Good Morning my beloved,
We welcome you to worship today in the name of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. It's a tremendous privilege to have you here with us today this Lord's Day we are once again blessed with the opportunity to study the marvelous Gospel of Luke, where I believe Jesus is challenging us as individuals to view the current events of this present age, from a biblical, kingdom perspective. I also want to encourage you to join us in praying for our persecuted church family, that their faith would endure, as they continue to witness to their persecutors, and that God's Word and this ministry would reach those that need it most, wherever they may be.
In Hebrews 8:12, Scripture assures us that when God forgives our sin, He no longer remembers them. "For I will be merciful to their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more." And in Psalms 103:11-12, David tells us For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us."
True Christianity isn't just about knowing the right things to say, it's remembering to put them into practice in our daily lives, practicing what we preach. From the moment someone becomes a Christian, they place their trust in Christ, they are called to forgive others just as we ourselves have been forgiven in Christ. Yet, many Christians around the world sit in church on any given Sunday, reciting the Lord's prayer without even considering the implications of, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."
How often do we publicly claim to forgive others, while privately hold tightly onto grudges, harboring bitterness and resentment from past grievances, as we often find ourselves inherently longing for our own past transgressions to be forgiven and forgotten by those we've wronged, underscoring the delicate balance between human emotions and the dynamics of relationships, highlighting the instinct to protect ourselves due to the underlying fear of being hurt again, while simultaneously recognizing the necessity of extending the same grace, mercy and forgiveness to others that we ourselves have received, reminding ourselves that we do not deserve the forgiveness God graciously offers to us.
Whenever we see hypocrisy, we are disgusted, even outraged by the glaring contradiction between what people say and what they actually do. For example, the vast number of politicians, government officials and wealthy public figures who advocate for environmental conservation yet frequently fly on private jets, contributing significantly to pollution, fueling the skepticism about their genuine intentions, further undermining the lack of trust in leaders who demonstrate hypocritical behavior and raising concerns about their honesty and integrity. It's not uncommon for celebrities to be seen in various award ceremonies, who openly acknowledge their faith, giving thanks to God, expressing their gratitude for the success they've achieved in one breath, only to turn around and utter words so profane and engage in behavior so obscene that even the very depths of Hell might recoil, raising eyebrows among their fans and critics alike.
Hypocrisy can be particularly troubling when those we expect to embody the virtues and moral standards are found secretly engaging in deceitful or unethical behavior, that starkly contrasts with the values they publicly proclaim to uphold. Personally, I believe there’s nothing more disheartening, more demoralizing than the hypocrisy in religious leaders, where the wide chasm between their sermons preached and their private practice are deeply troubling, particularly when the impact of their unscrupulous actions can be far-reaching, affecting not only the individuals directly involved but those connected to the religious institution as well as the extensive repercussions of their scandals, ranging from financial mismanagement to sexual misconduct, or other unethical behaviors that can severely tarnish the public's broader perception of Christianity and can overshadow the positive contributions of many faith communities as a whole, which often focus on charitable works and community support, especially considering the extensive influence they wield over their followers. I believe a person's salvation is evident, not only by what they say, but also by what they do not, in the call for authenticity in our walk with God, we're challenged to align our words with our actions. In speaking about the Pharisees, Jesus said, "Listen to them and respect their authority. But then He immediately says, "Do what they say, not what they do!", addressing the problem.
When we see that someone is being a hypocrite, whose actions do not align with the teachings they profess, we often say, "Practice what you preach!," a phrase that comes directly from the lips of Jesus, Himself. When we think of the biblical hypocrites, the Pharisees are typically the first to come to mind, known for their strict interpretation and meticulous adherence to the law, tithing even the smallest herbs like mint and dill and cumin, yet would frequently overlook the weightier matters, failing to embody the core principles of compassion and humility that the law intended to cultivate. Jesus frequently openly criticized the Pharisees, rebuking them for their preoccupation with superficial rituals and traditions, focusing on external appearances, while failing to demonstrate true righteousness, and transformation of the heart, neglecting to show the more profound attributes, such genuine mercy or kindness towards others, often overlooking the needs of the poor and the oppressed, a fundamental tenet of the teachings they purported to uphold.
