A THREEFOLD LOOK

                                                             Isaiah 45:22-25 (543)

   Introduction

        A.  Let’s take a threefold look- an inward, outward and upward- that can change our

              lives.

    I.  An inward look, which is a look of examination.  2 Corinthians 13:5 (859)

        A.  It’s easy to examine others, but more difficult to examine ourselves.

              1.  The examination under consideration is self-examination.

              2.  Question:  Does my life match my profession?

        B.  God provides us a standard.  James 1:22-25 (892)

              1.  Questions:  Is there something I’m doing that God’s word doesn’t authorize? Etc.

              2.  Could it be that you continue to reject God’s plan of salvation?  Matthew 7:21-29

                   (708)

   II.  An outward look, which is a look of faith.  Look 45:22

        A.  God has provided for sinners to be saved through His Son.  Romans 5:8; John 14:6

        B.  Jesus has given us His plan.  Matthew 28:18-20 (730)

  III.  An upward look, which is a look of expectation.

        A.  At some point Jesus will return.  Philippians 3:20-21 (869); 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

              (874)

Conclusion

        A.  I encourage us to take an inward look using God’s word as the standard, an outward

              look of faith and an upward faith of expectation of the return of Jesus.