Bible Reading – Prov. 27:4; Acts 7:9.
Definition of “Envy” = Resentful, admiring contemplation of a more fortunate person’s advantage.
Memory Verse: “Let not thine heart envy sinners.” Proverbs 23:17.
Aim: To be aware of and to resist the sin of envy.
Question: Who in the Bible committed the sin of envy?
1. Pharisees: “He knew that for envy they had delivered him.” Matthew 27:18.
2. Patriarchs moved with envy sold Joseph into Egypt, but God was with him. Acts 7:9; Genesis 37:11.
3. Jews: When the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things . which were spoken by Paul. (Acts 17:3).
4. Philistines envied Abraham’s flocks, herds, servants. Genesis 26:14.
5. Rachel: When Rachel saw that she bore Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister Leah. Gen. 30:1.
6. Wilderness generation envied Moses in the camp and Aaron the servant of God. Psalm 106:16.
7. One of Joshua’s servants envied Eldad and Medad prophesying in the camp. Numbers 1:28,29.
8. Saul envied David who had killed his ten thousands. I Samuel 18:7-12.
Conclusion:
i) Most envy is against the spiritual success of others.
ii) Envy leads people to hatred, violence and murder .
iii) Envy is a sin that religious unbelievers or carnal believers are most likely to fall into.
Question: What else do you notice about envy?