Summary of the presentation from Practical Sanctification Series – Part 5 – Ask for Wisdom

Introduction: Importance of Biblical Wisdom

• The Bible explicitly provides instructions and wisdom for life, not human opinions.
• True victory over sin requires understanding and applying God’s word.
• Romans 7:15 highlights the struggle between desire to do good and actual actions.
• James 2:10 emphasizes the law as a transcript of God’s whole character; breaking one part makes one guilty of all.

God’s Character and the Law

• The law represents God’s complete character.
• God requires a whole, perfect heart and willing mind in serving Him (1 Chronicles 28:9).
• Almost saved means wholly lost; complete sanctification involves full victory over sin.
• Righteousness by faith is based on the premise that sin is already defeated through Jesus.

Solomon’s Example of Seeking Wisdom

• Solomon, known as the wisest man, advised his son to “know God” with a perfect heart and willing mind (1 Chronicles 28:9).
• Solomon’s humility is shown in his request for wisdom, acknowledging himself as a “little child” (1 Kings 3:7-9).
• Wisdom involves having right thoughts (Philippians 2:5) and letting Christ be the gatekeeper of the mind.
• Wisdom is essential for discerning right and wrong (Ezekiel 44:23).

The Deceitfulness of the Human Heart

• Jeremiah 17:9 describes the human heart as deceitful and desperately wicked.
• Without God’s influence, human minds are shaped by Satan who opposes God.
• True wisdom and transformation come from the Holy Spirit dwelling in believers.
• Dependence on God is likened to a tree planted by water, flourishing through His Spirit (Psalm 1, Jeremiah 17:7-8).

Categories of Sin (1 John 2:15-16)

1. Lust of the Flesh – bodily cravings and addictions.
2. Lust of the Eyes – coveting and greed.
3. Pride of Life – selfishness and arrogance.

• These sins separate people from God.
• Wisdom opposes pride (Proverbs 11:2).

God’s Promise to Give Wisdom

• God promises to give wisdom generously to those who ask (James 1:5).
• Solomon’s request pleased God because he sought understanding rather than riches or long life (1 Kings 3:11-12).
• Wisdom enables righteous judgment and living according to God’s will.

Practical Application: Temptation and Victory Over Sin

• James 1:14-15 explains how temptation begins with lust, leading to sin and death.
• Proverbs 23:31 warns against looking at temptation repeatedly, which leads to downfall.
• Christians are called to resist worldly desires and choose God’s wisdom.
• God provides strength and a way out of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).

The Role of Jesus Christ in Sanctification

• Jesus is the source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30).
• John 5:1-14 recounts Jesus healing at Bethesda pool, symbolizing spiritual healing and wholeness.
• Jesus commands the healed man to “sin no more” to avoid worse consequences, emphasizing holiness.

Freedom Through Christ

• All power in heaven and earth is given to Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18).
• He sets believers free from sin’s bondage (John 8:36).
• Receiving Christ grants power to become children of God (John 1:12).
• Salvation includes free will; believers must choose to serve God wholeheartedly.

Wisdom’s Role in Daily Life

• Wisdom leads to good behavior, humility, and righteous living (James 3:13; Proverbs 2:6-10).
• Wisdom brings understanding of righteousness, justice, and equity.
• Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom actively and live by it.

Warning Against Falling Away

• Hebrews 6:4-8 warns about falling away after receiving knowledge of truth.
• Salvation requires perseverance; grace empowers believers to continue in faith.
• Falling away results from rejecting God’s grace despite knowing better.

Encouragement to Ask for Wisdom

• James 1:5 encourages believers to ask God for wisdom freely.
• Proverbs 24:14 highlights the reward of finding wisdom.
• Even righteous people fall but rise again through God’s grace (Proverbs 24:16).

Conclusion: Commitment to Walk in Wisdom

• True sanctification involves rising up, putting away sin, and walking in obedience.
• Believers must ask God for wisdom to handle life and family challenges effectively.
• The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live holy lives aligned with God’s character.
• Faithful study and application of God’s Word are essential for victory over sin.

Key Bible Verses Mentioned

This summary captures the core teachings of the video on practical sanctification focusing on asking for wisdom, understanding the heart’s deceitfulness, relying on Christ’s power, and growing in holiness through God’s Word and Spirit.