INTRODUCTION
Outline
1. That We Do Justly
2. That We Love Mercy
3. That We Walk Humbly
Introductory Remarks.
1. Today's lesson will explore the profound theme: "What does God Require?" Micah, a contemporary of Isaiah, ministered in the Southern Kingdom (Judah). The name Micah means, "Who is like Jehovah?" The theme of Micah is: "To hear." A recurring theme unto God's people: "The first of all commandments is to: Hear, O Israel; the Lord our God is one Lord...There are no other commandments greater than these," Mark 12:29-31. Isaiah prophesied in the king's court, while Micah humbly spoke unto the ordinary people. Micah, like Amos, prophesied strongly against immorality, social injustices, and the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful. These seem to be similar sins that now plague our Nation, along with the Coronavirus, COVID-19. Micah was answering the question of the people: "Wherewith shall I come before the LORD?" Micah responded: "He hath shown thee, O man, what is good (righteous), and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God?" Micah 6:6-8. These are qualities of faith and obedience that God delights in His people. We will notice what God requires and how this Nation has: "fallen short of the glory of God," Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23.
2. First and foremost, we must understand that God requires that: "we do justly" before Him, our brethren, and our fellow man, regardless of their religious, racial, political, or economic standing. God has somewhat against Judah and America. They were dealing treacherously, dishonestly, and without integrity among each other and with their fellow man. The rich set out to oppress the poor. The merchants defrauded and deceived their customers. Their religious establishment permitted their immorality, injustices, and corrupt practices to go unchecked. Micah was crying out within the land against the people, while Isaiah was accusing: "That the leaders of this people have caused them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed," Isaiah 9:16. Is there one crying out in this land, to do justly unto all men, that God might be well pleased?
[With this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point of what God requires: “To do justly.”]
BODY OF LESSON
I THAT WE DO JUSTLY
A. Micah, the prophet. The name Micah means: "Who is like Jehovah?" There is none so just as the King of Kings: And yet none so merciful, who pardons, "the remnant of His heritage," Micah 7:18. His prophecies and preaching is vital in aiding us to identify, correct, and resolve some or all America's problems today. Observe,
1. Isaiah prophesied in the king’s court, while Micah humbly spoke to ordinary people. Some preach to a vast audience, a mega institution, while others preach only to a handful of godly people.
2. Whatever our audience, we must charge them to "Hear the word of the Lord." Let it be clear: the assembly size does not sanctify the message. However, the sermon (the word of truth) does bless the meeting, whether great or small. Jesus said, "Sanctify them through thy truth, for thy word is truth," John 17:17.
3. Micah's theme is: "To hear." It is a recurring theme for these people: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might," Deuteronomy 6:4-5. Hear the prophecies of Micah.
B. He wrote: "The word of the LORD that came to Micah the Morasthite in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, which he saw concerning Samaria and Jerusalem. Hear, all ye people; hearken, O earth, and all that therein is: and let the Lord GOD be a witness against you, the Lord from his holy temple," Micah 1:1-2. What did God witness and desire to tell His people? Here it is,
1. They had forgotten His goodness: "O my people, what have I done unto thee? And wherein have I wearied thee? Testify against me. I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee out of the house of servants; and I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam before thee," Micah 6:3-4.
2. They forgot their ancestors’ sins: "O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal: That ye may know the righteousness of the LORD," Micah 6:5.
NOTE: Balak, king of Moab, wanted Balaam, the prophet, to "curse the children of Israel." Hear what Balaam said unto Balak--
a. Balaam’s answer: "If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the commandment of the LORD, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; but what the LORD saith, that will I speak," Numbers 24:12-13; 2 Peter 2:15-16. We must speak the word of the Lord!
b. Peter wrote: “If any man speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God,” 1 Peter 4:11.
c. Conclusion: What the Lord said: That shall we also speak! Jesus said: "We speak that which we do know, and testify to that which we have seen, and you received not my witness (report)," John 3:11; John 12:37-40; Romans 10:16-18.
d. We are also directed "not to add to nor subtracts from the word of God," Revelations 22:18-19. Hear Micah,
3. The people asked: "Wherewith shall I come before the LORD and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams or with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for my soul's sin?" Micah 6:6-7.
4. Micah’s answer: "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God," Micah 6:8.
C. Micah’s mission. Like Amos, Micah prophesied strongly against immorality, social injustices, and the oppression of the poor by the rich and mighty. Similar sins and unrighteousness plague America today. Listen again to the prophet’s answer,
1. Micah’s message to the people. Do what is right, be a lover of mercy, and walk humbly before Jehovah!
2. Jehovah was not pleased. The LORD, Jehovah, was not happy with burnt offerings and calves a year old. He was not delighted with thousands of rams or ten thousand rivers of oil. Nor would he be pleased with the giving of our firstborn for our transgressions or the fruit of our body for the sin of our souls.
3. Micah answered, "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good (righteous), and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly," Micah 6:8. The God of heaven has shewed thee, O man, what is right. He has taught you what He requires of thee. It is this: to do justly unto all, in all things.
4. Jehovah is now ready to judge His people for their sins and disobedience. The prophet outlines their sins and God’s judgment that awaits them. Jehovah is long-suffering and merciful, but He will judge us when we refuse to amend our ways! Paul wrote:
1) First, "Therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward: How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation, which at first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him, God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with diver’s miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His own will," Hebrews 2:1-4. Church we are laying a "firm foundation" at the beginning of this lesson!
