I. Accountability keeps things in the light
* Paul confronted Peter "to his face" to keep it in the light!
- But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For prior to the coming of certain men from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he began to withdraw and hold himself aloof, fearing the party of the circumcision. The rest of the Jews joined him in hypocrisy, with the result that even Barnabas was carried away by their hypocrisy (Galatians 2:11-13).
- Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them . . . But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light (Ephesians 5:11, 13).
- But if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7).
II. Accountability focuses on the truth
* Paul questioned Peter with gracious words about truth!
- But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, "If you, being a Jew, live like the Gentiles and not like the Jews, how is it that you compel the Gentiles to live like Jews?" (Galatians 2:14).
- Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another (Ephesians 4:25).
- My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins (James 5:19, 20).
III. Accountability restores biblical faith
* Paul and Peter enjoyed unity as biblical faith was restored!
- "We are Jews by nature and not sinners from among the Gentiles; nevertheless knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified" (2:15, 16).
- And regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you (2 Peter 3:15; see James 5:16).
Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, October 6th, 2024
Life group flow and discussion questions
"Welcome accountability"
An important Guideline of Life Groups: Your Life Group is the ideal environment to establish healthy accountability. The key is being honest and transparent with one another. Discuss asking personal questions with your group.
Getting Started:
- Why do many people avoid accountability relationships (John 3:19-21)? Do you have someone who can be (or is) your accountability partner?
- How can you practice KIITL = "Keep It In The Light" with your personal relationships?
Discussing Truths:
- What are the blessings found with accountability (Proverbs 27:5, 6, 17)?
- How do you respond to someone confronting you? Do you "Welcome Accountability"?
- Why is our use of time an important spiritual issue (Ephesians 5:15-18)?
- What are some biblical attitudes for healthy accountability that Paul includes in Romans 12:16-21; 13:14?
- Why is being honest and transparent an essential quality for accountability to really work?
- Are there areas in your life that are restricting or hindering your spiritual growth?
Now What? Application:
- Is there someone you need to seek forgiveness and reconciliation with? Seek them out!
- Ask honest questions with your Accountability partner like: (add your own to this list)
a. How is your time with the Lord going?
b. Are you sharing your testimony and the gospel with others?
c. Have you kept your eye gate clear?
d. How are you using your time?
e. Are you faithful in your financial stewardship?
f. How are you showing love to your family and OIKOS?
g. Who are you praying for fervently?
h. What temptations are you facing that you would like accountability?
i. Have you been honest in all your answers?