Podcast
Robert Lewis Sermons
Hosted by Robert Lewis · EN
Sermon archives of Dr. Robert Lewis from his time as the Teaching Pastor and Directional Leader at Fellowship Bible Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robert is the founder of the well known ”Men’s Fraternity” series and ”BetterMan” ministry. He has authored several notable books including ”Raising a Modern-Day Knight”, ”The Church of Irresistible Influence”, and ”Rocking the Roles: Building a Win-Win Marriage”.
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In the Beginning...Roles
2d ago00:55:27Tap to summarizeGuided Question How does returning to God’s original design for men and women—through submission to Scripture and dependence on the Holy Spirit—challenge the way you currently understand leadership, responsibility, and relationship in your own life? Summary In this message, Dr. Robert Lewis continues his Genesis series by examining roles as part of God’s original design for humanity. Building on the prior discussion of equality and difference between men and women, he explores how biblical roles are revealed in Genesis 1–3 and how New Testament writers interpret these passages. Dr. Lewis argues that while men and women are created equal in value and dignity as image-bearers of God, they are given distinct, complementary roles. He highlights several features from Genesis 2 that suggest male headship: Adam’s creation first, his assignment to cultivate and guard the garden, his receiving God’s command directly, and his role in naming both the animals and the woman. These elements, Lewis explains, are foundational to how the New Testament understands leadership in the home and the church. The sermon then turns to Genesis 3 and the Fall, showing how sin disrupts God’s intended order. Satan approaches Eve first, roles are reversed, and Adam fails to lead—resulting in devastating consequences. God’s curse affects men and women differently, distorting both leadership and submission into struggle, domination, and resistance. Dr. Lewis explains that this “battle of the sexes” flows directly from the Fall, not from God’s original design. Finally, the message offers hope through redemption in Christ. While the curse still affects believers, it can be progressively reversed through radical submission to God’s Word and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Drawing from Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3, Dr. Lewis emphasizes that Spirit-filled living restores God’s design—calling husbands to loving, sacrificial leadership and wives to respectful submission—so that God’s original intent for harmony, purpose, and witness can again be displayed to the world. Outline Introduction: From Differentness to Roles Review of Genesis 1: equality and distinction Cultural resistance to biblical roles Trusting God’s conclusions rather than human reasoning Genesis 2: Roles Revealed Adam as primary focus of the chapter God as Father providing occupation and wife Man’s role as leader; woman as helper Symbiotic design for subduing and multiplying Theological Indicators of Headship Man created first Adam receiving God’s command directly Adam’s responsibility to instruct Eve Naming as an act of authority New Testament Affirmation Paul’s grounding of church roles in Genesis Key passages: 1 Timothy 2; 1 Corinthians 11 & 14 Roles rooted in creation, not culture Genesis 3: The Fall and Role Reversal Satan’s strategy and temptation Doubting God’s Word and motives Eve leads; Adam follows Adam held responsible for the Fall The Curse and Distorted Roles Pain in childbirth and toil in work “Desire” and “rule” explained through Genesis 4:7 Struggle, domination, and oppression introduced Roles Restored Through Christ The curse still affects believers Radical commitment required The Word and the Spirit working together Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3 as the pathway forward Conclusion God’s design as a witness to the world Faithfulness to Scripture despite cultural opposition Key Takeaways Men and women are equal in worth but distinct in role, according to God’s design. Biblical roles are rooted in creation, not culture or convenience. The Fall distorted both male leadership and female submission into struggle and oppression. Adam bears responsibility for the Fall because headship includes accountability. Every temptation involves doubting God’s Word and His character. The conflict between men and women is a result of sin, not God’s original plan. Restoration of roles requires radical submission to Scripture and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Spirit-filled, Word-centered lives enable loving leadership and willing submission. God’s redeemed design in marriage and church serves as a testimony to the world. Scripture References Genesis 1:26–28 — Men and women are equally created in God’s image and given shared purpose. Genesis 2:15–25 — Distinct, complementary roles are established in creation. Genesis 3:1–19 — Sin reverses God’s design and introduces conflict and hardship. Genesis 4:6–7 — “Desire” describes a struggle for control. Luke 3:38 — Adam’s representative responsibility is affirmed. 