2) Further, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope," Romans 15:4. What was written for our learning? The Lord answered the Jewish leader’s question. Which is the first commandment of all? The Master said,
3) Finally, "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God is one Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God…this is the first commandment. And the second is like this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these," Mark 12:29-31. Jehovah gave these commandments to Israel after they left Egypt’s bondage, and Jesus taught them that they had not changed during His ministry while He tabernacled among us. But Israel had abandoned them! Let’s consider,
D. The Nation’s sins. There are five categories of sin, wickedness, and unrighteousness. Judah committed these crimes in the land and was found guilty before Jehovah. They were given to 1) idolatry, 2) violence, 3) injustice, 4) religious error, and 5) merchant corruption. There may be more, but these are the most apparent in his Book.
1. The people’s idolatry. Micah prophesied against their idolatry in Micah 1:5-7. [We will read Micah's prophecy regarding each sin, give an explanation, and read Jehovah’s judgment to Israel]. Observe,
a. Their sin: "For the transgression of Jacob is all this and for the sins of the house of Israel. What is Jacob's transgression? Is it not Samaria? And what are the high places of Judah? Are they not Jerusalem? Therefore, I will make Samaria a heap of the field and a vineyard planting, and I will pour down the stones into the valley and discover the foundations thereof. And all the graven images thereof shall be beaten to pieces, and all the hires thereof shall be burned with the fire, and all the idols thereof will I lay desolate: for she gathered it of the hire of a harlot, and they shall return to the hire of a harlot," Micah 1:5-7; Micah 6:16.
b. Explanation: What were Jacob's transgressions and the sins of the house of Israel? They are the idols that vex the land of Samaria, Judah, and Jerusalem. Therefore, I will make Samaria a heap of the field. I will beat into (pieces) their graven images; burn them with fire. They shall be desolate and return to the hire of a harlot, for the statutes of Omri are kept. All of Ahab's evil works, ungodliness, and sins, you are yet walking in them.
NOTE: Omri was king of Israel, and Ahab was his son. Jehovah said of each, "He did evil in the sight of the Lord above all that went before him," 1 Kings 16:25, 1 Kings 16:28, and 1 Kings 16:30.
c. Judgment. Hear, O Israel, what Jehovah hath said: "I will make them desolate, and the inhabitants about will pass by them hissing (whistling and mockery), they shall bear the reproach of my people," Micah 6:16.
2. The violence of the rich and powerful. Micah prophesied their violence in Micah 2:1-2. Observe,
a. Their sin: "Woe to them that devise iniquity and work evil upon their beds! When the morning is light, they practice it because it is in their hand's power. And they covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so, they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage (inheritance, birthright)," Micah 2:1-2; James 5:1-8. He continued,
1) "Therefore, thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family, do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go (into captivity) haughtily: for this time is evil," Micah 2:3.
2) "For the rich men are full of violence, and the inhabitants thereof have spoken lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth," Micah 6:2.
3) "Therefore, I shall make thee sick in smiting you! I will make thee (you) desolate because of thy (your) sins. Thou shalt eat, but not be satisfied, and thy casting down shall be in the midst of thee, and thou shalt take hold, but shalt not deliver, and that which thou deliverest will I give up to the sword. Thou shalt sow, but thou shalt not reap: thou shalt tread the olives, but thou shalt not anoint thee with oil; and sweet wine, but shalt not drink (of the) wine," Micah 6:12-15; Proverbs 19:5. [Pour it out as a drink offering to your idol god.]
b. Explanation: Woe unto you that spend the night devising iniquities and evil work upon your beds. When morning comes, you put thine wickedness into practice because you are rich and powerful and perceive that no one can stop you from committing your evil. You covet a field and take it with violence. You have removed families from their homes, even ones that have been theirs for generations. You are full of violence, threats, and murder. You speak lies, and your tongue is full of deceit. Therefore, I will smite thee and cause you to be desolate because of your sins. You shall not go into captivity elated, with pride or haughtily, but in shame and disgrace.
c. Judgment. Hear, O Israel, what Jehovah hath said: “Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family, do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go haughtily (but in shame): for this time is evil,” Micah 2:3. Jehovah will place His knee upon their necks, for their sins. You might remember what recently happened in America before the eyes of the Nation and the world!
NOTE: Illustrate Knee Upon His Neck: George Floyd, four white police officers.
3. Heads of Jacob and princes (injustices). Micah prophesied about their injustice in Micah 3:1-2. Observe,
a. Their sin: “And I said, Hear, I pray you, O heads of Jacob, and ye princes of the house of Israel: Is it not for you to know judgment? Who hates the good and loves the evil...Hear this; I pray you, ye heads of the house of Jacob and princes of the house of Israel, who abhor judgment and pervert all equity (justice and fairness). They build up Zion with blood and Jerusalem with iniquity (injustice and crimes). The heads thereof judge for reward, the priests teach for hire, and the prophets divine for money: yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? No evil can come upon us. Therefore, shall Zion for your sake be plowed as a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and the mountain of the house as the high places of the forest,” Micah 3:1-2; Micah 3:9-12. [Aren’t we privileged and blessed people before all nations?]
NOTE: The House of the Lord is prophesied of in Micah 4:1-2, as in Isaiah 2:2-3.
b. Explanation: You heads of Jacob and princes, is it not for you to know judgment? You hate good but love evil. Hear what I propose for the house of Jacob and her princes, who hate judgment and hinder all equity (fairness) in judgment. Hear Jehovah,
1) You, the head thereof, judge for reward (for bribes), Micah 3:11; Ezekiel 22:27; Isaiah 1:23.
2) The priests thereof teach for hire (they are bought), Exodus 23:6-9.
3) The prophets claim they prophesy divinely, but it is for money, Jeremiah 14:14-15; Jeremiah 23:14-15.
