Sunday, September 6, 2020 Alta Vista Baptist Church. Message from Pastor Greg McCallum.
Video
Sermon Audio
mp3 link: 20200906_Favouritism.mp3
Notes
(Printable version: James_2_Favouritism.pdf )
Text: James 2:1-13
“So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.” (James 2:12 NLT)
- This week’s Life Hack: Hammering
- Things people have debated…
James 2:1-4
- A Tale of Two Newcomers (vs. 1-3)
- Life in 2020 (vs. 4)
- Discrimination Disrespects People
#1 How we treat OTHERS is a reflection of who we are in CHRIST.
*** Your FAITH in Christ expresses itself through LOVE towards others. ***
“With Everything” – Hillsong UNITED
James 2:5-7
- Discrimination dishonours God
- The contrast between God’s choice and our choice (vs. 5-7)
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)
“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:12-13)
(Deuteronomy 10:17-19, Galatians 3:28, 1 John 2:2)
Not just a heart change, but a matter of social justice!
(Isaiah 1:17, Micah 6:8)
#2 Don’t allow ASSUMPTION to dictate your thoughts.
James 2:8-13
- We are all on the same journey of faith in Christ (vs. 8-11)
- Our WORDS matter! (vs. 12)
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the Day of Judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by our words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37)
How do I treat others who look, sound, believe, act or live differently from me? (vs. 13)
Discrimination Demonstrates a Lack of Mercy
#3 Treat OTHERS how you want to be treated.
Digging Deeper
(For use in personal/family devotions or with your care group)
Q1: Share an example of a useless debate you have been caught in.
Q2: Have you ever been subjected to discrimination by someone else? How did that make you feel? How did you rely on Jesus in this moment?
Q3: What are some ways you have shown favoritism, maybe even unintentionally, to those in your circle of influence?
Q4: How do you feel about all of the discrimination happening in our world right now?
Q5: How should Christ’s judgement on the last day affect your words and actions today? How does God’s grace play into this?
Q6: Read Ephesians 2:1-10. Reflect on God’s mercy to you in Christ. Is there anyone you need to extend that same quality of mercy to today?
Q7: Read Isaiah 1:17, Micah 6:8. What are you doing to overcome injustice?