SELF-RIGHTEOUS WARNING SIGNS

Luke 18:9

  Introduction:

     A.  Of all the people that Jesus encountered, His harshest words were reserved for those who claimed

           to be the most religious--the Scribes and the Pharisees.

     B.  They were legalistic and self-righteous and we make a serious mistake if we think we are not

           susceptible to the same danger.

Let's consider three warning signs that can help us detect any traces of self-righteous before it overtakes us.

  I.  Self-righteous people usually think they are better than others.

     A.  They have a sense that somehow God has given them more discernment and greater maturity than

           others. Luke 18:9-12

     B.   How did Jesus feel about the self-righteous people of His day? Mt. 23:1-7, 13,15,23,33

     C.   How does He feel about self-righteous people today?

II.   Self-righteous people are CRITICAL and judgmental. Mt.15:1-12

     A.   Could it be that a spirit of criticism about others is a disguise for a self-righteous attitude? 

III.   Self-righteous people are Proud of their performance. Luke 18:11-12

     A.   They think that somehow they can earn brownie points with God.

IV.  Self-righteousness will not please God.

     A.   We must have an humble spirit. Luke 18:13-14

     B.   A realization that we are saved by grace will bring about a spirit of humility 

            Ephesian 2:8-9

     C.   We are saved by grace through our faith (obedient faith)  Heb. 11:6 : James 2:17

    

Closing:

     A.   If we have detected any traces of self-righteousness in us, we need to repent and ask God to  forgive us before it overtakes us!

Invitation extended