A THREEFOLD LOOK

                                                       Isaiah 45:22-25

  Introduction:

        A.  I want to encourage us to take a threefold look- an inward, outward and upward-

              that can change our lives.

   I.   An inward look-a look of examination.  2 Corinthians 13:5

        A.  The scriptures are a mirror into which we can look to see a true picture of

              ourselves.  James 1:22-23

        B.  In Romans 1:18-3:8, we have the description of three classes of people:

              1.  Renegade sinners in Romans 1:18, 22-27,32

              2.  Respectable sinners in Romans 2:5-12

              3.  Religious sinners in Romans 2:21-24,  Matthew 23:1-7,33

        C.   In Romans 3:23-26, saved sinners.  James 1:25

        D.  In which class do I see Myself?

  II.   An outward look--a look of faith.  Isaiah 45:22

         A.  God has provided for sinners to be saved through His Son.  John 3:16, Romans

               5:8, John 14:6

         B.   Jesus has given us His plan.  Matthew 28:19-20

  III.   An upward look--a look of  expectation.  Philippians 3:20-21, 1 Thess.

  

         4:16-18

  Conclusion:

         A.  Have I taken an inward look from God’ word?  Have I taken an outward look of

               faith?  Am I looking for the return of Jesus?

  

.