4) Yet will they lean (call) upon the LORD, and say: Is not the LORD among us? Review, Proverbs 1:23-33.
c. Judgment. Hear, O Israel, what Jehovah hath said: “Therefore shall Zion for your sake be plowed as a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps and the mountain of the house as the high places of the forest.” He will make Jerusalem desolate and abandon it before the nations. Sin causes any Nation to become an abomination (a disgrace) before God. O’ America, “Drawn nigh unto God…Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded…Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you (up),” James 4:8-10.
4. Prophets and seers (religious error). Micah prophesied against the prophets in Micah 3:5-8. Observe,
a. Their sin: “Thus saith the LORD concerning the prophets that make my people err, that bite with their teeth, and cry Peace; and he that putteth, not into their mouths, they even prepare war against him. Therefore, night shall be unto you that ye shall not have a vision, and it shall be dark unto you, that ye shall not divine; the sun shall go down over the prophets, and the day shall be dark over them. Then shall the seers be ashamed, and the diviners confounded: yea, they shall all cover their lips; for there is no answer of God. But truly I (Micah) am full of power by the Spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin,” Micah 3:5-8. The Galatians were: “Biting and devouring one another,” Galatians 5:14-15.
b. Explanation: Thus, saith the LORD concerning the prophets who cause my people to error, who bite and devour them. They speak and assure them that there shall be peace and freedom. However, there is no peace within their mouths or words; they are now preparing for war against you. They seek to destroy, not to build.
c. Judgment. Hear, O Israel, what Jehovah hath said: Therefore, night shall be unto them, in their lack of visions; and it shall be dark, having no more divine messages. The sun shall go down over the prophets, and their days shall be dark, Jeremiah 29:10; Ezekiel 13:22-23; 1 Samuel 3:1. They shall seek a sign and find none.
5. The merchant’s corruption. Micah prophesied of them in Micah 6:9-11. Observe,
a. Their sin: “The LORD'S voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name: hear ye the rod, and who hath appointed it. Are there yet the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked and the abominable scant measure? Shall I count them pure with the wicked balances and the bag of deceitful weights?” Micah 6:9-11; Proverbs 20:23. Banks and Credit Card companies, are you listening?
b. Explanation: Shall not the man of wisdom, when he hears of my name, witness my rod of judgment, know that I have appointed it? Shall he not see that I, Jehovah, have done these things? Should I overlook the treasures of wickedness that fill the houses and markets of trade? Is not the scantiness of their measure still an abomination? Shall I count them pure that rob and swindle my people? Shall I accept the merchant’s use of unbalanced bags to weigh in their exchanges? These are all rhetorical questions. The answer is NO!
c. Judgment. Hear, O Israel, what Jehovah hath said: Can I, the God of holiness and righteousness, allow the merchants to cheat my people in goods and services? Shall I consider them pure in their works? Is there a message for America? Let’s consider an application for Micah’s words today!
E. America’s sins. What are they before Jehovah? How does Micah's message apply to us today? Those same sins are perpetrated (played out) on God's people today. Observe,
1. False religions and covetousness. Can we call the Nation’s religious groups pure that ignore the persecution and evil being inflicted upon some of its people? Are such groups doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God? Jesus called them hypocrites, vain worshippers, and teachers for the doctrine of the commandments of men, just like in Micah’s day. Jesus spoke against the Pharisees (Jewish leaders) of His time. I speak against Evangelicals; they behave similarly to their neighbor as the Pharisees! They are proponents of,
NOTE: Illustrate “White Nationalism.” This designation: “Refers to members of a militant group that espouses white supremacy and racial segregation.” Merriam-Webster, “White Nationalism.”
1) This movement has become the foundation of a religious ideology calling itself “Christian White Nationalism.” White Nationalism has joined the ranks of the Christian community. How is this even possible?
2) One author describes it as: "A force that imperils American democracy." Beloved,
3) Sadly, I must admit some of the churches of Christ may have embraced their message.
4) For which I am ashamed to call them “brothers and sisters in the Lord.” Jesus spoke to the religious leaders of His time, “words of scorn and rebuke.” He pronounces God’s judgment on them for,
a. Their unrighteousness: “Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying: These people draweth nigh unto me...But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men,” Matthew 15:7-9.
b. Their ungodly examples: “But Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer others entering to go in,” Matthew 23:13.
c. Their pretense and prayers: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayers: therefore, ye shall receive the greater damnation,” Matthew 23:14.
d. Their discipleship: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte (disciple), and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves,” Matthew 23:15.
e. Their final judgment: “Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?” Matthew 23:33. Jesus called them serpents and vipers and asked, “Is it possible that you shall escape the damnation of hell?” America’s religious leaders: How can they escape the damnation of hell? No way!
2. The wealthy and powerful. Let's turn our attention now to America's rich and powerful men. They have corrupted the government's system, stolen from the American people, and done irreparable harm to the Nation’s financial stability. Consider,
a. The last Senate gave tax breaks and corporate bailouts to America's wealthy. What did they give the people?
b. They desire to end Social Security Benefits and Medicare for retirees. SSB is the working man’s retirement!
c. They want to commercialize the United States Post Office, the most profitable company in America. Why?
d. These are all wicked and ungodly men, full of corruption and greedy intentions. Listen to Micah,
1) He prophesied: “That they may do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge asketh for a reward (a bribe); and the great man, he uttereth his mischievous desire: so, they wrap it up (make the deal),” Micah 7:3. This is the behavior of a corrupt and ungodly congress and court systems.