And that is the kind of hypocrisy we’re going to be exploring today, the inconsistency of a specific religious leader, a Pharisee named Simon, known for his strict adherence to religious law and his vocal criticism of others that reveals the troubling inconsistencies in his own life that contradicts the religious principles he claims to uphold. How can we as Christians claim to be bearers of light, to live in a manner that reflects biblical principles, while being tempted to hide in the shadows to conceal our own contradictions and shortcomings, in our desire to maintain a certain image? For those outside the faith, the inconsistencies between our speech and our actions of those of us who claim to represent God can actually push them further away from Him, rather than drawing them nearer. When you choose humility over pride, you can act with integrity in both private and in public.
I believe that many start to pursue the path of holiness and purity from genuine motives, through engaging in prayer, and performing acts of kindness, and benevolence, made manifest through volunteering at shelters, and contributing to charitable causes, offering assistance to those in need, somewhere along the way, this noble path unintentionally overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of piety, prominence, and the quest for power, coupled with a deep-seated desire for recognition and reputation among their peers within a competitive religious community.
As a result, this environment can often divert some individuals from their initial spiritual aspirations inadvertently becoming obstacles to their original spiritual goals, creating an atmosphere where the true essence of inner spiritual growth and development, and a profound relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ is lost. The focus then shifts from the pursuit of holiness, purity, and personal spiritual growth towards seeking external validation rather than becoming a collaborative effort to better serve God. Therefore, I believe it is crucial for individuals to remain steadfast, anchored to God, embodying the fundamental principles and core values of their faith, that not only preserves their spiritual integrity, but ensures that their journey does not deviate from the original path, reflecting a sincere commitment of service and devotion to God.
Today's Message: Practice What You Preach!
Open your Bibles with me, if you would and turn them to the Gospel of Luke chapter 7, verses 40 through 50. I would like to invite you to follow along with me as I read the text to set it in our minds, as we take this opportunity to listen for what the Spirit of God has to personally say to each of us today through the Word and allow it to transform our lives. Luke 7:40-50.
"And Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." And he replied, "Say it, Teacher." "A moneylender had two debtors: one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they were unable to repay, he graciously forgave them both. So which of them will love him more?" Simon answered and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more." And He said to him, "You have judged correctly." Turning toward the woman, He said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has wet My feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave Me no kiss; but she, since the time I came in, has not ceased to kiss My feet. You did not anoint My head with oil, but she anointed My feet with perfume. For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little." Then He said to her, "Your sins have been forgiven.' Those who were reclining at the table with Him began to say to themselves, "Who is this man who even forgives sins?" And He said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Let's look at verse 40, "And Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." And he replied, "Say it, Teacher." What is particularly intriguing about this exchange, is the precise wording as recorded by Luke, Jesus is described as responding to Simon, despite the absence of a query even being posed to Him. Simon hadn't actually verbally directed a question to Him that warranted a response, offering us a glimpse into the tremendous depth of Jesus' extraordinary divine omniscience, which transcends the limitations of ordinary human verbal exchanges. This interaction emphasizes the reality that Jesus possesses the uncanny ability to know everything that can be known, not only the spoken words of men but also perceiving the silent thoughts of their minds as well as the deeply hidden intentions of their hearts, as often seen throughout the Scriptures.
In John 2:24-25, we learn that "But Jesus, on His part, was not entrusting Himself to them, for He knew all men, and because He did not need anyone to testify concerning man, for He Himself knew what was in man."
Remember that Simon concluded in his mind, that since Jesus obviously didn't know who the woman was, He could not be a prophet. I'd like you to notice Simon's notably brief, but somewhat detached respectfully polite response, "And he replied, "Say it, Teacher." He is acknowledging Jesus' authority and recognizing His wisdom, while also maintaining a certain skepticism. In other words, Simon is essentially saying, "Go ahead, say what You have to say, express what is on your mind." A common practice that is typical in conversations where the participants strike a balance between acknowledging and recognizing each other’s positions of authority, while holding onto their own personal reservations about the potential wisdom of information that is about to be conveyed.
