Zeal Without Knowledge
True Christian zeal is not measured by what we are against, but by our relationship with Jesus Christ and our zeal for good works.
Theodore Epp discusses the concept of 'Zeal Without Knowledge' as exemplified by Paul, who, despite his fervent persecution of the church, was misguided in his understanding of God's will. Epp emphasizes that true Christian zeal should stem from a right relationship with Christ, rather than a mere opposition to others or their beliefs. He warns against measuring one's faith by what they oppose, highlighting that genuine zeal should lead to good works and a loving attitude towards others. The sermon calls for believers to reflect on their motivations and ensure their zeal aligns with the teachings of Jesus.
Text
Philippians 3:1-11
Paul said about himself, "Concerning zeal, persecuting the church" (Phil. 3:6). This reveals the pride of personal devotion to his religious choices. In a sense, it was Paul's pride of reputation. He was more devoted than any of his contemporaries. He was not only a Pharisee, but he was also a very zealous one. He was a conscientious and relentless persecutor of all who were considered heretics outside of his pharisaic Judaism. In Paul's unsaved state in Judaism, he actually thought he was doing the will of God by persecuting the believers in Jesus Christ. He measured his religion by his hatred for Christians.
It is regrettable that even today some believers measure their Christian zeal by what they are against. Some have so much bitterness against modernists--those with liberal theology; others contend zealously over the issue of the Holy Spirit or over a particular translation of the Bible. Some have bitterness toward sinners, not distinguishing the sin from the sinner. But remember, a reputation of zeal against anything is not a proof of salvation in itself. I believe that when we are rightly related to Jesus Christ, we will have much zeal against those things that dishonor Him, but it is possible for people to be zealous against some things without having a right relationship with Christ.
"Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14).
Sermon Outline
- Paul's Zeal
- Modern Zeal
- True Zeal
- Rightly related to Jesus Christ
- Zeal against things that dishonor Him
- Possible for people to be zealous without a right relationship with Christ
Key Quotes
“Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- We should examine our motivations for our zeal and make sure it is not driven by pride or hatred.
- We should focus on being zealous for good works and our relationship with Jesus Christ.
- We should distinguish between sin and the sinner, and not let bitterness consume us.