| ZEAL: What It Is,
Where It Comes From, Why It Matters A.
Titus 2:11-14 forms a Scriptural bridge between the grace of God and the zeal
of God’s people. B. Zeal is defined as
“great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or
objective.” C. In the Bible, zeal
is presented as a burning desire to please and glorify God. I. ZEAL: What It Is A. Five essential qualities that
distinguish God-centered passion from self-centered enthusiasm.1. (1 Pet
3:13-16) 2. Biblical (Rom 10:1-3) 3. A heart (Psa 86:11; 119:1-4) 4. effort (John 4:31-34) 5. Loving (Rom 12:9-11) B. Christian zeal is the courage to apply
Biblical knowledge with a united heart in focused effort andloving service to
the glory of God (Psa 86:12). II.
ZEAL: Where It Comes From A. God’s
zeal is a clear and often referenced aspect of his nature. 1. Isaiah connects God’s impressive actions
with his zeal (9:6-7; 37:30-32; 42:13; 59:15-19). 2. Begs the question: does my zeal with my
Creator’s zeal? (Rev 3:14-19). B. The
example of Jesus in life – “Zeal for your house will consume me”
(John 2:13-22). C. The example of
Jesus in death – “who gave himself for us” (Tit 2:13-14a). 1. He purchased us. 2. He us.
3. He took possession of us.
III. ZEAL: Why It Matters A.
…to produce in us! (Tit 2:14b). B.
Our Father not only desires for us to be zealous, but he fully equips us in
Christ (1 John 2:6). |
