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Warning Signs Along The Road to Apostasy. Matthew 26:30-75. Apostasy. Greek word “apostasia” meaning “a defection, revolt, apostasy” Translated forsake (Acts 21:21) Falling away from the faith (2 Thessalonians 2:3) Gradual process. Overconfidence (vv. 30-35).
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Warning Signs Along The Road to Apostasy Matthew 26:30-75
Apostasy • Greek word “apostasia” meaning “a defection, revolt, apostasy” • Translated forsake (Acts 21:21) • Falling away from the faith (2 Thessalonians 2:3) • Gradual process
Overconfidence (vv. 30-35) • Peter’s intention (v. 33) • Why we need to “take heed” (1 Corinthians 10:12) • Paul’s awareness (1 Corinthians 9:27) • Excessive self-confidence
Inattention to Warnings (v. 31) • Various warnings signs • Labels • Traffic signs • Often ignore them
Inattention to Warnings (v. 31) • God’s warnings • Peter (Luke 22:31; 1 Peter 5:8) • Evil influences (Proverbs 6:27, 28) • Companions (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Warned of judgment (Matthew 25:46)
Acting Without Authority (v. 51) • Peter’s good intention another time • Defend Jesus (John 18:10) • Not what Jesus wanted (Matthew 5:10, 11) • No positive divine authority
Acting Without Authority (v. 51) • Ends do not justify the means • Can’t just look at the good done • Must have authority (Matthew 28:18) • Do all in His name (Colossians 3:17) • Avoid lawlessness (Matthew 7:21-23)
Following From Afar (vv. 57-74) • Peter at least stayed • Others left • Cannot follow from afar. (Revelation 3:15, 16)
Following From Afar (vv. 57-74) • Follow Jesus’ steps • Our example (1 Peter 2:21) • Peter’s shame (vv. 69-74) • Honor to suffer as a Christian (1 Peter 4:12-16) • Imitate the apostles (Acts 5:40-42)
Forgetting Christ’s Words (v. 75) • What had Peter done? • Hadn’t actually forgotten • Remembered the words • Had shoved them aside
Forgetting Christ’s Words (v. 75) • Word is a barrier to apostasy • Jesus quoted it (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10) • We need to use it so that we do not sin (Psalm 119:11) • Remember His example (Hebrews 2:1-3) • Quit sinning (1 John 2:1, 2; 3:9)
Conclusion • What happened to Peter could be me and you • Peter changed • Will you? (Acts 4:12, 13)