What does "stop sinning" mean for a believer's spiritual growth? Scripture Focus “Sober up as you ought, and stop sinning; for some of you are ignorant of God. I say this to your shame.” (1 Corinthians 15:34) Understanding “Stop Sinning” in Context • Paul writes this within a chapter defending the physical resurrection of Jesus. • Some Corinthian believers flirted with ideas that undermined that core truth, and their belief error fostered moral compromise. • “Stop sinning” is not a suggestion; it is a present-tense command calling for an immediate, ongoing break with known sin. • To “sober up” pictures waking from spiritual intoxication—thinking clearly about God’s truth so behavior aligns with it. Practical Dimensions of Stopping Sin • Repentance: turning from every practice Scripture names as sin (Acts 3:19). • Mind renewal: feeding on truth so error loses its grip (Romans 12:2). • Relational obedience: yielding daily to the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16). • Accountability: walking in the light with other believers (James 5:16). Relation to Spiritual Growth • Sin dulls spiritual senses; stopping sin sharpens discernment (Hebrews 5:14). • Growth thrives where holiness is pursued (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Obedience opens the believer to deeper fellowship with God (John 14:23). • Victory over sin demonstrates resurrection power at work now (Romans 6:4). Supporting Passages • 1 John 3:6 — “No one who remains in Him keeps on sinning.” • Romans 6:11-14 — “Count yourselves dead to sin…sin shall not be your master.” • Titus 2:11-12 — Grace “teaches us to reject ungodliness.” • Psalm 119:11 — “Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Living It Out Daily 1. Begin each day acknowledging Christ’s lordship and your death to sin. 2. Store Scripture in mind and mouth; speak it when temptation comes. 3. Flee settings that feed old habits; pursue settings that stir faith. 4. Serve others—love crowds out self-centered sin. 5. Keep short accounts with God; confess quickly when you stumble (1 John 1:9). 6. Celebrate progress; every obedient step reflects resurrection life and fuels further growth. |
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