How the Church Hinders the Kingdom of God - Part IV

IV. Speaking Above the Level of Our Knowledge

I Timothy 1:6-7

Introduction:

Good-hearted people with the best of intentions can cause harm by speaking above the level of their knowledge.
If we want to do no harm to the kingdom, we must avoid four temptations.

The Temptation to Analyze People

“Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the desert? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle.” – David’s brother Eliab

“The next time you are tempted to blurt out an analysis of someone you dislike or disagree with, remember that only God is wise enough (and fair enough) to make judgments regarding another person’s deepest secrets and private motives.” – Mark Atteberry

The Temptation to Explain Suffering

None of us has the knowledge to always know what God is up to.

The only things we can be sure of in suffering are these two:
God loves me
God is faithful

The Temptation to Spread Rumors

Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.

The Temptation to Believe Everything You Hear

I John 4:1 Dear Friend, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Conclusion

We must watch what we speak.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.