Topic
1) INTRODUCTION:
A) Mt 5:13-16 - In most cases, the greatest power we can have over another is influence - salt & light. But we need to know that our influence can be either good or bad!
B) I Tim 4:12 - the great thing about our influence is that we get to choose what kind of influence we are going to have. What makes your influence the most powerful is:
1) CONSISTENCY! When people around you know what you are going to do every time!!!
2) CLARITY - When people can see/hear what you are going to do.
2) GOOD OR BAD INFLUENCE:
A) Good Examples:
1) Acts 9:36-39 - Dorcus's influence was so great that people were greatly moved by her death.
2) II Cor 9:22 - the willingness to help of those in Corinth was an influencing factor in the zeal that was brought by others.
3) I Cor 7:16 - In admonition to not leave an unbelieving spouse, Paul informs us that how we lead our life could be an influencing factor in the salvation of others.
4) Joshua 24:31 - Joshua's life influence was such that it caused a whole nation to follow God.
B) Bad Examples:
1) II Kings 21:1-9 - Manasseh's influence was such that it did just the opposite of Joshua's.
2) I Kings 11:1-4 - Solomon made a bad choice and allowed those around him to influence him to turn away from God.
3) Mt 23:13 - The Pharisees caused many Jews to fall away.
4) Eccl 9:18 -It doesn't take a lot to destroy. Your influence can destroy those around you.C) How do I know what kind of Influence I have?
1) What kind of fruit do you bear (Jn 15:8).
2) What kind of friends do you have ( I Cor 15:33) - what type of people desire to be around you.
3) How do others speak of you (I Tim 5:24-25) - your reputation is created by the influence you have.
3) HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR INFLUENCE:
A) CONSISTENT LIFE - Rm 12:1-2. When we sometimes live as a sacrifice and sometimes live in the world, we paint a confused picture. Phil 1:27 - our life should be so consistent that no matter who is or is not around, we are going to live the same way.
B) CLARITY OF LIFE - Our life's message to the world doesn't not need to be confused with wavering back and forth. Rather it should stand with the clear message of the Bible. Eph 4:14-15. For this to happen we must grow. Grow so that others see the life of Christ in us (I Cor 11:1)
4) CONCLUSION:
A) God has a purpose for your life - Eph 2:10; I Pet 2:12 - you influence can either hinder or help!
B) Heb 11:4 - your influence will last longer than your life (children, family, friends, etc.) How will you use this influence?