Old Time Religion (3)

Old Time Religion Terry Sanders

Old Time Religion (3)

Timothy 4:1-5

Introduction: We may not realize how much old time religion is needed today. Some think they are practicing it. Some think they are preaching it. However, many are not. It is to our advantage to examine old time religion and see if we are in compliance with it. That is our goal today.

I.A Standard of Conduct.

A.The Ten Commandments constitute a standard of conduct for Israel

(Ex. 20:1-17; Deut. 5:6-21).

1.First four are a standard of conduct toward God.

2.Last six are a standard of conduct toward each other.

B.Israel needed to guard against becoming like the nations about them

(Lev. 18:24-30).

1.Imitation of the ungodly a serious problem (Deut. 12:29-32).

2.Notice how serious (Deut. 13:6-10).

C.The New Testament constitutes a standard of conduct for Christians

(Phil. 1:27, ASV: Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ: that, whether I come and see you or be absent, I may hear of your state, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of thegospel).

1.We have an obligation to conduct ourselves properly (1 Tim. 3:15).

2.By faith:

a.We are to walk (2 Cor. 5:7).

b.We are to live (Rom. 1:17).

c.By what is revealed in the word of God (Rom. 10:17).

3.We are to walk in a worthy manner (Eph. 4:1; Col. 1:10; 1 Thess. 2:12).

4.We are to be a people holy unto the Lord (1 Cor. 1:2; 1 Peter 2:9).

D.Christians live in the world, but are not of the world (Rom. 12:2).

1.“Love not the world” (1 Jn. 2:15-17).

2.Let us not forget the principle of separation (2 Cor. 6:14-7:1).

3.Consider the demand for influence.

a.Christians are to be an influence in the world (Matt. 5:13-16).

b.How can we influence the world if we are like the world?

4.The pull of the world is strong. Consider Demas (2 Tim. 4:10).

Conclusion: Are you following (practicing) old time religion? Have you “obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you?” (Rom. 6:17)

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