1 Corinthians 11:8–9 — Creation order informs male and female roles. 1 Timothy 2:12–13 — Church roles are grounded in creation, not culture. Ephesians 5:18–33 — Spirit-filled living restores God’s design in marriage. Colossians 3:16–19 — God’s Word directs healthy marital relationships. Recorded on 1.31.82
Transcribe →In the Beginning...Differentness
1w ago00:42:22Tap to summarizeGuided Question In a culture that increasingly defines gender roles by social preference and personal experience, how should Christians discern what it truly means to be male and female—and what are the consequences for individuals, families, and the church when God’s original design is either embraced or ignored? Summary In this sermon, Dr. Robert Lewis addresses one of the most controversial and pressing issues facing both the church and modern society: the roles and differences of men and women. Against a cultural backdrop that increasingly views gender distinctions as purely social or cultural constructs, Dr. Lewis argues that the Christian understanding of male and female roles must begin not with sociology or psychology, but with theology. Drawing from key New Testament passages—particularly 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Timothy 2—Dr. Lewis highlights how biblical instructions regarding men and women consistently appeal back to the creation account in Genesis. These appeals, he explains, are meant to transcend culture and root Christian convictions in God’s original design. By examining Genesis 1, Dr. Lewis affirms the spiritual equality of men and women as co-bearers of the image of God, while also emphasizing their functional differences as male and female. He challenges the idea that gender differences are limited to biology alone, presenting both biblical teaching and supporting secular research that point to real psychological, social, and relational distinctions. The sermon concludes with a sobering reflection on the societal consequences of abandoning God’s design—including weakened families, confused identities, and emotional instability—and a call for believers to resist cultural conformity by renewing their minds through Scripture. Ultimately, Dr. Lewis urges the church to rediscover God’s original intent for men and women, trusting that what God declared “very good” remains good today. Outline 1. Introduction: A Difficult and Timely Issue Cultural pressure to redefine male and female The danger of reacting instead of thinking biblically The foundational question: Is this what God intended? 2. Gender Roles as a Theological Issue Why Christians must begin with Scripture The limits of sociological and psychological explanations 3. Controversial New Testament Passages 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Timothy 2 The shared appeal to the book of Genesis 4. Creation as the Basis for Authority New Testament teaching rooted in creation, not culture God’s original intent as the interpretive key 5. Genesis 1: Sameness and Difference Equal image-bearing and spiritual equality “Male and female” as intentional, meaningful distinction 6. Challenging Modern Assumptions The claim that gender differences are merely cultural Scripture’s vision of functional and relational differences 7. Biblical Patterns of Role Distinction Leadership in the church and the home Jesus’ example and the foundation of the church Complementary responsibilities in family life 8. Scientific and Anthropological Support Psychological and neurological differences Universal social patterns across cultures 9. Consequences of Role Confusion Devaluation of women’s roles Sexual, psychological, and relational instability Weakening of the family and impact on children 10. A Call to Renewal and Discernment Resisting conformity to cultural pressures Renewing the mind through Scripture Trusting God’s declaration that His design is “very good” Key Takeaways Christian understanding of gender must begin