Watch Your Life
Growing in Godliness
The sin of Christian leaders can wreak havoc in the church. That’s why we must watch our lives closely by intentionally pursuing godliness. In this session, Pastor Colin Smith shares the what, the how, and the when for growing in godliness.
What do you hope to get from this module?
Growing in Godliness Transcript PDF
- Why is godliness especially important for Christian leaders?
- Jerry Bridges says that a fear of God, a love for God, and a desire for God compose godliness. Why is each part essential? Which do you most lack?
- 1 Timothy 4:12 mentions five practical expressions of godliness (speech, conduct, love, faith, moral purity). Which area do you need to grow in the most, and why?
- Read 1 Timothy 3:1–13, the classic text on qualifications for Christian leaders. What does it tell us about the importance of godliness? What does it tell us about the importance of skills? What does being proactive in pursuing godliness look like practically? How can you be more proactive in your pursuit of godliness?
- How would you encourage another believer who is discouraged about his or her pursuit of godliness?
Respond to this teaching in prayer.
- Praise God for His holiness!
- Praise God for giving you everything you need for life and godliness!
- Confess your sin and lack of example in speech, conduct, faith, love, and moral purity.
- Ask for His help in revealing areas in which you need to grow.
- Thank God for His grace in your life and the forward progress you have made in godliness.
- Ask God for help and wisdom in actively pursuing godliness for His glory.
- Ask for a greater fear of Him, love for Him, and desire for Him.
Go deeper on the topic of godliness by reading one or more of the following:
- Article: Cultivating a Godly Appetite by Pastor Colin Smith
- Book Excerpt: What is Godliness? (Chapter Length) by Jerry Bridges
- Spurgeon on the Pastor’s Personal Holiness by Geoff Chang
- Sermon: “Gospel Character” by Pastor Colin Smith. In this sermon, Pastor Colin unpacks the character necessary for a gospel minister as explained in the Qualifications for Elders and Deacons found in 1 Timothy 3:1–15. Listen below or read the transcript.
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Pastor Colin Smith’s upcoming event FLY THROUGH THE BIBLE, is a high-altitude exploration of the entire Bible story. This brief introduction to the Bible will help you grasp who God is, who you are, who Jesus is, and what He offers to you!
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- Indianapolis, Indiana
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