THE VICTORY OF FAITH OVER IDOLATRY AND SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Hebrews 11:6 - "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."
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Introduction
Faith is the foundation of a believer's life. It is through faith that we receive salvation, justification, and the ability to walk in obedience to God. However, many struggle to live by faith because they rely on their works, abilities, and self-righteousness instead of trusting fully in God. Idolatry is not just the worship of images and statues but also the elevation of self, achievements, and works above the sovereignty of God. This sermon will examine the dangers of self-idolatry, the necessity of faith, and the victory found in surrendering completely to Christ.
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Faith Justifies, Not Works
Romans 5:1 - "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."
Many believers think they can earn God's approval through works, but scripture is clear that justification comes by faith alone. The Pharisees in Jesus' time believed they were righteous because of their religious practices, yet Jesus rebuked them for their self-righteousness. Faith in Christ—not self-effort—brings true righteousness and peace with God.
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The Danger of Idolatry in Works
Exodus 32:4 - "Then he took the gold from their hands, and he fashioned it with an engraving tool and made it into a molten calf; and they said, ‘This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up from the land of Egypt.’"
Idolatry is not just about bowing to carved images; it is anything that takes the place of God in our hearts. The Israelites, after experiencing God’s deliverance, turned to a golden calf, attributing their salvation to a false god. Similarly, many today idolize their abilities, success, and knowledge, forgetting that God alone is the source of all blessings.
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The Spirit vs. The Flesh: The True Source of Works
Galatians 3:3 - "Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?"
Works that are born from human effort and pride lead to idolatry, while works birthed from faith and obedience to the Holy Spirit glorify God. Many believers start in faith but later trust in their abilities, drifting away from dependence on God. True faith allows the Holy Spirit to work through us, producing good fruit that pleases God.
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The Consequences of Self-Idolatry
Matthew 7:22-23 - "Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’"
Jesus warned that many who boast in their works will be rejected because they never had a true relationship with Him. When self-righteousness replaces faith in Christ, believers become deceived, thinking their efforts secure their salvation. The only works that matter are those done through faith in obedience to Christ.
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Victory in Faith: Walking in the Rest of God
Hebrews 4:10 - "For the one who has entered His rest has himself also rested from his works, as God did from His."
Faith in Christ brings rest. Those who rely on their own strength will always struggle with fear, anxiety, and failure, but those who trust in Christ walk in peace. Jesus invites us to surrender our burdens and rest in His finished work on the cross.
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Summary
• Faith, not works, justifies us before God.
• Idolatry extends beyond physical idols to self-righteousness and achievements.
• True works come from the Holy Spirit, not human effort.
• Self-idolatry leads to deception and separation from God.
• Faith in Christ brings victory and rest.
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Conclusion
God desires that we live by faith, fully trusting in Him and not in our own abilities. The danger of self-idolatry is real, but through faith in Christ, we can walk in victory. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we will produce works that glorify God rather than ourselves.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart. Are you relying on your works, abilities, and religious practices, or are you truly living by faith in Christ? Surrender every aspect of your life to Jesus, and allow Him to guide your steps. Let faith, not self-righteousness, be the foundation of your walk with God.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Isaiah 26:3 - "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."
God has called you to walk by faith and not by sight. No matter what challenges you face, trust that He is leading you into victory. Keep your heart fixed on Christ, and you will experience the peace and rest that comes from Him.
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Salvation Prayer
If you have never given your life to Jesus or if you have strayed and want to rededicate your life to Him, pray this prayer:
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner, and I need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again. Today, I surrender my life to You. Be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and help me to live by faith in You alone. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