2) Isaiah wrote of their wickedness. His watchmen,
a) “Are blind: they are ignorant, dumb dogs, cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber,” Isaiah 56:10.
b) His leaders: “Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough...they all look to their way, everyone for his gain, from his quarter (Lobbyist),” Isaiah 56:11-12. [NRA, Billionaires, and millionaires]. Come you, say they,
c) “I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink, and tomorrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant(ly),” Isaiah 56:12. Paul reminded Timothy,
3. Of perilous times. He penned: “This also knows that in the last days, perilous times shall come. Men shall be lovers of their selves, being proud, and blasphemers…Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures…Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away,” 2 Timothy 3:1-5; Titus 1:16. Paul continued, “For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lust...But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived,” 2 Timothy 3:6-13. Observe,
a. First, a constant and egregious force exists and threatens America today. Even our Democracy!
b. Further, we have a corrupt and dishonest Congress, allegedly being led by Mitch McConnell.
c. Finally, it has not escaped the court either. The Supreme Court recently ruled unjustly, putting the American people in danger because they were "in bed" with the former Administration. The Senate has stacked the courts to ensure this type of partisan behavior becomes the norm in every lower federal court in America. Dark money has also bought the Supreme Court. These are all well-known facts that are indisputable. However,
d. Conclusion: Paul warned: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places,” Ephesians 6:12.
1) These actions are all motivated by greed, covetousness, and the ungodliness of our political officials.
2) They now spurned the integrity and reverence of their office for “greedy lucre’s sake,” Titus 1:10-11.
3) They have disavowed their “oath of office” to uphold the “Constitution, the Laws of America, and to protect the Nation from all enemies, both foreign and domestic, so, help me, God.” They have not kept them!
4) Many online now have taken this same Oath. And never falter once in keeping it.
4. Religious leaders and ministers. To begin our discussion of religious leaders and ministers across the Nation, listen to Solomon: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people,” Proverbs 14:34.
[Stay with me. We are nearing the end of point one. You have been a kind audience.]
a. Some of the Nation's religious leaders, evangelists, and ministers have also aligned themselves with the former Administration’s corrupted and decadent (immoral) behavior. The Evangelical Movement has sided with these evil political officials to obtain corrupt legislation and favors from Congress and the Courts.
b. Thus, abandoning their creed: “To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with their God,” Micah 6:8.
c. These religious leaders have all disavowed their love of God, for Christ and His Word, and have chosen instead to hate and commit evil: “against their fellow man,” in stark contrast with the teachings of Jesus Christ, whom they claim to love, serve, and represent. Who teaches them: “To love their neighbor as themselves.”
d. But you say, “We have not behaved in such a fashion.” Perhaps not, yet we sit silently in our worship assemblies while the Nation's youth march in “protest” from the White House to the outhouse for righteousness, justice, and accountability throughout all local, state, and federal institutions and businesses in America!
1) We ought to proclaim these messages to the Nation and the world from our pulpits.
2) Ministers, what is your word from the Lord? How many prayers have you led for the healing of this Nation?
3) Who have you called upon in your circles of influence for change? So many have remained silent.
4) I pray God gives you the courage to speak out! Against all these evils destroying America’s democracy.
5. Big business and banking. They have not finished with business and banking yet. Wall Street is their god!
a. The former Administration thwarted and undermined the Nation's recovery from this terrible virus by signing Executive Orders and threatening vulnerable workers back to their jobs. Governors have threatened workers with reprisals if they failed to return to their infected work environments. The employers were not even directed to provide masks, face shields, etc., to protect the workers from the deadly virus. They have failed to ensure the health and safety of their workers. Finally,
NOTE: All Health and Safety Regulations and Response Plans were suspended or thrown out!
b. Recently, congress passed a budget to support big businesses during this pandemic. Its goal was to keep all its employees on the payroll to lessen the burden on the Nation’s Workers' Unemployment Payments.
1) We will have to wait and see if the Nation’s businesses and banking will keep Americans employed and in their homes during this time of unemployment. (The Airlines, big businesses, and banking).
2) Big business and banking were bailed out in 2008-2009. I trust they will do the same for American workers.
c. Worker salaries. Employers are encouraged to pay their employees commensurate with their work and grade. Paul advised masters (employers): “Masters, give unto your servants (employees) that which is just and equal; knowing that you also have a Master in heaven,” Colossians 4:1; James 5:4; Ecclesiastes 5:8.
1) They should promote within the organization first and, if necessary, draw from the pool of qualified employees and managers to fill the gaps. Promote the entire team! Subordinate employees make the manager or supervisor; it's not the other way around!
2) Too often, employers hire new employees based on the employees' degrees rather than their Grade Point Average (GPA).
3) The new hire’s GPA says more to a diligent hiring manager than the degree. [The GPA tells the hiring manager that the prospective employee worked hard to maintain their excellence during college/university work in obtaining their degree]. And they can be confident that the employee will serve the organization similarly.
4) Still, there is discrimination in this also; most managers and supervisors will not deal fairly with their minority employees because of this evil or systemic racism. Grow up as managers and supervisors; your success will be determined by how fairly and wisely you promote within the organization.
5) I never left a position because of wages or salary but because the employer could not weigh my skills more important than my skin color! What a terrible loss of good people because the workplace is not an environment of fairness and respect. It is the organization that ultimately loses.
d. The success of this recent legislation in helping employers has not yet been determined. I pray that employers and employees deal justly with each other within their organizations. Just do what’s right! This is never wrong!
INVITATION
[End here today] Consider point two in this lesson.