In verse 41, without hesitation, Jesus begins his response with a simple parable, painting a vivid illustration in order to impart a deeper insight into the boundless grace and forgiveness of God, to provide Simon with a more profound understanding, "A moneylender had two debtors: one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty." In ancient times, a denarius was roughly the equivalent to a day's wage, by using this analogy, Jesus was clearly emphasizing the significant disparity between the two debts, suggesting that regardless of the size or severity of one's transgressions, God's willingness to graciously forgive are immense and all-encompassing. I believe that with this timeless lesson, He is also encouraging each of us to reflect on our own capacity to forgive others in light of the forgiveness of the enormous debt we have received with absolutely no ability to repay Him, implying that grace and mercy should be abundant and forgiveness, unconditional. To that end, may our lives bear witness to our humble gratitude for the compassionate and gracious forgiveness we have received by embracing the same spirit of forgiveness, forgiving to one another.
Verse 42, "When they were unable to repay, he graciously forgave them both. So which of them will love him more?" Every time somebody chooses to forgive, it involves a generous transaction of great magnitude between two or more people, the obligation of that debt doesn't just disappear into thin air or go away, it still has to be paid. So, the debt is literally transferred from the one who has no ability to repay and is transferred entirely to the person granting forgiveness. The forgiver incurs that debt in full themselves. When God forgave your sins, He then incurred the debt and His Son Jesus Christ agreed to pay it, through His own death.
It's like when Paul wrote to Philemon about the obligations of Onesimus, he urged Philemon to accept Onesimus as he would accept Paul himself and reminded him of the deep partnership they shared, emphasizing the expectation of mutual respect and acceptance, stating that if Onesimus had committed any wrongdoing or had incurred any debts, Philemon should consider those liabilities as Paul's own. Paul assured Philemon of his commitment to incur Onesimus' debt as his own in a significant gesture of his sincerity, by writing the letter to Philemon in his own handwriting. Paul then reminded Philemon of the personal debt he himself owed to him, subtly implying that he had an obligation to comply with his request, not as a demand, but as a gentle nudge, encouraging him to move towards reconciliation and complete forgiveness. By Paul offering to incur and willingly repay any debts that Onesimus owed, Paul exemplified an extraordinary example of selflessness and sacrificial love within our human relationships, that closely reflects the astounding reality of the intricate dynamics within our redemption.
In verse 43, in response to Jesus question, Simon answered and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more." And He said to him, "You have judged correctly." By the use of the phrase "I suppose," it seems to carry a hint of sarcasm, almost insulting His intelligence, its like he's saying, "Are you joking? It's obvious that whoever has received the most forgiveness is going to express more love and appreciation. Jesus is affirming Simon's answer by saying, "You have judged correctly." In other words, "Look, now, that we have established the principal that the greater the forgiveness, the greater the love, I mean, you have said it yourself, right? So, let's go ahead and apply the fundamental concept of forgiveness to this woman's situation to illustrate My point.
Verse 44, "Turning toward the woman, He said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has wet My feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair." This woman, whose sins were many, has shown Me love that surpasses anything you have ever seen, in an extraordinary act of love and gratitude for the forgiveness she has already received, not only has she provided Me water for My feet, she has drenched them with her own tears, by weeping uncontrollably in genuine repentance. Then, in a gesture full of reverence, she began gently drying My feet with her own hair, as you have so hypocritically pointed out in your mind. Let Me help you make sense of all of this Simon, her actions of love and humility speak volumes about the profound level of forgiveness she has received, so much so, she couldn't even restrain herself, even in front of a crowd of onlookers who were silently casting judgment upon her for her intimate acts of love, showing the same crowd of onlookers that those who have been forgiven much, love much. This is what a transformed life looks like Simon!