with God’s original design. Men and women are equal in spiritual worth as image-bearers of God. “Male and female” implies intentional functional differences, not just biology. New Testament teaching on gender consistently appeals to Genesis, making it trans-cultural. Equality does not require sameness. Both Scripture and secular research affirm meaningful differences between men and women. Confusion about roles contributes to weakened families and personal instability. God’s design for men and women is purposeful, wise, and ultimately good. Scripture References 1 Corinthians 11:2–10 – Headship and appeal to creation 1 Timothy 2:9–14 – Roles in teaching and authority grounded in Genesis Genesis 1:24–27 – Creation of humanity in God’s image, male and female Genesis 1:31 – God declares His creation “very good” Genesis 5:1–2 – Humanity named together as “man,” male and female Galatians 3:28 – Spiritual equality in Christ Romans 12:2 – Renewal of the mind versus cultural conformity Recorded 1.24.82
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Lessons from History
2w ago00:47:42Tap to summarizeGuided Question What can we learn from Israel’s failures in the wilderness so that we do not end up in the “loser’s locker room” of the Christian life? Summary In this message, Pastor Robert Lewis contrasts the “winner’s locker room” of faithful living with the sobering reality of the “loser’s locker room,” where Israel’s failures serve as a warning for us today. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 10, he highlights how privilege and a good beginning are not enough to guarantee a faithful finish. Israel’s story reveals four “tombstones” that brought them low—idolatry, immorality, testing God, and rebellion—each of which still threatens believers today. Lewis also distills three broader lessons: loving God requires rejecting the world, God takes obedience seriously, and a good start doesn’t assure a strong finish. The sermon ends with a challenge: will we follow Israel’s path of defeat, or will we make the spiritual resolutions necessary to walk in victory and enter God’s promised rest? Outline I. The Warning of Israel’s Example (1 Cor. 10:1–6) Israel had great spiritual privileges (deliverance, leadership, provision). Despite this, most were “laid low in the wilderness.” Their failures serve as an indelible warning for us. II. Four Tombstones in the Wilderness (1 Cor. 10:7–10) Idolatry (v. 7; Ex. 32) Replacing God with false priorities. Our modern idols often involve time, attention, and misplaced devotion. Immorality (v. 8; Num. 25) Sexual sin destroys lives and relationships. God takes purity seriously; immorality disqualifies many from usefulness. Testing God (v. 9; Num. 21) Living on the edge of rebellion, daring God’s patience. Gal. 6 reminds us we reap what we sow. Rebellion (v. 10; Num. 16) Grumbling against God-given leadership. Refusal to submit leads to spiritual poverty. III. General Lessons from Israel’s Wilderness (vv. 11–12) Loving God means rejecting the world (1 Jn. 2:15). God takes obedience seriously—His Word leaves us without excuse. A good beginning does not guarantee a good ending—take heed lest you fall. IV. The Final Call (Heb. 4:1) Are you in God’s promised land, or still wandering in the wilderness? Today is the time to make spiritual resolutions that ensure victory. Key Takeaways Privilege without obedience leads to downfall. Idolatry, immorality, testing God, and rebellion remain real dangers for Christians. Loving God requires letting go of “Egypt”—the world and its cravings. Obedience is not optional; it is essential to finishing well. A faithful start does not guarantee a faithful finish—humility and vigilance are required. Scripture References 1 Corinthians 10:1–12 – Israel’s failures as warnings. Exodus 32 – The golden calf (idolatry). Numbers 25:1–9 – Israel’s immorality and judgment. Numbers 21:4–9 – Testing God with complaints. Numbers 16 – Korah’s rebellion. Hebrews 13:4 – God’s standard for sexual purity. Proverbs 6:32 – The destruction of adultery. Galatians 6:7–8 – Reaping what is sown. Hebrews 13:17 – Following godly leadership. 1 John 2:15 – Loving God vs. loving the world. Hebrews 4:1 – Warning against falling short of God’s rest. Recorded 1/3/82
Transcribe →Winning
