Introduction

Welcome church! Glad to have you all here today as we dive into this amazing passage of scripture. As we get started I have a couple questions for you… Who here has ever broken a rule before? Who here has ever been shown kindness that you didn’t deserve? Before we get back to the breaking rules question, let me first say that we actually have a word in the English language for undeserved kindness. Does anyone know what that word is? Yes, the word is mercy and mercy is the centerpiece of our passage today.

Interestingly, in order for mercy to happen there often needs to be a rule or consequence that is bent or broken. For instance, many of us here today have received a warning when we deserved a speeding ticket, this is a mercy.

In his book, Experiencing God’s Forgiveness, Luis Palau shares this story; “A mother once approached Napoleon seeking a pardon for her son. The emperor replied that the young man had committed a certain offense twice and justice demanded death. "But I don’t ask for justice," the mother explained. "I plead for mercy." "But your son does not deserve mercy," Napoleon replied. "Sir," the woman cried, "it would not be mercy if he deserved it, and mercy is all I ask for." "Well, then," the emperor said, "I will have mercy." And he spared the woman’s son.“ Underserved kindness, grace, and compassion… This is mercy.

Underserved kindness, grace, and compassion… This is mercy.

Main Teaching

Throughout the gospels we see evidence of God’s mercy and compassion through the many miracles that Jesus performs for those who are suffering. And today’s passage is a perfect example; Read Luke 13:10-17

First and foremost, it’s of note that Jesus is in the synagogue teaching on a Sabbath when He notices this woman who’s crippled. He calls her over to Him, lays hands and says a quick prayer of freedom, and she stands up and starts to worship. This isn’t the first or last time in the gospels you’ll see Jesus heal someone on a Sabbath… So, what’s the significance?

One commentator highlights, “He acted on the Sabbath to instigate dialog with the religious leaders who cherished their rules and traditions over people.” Jesus acted on the Sabbath to initiate dialogue with those in power… And thankfully we have some of that very dialog recorded in the gospels.

Go and learn

It’s important to notice that Jesus not only has mercy on those who’re suffering, but on those who’re lost and deceived as well ... View this full sermon with PRO Premium