In verses 45-47, to further illustrate His point, Jesus emphasizes the stark contrast in expressions of gratitude and devotion, as if to say, what gratitude have you shown for your salvation? You on the other hand, "You gave Me no kiss; but she, since the time I came in, has not ceased to kiss My feet. You did not anoint My head with oil, but she anointed My feet with perfume. For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little." This is a scathing indictment of the ingratitude folks! This is still true in the church today, there are some people in the church who claim they've been forgiven of their sin, yet the level of thanks and gratitude they show for that forgiveness is very little, in fact, it's quite shameful; there's no genuine repentance, no change in behavior, just a blatant continuation of the same sin. Then, there are others who have been forgiven whose level of gratitude is almost over the top. Because when you know that your sins are really forgiven you can't help but to find ways to continuously demonstrate to Him how grateful you are for what He has already done and for the salvation you have have received.
Verse 48, "Then He said to her, "Your sins have been forgiven." Notice His statement is made in the perfect tense, indicating this is something that has happened in the past with continuing effect. He is just affirming that she has repented, she has believed, she has by God's grace, already received forgiveness for her sin and been granted eternal life, which has been evidence by the enormous amount of love and gratitude she has shown. In John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Our obedience to Christ is NOT an act of legalism, as some proclaim, it's a humble act of love, gratitude and thankfulness in response to the salvation we have already received. Our willing acts of loving obedience, devotion and selfless service illustrate the profound change that has occurred within our hearts, symbolizing our redemption. The greatest outward expression of the ongoing impact of grace and forgiveness we have experienced is most clearly reflected by our genuinely transformed life.
Self-righteousness and disobedience are such horrible, exceptionally egregious acts of pride, which most often originate from our overinflated sense of self-worth, stemming from an attitude of arrogance and entitlement; and they're also a clear reflection of a lack of humility, the level of deficiency in our love and gratitude toward God, and toward Christ. In stark contrast, our willingness to openly put our gratitude, our love, our commitment to obeying our great God and our loving Savior Jesus, Christ on display, by living in a way that honors His commands, it is a powerful testimony to the world that our sins have truly been forgiven, and you can believe this, genuine transformation does not go unnoticed, people around us are going to sit up and take notice of the profound change within us.
Verse 49, "Those who were reclining at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this man who even forgives sins?" Anyone could see this woman is forgiven, Jesus uses this woman as clear testimony to demonstrate to Simon the Pharisee, blinded by his own self-righteousness, His power to forgive sin is best evidenced by a transform a life. That's why a consistent pattern of sin in the life of a Christian serves as a graphic illustration of our true spiritual condition, revealing the pride that remains within our heart. In essence, it is a declaration of defiance, saying I know what God says, but I'm going to do what I want.
Hebrews 10:29, "How much severer punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace?"
It's important for Christians to rely more on the Holy Spirit, that leads us true repentance and humility, to overcome the pride that seeks to separate us from God's will rather than our self-righteousness and personal strength to resist temptation, which will ultimately fail. If you're going to believe that He can deliver us from the kingdom of darkness, than you must understand He also has the power to deliver you from sin. When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it is emphatically implied that we will abandon our present lives, turning away from our sin to follow Him.
Galatians 5:16-17, "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please." No one can live in this world, without having some level of influence on those around us, as Christians, we get to choose whether our influence is going to be for good or for evil. Because we as Christians have severely neglected our responsibility to live as Christ has called us, the world has decided to ignore our witness, calling us hypocrites and therefore are mocking God. When someone who identifies as a follower of Christ fails to exhibit Christ-like behavior, it can significantly weaken the credibility of the Gospel, and His power to transform sinners lives. The absence of spiritual fruit in a Christian's life can lead observers to question the authenticity and transformative power of their faith, thereby diminishing the Gospel's intended impact on those around us and ultimately the world.
That brings is to verse 50, "And He said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace." It is always your faith that saved you, because your faith saved you, your love is manifest because your sins are forgiven, and your salvation is genuine, illustrating the deep connection between true saving faith and the authenticity of one's claim of redemption. The word He uses for faith is the word "pistis," implies belief, a profound level of unwavering trust and confidence in something or someone, which I believe is fundamental to the Christian way of life, giving us the assurance that we are justified before God, through our relationship with Christ, giving us the utmost confidence that our salvation is secure, equipping us with the strength, courage and resilience to confront the myriad challenges we encounter, as we engage others in love and compassion, offering forgiveness, while boldly living out our faith in a fallen world that stands in opposition to the convictions of our Christian values.