3w ago00:53:39Tap to summarizeGuided Question How can discipline, focus, and a pursuit of divine glory help a Christian run the race of life successfully, avoiding disqualification and achieving spiritual victory? Summary In this sermon, Dr. Robert Lewis uses the imagery of ancient Greek athletics to illustrate the Christian life as a race requiring discipline, direction, and a thirst for divine glory. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul’s words about athletes competing for a prize are applied to spiritual growth. Dr. Lewis emphasizes that spiritual victory is exclusive, requires intentional training and direction, and hinges on aiming to please God rather than oneself. Without a clear objective, a Christian risks falling into distraction, indulgence, or disqualification. The sermon challenges listeners to cultivate personal discipline, align their aims with God’s purposes, and pursue spiritual “gold medals” by exercising their gifts for His glory. Outline Introduction: The Athlete’s Example Story of Theogenes, Greek Olympic champion Greeks’ obsession with athletics mirrors the seriousness of spiritual pursuit Athletic imagery sets the stage for understanding spiritual discipline Exclusiveness of Victory and Truth 1 Corinthians 9:24: Only one receives the prize Truth is exclusive: Jesus is the only way to God (John 14:6) Effort and sincerity alone do not guarantee spiritual success Training and Discipline (Verses 25-27) Athletes endure rigorous training; Christians must exercise self-control Discipline complements the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life Personal discipline involves denying worldly pleasures for God’s glory Direction and Purpose in the Race (Verse 26) Run with a clear aim: not flailing or aimless Importance of knowing spiritual gifts and God’s calling Misguided aims (comfort, happiness) lead to ineffective spiritual effort The Danger of Disqualification (Verse 27) Lack of discipline and focus can render a Christian “useless” in service Paul’s warning about being disqualified is a call to vigilance Spiritual failure is not only dramatic but can be subtle (indifference, misplaced priorities) Thirst for Divine Glory Motivation should be God’s commendation, not human approval Faith, discipline, and direction together ensure fruitful Christian living Scripture references highlight the pursuit of God’s pleasure as the ultimate aim (2 Corinthians 5:9; Philippians 3:8-10; Hebrews 12:1-2) Key Takeaways: Spiritual victory requires focused effort and cannot rely solely on sincerity or human commendation. Discipline is essential for growth and complements the work of the Holy Spirit. Knowing one’s spiritual aim and gifts ensures purposeful living and avoids becoming a religious “fanatic” or disqualified servant. True Christian motivation is a thirst for divine glory, not comfort, happiness, or human approval. Maintaining clarity of aim allows a believer to run with endurance and remain faithful in service to God. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 – Paul’s athletic analogy for spiritual discipline John 14:6 – Jesus as the exclusive way to God Proverbs 15:32 – Discipline as a reflection of self-respect 2 Corinthians 5:9 – Ambition to please God Philippians 3:8-10 – Counting all else as loss to know Christ Hebrews 11:6 – Faith is required to please God Hebrews 12:1-2 – Running the race with endurance, fixing eyes on Jesus Recorded 12/13/81
Transcribe →But We See Jesus
May 400:49:17Tap to summarizeGuided Question How does Jesus’ identification with humanity through suffering, temptation, and resurrection empower us to reclaim the destiny God originally intended and overcome the fear of death? Summary In this sermon from Hebrews 2, Dr. Robert Lewis reminds listeners of the subtle spiritual drift that occurs when we focus on worldly fears and distractions rather than the truth of Christ. The message encourages believers to redirect attention to the hope and power found in Jesus Christ, who restores humanity’s lost destiny through His obedience, suffering, and resurrection. Christ not only experienced the full range of human limitations and temptations but also identifies with humanity, making Him our perfect Savior, high priest, and source of deliverance from the fear of death. The sermon closes with a personal call to invite Jesus into one’s life, experiencing His forgiveness and the fullness of God’s intended destiny. Outline The Drift Away from Faith (Hebrews 2:1) Modern fears: war, terrorism, crime, economic instability Spiritual drift is subtle but real, like drifting at a beach unnoticed The importance of paying attention to God’s Word to prevent spiritual decline Humanity’s Lost Destiny and Its Restoration (Hebrews 2:5–9; Psalm 8; Genesis 1:28) Adam’s failure resulted in loss of dominion over creation