Up A Tree, and Out On A Limb(Branch)
by: Bishop Joe D. Robbins
Luke 19:1-10 "Bible Passage"
We all have times in our lives when it seems that there are no answers to our questions, or solutions to our problems. Then we either hear about what God is doing in someone elses life, or remember something that He has done for us in the past, or just need to see Him as He passes our way. In this sermon I want to focus on the latter.
I. When you feel small and overshadowed, look for a tree.
A. Those that sincerely desire a sight of Christ, will use the proper means for gaining a glimpse of Him.
B. They will be willing to break through a deal of difficulty and opposition.
C. The will be willing to take pains to see him or sacrifice.
D. It’s when we find ourselves little, that we must take all the advantages we can get to raise ourselves to the sight of God.
II. When you climb the tree, and separate yourself from the crowd, that is when Christ can take notice of you.
A. He that has a mind to know Christ, shall be known of Him.
B. Those that are faithful in a little, shall be entrusted with more.
C. Those that come to hear the word of God out of curiosity, like Zaccheus, have their consciences awaken, and their hearts changed.
III. The Limb or Branch.
A. Zaccheus came to the realization of the true "Branch".
1. Isaiah 11:1 - And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots.
2. Jeremiah 23:5 - Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgement and justice in the earth.
3. Zechariah 3:8 - Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at: for behold, I will bring forth my servant the Branch.
4. Zechariah 6:12 - And speak unto him saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is the Branch: and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord.
Conclusion: You must never let the crowd or situation keep you from reaching the Saviour. Always be willing to make that extra effort, or you may never see Him as He goes by. For Him to take notice of your effort, is to have your need already met.
