TurningBoundariesIntoBarriers

Two Words

boundaries : something that indicates or fixes a limit or extent

barriers : 1 a : something material that blocks or is intended to block passage . . . b : a natural formation or structure that prevents or hinders movement or action . . . 3 : something immaterial that impedes or separates : obstacle

Boundaries for God's People

God has always had boundaries for His people. Adam and Eve (Gen 3:1-13) Israelites (Deut. 6:1-3; 4:14-19) Moses (Num 20:7-12)

Going beyond boundaries brought punishment.

Step One:

Respect God's Boundaries

Respect God's Boundaries

First, respect God. He is the creator. (Gen 1, 2) He sent Jesus to die on the cross. (Jn

3:16; 1 Jn 4:9) He gave us a law by which He will

judge us. (2 Cor 5:10; 2 Tim 4:1) An example. (Ps 119:33-40)

Respect God's Boundaries

Second, recognize the consequences. God can destroy both the body and

the soul. (Matt 10:28) God will judge. (Rev 20:12-15; 21:7-8) “Punished with everlasting

destruction.” (2 Thess 1:7-10)

Respect God's Boundaries

Third, one must respect himself. Respecting God's boundaries will

make one a better person. No lies or deception. No filthy language. No covetousness or stealing. No immoral behavior.

Maintains fellowship with God. (1 Jn 1:5-7)

Step Two:

Choosing to Stay Within God's Boundaries

Choosing to Stay Within the Boundaries

Must be a personal choice. Joshua made the choice. (Jos 24:15) Elijah called upon Israel to make the

choice. (1 Kings 18:21) Judah chose not to hear the prophets

of the Lord. (Mic 2:6-11) The apostles made the choice. (Acts

4:19-20)

Choosing to Stay Within the Boundaries

The choice to believe. Some chose not to believe in Jesus

while others chose not to follow Him. (John 12:37-43)

When the apostles were preaching the gospel to the world, not everyone chose to believe in Jesus. (Acts 17:4-5, 10-13)

Choosing to Stay Within the Boundaries

Christians must choose either to obey or to disobey. Paul reminded to brethren in Philippi

to “work out” their own salvation. (Phil 2:12-13)

The warning to those who would willfully sin against the Lord. (Heb 10:26-31)

Choosing to Stay Within the Boundaries

One must make his own decision to honor God's boundaries. This choice generates true commitment.

Pressuring someone to honor God's boundaries does not create commitment.

Step Three:

One Must Know the Boundaries

Know the Boundaries

Knowledge of God's Word is essential. Lack of knowledge is destructive.

(Hosea 4:6; 6:6) Some had a zeal for God without

knowledge. (Rom 10:2) Some follow the “gods” of this world.

(2 Cor 4:3-6)

Know the Boundaries

Knowledge of God's Word is essential. For Christians, their growth must

include knowledge. Eph 4:11-13 Col 1:9-10 2 Pet 3:17-18

Know the Boundaries

Study and learn God's command's. Worship. (John 4:24) Home life. (Col 3:18-21) Towards those who are not

Christians. (1 Thess 4:10-12) One's brethren. (Rom 12:9-21) One's enemies. (Matt 5:43-48)

Know the Boundaries

Study and learn God's teachings regarding sin. List of sins found in Rom 1:20-32. List of sins found in Gal 5:19-21. List of sins found in Col 3:5-10. List of sins found in Eph 4:25-31. List of sins found in 1 Pet 4:2-5.

Know the Boundaries

Some will redraw the boundaries. Some will pervert the gospel of

Christ. (Gal 1:6-9) Some will seek those who redraw

God's boundaries. (2 Tim 4:2-4) Some will twist God's boundaries. (2

Pet. 3:15-16)

Know the Boundaries

Some will redraw the boundaries. “Now these things, brethren, I have

figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other.” (1 Corinthians 4:6)

Conclusion

To turn God's boundaries into barriers, . . . Develop a respect for God's

boundaries, Make the willful decision to always

walk within God's boundaries, Study God's word so that you will

know the fullest extent of God's boundaries.