
We Think We Are So Smart
In this sermon, the preacher delves into the significance of the Book of Romans, calling it one of the most critical texts in the New Testament for understanding the foundations and depth of Christian faith. He highlights the Apostle Paul’s role in addressing the church in Rome, a congregation he did not establish, to encourage their faith and deepen their understanding of the gospel.
The central theme of the message revolves around servanthood, which the preacher emphasizes as essential for every Christian. Drawing from Paul’s declaration as a servant of Christ, he connects the call to serve with the two great commandments: loving God wholeheartedly and loving one’s neighbor. True servanthood, he asserts, stems from a closer relationship with God and is marked by sharing the gospel with others.
The preacher stresses the importance of not being ashamed of the gospel, as outlined in Romans 1:16. He recounts a conversation with a Bible college student to illustrate that sharing the gospel is foundational for effective ministry. He reminds Christians that their lives should be centered on proclaiming the good news, making it the focus of their interactions and daily activities.
The sermon transitions into a discussion on the consequences of ignoring God’s truth, referencing Romans 1:18-21. The preacher likens this to someone withholding the cure for their own disease, emphasizing the futility of knowing God’s truth without applying it. He warns against the dangers of ingratitude and vain imaginations, which lead to spiritual emptiness and distance from God. This is particularly relevant in a culture preoccupied with materialism and distractions.
The preacher critiques the modern tendency to replace God with idols, whether in the form of material possessions, societal trends, or pursuits like sports and financial success. He underscores the folly of prioritizing these over a relationship with God, reminding listeners that true satisfaction comes from recognizing God as the provider and giving Him glory and thanks.
A significant portion of the message addresses the pitfalls of apostasy—a gradual departure from faith. The preacher explains how ungratefulness, misplaced priorities, and reliance on human wisdom lead to spiritual darkness and poor decision-making. He challenges listeners to examine their lives for signs of misplaced focus, urging them to avoid the traps of vain pursuits and worldly wisdom.
The preacher concludes with a call for Christians to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, including family, work, and personal aspirations. He stresses the importance of being committed to a local church body, fostering a unified focus on God’s purposes. Using practical examples and personal anecdotes, he warns against scattering attention among multiple influences, whether religious or secular, and encourages steadfastness in faith.