2. MYOPIC CHRISTIANS “For he who lacks these things is blind, cannot see afar off, and has forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.” 2 Pet. 1:9

3. Are you nearsighted—myopic? Myopia—a condition in which distant objects appear blurred, while nearby objects are clear. One who is myopic is unable to see distant objects clearly. A common occurrence physically, needing corrective lenses Not uncommon spiritually See things close by, but don’t look to the future good or bad outcome

4. Some OT Examples of Nearsightedness Esau, in selling his birthright. Gen. 25:27ff –Later referred to as profane. Heb. 12:16f –His nearsightedness cost him much… Double portion of inheritance. Deut. 21:17 Blessing given to Jacob. Gen. 27:1-40 Right to be Christ’s ancestor. Gen. 26:4 Mention of his name where Jacob’s is. Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness? Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness?

5. Some OT Examples of Nearsightedness Achan, in his trespass. Josh. 6:17,18; 7:1-26 –His nearsightedness cost… Israel the battle at Ai. Josh. 7:1-5 Achan his life. V. 25 Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness? Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness?

6. Some OT Examples of Nearsightedness Saul, in failing his mission. I Sam. 15:1-28 –Cost him… The kingdom and Samuel’s good favor. V. 35 Lord’s spirit departed. I Sam. 16:14 Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness? Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness?

7. Some NT Examples of Nearsightedness Ananias & Sapphira in lying. Acts 5:1-10 –Others had given much. Acts 4:34ff –They kept back part for future that was not to be—because they lied. Do you think they regretted their nearsightedness? Do you think they regretted their nearsightedness?

8. Some NT Examples of Nearsightedness Simon, in attempt to purchase power of the H.S. Acts 8:14-19 –Had obeyed the gospel. V. 12-14 –Had to repent. V. 20-23 Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness? Do you think he lived to regret his nearsightedness?

9. Some NT Examples of Nearsightedness Laodiceans, in becoming lukewarm. Rev. 3:14-17 –On verge of being spewed out. Do you think they regretted their nearsightedness? Do you think they regretted their nearsightedness?

10. Examples of Nearsightedness Today Failure to add “graces” 2 Pet. 1:9 Failing to do what will add them… –Diligence/study. 2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 5:12-14 –Prayer. Col. 4:2; I Thes. 5:17 –Assembling. Heb. 10:24-25 –Carefulness in giving. 2 Cor. 9:7-8 Do you think these will someday regret their nearsightedness? Do you think these will someday regret their nearsightedness?

11. Examples of Nearsightedness Today One who is unforgiving. Mat. 6:14-15 Interest centered in worldly things. I John 2:15-17; Mt. 16:26 A backslider. Heb. 3:12-13; 10:35-39; 2 Pet. 2:20 Do you think these will someday regret their nearsightedness? Do you think these will someday regret their nearsightedness?

12. Conclusion: Myopia needs treatment—corrective lenses Spiritual nearsightedness can be corrected Add the “graces.” 2 Pet. 1:5-7 Remember you were purged from old sins. I Pet. 1:22-23; 2:2 Not yet a Christian? How truly shortsighted to linger in sin! How truly shortsighted to linger in sin! Why not come to Jesus in full surrender and obedience ? Why not come to Jesus in full surrender and obedience ?