Dennis R. Wiles

First Baptist Arlington

July 26, 2026

2026: Flourishing Together:

Transformed on The Jesus Way

Gospel Guide: John

SUMMER 2026: Making a Difference

May 31, 2026 – August 1, 2026

This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

-Jesus (John 15:8)

Self-Control: Joseph

Genesis 42

Theme for 2026: Flourishing Together: Transformed on The Jesus Way

Theme for August 2026: Prayer for Believers

Theme for Summer 2026: Making a Difference

SELF CONTROL: Self-control (engkrateia) denotes the Spirit-enabled mastery of desires, impulses, and habits so that they serve rather than rule the believer. It is not mere human asceticism but a grace-driven capacity to bring every faculty under the lordship of Jesus Christ for holy living and effective service.

Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.

-Proverbs 25:28

For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.

-Romans 7:18

JOSEPH: Joseph demonstrated his ability to control himself when confronted with the opportunity to avenge his brothers’ evil actions.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

-Galatians 5:22-23

FRUIT: Fruit is an outward manifestation of an inner reality.

By their fruit you will recognize them.

-Jesus (Matthew 7:16)

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

-Galatians 5:16

JESUS: The greatest example of self-control is Jesus! His self-control was fully on display during the crucifixion! (Luke 23:27-43)

INTENTIONAL DISCIPLESHIP

Knowing God
Experiencing God
Serving God