Hebrews 5:11-14 and 1 Peter 5:8-9

Introduction:

1. This discussion addresses several common behaviors that are stunting the spiritual growth of many Christians by dulling our spiritual senses.

2. These may seem unrelated at times, but all have to do with being “sober-minded.”

3. With such a wily and wicked adversary, we cannot get “caught slipping” spiritually.

Discussion:

I. Warning and Charge

A. Throughout the Bible, we see the danger presented by poor decision making.

B. How many biblical examples of tragic falls from grace can you quickly recall?

C. How many warnings about the destructive power of false teachers so we see?

D. The consistent safeguard against these dangers is maintaining sober minds and sharpened spiritual senses (Luke 21:34-36; Romans 13:11-13; Ephesians 5:11-17; 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8; 1 Timothy 3:11; Titus 2:2; 1 Peter 5:8-9).

II. Defining Terms

A. With the word “sober” involved, many fail to see the full significance of the term so translated.

B. This is due to the tendency to contrast sobriety and drunkenness, which is only part of its meaning.

C. “Sober” is one of many definitions given.

1. “Be sober, calm, collected in spirit, temperate, dispassionate, circumspect” (Thayer).

2. “Abstain from wine, discreet, watch” (Strong)

3. “Lit. be sober, not intoxicated, fig. be vigilant, circumspect” (Mounce).

4. “Be free from every form of mental and spiritual drunkenness, excess, passion, rashness, confusion, etc., be self-controlled, exercise self-constraint, be self-possessed under all circumstances” (BDAG).

D. Additionally, this term is frequently used in conjunction with another term meaning to be alert and watchful (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:6; 1 Peter 5:8).

E. Add in the rebukes for dull senses, and the picture is we have no excuse to be spiritually dulled.

III. Things That Dull Our Senses

A. Much, perhaps most of what comes to mind in this vein is alcohol and drug use, but there is more.

B. Consider a sampling of things known to dull our senses and make us spiritually vulnerable:

1. Alcohol and drugs of course dull our senses.

2. Excessive entertainment: tv, movies, sports, etc. all take time away from things promoting spiritual growth (prayer, study, fellowship, etc., cf. Luke 8:7, 14).

3. Excessive social media usage has shrunk our attention spans to the point we will struggle mightily to grasp the deeper things of His will.

4. Physical and mental exhaustion: how often do we read of Jesus taking leave to rest and pray?

5. Consumerism inhibits spiritual growth: material addictions such as food, tobacco, sexuality, popularity, success, gambling, etc. (1 Corinthians 6:12; Luke 8:7, 14).

Conclusion:

1. Truly this list could go on indefinitely, but this is a good start.

2. The only way to avoid the tempter’s snare is to put on every piece of the armor of God, every single day of our lives (Ephesians 6:10-18).

3. To effectively pursue holiness, we must know what it is, a task requiring sober, clear, watchful minds, so let us put off every weight that hinders us (Hebrews 12:1-2).