Paul Washer - We are not friends with the world

[t=0:00:01] Introduction

The speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to teach on biblical manhood and acknowledges the presence of many godly men in the audience.

Importance of Gathering with Like-minded Men

• The speaker acknowledges that it is a privilege to gather with like-minded men who share a common purpose.

• He emphasizes that if one cannot grow in such an environment, it would be difficult to find another place where growth is possible.

• The sufficiency of Scripture is highlighted as a crucial aspect for personal and collective growth.

• The speaker encourages attendees to take advantage of the opportunity to gather with other godly men.

[t=0:02:24] Understanding the Battle

The speaker discusses the spiritual battle faced by believers and highlights the need to be aware of one's calling and the stakes involved.

Living Between Two Worlds

• Believers are called to live between two worlds - not being of this world but still residing in it.

• The work of the Holy Spirit within believers makes them contrary to this world, and vice versa.

• It is important to understand that living behind enemy lines can be dangerous.

Engaging in Spiritual Warfare

• Believers must realize they are engaged in a constant battle against their own fallen nature and external temptations.

• The Christian life involves swimming upstream, going against societal norms, and fighting against spiritual forces.

• Persecution should be expected for those who choose godliness in this world.

[t=0:06:30] Embracing the Fight

The speaker emphasizes the desire to fight for what matters, rather than passively accepting circumstances or seeking an easy life.

A Desire for Battle

• There is a longing within believers to fight for what they believe in.

• Dying without scars or without having fought for what is right is undesirable.

• The speaker expresses a willingness to fight for the cause of Christ.

The Fight of Faith and Holiness

• The focus is on the fight of faith, holiness, selflessness in relationships, and sacrificial living.

• Vacations and worldly pursuits are seen as trivial compared to the greater calling to fight for what matters.

[t=0:03:12] Conclusion

The speaker concludes by highlighting the importance of not being attached to this passing world but instead focusing on doing the will of God.

Detachment from the World

• Believers are urged not to love or be attached to the things of this world.

• Earthly desires and prideful pursuits are contrasted with the eternal perspective.

• Those who do God's will can experience everlasting life.

This summary provides an overview of key points discussed in the transcript. It is important to refer back to the original transcript for a complete understanding of the content.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of loving one's spouse as Christ loves the church and emphasizes that anyone can do great endeavors for God.

Cultivating Faith and Understanding

• The speaker highlights that living in simple obedience to God while facing opposition is heroic.

• To grow in love for God and hatred for the world, one must cultivate their faith, knowledge, and understanding of God.

• The study of scripture is essential for developing a right perspective and seeing as God sees.

Not Loving the World

• The speaker quotes from 1 John 2:15-17, emphasizing not to love the world or its desires.

• The lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and boastful pride of life are not from God but from the world.

• The world is passing away or being pushed out by God's judgment.

Contemplating Mortality

• Reflecting on mortality helps individuals grasp their own mortality.

• Strong men grow old and weak; all men die.

• It is important to contemplate death seriously rather than making light of it.

Everything Outside Christ's Will Will Burn

• All things lived for outside of Christ's will are temporary and will be destroyed.

• Regardless of one's occupation or role in life, everything can be done for the glory of God.

Contemplating Investments

• Individuals are encouraged to contemplate their own death and evaluate their investments in life.

Timestamps have been associated with bullet points based on provided information.

Changing Investments

The speaker discusses how he stopped investing in a university because he believed it was anti-Christian. He emphasizes the importance of investing in one's own godliness, spouse, children, and local church.

Investing in Godliness and Relationships

• The speaker mentions that he stopped investing in a particular university due to its anti-Christian nature.

• He encourages listeners to consider where they are investing their time and energy.

• Investing in one's own godliness is important.

• The speaker highlights the significance of investing time in one's spouse and their godliness.

• He also emphasizes the importance of investing in the godliness of one's children and praying for them.

• Investing in the local church is mentioned as another crucial aspect.

Daily Bread and Living for God's Name

The speaker reflects on the Lord's Prayer, specifically focusing on the phrase "give us this day our daily bread." He explains that it signifies a desire for enough sustenance to serve God rather than seeking riches or luxury.

Understanding "Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread"

• The speaker clarifies that "give us this day our daily bread" does not refer to asking for material wealth for 90 years but rather requesting enough sustenance for each day.

• He highlights that this prayer reveals a heart focused on living for God's name to be hallowed, His kingdom to come, and His will to be done.

• The emphasis is on having enough food, shelter, and clothing to fulfill these purposes rather than pursuing personal desires.

