The Peril Of Presumption

By Michael Catt

*The following outline is taken from Pastor Michael Catt’s sermon series on James. You can find the message at https://sherwoodbaptist.net/bookstore/products/james-series/254/

James 4:13-17

I. Presumption Number One: Planning Your Future Without God. v. 1-10 deals with out lust for PLEASURE and our failure to seek a loving God.
v. 11-12 deals with our propensity to JUDGE one another and play God.
v. 13-17 deals with our UNPRAYED OVER PLANS that omit God from His rightful place in our lives.

II. Presumption Number Two: Presuming To Know The Future. “vapor”
“appears”

III. Presumption Number Three: Postponing What Should Be Done Today. v. 15, 16; Proverbs 27:l; Jeremiah 9:23,24 “boast”
“arrogance”
Pride of POWER
Pride of KNOWLEDGE
Pride of GOODNESS
“evil”

Practical suggestions to avoid presumption:

1. Seek the MIND – of Christ.
   1. through PRAYER Matthew 6:9-13
   2. through BIBLE STUDY II Timothy 3:16, 17
2. Seek the GLORY of God in all your plans.
3. Ask yourself, “Am I committed to doing GOOD WORKS?” Titus 3:8
4. Ask yourself, “Will this bring forth SPIRITUAL FRUIT?” Col. 1:10
5. Examine yourself, “Am I walking by FAITH or FEELING?”
   “if the Lord wills”
6. Ask yourself, “Did I seek GODLY COUNSEL?”
7. Are you committed to DOING whatever God says?”
   “Not my will, but Thine be done.”

2ProphetU

2ProphetU is an online magazine/website, started by Warren Wiersbe and Michael Catt, to build up the church, seek revival, and encourage pastors.