Spiritual Sleepwalkers
A.W. Tozer's sermon emphasizes the importance of awakening from spiritual sleep to recognize and live in alignment with God's presence and righteousness.
Gary Demarest, in his sermon, emphasizes the importance of discipline or 'sound mind' (sophronismos) as a saved mind that is self-controlled, disciplined, and properly prioritized. This sound-mindedness in action is marked by sobriety, sound judgment, and prudence, contrasting with a mindset of excessive self-indulgence. Paul reminds Timothy that God has given us the power to keep ourselves in check and free from excitement, reflecting a spirit of self-control. Various commentators like William MacDonald, Guy King, and J. Vernon McGee further elaborate on the significance of discipline in maintaining a sensibly minded and balanced life.
Text
When the Bible says "Awake to righteousness and sin not," it indicates the possiblity of a sudden awakening, like when an alarm clock going off rouses you out of sleep. There is such a thing as being asleep and suddenly being wakened, and this is surprising to people. People often say, "You know, I was living a life displeasing to God. I was a church member, but though I didn't know it, I was displeasing to God. My life wasn't right. Then suddenly I was wakened by God. It was a surprise." . . . People who are awakened from moral sleep say, "Well, what's the matter with me?
I've been living a life that's been displeasing to God, and I simply did not know it. "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it. . . .
This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven'" (Genesis 28:16-17). Jacob must have been rather disconcerted when he awoke and found that he had been in the presence of God all the time, but he had been asleep. He was not morally dead; he was not cut off from the covenant--he was merely asleep.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The concept of spiritual sleep - The danger of being unaware of one's spiritual state - Examples of biblical figures who experienced awakening
- II points: - The call to awaken to righteousness - Understanding the implications of living a life displeasing to God - The surprise of spiritual awakening
- III points: - The role of God's presence in our lives - Recognizing God's presence in everyday situations - The importance of being aware of our spiritual surroundings
- IV points: - The process of awakening - Steps to take after awakening - Living a renewed life in Christ
Key Quotes
“Awake to righteousness and sin not.” — A.W. Tozer
“Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” — A.W. Tozer
“He was merely asleep.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Reflect on your spiritual state and seek God's guidance for awakening.
- Engage in practices that heighten your awareness of God's presence in your life.
- Commit to living a life that is pleasing to God, moving from spiritual sleep to active faith.