The word “indifference” is not found in the Bible, but the concept is addressed: Indifference or apathy is considered a sin against both God and.

Overcoming Sin (13): IndifferenceRevelation 3:14-16

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Introduction

The word “indifference” is not found in the Bible, but the concept is addressed: Indifference or apathy is considered a

sin against both God and man. “Having or showing no interest,

concern or feeling; uninterested, apathetic, or unmoved.”

Disinterest, coldness, apathy, detachment or unconcern. God seeks the opposite attitude in man:

Josh. 24:15; 1 Kgs. 18:21; Matt. 12:30; Rev. 3:14-19

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Consequences of Indifference

It disgusts God: Rev. 3:16

Lukewarmness of Laodiceans was disgusting to the Lord.

Heartless indifference, not usually considered an overly vile transgression, brings Jesus to the point of vomiting.

Can you imagine making the Lord want to vomit?

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Consequences of Indifference

It discourages brethren: Prov. 10:26 Diligent workers in the kingdom

are discouraged by those who are indifferent to His cause.

Poor attendance and contribution, lack of preparation for Bible classes, lack of interest, lack of concern, etc.

Indifferent brethren are like a ball and chain around one’s leg.

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Consequences of Indifference

God’s “house” is abandoned: Hag. 1:4-11 Haggai rebuked Jews for their

indifference toward rebuilding the temple.

Poor attendance and contribution, lack of preparation for Bible classes, lack of interest, lack of concern, etc.

God rebuked the shepherds for their indifference toward the flock: Ezek. 34:1-10

The work we are doing here is the most important work on earth!

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Consequences of Indifference

The needy are neglected: Poor always with us: Mk. 14:7

Urgent needs must be met: Titus 3:14; Heb. 13:16

Indifference causes us to be blind and deaf to the plight of those in need: Isa. 57:1; Eccl. 4:1; Psa. 142:4

Obligations to those in need: Spiritual: Gal. 6:1; Jas. 5:19-20

Benevolence (congregation & individual obligations): 1 Cor. 16:1; Jas. 1:27; Matt. 25:31-46

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Consequences of Indifference

We will lose our soul: Bible makes it clear

destruction and damnation are the consequences of indifference: Psa. 28:5; Prov. 19:16; Zeph. 1:12-13

Can’t be indifferent because we have important work to do! Phil. 2:12; Heb. 2:1-3

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How to Overcome Indifference

Love: What is the opposite of

“love”? Hate? No! It’s indifference!

Love provokes us to do good for others: 1 Cor. 13:4-7; 1 Jn. 3:17-18

Nature hates a vacuum! Matt. 12:43-45

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How to Overcome Indifference

Zeal: The answer for indifference is to

“be zealous and repent”: Rev. 3:19

God’s word tells us we must serve with zeal: Rom. 12:11; Heb. 6:11-12

Zeal comes from fellowship and association with faithful brethren: Heb. 10:24-25; 2 Cor. 9:2

What if everyone in the congregation had the same zeal as me?

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How to Overcome Indifference

Let Christ into our lives: Why were the Laodiceans

lukewarm? Rev. 3:17-20

Left to itself a liquid eventually assumes room temperature; something has to be added to make it warm or cool

If we let Christ back into our lives we will become “hot” again.

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How to Overcome Indifference

Give of ourselves: That describes the

Macedonian saints: 2 Cor. 8:3-5

We can’t help being indifferent towards things in which we have no interest: Lk. 18:22; Matt. 6:19-21

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How to Overcome Indifference

Pray: Prayer is a good prescription

for any spiritual ill, including indifference.

Prayer is always available, but how often do you pray? Lk. 18:1-8

God promises to answer prayer: Matt. 7:7-11; Eph. 3:20

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Conclusion

God is not indifferent about our indifference. Consider what God’s done for us…how can

we be indifferent?!

Indifference also shown by lack of love for our fellow man.

Indifference is another manifestation of selfishness.

Indifference can and must be overcome! Love, zeal, let Christ into our lives, give of ourselves, pray.

We can’t afford to be indifferent about our souls: Matt. 16:26

Overcome indifference through conscious effort!