Francis Chan: Grace and New Year's Resolutions Don't Mix

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of recognizing and avoiding the sin of self-righteousness. It highlights how, when we focus on our own accomplishments and good deeds, we can start to feel superior to others and believe that we don't need God's grace. The teaching encourages us to remember that our worth and salvation come from God's love and redemption, not from our own efforts.

Key Scripture References

• Galatians 6:3 - This passage reminds us that we should not compare ourselves to others, but rather focus on our own faithfulness to God. It warns against being puffed up in pride and encourages humility.
• Matthew 5:48 - Jesus teaches us to be perfect as our Heavenly Father is perfect, emphasizing the importance of striving for moral excellence without relying on our own strength or righteousness.
• Romans 3:23 - This verse reminds us that all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory, underscoring the need for God's grace and redemption in our lives.
• 1 Corinthians 4:7 - Paul warns against comparing ourselves to others, emphasizing that we should focus on our own relationship with Christ rather than competing with one another.
• 2 Timothy 3:5 - This passage highlights the dangers of self-righteousness and the importance of seeking God's righteousness through faith in Christ.
• Isaiah 64:6 - This verse reminds us that our best efforts are like filthy rags compared to God's holiness, emphasizing the need for His redemption and forgiveness.
• Philippians 3:9-10 - Paul writes about his own struggle with self-righteousness and how he came to understand that true righteousness comes from faith in Christ, not from our own achievements.

Key Points

• The sin of self-righteousness is a subtle but deadly trap that can creep into even the most well-intentioned Christians.
• When we focus on our own good deeds and accomplishments, we can start to feel superior to others and believe that we don't need God's grace.
• The Bible warns against comparing ourselves to others, emphasizing the importance of focusing on our own relationship with Christ.
• True righteousness comes from faith in Christ, not from our own efforts or achievements.
• We must strive for moral excellence without relying on our own strength or righteousness, and instead rely on God's grace and redemption.

Application

This message encourages us to examine our hearts and motivations, recognizing the danger of self-righteousness. We are challenged to focus on our relationship with Christ, rather than comparing ourselves to others. By recognizing our own sinfulness and need for God's grace, we can cultivate a deeper sense of humility and dependence on Him.