SERMON SHORT FOR OCTOBER 18th, 2020
A CELEBRATION OF DISCIPLINE – STUDY
Proverbs 1:1-9, Luke 10:38-42
The whole idea of going through
this book of Spiritual Disciplines is that these practices bring about a good change in us and in so doing brings about a good change in the world around us. Disciplines work to replace negative patterns of thought and deeds with a renewed creative spirit and practice This is probably best brought about through the discipline of study. Paul tells us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Rom. 12:2). We are renewed by a practice of studying the good things that draw us close to God, to each other and to ourselves.
“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Phil. 4:8). The discipline of study brings us to this exhortation to “think about these things.”
Jesus encouraged a discipline of study, not is no many words, when he said “You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:32). We should foster this practice of learning and of study and experience the liberation it brings.