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Free MP3 Message Downloads
Dr. Ronald Powell
This Week's Message
"Liberation from Addictive Behaviors"
A. Introduction: Even when we have political freedom and liberty from sin through Christ, sometimes we remain in bondage spiritually. God has liberated us to live an abundant life and desires for us to embrace the freedom He gives us.
B. Scripture: John 8:31-36
C. How can you be free from the things that hold you in captivity?
1. You must admit the truth.
- In John 8:31-36, Jesus challenged the Pharisees about their bondage. They claimed they had never been enslaved to anyone, although they had been enslaved by Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and were currently under the rule of Rome.
- Like the Pharisees, most people don't want to confess they are in bondage to sin.
2. You must understand the nature of enslavement.
- "Everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin" (John 8:34).
- Sin's bondage is often deceptive. So people don't even realize they are enslaved.
- We're not merely physical beings-we're also emotional and spiritual. Until we are free on the inside, we aren't truly free.
- Only Christ can liberate us from the things that enslave our soul and spirit.
3. You must understand the many forms of enslavement.
- People can be trapped by addictions, unhealthy relationships, unforgiveness, fame, work, destructive ideas, or countless other things.
- If anything is controlling you (aside from Jesus), you are in bondage to it.
4. You must understand the process of enslavement.
- Bondage begins with a desire for something that seems innocent and harmless.
- You begin to sin, ignoring the warnings of your conscience, and believing the sin is helping meet a need.
- You believe the enemy's lie that this sin won't hurt you, although it destroyed others' lives.
- After a while, you become comfortable with the sin because your conscience becomes dull.
5. You must recognize the reality of your condition.
- Although you may hate the issue that keeps you in bondage, you may dread confessing its power in your life.
- You must admit that sin is dominating your life and commit yourself to obeying God to fully receive His love and help.
6. You must admit you have a spiritual problem.
- If someone isn't willing to admit their problem is spiritual, they won't find freedom.
- A number of problems cause a person to become enslaved to sin: insecurity, fear of failure, abuse, regret, and anger, among others.
- Be sure to identify the issue, activity, person or attitude that is keeping you captive so you won't step back into bondage.
7. You must make a choice to be free.
- You must make a choice to turn from your destructive ways and obey God.
- Deliberately take steps to embrace God's freedom and power.
8. You must believe that God can liberate you.
- If you believe that Jesus redeemed you from sin, choose to have faith He will liberate you through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- With a sincere heart, cry out to Him as David did: Psalm 22:5, 27:7, 30:2, 34:17.
9. You must ask for godly help.
- God may deliver you immediately or over time.
- You may need some guidance and accountability, just make sure the counselor is Christ-centered and trustworthy.
D. Conclusion: Jesus is the great Liberator who wants to give you freedom, joy and abundant life. Don't remain enslaved. Be liberated to live by giving yourself fully to Jesus Christ as your only Master.
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