What Does It Mean To Exercise Self-Control?

Acts 18:24-26

Thesis: To show what it means to have self-control.

Introduction:

1. Do you find living as a Christian to be difficult at times?

2. How do you handle difficult decision that Christians are to make?

Discussion:

Let us consider…

I. “What is the meaning of self-control?” Two words:

A. egkrates (NT#1468)

1. “strong in a thing; self-control in appetite, etc”

2. from “in” and “dominion” (Tit. 1:8)

3. Translated “temperate” (KJV); “self-controlled” (ASV); “disciplined” (ESV).

B. sophron (NT#4998)

1. “safe (sound) in mind; self-control in opinion or passions”

2. from “safe” and “the mind” (1 Tim. 3:2; Tit. 1:8; 2:2, 5)

3. Translated “sober” (KJV); “sober-minded” (ASV); “self-controlled” (ESV).

C. Similar in application to humility or humble as it implies “power under control.”

II. “Who is to practice self-control?”

A. Elders (1 Tim. 3:2; Tim. 1:8)

B. Christians (Acts 24:25; Gal. 5:23; 2 Tim. 1:7; 2 Pet. 1:6)

C. Spouses (1 Cor. 7:5, 9)

D. Athletes (1 Cor. 9:25)

E. Husbands (Tit. 2:2)

F. Wives (1 Tim. 2:9, 15; Tit. 2:5)

III. “Why is self-control important?”

A. Self-control conforms to Jesus’ image (Rom. 8:29; Heb. 5:8).

B. Self-control shows maturity (1 Tim. 3:2; Tit. 1:8).

C. We are to avoid those who lack self-control (2 Tim. 3:3).

D. Self-control leads others to Jesus (Acts 18:26).

IV. “How do we practice self-control?”

A. Allow God’s word to govern your life (Gal. 2:20; Heb. 4:12).

B. Take one day at a time (2 Pet. 3:18).

C. Trust in Jesus (Rom. 8:28).

Conclusion: What do we learn?

1. Self-control is a spiritual fruit that we must display.

2. This characteristic is difficult but possible.