Living with Purpose

The speaker asserts that a man's purpose is found in fulfilling the creation commission by bringing God's kingdom and rules into every aspect of life. He emphasizes that the world is passing away, and our focus should be on serving God.

Fulfilling the Creation Commission

• The speaker refers to Adam's commission to bring God's kingdom and rules into the world.

• He suggests that every command given to families and individuals is a recommissioning of this purpose.

• The call is to subdue ourselves, our families, and the world under the reign of Christ.

• The speaker states that food is necessary only for fulfilling this purpose.

Passing Away and Judgment

The speaker reflects on the transient nature of the world and warns about impending judgment. He mentions passages from Revelation and highlights the importance of knowing Christ personally.

Passing Away and Judgment

• The speaker acknowledges that everything in this world is passing away.

• He expresses concern for loved ones who are passing away without knowing Christ.

• A reference is made to "I never knew you" from Matthew 7:23, indicating separation from God.

• The speaker alludes to the Great White Throne judgment described in Revelation where people are judged according to what is written in books.

• This passage serves as a reminder that Earth is not our permanent home.

God's Judgment Upon a People

The speaker discusses Isaiah chapter 3, where God brings judgment upon a people by removing noble men from leadership positions. He draws parallels between this passage and current societal trends.

God's Judgment Removing Noble Men

• In Isaiah chapter 3, God announces His judgment by removing supply, support, mighty men, warriors, judges, prophets, diviners, elders, captains of 50, honorable men, counselors, expert artisans, and skillful enchanters.

• This removal of noble men signifies one of the greatest acts of God's judgment upon a people.

• The speaker suggests that this passage has relevance to the United States, observing societal changes and the lack of strong leadership.

Under the Judgment of God

The speaker reflects on the current state of society, expressing concern about older men engaging in trivial pursuits and confusion regarding gender identity. He asserts that society is under God's judgment.

Society Under God's Judgment

• The speaker observes older men playing with toys and individuals confused about which bathroom to use.

• He believes that society is currently experiencing God's judgment.

• This section highlights the contrast between angry, strong men in other parts of the world and what he perceives as weakness and confusion in his own country.

Due to limitations in available content, some sections may not have been covered.

Desire for the Word and Accountability

In this section, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discerning problems and the need to be in the Word. He shares a story about his wife teaching women in Romania and highlights the simplicity of growing spiritually through reading the Word.

Importance of Discernment and Being in the Word

• Most Christian men fail to discern problems.

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of being in the Word.

• A story is shared about his wife teaching women in Romania who were encouraged to seek answers in the Word.

• The simplicity of spiritual growth is highlighted through fellowship with Godly men, family, and learning from the Word.

Oppression and Leadership

This section discusses societal issues such as oppression, conflicts between generations, and different interpretations of leadership. The speaker mentions Jezebel as an example of a wicked woman seeking authority but also brings up Deborah as a leader who may have been raised up as a rebuke to men.

Oppression and Conflicts

• Society experiences oppression where people are oppressed by each other.

• Conflicts arise between youth and elders, as well as between those considered honorable or inferior.

• The speaker relates these societal issues to our present time.

Different Interpretations of Leadership

• Two possibilities regarding women ruling over men are discussed: wicked women like Jezebel seeking authority and leaders like Deborah who may have been raised up as a rebuke to men.

• Deborah's role is difficult to explain but suggests that she was not at fault for her position.

Legacy and Responsibility

This section focuses on personal responsibility, legacy, and accountability. The speaker addresses young girls' concerns about being single their whole lives due to limited options among boys their age. He urges men to reflect on the legacy they leave and emphasizes the importance of not repeating past mistakes.

Personal Responsibility and Legacy

• The speaker highlights personal responsibility in leaving a positive legacy.

• He mentions young girls feeling limited in their options for marriage due to the behavior of boys their age.

• Men are urged to consider the legacy they leave behind.

Accountability and Past Mistakes

• The previous generation is held accountable for raising up a generation that does not know the Lord.

• The speaker discourages making fun of younger generations, as previous generations have also made mistakes.

• Men are reminded not to waste time on trivial matters but to focus on serving others.

Life's Purpose and Service

This section explores life's purpose, self-sacrifice, and service. The speaker emphasizes that life is meant to be difficult and centered around Christ, family, church, and sharing the gospel with those who have yet to hear it.

Life's Purpose and Self-Sacrifice

• Life's purpose involves self-sacrifice and serving others rather than focusing solely on oneself.

• A caution is given against having a "Theology of Glory" that only centers around personal gain or recognition.

