"Seeing with God's Eyes"
Introduction:
Begin by welcoming the congregation and introducing the key verse: "For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7b, NLT).
Explain that today's sermon will explore how God's perspective differs from our human perspective and what it means for our lives as believers.
Point 1: Man's Outward Gaze
Illustration: Share a story or personal experience that demonstrates how people often judge others based on their outward appearance.
Scripture: Read and emphasize the first part of the verse: "man looks on the outward appearance."
Exposition:
Explain that as humans, we tend to make judgments and assessments based on external factors like appearance, social status, and achievements.
Acknowledge that this outward gaze can lead to prejudice, discrimination, and misunderstandings.
Challenge the congregation to reflect on times when they may have judged others based on outward appearances.
Point 2: God's Heart-Centered Perspective
Illustration: Share examples from the Bible where God chose individuals based on their hearts rather than their outward appearance, such as the selection of David as king.
Scripture: Read and emphasize the second part of the verse: "but the Lord looks on the heart."
Exposition:
Explain that God's perspective is fundamentally different from ours. He sees beyond the external and focuses on the condition of the heart.
Explore the qualities of a heart that God values, such as humility, faith, repentance, and love for Him.
Encourage the congregation to seek a heart that aligns with God's desires and values, knowing that this is what truly matters in His eyes.
Point 3: Transforming Our Vision
Illustration: Share a personal testimony or story of someone who experienced a transformation in their life when they realized the significance of God's heart-centered perspective.
Scripture: Share passages that emphasize the importance of transforming our thinking to align with God's perspective, such as Romans 12:2.
Exposition:
Challenge the congregation to examine their own hearts and ask themselves whether they are more focused on outward appearances or on cultivating a heart that pleases God.
Encourage them to seek the transformation of their minds and hearts through prayer, Bible study, and a deeper relationship with God.
Highlight that when we see others through God's eyes, we become more compassionate, understanding, and loving, as we value what God values.
Conclusion:
Summarize the key points of the sermon, emphasizing the need to align our perspective with God's heart-centered view.
Invite the congregation to reflect on their own judgments and biases, and to commit to seeing others through the lens of God's love and grace.
Offer a closing prayer, asking for God's guidance in transforming their hearts and minds to see as He sees and love as He loves.