Christ as the Second Adam restores humanity’s intended destiny Evidence of Christ’s power: miracles, healing, authority over creation Jesus’ Suffering and Identification with Humanity (Hebrews 2:9–13) Christ suffered death for all humanity, tasting our sin and limitations Identification with humanity allows Him to call us “brethren” He lived under human limitations, wrestled with faith, and experienced temptation Jesus’ Victory Over the Fear of Death (Hebrews 2:14–15; Mark 4:35–41) Death’s threat is rendered powerless through Christ’s resurrection Fear-driven slavery to the present life is overcome through eternal perspective Christ’s bodily resurrection guarantees hope and eternal life Christ as Our Merciful High Priest (Hebrews 2:16–18; 4:15) He gives help to humanity, not angels, fully understanding human struggles Able to sympathize with temptations and provide aid in our times of need Practical implications: we can turn to Jesus in trials and experience His help Call to Personal Faith and Eternal Destiny (Hebrews 2:1–18) Salvation is accessed through faith, not works Invitation to trust Christ, receive forgiveness, and embrace God’s intended destiny Assurance of eternal life through the Holy Spirit Key Takeaways: Spiritual drift can happen quietly; staying rooted in God’s Word prevents it. Jesus restores humanity’s lost destiny, offering hope beyond worldly despair. Christ fully identifies with human struggles, temptations, and suffering. Death’s power is nullified through Christ’s resurrection. Jesus is our merciful high priest, able to aid us in every struggle. Eternal fulfillment and destiny are accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. Scripture References: Hebrews 2:1–18 Genesis 1:28 Psalm 8 Mark 4:35–41 Isaiah 8:17 Hebrews 4:15 Recorded 11/15/81
Transcribe →For the Sake of the Ministry
Apr 2700:51:57Tap to summarizeGuided Question In a world that insists on personal rights, how can believers willingly surrender their rights to remove obstacles, love others well, and advance the gospel? Summary Paul’s ministry in Corinth illustrates the power of surrendering rights for the sake of the gospel. In a wealthy and suspicious culture, he chose not to accept financial support from the Corinthians so that no one could accuse him of selfish motives. Instead, he worked freely, exposing false teachers and demonstrating the purity of Christ’s message. Paul explains that he became “all things to all people” — adapting his lifestyle, preferences, and freedoms — to win others to Christ. Ultimately, giving up rights is not about loss, but about gaining purpose: advancing the gospel in others’ lives and experiencing the gospel more deeply in our own. Outline I. Paul’s Example of Giving Up His Rights Refused Corinthian financial support (1 Cor. 9:12, 18). Accepted aid from the Philippians instead (Phil. 4:15–16). Showed sincerity in a culture of materialism and profiteering. II. Why Paul Refused Support (2 Cor. 11:7–13) Strategic Witness – To distinguish the gospel from other profit-driven religions. Expose False Teachers – To “cut off opportunity” for those motivated by greed. III. Principles for Restricting Rights (1 Cor. 9:19–23) Advancing the Gospel in Others To the Jews, he became as a Jew. To those under the law, he lived under the law. To the Gentiles, he adapted to their culture without compromising Christ. To the weak, he became weak. Experiencing the Gospel Personally By surrendering rights, he became a “partaker of the gospel.” True joy comes from joining God’s eternal mission. IV. Application for Believers Adapt to people of different backgrounds to build bridges, not barriers. Evaluate whether personal preferences hinder gospel witness. Recognize that surrendering rights deepens both ministry impact and personal joy. Key Takeaways Sacrificial ministry builds credibility and removes obstacles to faith. Laying down rights often exposes selfish or false motives in others. Flexibility in lifestyle opens doors for gospel conversations. True satisfaction is found in living for God’s eternal purposes, not personal gain. The gospel advances when believers prioritize people’s souls over personal comfort. Scripture References 1 Corinthians 9:12, 18–23 – Paul’s decision to preach without charge and adapt to all people. 2 Corinthians 11:7–13 – Refusal of Corinthian support and exposure of false teachers. Romans 10:15 / Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.” Philippians 4:15–16 – Philippians’ support of Paul’s ministry. Recorded 11/8/81
Transcribe →Who's Important Here?