WEDNESDAY EVENING
Introductory Remarks
1. In this second point, we will consider that God requires that: “we love mercy” and show compassion and goodwill unto all men. We are witnessing a time of sickness and death in America; none have seen it since the "Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918." What was missing during this pandemic was love, mercy, and compassion for those who were sick and dying. This Nation has suffered the loss of over 3 million people to the coronavirus, yet not one religious leader has offered a prayer for this Nation (during the former administration).
2. Instead of working together, we had an Administration thwarting the health and welfare of this Nation. The former President was golfing while the Nation was burying its dead in mass graves. He had no national policy, plan, or response to this terrible pandemic. Where was the mercy and compassion for the American people?
3. Why don't our religious leaders speak out against what seems to be a terrible injustice to portions of America's population? Micah cries: "Who is a God like unto thee? There is none just as the King of Kings, and none so merciful, who pardons the remnant of His heritage. And His hand is stretched out still to pardon and forgive Judah, (and America) of all her iniquities," Micah 7:18. For if this Nation: "Should seek the Lord if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though he is not far from every one of us," Acts 17:27; Isaiah 55:6-11. Let’s consider point two in this lesson. Observe,
II THAT WE LOVE MERCY
A. Micah wrote: “Who is a God like unto thee that pardoneth iniquity and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retaineth not his anger forever, because he delighteth in mercy,” Micah 7:18. Jehovah is a God of mercy. Micah states the second thing God requires is to be lovers of mercy and kindness. Observe,
1. “Mercy” means kindness, purity, showing favor, goodwill, mercy, and compassion.
NOTE: Video of two boys whose love is changing America, Matthew 18:3. I hope you saw and heard the discussion of the CNN report and show: CNN.com, #VanJonesShow. A child shall lead them! See Isaiah 11:6. “I will recover and restore the remnant of my people,” Isaiah 11:9-16.
2. God has been merciful to all people. He’s given us “fruitful seasons,” Acts 14:16-17. David wrote,
a. “But I am like a green olive tree in God's house: I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever,” Psalms 52:8.
b. “But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation,” Psalms 13:5; Psalms 85:7.
c. “Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in His mercy,” Psalms 33:18.
d. “The LORD is gracious and compassionate; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works,” Psalms 145:8-9; Psalms 33:4. His mercies overshadow all of us!
e. “For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations,” Psalms 100:5.
3. Jesus, our merciful High Priest. Paul wrote: “Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest…to make reconciliation for the sins of the people: for in that He hath suffered being tempted, He can succor (help and assist) them that are tempted,” Hebrews 2:17-18; Hebrews 4:15-16. Christ’s life and ministry was “full of compassion” to all people!
4. Christians must be merciful to all men. God requires that His people show mercy toward their brother and their neighbors. This is the second great commandment: “Love thy neighbor as yourself,” Matthew 22:37-40.
a. Jesus said: “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy,” Matthew 5:7. David and Solomon pen,
b. “The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth,” Psalms 37:21.
c. “He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he,” Proverbs 14:21. Now, let’s consider the church of the Lord’s behavior in showing “respect for persons.” Observe,
NOTE: Illustrate “An Evil Among Us,” James 2:1-10. James describes an evil in the church. Hear him,
1) “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory, with respect of persons,” James 2:1. God is no “respecter of persons,” Romans 2:11; Acts 10:34-35. But some of our congregations are guilty!
2) “For if there come into your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,” James 2:2. There is some history behind these words!
3) “And you have respect to him that dresses with gay (expensive) clothing, and you say unto him: Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor: Stand thou there or sit here under my footstool,” James 2:3.
4) “Are you not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?” James 2:4.
NOTE: James illustrates the sin of the rich and powerful. Review James 2:5-7; James 5:1-8. He states,
5) “If you fulfill the royal law according to the scriptures: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well,” James 2:8. The exact words of the Master, James’ brother, Matthew 22:37-40. Hear James’ Conclusion,
6) “But if you have respect for persons, you commit sin and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all,” James 2:9-10; Proverbs 28:21; James 4:17. I ask you now: “Has your minister read and discussed these verses within your assembly?”
d. Paul encourages: “He that sheweth mercy, (do it) with cheerfulness,” Romans 12:8.
e. John wrote: “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother has a need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion (mercy) from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deeds, and truth,” 1 John 3:18-19. If our hearts condemn us: “God is greater than our hearts, and knoweth all things,” 1 John 3:19-22. James also spoke of a “pure religion.” What is it?
NOTE: This is pure religion. “And undefiled before God and the Father: To visit the fatherless and widows in their afflictions, and to keep himself unspotted from the world,” James 1:26-27; 1 John 2:15-17.
5. The unmerciful judgment. James recorded: “For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment,” James 2:13; James 3:17-18; James 5:10-11.
B. To love mercy. God requires that "we love mercy” and show compassion and goodwill unto all men. We have witnessed a time of sickness and death in America, which many have not seen since the "Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918." Where was the mercy and compassion from our leadership to all people across the Nation during this pandemic? Where were our religious leaders' prayers of comfort and hope for the nations’ pain and suffering?
1. This Nation has lost over 3 million people to the coronavirus. Yet, no religious leader offered prayers for these families or the Nation until Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were elected.
2. Instead of working together with governors and taking the lead for this pandemic, this former President demonstrated a "hands-off approach" to governing.
3. Was there a federal response to this pandemic? Is there currently a national response team? If so, Where?
4. Where are the voices of our religious leaders? Why are they so silent?
5. We expect politicians to be silent during injustices. They are most likely parties to them and seek profit from them. They create laws and appoint men to acquit them of the crimes they have committed against the nation. But God will hold all leaders responsible and judge them according to their works.
