jesus (Mt. 4:1-11) Paul (2 Tim. 4:7) Epaphroditus (Phil. 2:30) Antipas (Rev. 2:13)

The Path of Least Resistance We know when we take shortcuts God knows when we take shortcuts