How to Stop Sinning

Enjoy this message from Pastor Tyler Schoenberger called "How to Stop Sinning" on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Reach Church in Bear, Delaware!

The natural human response to sin and temptation is to try harder - read more, pray more, add more rules, join accountability groups, and exercise greater willpower. This approach appeals to us because it gives us a sense of control and produces immediate, measurable results. However, this try-harder Christianity is as ineffective as pushing the close door button on most modern elevators - it creates an illusion of control while accomplishing nothing substantial.

The story of Joseph and Potiphar's wife is commonly used to promote willpower and discipline, but a careful reading reveals something different. Genesis 39 repeatedly emphasizes that the Lord was with Joseph, blessing everything he did. Joseph didn't overcome temptation through extraordinary resolve but because he was saturated in God's grace and presence. This grace-filled life gave him the strength to resist when temptation came.

Paul addressed this issue directly in Colossians, explaining that rules and self-discipline may seem wise but provide no help in conquering evil desires. Grace works differently than human effort - it transforms us from the heart level over time, changing our desires rather than just our actions. When we truly understand that we are completely forgiven and righteous before God, we begin to recognize that sin doesn't align with our true identity. Rather than frantically pushing the broken buttons of self-effort, we need to get on the elevator of God's grace and enjoy the transformative ride He provides.