Priorities: Family, Church, Gospel

• Priorities should include one's spouse, children, church community, and reaching out to those who have not heard the gospel.

• Examples are given of professional men who effectively witness through their professions while prioritizing family.

Concentric Circles of Concern

• The concept of concentric circles of concern is introduced as a way to order one's life.

• The middle circle represents oneself, with an emphasis on being a better servant rather than seeking personal gain.

New Section

The qualifications for an elder are primarily focused on character.

Qualifications for an Elder

• The qualifications for an elder are almost exclusively character-based.

• An elder needs to be a mature Christian, and the list of qualifications in Titus 1 and 1 Timothy 3 describes what a mature Christian looks like.

• Character growth involves conforming to Christ by cultivating the mind of Christ through studying the Word of God.

• While both knowledge of marriage principles and being filled with the Holy Spirit are important, character is crucial for a successful marriage.

• The first concentration should be on becoming a clean, useful, and accurate tool.

• The next concern should be the godliness, sanctification, prosperity, and flourishing of one's wife.

• Men need to love their wives sacrificially as Jesus loved the church, even more than they prioritize their children.

• Neglecting affection and intimacy can lead wives to seek emotional fulfillment from their children instead, causing strain in relationships.

• Obedience to God's commands is interconnected in every aspect of life; neglecting one area affects others as well.

• Concentric circles of concern: selflessness towards wife, children, people of God, and sharing the Gospel with the world.

New Section

Jeremiah 12:5 reminds us that if we struggle with small challenges now, we will struggle even more when faced with greater difficulties.

Running with Footmen

• Jeremiah 12:5 states that if we struggle with footmen, how can we compete with horses? If we stumble in a land of peace, how will we fare in the thicket of the Jordan?

• Jeremiah faced suffering and complained to God about it.

• The past year has shown darkness in society and changes in government's view of the church, indicating potential persecution.

• This is just the beginning; greater challenges may lie ahead.

• Reflecting on personal difficulties and weaknesses, questioning one's ability to endure greater trials.

• Considering how slander, attacks, and social media affect one's resilience and ability to face persecution or imprisonment.

• Observing the strength of believers in other parts of the world who face extreme hardships without formal theological education.

New Section

Personal reflections on studying the Bible despite difficulties.

Studying the Bible

• Acknowledging that studying the Bible can be challenging for some individuals.

Running with Horses in a Land of Peace

The speaker discusses the challenges of running with horses in a land of peace and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and relying on God's presence.

Difficulties in Growth

• It is difficult to grow spiritually, but leaving a place where growth is challenging can lead to even worse situations.

• The speaker mentions that preachers often reflect on this text (Jeremiah) as it highlights the difficulties faced in life.

• The challenges mentioned are far more severe than one could imagine.

God's Promise to Be With Us

• Throughout the book of Jeremiah, there is a recurring theme that God will be with His people.

• This promise should provide comfort and assurance during difficult times.

Getting in Touch with Your Feminine Side?

The speaker addresses the misconception that men need to get in touch with their feminine side and clarifies what it means to stand firm in faith.

Misconceptions about Masculinity

• Some people may have been annoyed by the speaker's statement that men don't need to get in touch with their feminine side.

• The speaker refers to 1 Corinthians 16:13, which encourages believers to stand firm in faith and be strong.

Offense and Alertness

• Surprisingly, some professing evangelicals find offense in this biblical text due to its perceived offensiveness.

• Being alert is crucial because Satan seeks opportunities to devour believers like a roaring lion.

• Even if Satan were absent, believers would still struggle with sin. Therefore, it is important not to trust oneself.

Being Alert: Training Discernment

The speaker explains how being alert requires training our eyes through Scripture reading and prayer. He also emphasizes the importance of having accountability from godly men.

Training Discernment

• Being alert involves training our eyes to recognize sin and deviations from the truth.

• Reading and studying the Word of God helps develop discernment, enabling believers to identify and address sin promptly.

Alertness in Prayer

• Colossians 4 highlights the importance of being alert in prayer.

• Praying for God's help and grace contributes to staying vigilant in the spiritual battle.

Accountability with Godly Men

• It is impossible to stay alert 24/7, so having godly men around can provide support and accountability.

• Surrounding oneself with noble and Christ-like men can motivate personal growth and maturity.

Summary

The transcript covers various topics related to spiritual growth, perseverance, misconceptions about masculinity, being alert, training discernment through Scripture reading and prayer, as well as the importance of accountability with godly men. The speaker emphasizes relying on God's presence during difficult times and encourages believers to stand firm in faith.