C. Givers of mercy. Christians must be givers of compassion to receive God's love and kindness.
1. Jesus said: “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy,” Matthew 5:7.
2. What does God require? Micah answers: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8.
3. David wrote, “But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth,” Psalms 86:15. David wrote much of God’s mercy to all Israel and the people of God.
4. Solomon wrote: "He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor," Proverbs 21:21. The wise man wrote of a kind of mercy given unto all and returned to them with God’s graciousness.
5. Paul wrote: "For as we have many members in one body and all members do not have the same office... Having gifts differs according to the grace given to us... He that sheweth mercy, let it be with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation (hypocrisy)...Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love...Continue to be in prayer. Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality,” Romans 12:4-13; Hebrews 13:1-2.
D. Nation void of mercy. Micah spoke of the terrible injustice of his time. Amos wrote of a people void of mercy and kindness in their dealings with one another. This lack of mercy and compassion was seen at all levels of their society. If we are honest, there is no difference today from what we see in this nation. Observe,
1. The former Administration did not show any mercy for the sick and dying across America from the Coronavirus –(COVID-19) pandemic.
2. There was no national policy or plan for responding to and recovering from this pandemic. If the Nation fails to plan, it plans to fail. There was no National Plan; therefore, the management of this pandemic has failed on a National and Global level.
3. There was no vision for the Nation’s recovery. Governors were left to respond to this pandemic without a national plan and leadership (the president, big business, and our political leaders). Observe,
a. Solomon wrote, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he,” Proverbs 29:18. Millions have perished because there was no vision, no plan for the nation’s protection, and no heart of mercy for the thousands who died every day.
b. Hosea wrote: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children,” Hosea 4:6. Jehovah promised to send to His people a “famine in the land.”
4. A famine from God. Amos wrote: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it,” Amos 8:11-12; 1 Samuel 3:1.
5. A love for mercy. Where has America’s love for humanity gone? Where is the kindness and compassion for the families of those who have lost loved ones in this pandemic?
a. Micah still cries: “Who is a God like unto thee?” There is none just as the King of Kings, and none so merciful, who pardons “the remnant of His heritage.” And Jehovah’s “hands are yet outstretched” to pardon and forgive Jerusalem, Judah, (and America) for all her sins and iniquities, Isaiah 9:17.
b. Much of our suffering and hardship are brought upon us because of our sins, just like Israel and Judah.
c. But there was hope for Judah, even in captivity and suffering. There is also hope for America! God is our hope! There is,
d. A Balm in Gilead. Jeremiah wrote:
1) First, “Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?” Jeremiah 8:22. He continued,
2) Next, “Go up into Gilead, and take (the) balm, O virgin, the daughter of Egypt: in vain shalt thou use many medicines; for thou shalt not be cured,” Jeremiah 46:11. Why, O God of mercy?
3) Finally, “For thus saith the LORD: Thy bruise is incurable, and thy wound is grievous. There is none to plead thy cause, that thou mayest be bound up: thou hast no healing medicines. All thy lovers hath forgotten thee…Why criest thou for thine afflictions? Thy sorrow is incurable for the multitude of thine iniquity: because thy sins were increased, I have done these things unto thee…For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD; because they call thee an Outcast, saying, this is Zion whom no man seeketh after,” Jeremiah 30:12-17; Isaiah 1:5-6.
4) Conclusion: Your sins are many, and your punishment will be severe, and those that afflicted you shall also be punished (Babylon). But I will restore health unto thee and heal thy wounds, saith the Lord. For my anger against you is not forever, I will return to you and restore you to your former estate. Because I am merciful and forgiving to all my people. Even to Jerusalem, Samaria, (and America). “For the Lord’s hands are yet outstretched to pardon and forgive thee of all thy sins and iniquities, and cast them into the depth of the sea, and to remember them no more,” Micah 7:18-19; Jeremiah 38:17; Hebrews 10:15-18. God’s mercy is our Balm in Gilead. Christ is our “Great Physician,” Mark 2:17.
[Stay with me. We are nearing the end of point two in this series. You have been a kind audience.] Consider the,
E. Hope for God’s people. These are trying times in which we presently live. Micah spoke of hope and restoration to give assurance and comfort to God’s people. These people would be surely punished, but God would not forever abandon them. He chose Micah to speak to them of hope during captivity and suffering. I speak of such now unto America in this lesson. Observe,
1. A remnant will return. Micah wrote: “Therefore will he give them up, until the time that she which travaileth hath brought forth: then the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel,” Micah 5:3.
2. Ezekiel’s promised comfort: “For thus saith the Lord GOD: How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon Jerusalem, the sword, the famine, the noisome beast, and the pestilence, to cut off both man and beast? Yet, behold, therein shall be left a remnant that shall be brought forth, both sons and daughters: behold, they shall come forth unto you, and ye shall see their way and their doings: and ye shall be comforted concerning…all that I have brought upon it (Jerusalem). And they shall comfort you when ye see their ways and their doings: and ye shall know that I have not done (this) without cause, all that I have done (unto this people) in it, saith the Lord GOD,” Ezekiel 14:21-23.
3. Jeremiah’s promised return. Jehovah said: “And I will cause Judah's captivity and the captivity of Israel to return, and will build them, as at first," Jeremiah 33:7; Psalms 85:1-3. Observe,
a. All these promises were fulfilled in 597 BCE by the King of Babylon.
b. The King of Persia allowed a remnant to return to Jerusalem and rebuild in 520 BCE.
NOTE: For more information, see Wikipedia, “Babylonian Captivity.”
c. Jehovah prepared a remnant of His people to return to Jerusalem.
d. Jehovah is a God of mercy, pardon, and restoration. Turn to Micah 7:18-20.
