Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:12-18
The Christian's Influence
Intro.
1. A Christian has experienced a conversion, Rom. 6:3-4; 2 Cor. 5:17.
-Baptism just beginning, not the end (Col. 2:6-7).
2. One area of growth is our influence, Phil. 2:14-16. Be children of God without rebuke (without blemish):
a. Blameless (free of censure) before God and men, 2:15 (2 Pet. 3:14).
b. Harmless (innocent), Rom. 16:19.
c. Without fault: Without blemish, blame; No reprimand needed.
3. Children of God are to be “without fault” (“rebuke,” KJV; “blemish,” ASV, ESV) in sight of God and men, Phil. 2:15:
a. Enables us to have a good influence, 1 Pet. 2:12.
b. If we are to influence people our conduct must gain their respect. [Good influence can be restored when damaged (cf. Paul, Peter).]
4. Things that build a solid influence for good.
I. BE HONEST IN CHARACTER.
A. Honesty is a Principle, not a Policy, Phil. 4:8 (matter of your honor).
1. Our honesty affects our influence, 2 Cor. 8:18-21.
a. Honest reputation strengthens our influence and effectiveness, Acts 6:3.
b. Honesty influences, but lying and deceit destroys credibility, 1 Pet. 2:11-12.
2. Business, congregations, homes, etc.; Impacts relationships.
B. Always be Truthful, Eph. 4:25; Prov. 6:16-19.
-Speaking truth is the fruit of an honest heart, Matt. 12:34-35.
II. BE PURE IN SPEECH, 1 Pet. 3:10.
A. Abandon Profane Hearts and Speech, Eph. 4:29; 5:4; Col. 4:6.
1. Profanity may influence vulgar people, but it does not draw people to Christ.
2. Uncontrolled tongue does much damage to the cause of Christ, James 3:5.
3. Sound speech that cannot be condemned, Titus 2:7-8.
III. BE PURE IN CONDUCT.
A. Maintain Purity of the Church (Christ died for her), Eph. 5:25-27.
1. With conduct that is worthy of the gospel, Phil. 1:27.
2. The present world needs the influence of purity, Titus 2:11-12.
3. Our responsibility, James 4:8; 1 John 3:3 (1 Tim. 5:22).
IV. BE KIND AND CARING, Eph. 4:32; 1 Cor. 13:4.
A. Kindness Shows Sincerity towards Others, 1 Pet. 1:22; Rom. 12:9.
1. Kindness does not condone sin – In love, it rebukes and corrects using the truth, Gal. 4:16 (cf. Jesus).
2. Do not be harsh, bitter, or belittling when trying to help someone, 2 Tim. 2:24-26.
V. BE LOYAL TO THE TRUTH OF GOD.
A. Good Influence is Established When We Live Our Convictions.
1. Daniel, Dan. 1:8-9, 14-16, 17-20; Apostles, Acts 4:17-21; 5:29 (26).
2. Live our convictions or we lose our influence, Luke 14:34-35.
3. Stand fast, 1 Cor. 16:13; Trust God, Rom. 8:31, 35-37.
Conclusion
1. These things help us have an influence that does not need to be rebuked (blameless, harmless, without fault).
2. When you live worthy of the gospel your influence is helping others, Phil. 2:14-16.
By: Joe R. Price
Posted March 23, 2022