Apr 2000:42:51Tap to summarizeGuided Question: How should Christians balance knowledge, liberty, and love when making decisions that affect others in the community of faith? Summary: In this message, Dr. Robert Lewis examines 1 Corinthians 8, where Paul addresses the issue of eating meat sacrificed to idols—a cultural controversy in the Corinthian church. Some believers felt they had the liberty to eat such meat, while others believed it was spiritually wrong, creating tension within the church. Dr. Lewis emphasizes that knowledge alone—knowing what is biblically permissible—is not enough. Knowledge without love can become self-serving, arrogant, and potentially harmful to weaker believers who struggle with their conscience. The core principle is that Christian liberty must be exercised with sensitivity and love. Even when one has the right to act, it may be wiser to limit personal freedoms to avoid causing another believer to stumble. Paul models this in 1 Corinthians 8:13, prioritizing the spiritual well-being of others over his own rights. Dr. Lewis also connects this principle to modern controversies—such as drinking, movies, or holiday traditions—showing that the same principles apply today. Ultimately, Christian freedom is best exercised when it serves God and others, not simply ourselves, fulfilling the law of love as described in Galatians 5. Outline: I. Introduction: Christian Liberty and Controversy Context: Corinthian believers debating meat sacrificed to idols. Modern parallels: Halloween, Easter, movies, alcohol, lifestyle choices. Principle: Being biblically right does not automatically mean acting rightly. II. Knowledge vs. Love (1 Corinthians 8:1-3; 1 Corinthians 13:2) Knowledge alone “puffs up” and can justify self-serving actions. True liberty requires love for God and concern for others. Example: Children arguing using Scripture illustrates knowledge without love. III. Consideration for Weaker Believers (1 Corinthians 8:7-13; Romans 14) Some believers have weak consciences and adverse emotional responses. Exercising liberty without regard for them can cause them to stumble or sin. Illustration: A new Christian from a Muslim background refrains from eating pork to protect his witness and relationships. IV. Application of Christian Liberty Principle: Prioritize others’ spiritual well-being over personal rights. Verse 13: Paul forfeits his rights to prevent causing a brother to stumble. Galatians 5:13-14: Freedom should be exercised in love, serving one another. Self-reflection: Are my liberties tempered by how they affect other believers? V. Conclusion The Christian life is lived in community; actions influence others. Love must guide how knowledge and liberty are applied. True freedom is freedom that edifies and protects others. Key Takeaways: Knowledge without love tends to be self-serving and can lead to arrogance. Christian liberty must consider the impact on weaker believers. Being biblically right does not guarantee acting rightly—love must guide action. Exercising personal freedom should never cause others to stumble spiritually. Paul models sacrificial use of liberty to protect fellow believers. Freedom in Christ is best expressed through serving others in love. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 – Knowledge, love, and the weak believer. 1 Corinthians 13:2 – Knowledge without love is meaningless. Romans 14:14 – Nothing is unclean in itself, but is unclean to the one who thinks it is. Galatians 5:13-14 – Freedom in Christ should be exercised through love, serving one another. Recorded 10.25.81
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Becoming Single-Minded
Apr 1300:54:15Tap to summarizeGuided Question: How does Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7 shape our understanding of singleness, marriage, and undistracted devotion to Christ, and what practical applications does it have for Christians today? Summary: Dr. Robert Lewis explores 1 Corinthians 7 with a focus on singleness, showing how Paul’s guidance offers both theological insight and practical wisdom. The single life, Paul argues, has distinct advantages over married life, particularly in the ability to devote oneself fully to Christ without divided interests. While marriage is not condemned, the single life allows greater flexibility, opportunity, and focus for spiritual service, and may even be the ideal lifestyle for some. Dr. Lewis emphasizes that singleness should be viewed as a gift and opportunity, not a restriction, and encourages both singles and married Christians to live with eternity in mind, subordinating temporal concerns to their devotion to God. The sermon also touches on widows, showing that older widows who dedicate their lives to Christ serve as examples of purpose and vitality, inspiring the church. Throughout, practical