THE GREATEST PRIVILEGES ARE REALIZED IN CHRIST The greatest quest of mankind is freedom. Freedom grants privileges. Let us learn not to abuse our freedom.

Introduction Mr. Webster says privilege means: "A right or immunity granted as a peculiar advantage or favor. A grant of a special right or immunity; a franchise or patent. A fundamental or sacred right One of the rights guaranteed to all persons by modern constitutional governments."

Introduction Rights and privileges are central themes in the Constitution of the United States. Freedom is a word which allows such things as freedom of: Press, Speech, Worship, Pursuit of Happiness. Freedoms are central themes in the New Testament. But we are told not to misuse or abuse our freedom that is in Christ.

Introduction Galatians 5:1 “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery”. Galatians 5:13 “For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another”. 1 Pet. 2:16 “Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bond slaves of God”.

BELIEF OR FAITH IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE To have faith in the God that saves. John 3:16. But it is even greater to have a faith that expresses itself in works. James 1:21-25; James 2:14-26; Matthew 7:21-27.

REPENTANCE IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE. Men are prone not to forgive, but God always forgives those that repent. 2 Chronicles 7:14; Isaiah 55:6,7. It will bring about pardon. But the lack of it will bring about condemnation. Luke 13: 3; Acts 17:30,31; Romans 12:9.

CONFESSION IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE God will dwell in those that confess. 1 John 4:15. Christ will confess them before His Father. Matthew 10:32,33; Romans 10:9,10. This confession must be accompanied by works. 1 John 2:4; Luke 6:46; John 12:42,43.

BAPTISM IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE Sins are remitted by baptism. Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16. We enter into Christ where all spiritual blessings are by baptism. Galatians 3:26,27; Ephesians 1:3. We can have a good conscience by being baptized and we are saved by baptism. 1 Peter 3:21.

BAPTISM IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE Someone might ask: "Is there salvation in water?" No! But there is salvation in obedience to God which is a part of His plan for us. But we can also be condemned if we are not baptized. Mark 16:16. To reject baptism is to reject the counsel of God. Luke 7:30.

IT IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE TO HAVE ACCESS TO THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. We are to continue in it steadfastly and not go beyond it. 1 Corinthians 15:58 Acts 2:42; 2 John 9. It will save our souls. James 1:21; Romans 1:16,17.

IT IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE TO HAVE ACCESS TO THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST. The doctrines of men will condemn. Matthew 15:9. We are warned against the doctrines of men. Galatians 1;6-8; Colossians 2:8.

FELLOWSHIP IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE WHETHER IT IS REFERRING TO ASSEMBLING TOGETHER AS SAINTS OR GIVING OF OUR MEANS TO SUPPORT THE PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL. Philippians 1:3-11; Philippians 4: A. We are told to be steadfast and not forsake it. Hebrews 10:25. Coming together is to be done at every appointed meeting if at all possible. Many seem to think that they are doing God or our brethren a favor when we assemble with the saints.

FELLOWSHIP IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE Some have the attitude, you visit me once to encourage me to attend the services and I will certainly come once in return. Laying by in store is to be done upon the 1st day of every week. 1 Corinthians 16:1,2. It is a grace or gift from God and we are commanded to abound in it.

FELLOWSHIP IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE It is a great privilege allowed by God. 2 Corinthians 8:1-7. This giving is to be done, as prospered, willingly, with purpose, and cheerfully. 2 Cor. 9:6-8.

THE LORD'S SUPPER IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE It is through this means that we commune with the Lord, and He with us. Matthew 26: It is through this means that we commemorate the death of suffering of our Lord until He comes again. 1 Corinthians 11: We are to do this steadfastly upon every 1st day of the week. Acts 2:42; Acts 20:7.

PRAYER IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE It is through prayer that we talk with God, He talks to us through His written Word. Prayer is to be steadfast. Romans 12:12. It is to be addressed to God the Father through Jesus Christ the Lord. Romans 1:8. We are to ask in faith, nothing wavering. James 1:6,7.

PRAYER IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE We are to ask, doing His will. 1 John 3:22. We are to ask according to His will. 1 John 5:14,15. We must not allow our prayers to be an "abomination" before the Lord. Prov. 28:9

TO BE ABLE TO ESCAPE HELL AND SATAN IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE Note what Peter says: 2 Peter 1:4; 2 Peter 1:5-11.

TO HAVE A HOME WITH GOD AFTER THIS LIFE IS OVER IS THE GREATEST OF PRIVILEGES A prepared place for a prepared people. John 14:1-3. An eternal home. Psalm 23:6; Ecclesiastes 12:5. But we must prepare for that prepared place. 1 Peter 1:3-9.

CONCLUSION Yes, there are many great privileges for us if we will seek them out and use them. We also need to learn to appreciate these privileges we have. You have the privilege of becoming a Christian today, you might not have this privilege tomorrow. Why not take advantage of this great privilege now?