Romans 12v11
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. (ESV)
Introduction:
The Nature and Danger of Sloth
1. Defining Sloth Biblically
1.1 Key Biblical Terms
a. Slothful (oknēros): sluggish, backward in effort.
b. Idle: refusing labour when duty calls.
c. Apathy: spiritual indifference, coldness of heart.
d. Proverbs 13:4.
1.2 A Practical Definition
a. Sloth is a term for laziness or a habitual disinclination to exertion.
b. Sloth is the willful neglect of responsibility and duty before God and man.
2. The Roots and Fruits of Sloth
2.1 Pride and Self-Indulgence – Proverbs 26:162.2 Fear and Doubt – Proverbs 22:13
2.3 Worldliness and Comfort – Amos 6:1
3. The Profile of the Slothful in Scripture
3.1 The Sluggard in Proverbs:
a. Refuses to work (Proverbs 20:4)
b. Lacks wisdom (Proverbs 24:30–34)
c. Comes to ruin (Proverbs 21:25)
d. Proverbs 24:33–34
3.2 The Slothful Servant in Matthew 25:26–27
4. Sloth in the Christian Life: Spiritual Apathy
Revelation 3:15–16
5. The Profile of the Slothful in Scripture
2 Thessalonians 3:11–12
6. The Call to Diligence
6.1 Diligence in Sanctification – 2 Peter 1:5,10
6.2 Diligence in Doing Good – Galatians 6:9
6.3 Diligence in Ministry – Romans 12:11
6.4 Diligence in Hope – Hebrews 6:11
7. Christ: Our Perfect Example of Diligence
John 9:4
8. Practical Applications
8.1 Examine Yourself – 2 Corinthians 13:5
8.2 Confess and Repent – 1 John 1:9
8.3 Renew Your Devotion to Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:14
8.4 Redeem the Time – Ephesians 5:15–16
8.5 Depend on the Spirit – Philippians 2:13
9. Encouragement for the Diligent
9.1 God Sees your Labour – Hebrews 6:10
9.2 The Eternal Reward – Matthew 25:21
Conclusion
– “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:14
– “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23