illustrations, historical examples, and anecdotes highlight how undistracted devotion can impact individuals and the broader Christian community. Outline: Introduction Recognition of the increasing number of singles in the church. Importance of addressing singles directly (1 Corinthians 7). Paul’s Instructions on Singleness “Now concerning virgins…”: Paul’s opinion is trustworthy, guided by the Spirit. Conditions for remaining single (verses 25–35): Temporal considerations: “present distress” in the first-century church. Theological considerations: “time has been shortened,” eternal perspective prioritizes Christ over marriage. Advantages of Singleness Undistracted devotion to the Lord (verses 32–34). Flexibility and freedom to serve. Opportunity to focus on prayer, study, ministry, and service without divided interests. Practical Illustrations Daily life comparisons between singles and married individuals. Anecdotes emphasizing the freedom and productivity of single life. Historical examples of influential singles (Joseph, C.S. Lewis, John R. Stott, Billy Graham’s mentors, etc.). Conditions for Choosing Singleness Verse 36–38: Control: ability to resist sinful desires. Conviction: firm decision in one’s heart to remain single for undistracted devotion. Marriage is permissible if control or conviction is lacking. Widows and Dedication to Christ 1 Timothy 5:9: Recognition of widows committed to service. Older widows serve as examples of purpose, vitality, and ongoing mission. Conclusion & Practical Application Singles: embrace advantages, focus on God, use time and energy wisely. Married individuals: remember marriage is temporary in light of eternity. Life’s ultimate focus should be Jesus Christ, not temporal concerns. Encouragement to serve God undistractedly, impacting church and world. Key Takeaways: Singleness is a gift and an opportunity for spiritual focus and ministry. Marriage is not wrong, but it inherently divides attention between family and God. Temporal concerns (career, wealth, social expectations) should not overshadow devotion to Christ. Undistracted devotion requires both control over desires and conviction in one’s heart. Widows who dedicate their lives to God exemplify purposeful living beyond marriage. Historical examples demonstrate the lasting impact of single individuals in God’s kingdom. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 7:1–40 – Paul’s instructions on marriage and singleness. Hebrews 10:32–34 – The “present distress” of first-century Christians. Matthew 22:30 – Marriage does not exist in the resurrection. 2 Peter 3:15 – Paul’s letters recognized as Scripture. 1 Timothy 5:9 – Guidelines for recognizing widows dedicated to Christ. Recorded 10/11/81
Transcribe →Body Language
Apr 600:52:13Tap to summarizeGuided Question How does God want us to view and use our bodies in a culture that either idolizes pleasure or dismisses the body as unimportant? Summary In this message, Dr. Robert Lewis unpacks Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 6:12–20, addressing the Corinthian church’s misunderstanding of Christian freedom and the body. Influenced by the prevailing Epicurean philosophy—“pleasure is the goal of life”—many in Corinth justified sexual indulgence with slogans like “All things are lawful for me” and “Food is for the stomach and the stomach is for food.” Paul responds by clarifying that while Christians have freedom in Christ, not all things are beneficial, nor should believers be mastered by anything. The body is not a throwaway vessel for pleasure but an eternal instrument designed for the Lord. Because our bodies are members of Christ, sexual immorality is a profound contradiction to our union with Him. Paul calls believers to flee immorality and reminds them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. True intimacy is not found in physical indulgence but in spiritual union with Christ. The cure for immorality is not legalistic rule-keeping but learning to “think Jesus,” cultivating fellowship with the indwelling Spirit, and glorifying God in body and spirit. Outline Context and Background Paul in Athens and Corinth (Acts 17). Epicurean vs. Stoic philosophies shaping Corinthian culture. Epicurean emphasis on pleasure over truth. Corinthian Misunderstandings of Freedom (1 Cor. 6:12–13) Slogans: “All things are lawful” and “Food is for the stomach.” Paul’s clarifications: Is it profitable? Will it master me? Freedom in Christ is not license for indulgence. The Body’s Eternal Purpose (1 Cor. 6:14) God raised Christ’s body and will raise ours. The body is eternal and central to salvation. Union with Christ vs. Union in Immorality (1 Cor. 6:15–17) Sexual immorality contradicts union with Christ. Contrast: intimacy through merging of bodies vs. merging of spirits with the Lord. The Call to Flee (1 Cor. 