"What Sayest Thou of Thyself?" John 1:22 I. Introduction. A. Background. B. When people speak on same points as I, arrive at same conclusion. C. Preach a sermon on attendance, giving, etc.--speak same thing. D. Do not preach sermons to pick on anyone--but to teach. II. Body. A. Self-examination is a good process. 1. The need: Analyze II Corinthians 13:5. 2. To the elders: Acts 20:28. 3. We may deceive ourselves: Galatians 6:3. 4. Many are fond of testing others--reluctant to test self. a. Men are unselfish in giving advice and passing judgment on others. b. Fear presents many from self-examination. c. An unclean man condemning uncleanness is a spectacle. 5. The standard for self-examination is the Bible, not other people. 6. Let us imagine we have a score card by which we grade ourselves(what would be our marks?). B. How is our zeal for the Lord? Have we lost our early zeal and enthusiasm? 1. As an individual? a. Am I indifferent to the work? b. What DO I DO in the work of the Lord? c. Note Titus 2:14. (1. Ephesus: Revelation 2:5. (2. Laodicea: Revelation 3:16. 2. Enough to execute a work? a. Sardis: Revelation 3:2. b. Successful execution depends on perseverance. (1 Impatience: James 5:7. (2 What of Job? James 5:11. C. Am I willing to serve? 1. The Lord? Not as these--Romans 16:18. 2. We must follow Christ: John 12:26. 3. Would I be willing to give an account of my stewardship? a. Romans 12:11. b. Our spiritual service: Romans 12:1. D. Do I have a desire to assist in the work of Christ? 1. Am I eager to do what I can? Acts 8:30. 2. Or seek to be a worthy servant of Christ? E. Do I have a feeling of dependence? 1. Upon the God who created me? a. James 4:15. b. Psalm 119:10. 2. Upon faith? a. Hebrews 11:1. b. Abiding element: I Corinthians 13:13. 3. Upon obedience? a. Essential: Hebrews 5:8. b. God has always expected and demanded. F. Do I possess an attitude of thanksgiving? Ephesians 5:20; Philippians 4:6. G. Do I have a proper attitude toward Bible classes? 1. The classes are part of the work of the church and are not unscriptural. 2. The classes are for the benefit of all members of the Lord's body. 3. Be prepared and come to discuss the scriptures. H. Do I possess a willingness to study? II Timothy 2:15. I. Do I enthusiastically support every activity?(compare with enthusiasm for a social club or organization?) J. Do I have the conviction to stand up for all that is right in the Lord's way? 1. Don't ever be like Demas! II Timothy 4:10. 2. Be as early disciples: Acts 2:42. III. Conclusion. A. Let each of us stand up for the right, whatever the cost. B. Be willing to use our talents to further the Lord's work. C. Do not feel that I have to be petted or forced into doing what is right--do what God expects. D. Take the initiative and be busy for the Lord.(That means live the life that is outlined in the New Testament). E. Remember: "What sayest thou of thyself?"--it is up to you: it is your soul.-jy