1 John 2:15; 1:6-7

The Problem of Worldliness

• Worldliness is spiritual adultery committed against God (James 4:4)– The bride of Christ can be unfaithful

just as God’s people were in Old Testament times (2 Corinthians 11:2; Jeremiah 3:1-14; Ezekiel 23:1; Hosea 1:1)

The Problem of Worldliness

• Worldliness starts as an attitude (Colossians 3:1-3)

• Worldliness is exhibited in actions (Galatians 5:19-21)

• Christians must keep themselves “unspotted from the world” (James 1:27)

The Problem of RESPECTABLE Worldliness

• As the world changes, our perception and definition of worldliness tends to change.– In Galatians 5:21, what do you include in

“such things”?– Would it be only those things that seem

wrong to you that others are doing?• Respectable worldliness makes sin

seem normal, righteousness strange, and the approval of the world desirable (Isaiah 5:20; 1 Peter 4:3-4)

The Problem of RESPECTABLE Worldliness

• Respectable worldliness OFTEN involves good things that are valued above God and His will (Matthew 6:33)– Professional over commitment

(Ecclesiastes 2:9-11)– Pursuit of Possessions (Luke 12:15)– Participation in Pastimes (Ephesians 5:16)– Popular fashion attire (Proverbs

7:10; 1 Timothy 2:9-10)– Pleasures (1 Timothy 5:6)

The Problem of RESPECTABLE Worldliness

• Could a person be lost…– Because He worked too many hours?– Watched too many ball games?– Bought a new car, TV or house?

• In Luke 14:16-24, people were lost over a piece of ground, five yoke of oxen and a new wife.

• PUT GOD FIRST! For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26)