6:18) Immorality uniquely sins against one’s own body. Subtle items of immorality: pornography, media, cultural messages. Principle: All things lawful, but not all profitable; avoid what enslaves. The Body as Temple of the Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19–20) Believers are bought with a price. The body is God’s dwelling place, meant for His glory. The cure: “Think Jesus” — fellowship with the indwelling Spirit. Key Takeaways Christian freedom has boundaries: ask “Is it profitable?” and “Will it control me?” The body matters to God: it is eternal, destined for resurrection, and united with Christ. Sexual sin is unique: it affects the whole person — body, soul, and spirit. True intimacy is spiritual: union with Christ satisfies more deeply than physical indulgence. The Holy Spirit indwells believers: we are temples, called to glorify God with our bodies. The path to purity is not legalism but fellowship with Christ — learning to “think Jesus.” Scripture References Acts 17:16–18 — Paul confronts the philosophies of Athens. 1 Corinthians 6:12–20 — Paul’s correction of Corinthian slogans. Philippians 4:8 — Think on what is pure and honorable. Psalm 101:2–3 — “I will set no worthless thing before my eyes.” Colossians 1:27 — “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Recorded 9/20/81
Transcribe →Forgotten Theology
Mar 3000:44:58Tap to summarizeGuided Question When conflicts arise with other believers, do I rely on worldly methods of self-preservation, or do I trust God’s Spirit and His people to help me walk in love, humility, and faith? Summary In this sermon on 1 Corinthians 6, Dr. Robert Lewis addresses the problem of lawsuits among Christians in Corinth. The issue was not simply about legal disputes but about a deeper spiritual problem: the Corinthians had forgotten their theology and were living with a worldly spirit of survival rather than the Spirit-filled life. Paul reminds the church that theology is not abstract or academic; it shapes everyday life and decisions. Believers are called to live out their future destiny now—managing disputes with wisdom, humility, and a focus on God’s Kingdom rather than possessions or personal rights. Instead of taking one another to court, Paul calls for Christian arbitration or, if necessary, Christian resignation, following the example of Christ who surrendered His rights for the sake of love. Ultimately, Paul urges the Corinthians to remember who they are: washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ. Forgetting this truth leads them backward into a lifestyle of hopelessness, while remembering it moves them forward toward their destiny as Spirit-filled heirs of the Kingdom. Outline I. The Problem Identified (vv. 1–6) Christians were suing Christians in secular courts. Root issue: living as if theology has no place in daily life. Lawsuits reflected greed, selfishness, and immaturity in the faith. II. The Theological Reminder (vv. 2–4, 9–11) “Do you not know?” repeated six times—calling them back to forgotten theology. Believers will one day judge the world and even angels. Christians must live now in light of their eternal destiny. To sue one another is to live like those outside the Kingdom. Remember your identity: washed, sanctified, and justified. III. The Practical Solutions (vv. 5–8) Christian Arbitration — seek resolution through wise believers and church leadership. Christian Resignation — if necessary, yield rather than destroy relationships or Christ’s reputation. IV. The Call to Move Forward (vv. 9–11) Do not retreat into sin and hopelessness. Live as Spirit-filled people who display God’s love and forgiveness. Theology must inform daily relationships and decisions. Key Takeaways Theology is for life, not just the classroom. Biblical truth is meant to shape our daily decisions and relationships. Conflict among believers must be handled spiritually, not through worldly systems. The church is equipped with God’s Word and Spirit to resolve disputes. Possessions are never more important than people. Giving in for the sake of love protects unity and honors Christ. Remember your identity. We are washed, sanctified, and justified—called to live as heirs of God’s Kingdom. Moving forward requires Spirit-filled living. Retreating into selfishness and greed leads to defeat; surrender to the Spirit leads to peace and maturity. Scripture References 1 Corinthians 6:1–11 – Lawsuits among believers and reminder of our identity in Christ. Matthew 5:40 – Jesus’ teaching on surrendering possessions rather than fighting. Revelation 20:4–6 – Believers’ future destiny to rule with Christ. Proverbs 18:19 – The difficulty of restoring an offended brother. Acts 18:8 – Corinthians’ baptism as a sign of leaving the old life behind. Recorded 9/6/81
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