I. INTRODUCTION
A.II Corinthians 5:17, Romans 6:4.
B.When you become a Christian, numerous changes occur in your life. These changes often are drastic in nature. Every human relationship will be altered in some way through your conversion to Christ. Sometimes the changes that occur in a relationship are not what you desire. Yet, it is unavoidable that old friendships will change and new friendships will start. In this lesson we will take a look at how these changes may affect your life.
II. SOME PEOPLE WILL NO LONGER WANT TO BE
YOUR FRIEND.
A.After your conversion to Jesus Christ, you may discover that some people whom you thought were friends no longer want to be with you.
1.Some people will hate you.
2.Other people, including family members, may persecute you.
B.People who do not know Christ may reject you because:
1.Their lives are sinful and yours is righteous.
2.Your righteous life exposes their sinfulness.
3.You are different.
III.A NATURAL RESULT OF CHRISTIANITY IS THAT SOME OLD RELATIONSHIPS WILL BE DISOLVED.
A.Christians should avoid the sinful influences of the world.
1.I Thessalonians 5:21-22, Romans 12:9, 21
2.Psalm 119:104
3.III John 11, I Peter 3:11
B.In order to avoid evil, you may need to cease your association with certain people.
1.II Corinthians 6:14-7:1
2.Ephesians 5:3-12 (Vs. 7 is the key)
3.II Timothy 3:1-5 (Vs. 5 is the key)
IV.NEW RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER CHRISTIANS WILL BE ESTABLISHED.
A.Loving friendships with other Christians must be established because:
1.God commands it.
a.John 13:34-35, 15:12-13
b.I John 4:7-11, 19-21
2.It is essential for your personal development.
B.Loving relationships with other Christians can be established by:
1.Encouraging each other daily (Hebrews 3:13).
2.Meeting together regularly (Hebrews 10:23-35).
3.Confessing our sins one to another (James5:16).
4.Carrying each other's burdens (Galatians 6:2).
V. CONCLUSION
A.I Corinthians 16:14, 13:4-7.
B.Let us deal with every person in a kind and loving manner.
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