Key Scripture References
- **Matthew 7:13-14**: "Enter by the narrow gate. The gate is wide, and the way is easy, which leads to destruction, and many enter by it. For the gate is narrow, and the way is hard, which leads to life, and those who find it are few."
- **Proverbs 14:12**: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death."
- **John 10:10**: "The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."
- **Deuteronomy 30:19-20**: "I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore, choose life so that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying His voice, and holding fast to Him."
- **Galatians 6:7-8**: "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap."
Introduction: The Crossroads of Life
Every person stands at a crossroads between surrendering to Biblical principles and rejecting them. Each decision carries profound consequences. This message will explore what happens to us when we choose to live by God's Word and what happens when we reject it.
Point 1: What Happens When You Surrender to Biblical Principles?
Surrendering to Biblical principles means aligning your life with God's will. It is a decision to trust Him fully and walk in His ways, which leads to transformation, joy, and eternal life.
1. Spiritual Transformation**
- **2 Corinthians 5:17**: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
- Surrendering to Biblical principles transforms your character, renews your mind, and aligns your heart with God's purposes.
**Illustration:**
A man struggling with addiction finds hope in God's Word. By surrendering to Biblical principles, he discovers freedom, joy, and purpose, proving the truth of John 8:36: "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
2. Abundant Life
- **John 10:10** reminds us that Jesus came to give life to the full. This doesn't mean a life free of challenges but one filled with peace, purpose, and joy despite circumstances.
**Quote:**
Billy Graham said, "When we come to Christ, we're no longer the most important person in the world to us; Christ is. Instead of living only for ourselves, we have a higher goal: to live for Jesus."
**My Opinion:**
Surrender to Biblical principles isn't about losing freedom but finding true freedom. God's Word is the ultimate guide for a life of peace and fulfillment.
3. Eternal Life**
- **Romans 6:23**: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
- Surrendering to God's Word secures your eternity with Him, offering the hope of heaven.
**Illustration:**
Think of a ship captain navigating rough seas. Without a compass, he is lost and vulnerable to destruction. But when he uses the compass, he stays on course and reaches the safety of the harbor. God's Word is our compass, leading us to eternal life.
Point 2: What Happens If You Reject Biblical Principles?
Rejecting Biblical principles leads to spiritual, emotional, and eternal consequences. When we refuse to live according to God's Word, we choose a path that leads to destruction.
1. Spiritual Death**
- **Proverbs 14:12**: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death."
- Rejecting God's principles severs us from His presence, leaving us spiritually dead.
**Illustration:**
A tree cut off from its roots may stand for a while, but it eventually withers and dies. When we reject God, we are like that tree—disconnected from the source of life.
2. A Life of Turmoil**
- **Galatians 6:7-8** warns that rejecting God leads to a harvest of corruption: "For the one who sows to his flesh will from the flesh reap corruption."
- Life without Biblical principles often leads to broken relationships, inner emptiness, and despair.
**Quote:**
Charles Spurgeon said, "If you reject Christ, He answers you with tears. If you wound Him, He bleeds for you. If you kill Him, He dies to redeem you."
**Comment:**
Rejecting God's Word may initially feel liberating, but it is a false freedom that leads to bondage. True freedom is found in obedience to God.
3. Eternal Separation
- **Matthew 7:23**: Jesus warns that those who reject Him will hear, "Depart from me, I never knew you."
- The ultimate consequence of rejecting Biblical principles is eternal separation from God in hell.
**Illustration:**
Imagine standing outside a locked banquet hall, hearing the laughter and joy inside but unable to enter. This is the eternal reality for those who reject God—a tragic separation from His presence and glory.
Point 3: The Choice is Yours
God gives us the freedom to choose. **Deuteronomy 30:19-20** presents the options: life or death, blessing or curse. Choosing life means surrendering to His Word while rejecting it means choosing death.
**Practical Application:**
1. **Surrender Daily:** Begin daily with prayer and commit to obeying God's Word.
2. **Study the Scriptures:** Make the Bible your guide and authority for life.
3. **Seek Accountability:** Surround yourself with believers who encourage you to live according to biblical principles.
**Resources:**
- **Books**:
- *"Knowing God"* by J.I. Packer
- *"The Pursuit of Holiness"* by Jerry Bridges
- **Online Sermons**:
- Billy Graham's messages on salvation (searchable on YouTube)
My Opinion
Rejecting Biblical principles is like ignoring the manufacturer's instructions for a car—it may run for a while, but it will eventually break down. However, living by God's principles ensures we operate as designed, experiencing peace, purpose, and eternal hope.
Conclusion: Choose Life
Surrendering to Biblical principles leads to abundant life now and eternal life later. Rejecting them leads to turmoil and separation from God. The choice is clear: surrender to the loving God who gave His Son for you.
**Final Prayer:**
Lord, thank You for Your Word that guides us. Help us to surrender daily to Your principles, trusting in Your wisdom and grace. Lead us on the path of life, and may our lives glorify You. Amen.
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