NOTE: Illustrate God’s mercy. Let’s review Jehovah’s promise to His people and us today. Observe,
4. Interpretation: Jehovah's wrath and punishment do not last forever. Micah wrote: "Who is a God like unto thee that pardoneth iniquity and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retaineth not his anger forever because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again and have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities, and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. Thou wilt perform the truth to Jacob, and the mercy to Abraham, which thou hast sworn unto our fathers from the days of old,” Micah 7:18-20; Psalms 32:1-2; Acts 3:22-26; Romans 4:6-8.
NOTE: For more information on Israel’s captivity and return, see our lesson entitled: “Does the Church Need a Revival?” Download it from SermonCentral.com. Our last point in this lesson is “to walk humbly before God.”
We will continue this lesson by discussing point three on Sunday morning.
[End here today] Consider point three in this lesson.
SUNDAY MORNING
Introductory Remarks.
1. In this last point, we will investigate what God requires: "We walk humbly before Him.” If there is one sin that magnifies all others in this Nation, it is the sin of pride. One person thinks it is superior to another. When we lift ourselves over others, this is not walking humbly before God.
2. This Nation no longer walks humbly. We once trusted and reverenced God. But now, we walk in arrogance, pride, and divisiveness before God and the world. "It is a pride and a haughty spirit that brings all nations to ruins," Proverbs 16:18; Isaiah 2:11-12.
3. Other people no longer envy our prosperity and freedom but see us as "a people to be pitied." Like Judah, we have become "an abomination before God," Proverbs 16:5; Proverbs 16:12. This Nation must repent and turn back unto God, or perish and suffer ruins like Samaria and Jerusalem, in Micah's prophecy. Let’s consider point three of the lesson. Observe,
III THAT WE WALK HUMBLY
A. To walk humbly. Micah now instructs us: “to walk humbly before God.” This is the final directive Jehovah had given unto His people. Micah now directs us to the relationship that God favors with His people. If God’s people humble themselves and obey His commandments and statutes, they are said: “to walk with Him.” For to obey: “Is better than sacrifices and to hearken than the fat of rams,” 1 Samuel 15:22. Consider,
1. The word “walk” in Hebrew is yalak or yä·lak', which means going, walking, or coming. The word "humbly" in Hebrew is tsana` or tsä· nah', which means to be humble, modest, or lowly, to show humility.
a. Micah wrote: “O thou that art named the house of Jacob: is the Spirit of the LORD straitened? Are these his doings? Do not my words do good to him that walketh uprightly?” Micah 2:7; Proverbs 28:18.
b. Hosea edited: “Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? Prudent, and he shall know them? For the LORD's ways are right, and they shall walk in them, but the transgressors shall fall therein,” Hosea 14:9.
c. Jeremiah inscribed: “Thus saith the LORD, stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is a good way and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said we are not walking therein.” Jeremiah 6:16. Read and comment on Jeremiah 5:30-31 and Isaiah 30:8-11. [Time permitting].
2. The Patriarchs walked with God. They obeyed Him in all His commandments. They walked in faith and obedience. America, where is our faith, hope, and obedience unto God? Observe,
a. Noah walked with God, Genesis 6:9. God found favor in him (Genesis 6:8). Because of Noah’s faith and obedience, God saved him and his house from the flood, Genesis 7:7; Hebrews 11:7; 1 Peter 3:20-21.
b. Abraham walked as a Friend of God, James 2:21-23. Abraham obeyed the voice of the Lord, Genesis 22:1-19; Psalms 105:6; Isaiah 41:8; Hebrews 11:17-19.
c. Hebrews, chapter 11: is the “roll call” of the faithful.
3. Conclusion: We have witnessed God's messages of faith and obedience from our brothers. If we are to enjoy God's blessings and promises, we cannot do it without true faith and obedience. Brother BB Jackson reminded us to trust in God and to rehearse the “story of Jesus’ life” when we become weak in faith. Beloved in the Lord,
B. God delights in humility. He delights in a humble and contrite heart for those who walk humbly before Him.
1. David wrote: “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit,” Psalms 34:18; Psalms 51:17. Jesus’ message to Nazareth, “gracious words,” Luke 4:16-19.
2. Isaiah penned: “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite (remorseful) ones,” Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 66:2.
3. Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, The Beatitudes. Read and Comment! Matthew 5:3-12. [Time permitting!]
4. Walk in humility. The Lord wants us to walk in humility and faithful obedience. He has shewed thee, O man, what God requires: “That we do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before God,” Micah 6:8.
a. Solomon wrote:
1) First, “Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall,” Proverbs 16:18; Proverbs 11:2.
2) Second, “Before destruction, the heart of man is haughty, and before honor is humility,” Proverbs 18:12.
3) Third, “A man's pride shall bring him low: but honor shall uphold the humble in spirit,” Proverbs 29:23.
b. Jesus said: “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted,” Luke 14:11; Luke 18:14; Matthew 23:12. James wrote,
c. “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble,” James 4:6; James 4:10. Peter penned,
d. “Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud and give grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God that he may exalt you in due time,” 1 Peter 5:5-6.
5. Conclusion: What does God require? Walk humbly before Him. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. If you desire to be lifted, be willing to sit and walk in lowliness before God and men. The proud and arrogant shall be brought low, and their “buttocks uncovered, before the world,” Isaiah 20:4; Job 11:20.
C. Are we walking in humility before the Lord? Are we the servants of the Lord? Jesus taught,
1. First, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad,” Matthew 12:30. Moses said: “Who is on the Lord’s side? Come to me,” Exodus 32:26-35. On whose side do you stand?
