Learning From The Mistakes Of Others

LEARNING FROM THE MISTAKES OF OTHERS

INTRODUCTION

A. Puublilus Syrus (85-43 BC) said, “From the errors of others, a wise man corrects his own.”

B. Confucius observed, “By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”

C. The Word teaches that “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Cor 10:13).

D. We will consider six who didn’t take the escape route:

I. LOT TOOK HIS PREFERENCE WHEN HE SHOULD HAVE GIVEN ABRAHAM DEFERENCE (Genesis 13:8-13)

II. MIRIAM WAS BOLDFACED WHEN SHE SHOULD HAVE BEEN SHAMEFACED (NUM 12:1-10)

III. SAMSON DALLIED WITH DELILAH WHEN HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN DASHING FOR THE DOOR (JUDG 16:4-22)

IV. DAVID LINGERED WHEN HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN LEADING (2 SAM 11:1-15)

V. SOLOMON INDULGED HIMSELF WHEN HE SHOULD HAVE DISCIPLINED HIMSELF (ECCL 2:4-8)

VI. PETER BOASTED WHEN HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN PRAYING (MATT 26:30-35)

CONCLUSION

A. In some cases, the mistake led to sin.

B. In some cases, the mistake led to painful consequences.

C. Another first-century Roman statesman said, "Any man can make mistakes, but only an idiot persists in his error" (Marcus Tullius Cicero).