What is in You?

This sermon urges listeners to examine the true contents of their hearts, challenging the notion that outward appearances equate to genuine faith. The central question, "What is in you?" serves as a guiding thread, prompting introspection about the forces that dictate our actions, thoughts, and desires.

The sermon draws a parallel between the innate foolishness of children *(Proverbs 22:15 )* and the persistent sin nature within all of us, which manifests when adversity strikes. Using the story of the Rich Young Ruler *(Matthew 19:16-22)*, the speaker emphasizes that mere adherence to rules is insufficient; Christ must hold preeminence in our hearts. Jeremiah 17:9 is cited to highlight the deceitful nature of the heart, leading to the critical question: "If the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness?" *(Matthew 6:23 )*.

Biblical examples of Saul and Ananias and Sapphira expose the dangers of pride, jealousy, and lust, ultimately leading to downfall and death *(Acts 5:1-11)*. The sermon warns against allowing Satan to fill our hearts, creating vacancies by valuing worldly possessions over God. Matthew 15:19-20 emphasizes the heart as the source of evil thoughts and actions. The speaker then explains that what is in the heart will inevitably surface, aligning with the principle that "whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap" *(Galatians 6:7-8)*.

A bottle of water illustrates that adversity reveals the true contents of our hearts. Ultimately, this leads to the message that true light comes through faith and repentance *(Acts 3:19 )*. The story of Shimei serves as a cautionary tale about lip service without a genuine change of heart *(1 Kings 2:36-46)*, while Samson's downfall demonstrates the perils of pride and unchecked desires. The speaker stresses the dire consequences of ignoring our sin nature, emphasizing that it leads to hell and urges listeners not to delay choosing salvation.

The sermon concludes with the declaration that Christ in you is the only hope of glory *(Colossians 1:27 )*. Christ's value must surpass everything else *(Matthew 13:45-46)*. The speaker emphasizes that God's long-suffering does not equate to weakness *(2 Peter 3:9)*. Instead, Ezekial 36:26 affirms that God offers a new heart and spirit. Finally, an invitation is extended for all to repent and believe the gospel *(Mark 1:15 )*, urging listeners to prioritize their relationship with Christ today, for tomorrow is not promised.

Bibliography of Scripture

* Acts 3:19

* Acts 5:1-11

* Colossians 1:27

* Ezekial 36:26

* Galatians 6:7-8

* Jeremiah 17:9

* 1 Kings 2:36-46

* Mark 1:15

* Matthew 6:23

* Matthew 13:45-46

* Matthew 15:19-20

* Matthew 19:16-22

* Proverbs 22:15

* 2 Peter 3:9

Preached at Duvall’s Chapel on 7/27/25