Measure Of A Man

Measure of a Man

1 John 2:15-17

Intro: The apostle is giving us a picture of what the world is like. A picture of how the world wants us to be, but God has so much more in store for you and I. The world measures us by it’s standard. I want us to look at some of the things that the world measures us by, and the dangers of allowing this standard to measure us. God’s measure is so much more rewarding. His scales are much different.

World Measure’s

1. Intelligence

a. This christless culture we live in measures us by our brains and our popularity only, taken nothing else into account.

b. The world measures us by how much power we have. How many degrees are hanging on our wall. The title we go by at work. Not considering the cost it takes to obtain these standards.

c. Just look at our past president.

2. Wealth

a. This world will measure you on how many toys you have in your yard. How much money you make, not taking in consideration the cost it takes you to obtain this. What things in your life have to be forgot about, your family, relationship with Christ?

3. Fame

a. Just look at the importance place on athletes and movie stars.

b. The world John is warning us about tells us that who you are is want counts, never considering the consequences of being measured this way.

I am here tonight to warn you of these worldviews.

God has warned us. He has given us a direction. He has given us His word.

1 Timothy 6:9-10

This world will measure you on these things.

Satan is no dummy; when he tried to tempt Jesus What did he use.

1. Fame and Popularity and Riches

2. Jesus said in Verse 10 “Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan!” For it is written: “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only”

The World’s Measures you with evil that will overtake and consume your life.

You will be the lover of the world. “He who loves the world the Father is not in him.”

God’s Measure

1. Love

a. Mathew 22:37 “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”

b. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8a

c. Turn to your concordance and see how many times the word love is mentioned and taught. Enough said!

d. God measures you and I on our love.

e. What are we without love?

f. Love for God, love for His church, love for families. The list goes on. We must love.

g. We must love God with all our heart, not the way the world loves, but the way God loves.

h. Illustration: Fishing Story

Story # 1:

Jimmy an orphan from a foster home, is fishing by himself on the end of a pier. Full of curiosity like most ten year olds, he leans over the edge to look at an insect crawling next to him and falls into the water. Unable to swim, he frantically splashes and screams, trying to paddle to the pier. Just as he goes under an d bobs to the surface again a strong arm reaches down, grabs him up and sets him on the pier. He is soaked to the skin and close to tears, but without the cocky attitude that allowed him to risk hanging over the edge. His rescuer scolds him about being so careless, turns, and walks off.

What’s missing in this picture?

Story # 2:

Jimmy an orphan from a foster home, is fishing by himself on the end of a pier. Full of curiosity like most ten year olds, he leans over the edge to look at an insect crawling next to him and falls into the water. Unable to swim, he frantically splashes and screams, trying to paddle to the pier. Just as he goes under an d bobs to the surface again a strong arm reaches down, grabs him up and sets him on the pier. He is soaked to the skin and close to tears, but without the cocky attitude that allowed him to risk hanging over the edge. Sounds like the same story, doesn’t it? So what’s different? This time the rescuer firmly but gently pats him on the back, burping out the water he has swallowed, carries him to the showers to wash away the saltwater, and dries him off. Then he drives him to the mall, buys him new clothes, and takes him home with him, introducing him to his father and family. They feed him a hot meal and invite him to live with them. This wonderful loving provider mentors the newly adopted boy in the family’s beliefs and makes him one of his heirs. He’s delighted as the boy participates in the activities of his new family. Jimmy finally has a family has a home, a father, and brothers who love him. He is secure in his new father’s love.