The Lost Art of Discernment. What is Best?

Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North Sermons - Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North

Introduction:

Philippians 1:9-11

1 Corinthians 6-8-10 Principle: Five Questions to Ask To Make the Best Decision in a "Grey Area":

1. Is it Permissible ? (1 Cor 6:12)

   1 Corinthians 6:12 - "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.
   "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be dominated by anything.

2. Is it Beneficial ? (1 Cor 6:12)

   1 Corinthians 6:12 - "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.
   "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be dominated by anything.

3. Could it get me under its Power ? (1 Cor 6:12)

   1 Corinthians 6:12 - "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.
   "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be dominated by anything.

4. Could it cause a brother to Stumble ? (1 Cor 8:12-13)

   1 Corinthians 8:12-13 - Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.

5. Is it Glorifying to God? (1 Cor 10:31)

   1 Corinthians 10:31 - So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!

Small Group Discussion
Read Philippians 1:9-11 and 1 Cor 6:12, 1 Cor 8:12-13, 1 Cor 10:31

1. What was your big take-away from this passage / message?

2. Why is it important to discern what is best, not just what is “right and wrong”? See Philippians 1:10.

3. Name a “grey area” you’ve personally struggled with. How does the 1 Corinthians 6-8-10 principle help you come to a conviction in that area?

Breakout
Pray for one another.

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If you are struggling with discernment in the form of an addiction. Check out the 5-part series where the church faces this series need head-on. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the pastors or elders of the church to get help!