The Importance of Diligence in Studying the Bible and Prayer

In this section, the speaker emphasizes the importance of diligence in studying the Bible and prayer. He shares personal anecdotes and insights from other respected individuals to highlight that everyone faces similar challenges and must fight for spiritual growth.

Diligence in Studying the Bible and Prayer

• Some people study the Bible or pray more than others not because it's their gift or disposition, but because they understand the importance.

• John Piper once said that he has to fight for absolutely everything, implying that spiritual growth requires effort.

• Other respected individuals who excel in studying the Bible or prayer also face similar difficulties as everyone else.

• The difference lies in their understanding that their life depends on these practices.

Personal Anecdote: David Miller's Work Ethic

• David Miller, a highly impactful preacher, demonstrated an exceptional memory during his sermons.

• When asked about his gift of memory, he attributed it to hard work rather than natural talent.

Personal Anecdote: Brother David's Near-death Experience

• Brother David recounts a near-death experience where he felt immense pain after being resuscitated multiple times.

• Despite the pain, he realized that breathing was necessary for survival and drew a parallel to studying the Word and prayer.

The Choice: Study and Pray or Die Spiritually

• The speaker highlights that we have two options: study and pray or die spiritually.

• Emphasizes that choosing to study the Word and pray changes everything in our lives.

• Urges listeners to take this choice seriously and recognize the transformative power it holds.

Standing Firm in the Faith

• Encourages believers to stand firm in their faith.

• References Hebrews 11:1, which defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for and conviction of things not seen.

• Provides a humorous example to illustrate the importance of context when interpreting biblical passages.

Faith Anchored in God's Word

• Stresses that standing strong in faith requires anchoring it in God's promises found in His Word.

• Asserts that trust in what God has said can only be achieved through studying His Word and being part of a church that proclaims it.

Conclusion

• Faith is not a blind leap into darkness but rather a confident trust in what God has said.

• The speaker emphasizes that standing firm in the faith is impossible without studying and understanding God's Word.

Timestamps are approximate and may vary slightly.

The Importance of Walking in Darkness

In this section, the speaker discusses the concept of walking in darkness and its significance in relation to piety and faith.

Walking in Darkness

• The speaker references 1 John, stating that walking in darkness as a continual lifestyle is not characteristic of a Christian.

• However, the speaker explains that those who truly fear the Lord and obey His servant, the Messiah, are described as walking in darkness without light.

• This implies that walking in darkness is key to understanding piety and faith.

• The example of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is given, highlighting their lack of evidence to believe that eating from the forbidden tree would harm them. It was solely based on God's word.

• Similarly, Abraham had no evidence to believe he would have a child with his aged body or his wife Sarah. Walking in darkness requires trusting God's word without tangible evidence.

Affirming God's Character through Faith

This section emphasizes how faith plays a crucial role in affirming God's character and countering doubt.

Affirming God's Word

• Believing God's word affirms His character and truthfulness.

• Refusing to believe His word is equivalent to calling Him a liar about something significant.

• Those who walk in darkness have their faith firmly set upon God's word alone; they do not require additional stimuli or visible blessings for obedience.

Standing Firm in Faith

This section explores the importance of standing firm in faith and addresses doubts as an affront to God's character.

Stand Firm in Faith

• The command to stand firm in faith implies not doubting or questioning God's character.

• Doubt is described as a direct attack on the character of God.

• The speaker acknowledges that doubts may arise but emphasizes the need to unmask and crucify them, recognizing them as unbelief in God's character.

Acting Like Men

This section discusses what it means to act like men and highlights the importance of vigilance and self-sacrifice.

Acting Like Men

• Acting like men involves being alert, vigilant, and strong in faith.

• Men are called to protect their families, be watchful over their own hearts, care for their wives and children, and be active members of their church.

• True masculinity is not defined by physical strength or worldly achievements but by sacrificial service.

The Need for Rebuke and Accountability

This section emphasizes the importance of rebuke and accountability among brothers in Christ.

Battle Mentality

• Following Christ requires a battle mentality.

• Men who believe in God should embrace rebuke from fellow believers without getting offended.

• The speaker encourages men to surround themselves with godly brothers who will challenge them, hold them accountable, and help them grow spiritually.

The Role of Scripture, Prayer, and Fellowship

This section highlights the significance of Scripture study, prayer, and fellowship for developing biblical masculinity.

Biblical Masculinity

• Biblical masculinity involves conforming to the image of Christ through studying Scripture diligently.

• Prayer is essential for cultivating spiritual growth.

• Fellowship with other believers, particularly with those who can offer rebuke when necessary, is crucial for personal development as a man of God.