2. Further, “No man can serve two masters: either he will hate the one, and love the other, or he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (money),” Matthew 6:24.
3. Finally, “John said to Jesus: Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbade him because he followeth not with us. Jesus said: Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us,” Luke 9:49-50.
4. Conclusion: Are we scattering rather than gathering for the Lord? We are not serving the Lord when our work and walk of faith conflict with God's will. However, one can be doing good and not be a member of any faith. Let me explain: I speak of a movement known as “Black Lives Matter.” They are the,
a. Youth of America. Some of these youths are not members of any faith (religious group). But the Lord is not against the good that they are doing for this Nation. They have not walked violently nor stormed the Capital of the Congress of the United States of America. Yet many people of America despise them. Why? Maybe because of what they speak and demonstrate to the Nation: “Their lives also matter.” They are also members of America, just like all of us. Brother and sisters, I need some help with this one! I’m bewildered and confused.
b. Similarly, some may belong to an organized religious faith. If they walk contrary to God's will, they are not pleasing or acceptable before the Lord. Jesus said, “Not everyone that saith…Many will say,” Matthew 7:21-23.
c. When Christians no longer walk humbly before God and commit evil in His sight, they, too, are not pleasing and acceptable to Him. James wrote: “Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is a sin,” James 4:17; Luke 12:47-48. God’s children will always walk humbly before Him.
d. Conclusion: The Lord wants our walk of faith to be “full of good fruits.” It is the "good fruit" we do for others, which declares we are walking righteously before God and keeping His commandments. Jesus said: “Ye shall know them by their fruit,” Matthew 7:15-16. He was speaking of “false prophets.” Your walk of faith defines your behavior in the “sight of God and before all men.” The fruit test is our behavior. The man of faith will speak and walk in the truth of God. Paul asked: “Am I become your enemy…truth,” Galatians 4:16.
NOTE: Jesus warns: “Every good tree brings forth good fruit...Every corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit…by their fruits; ye shall know them,” Matthew 7:17-20. Now, let’s hear from John, the beloved of the Lord. Consider,
D. The practice of righteousness. We will now expose the hypocrisy of many claiming to be the servants of the Lord. The Apostle John wrote to the saints regarding their walk-in righteousness, 1 John 3:7-10. Observe,
1. First, "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that practice (doeth) righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous,” 1 John 3:7. The righteous doeth those things that are righteousness, Psalms 119:172.
2. Further, "For this purpose, the Son of God was manifested that he might destroy the works of the devil," 1 John 3:8. These are sobering words that follow. I pray you are listening to the Lord!
3. Next, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit (practice) sin…because he is born of God," 1 John 3:9.
4. Finally, "In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother," 1 John 3:10.
a. David wrote: “Blessed are they that keep judgment and him that doeth righteousness,” Psalms 106:3.
b. Many of our ministers, preachers, evangelists, and church leaders speak about loving their brethren. But many limit their expression of divine love to only those who look like them (us). They preach,
1) “Let brotherly love continue. Be not be forgetful to entertain strangers,” Hebrews 13:1-2.
2) However, brotherly love is absent in many of our assemblies.
3) I am not leaving out the “black churches” in this indictment. Some of us are also guilty! Well,
NOTE: Most of you will get mad at me now in this lesson. However, I must stand for the truth in this matter!
c. Jesus said: “For if ye love them which love you, what reward have you? Do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do you more than others? Do not even the publicans so? Be you, therefore, perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect,” Matthew 5:46-48. Stay with me, brethren.
5. The love of brethren. John challenges us in this truth of God. No other writer has so carefully and truthfully spoken to "the love of brethren" as he did in the Letter of 1st John. A note of warning from your Captain!
[Fasten your seat belts; the ride will get a little bumpy! There is the possibility for extreme turbulence ahead].
a. First, he wrote: "He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother is in darkness even until now (he abides in a total state of darkness)," 1 John 2:9. The word "hateth" in Gr., is miseo which means to detest (especially to persecute); to dislike, and despise, to love less: —to behave hatefully towards others (your neighbor).
NOTE: John mentions the 3D to detest, dislike, and despise his neighbor, and some don’t even know why!
1) The person filled with Hatred detests and despises others. (Am I speaking of anyone online today?)
2) This kind of Hatred erodes and destroys the person, like acid; it erodes the container that stores it.
3) Hatred eats at the heart and body like cancer; it consumes a person's body, soul, and spirit. John penned,
b. Further, "He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is no occasion of stumbling in him (he walks without fault)," 1 John 2:10. "Loveth" here means to welcome, entertain, to be fond of, or to love dearly.
NOTE: Illustrate the TV commercial of two little boys running to hug each other. Click on this link below, or copy and paste it into your browser. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzGPOQfGKLc/ CNN.com, #VanJonesShow, Two Toddler boys hug each other on the street. These boys’ love went viral. This love is,
c. Next, “Agapáo.” Which defines God's love for us (John 3:16) and how we must love Him, our neighbors, and ourselves. Has the church forgotten that we are all neighbors (some have faith, others do not)?
NOTE: Illustrate the lawyer who asked Jesus about the Royal Law of Love. “He asks, tempting saying,”
1) “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said unto him,
2) "What is written in the law? How readest thou?
3) He answered: “Thou shall love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, thy soul, and thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” And He (Jesus) said, “Thou hast answered right: do this, and thou shalt live.” But he (the lawyer), willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus,
4) “Who is my neighbor?” This question sparked the “parable of the Good Samaritan.”
NOTE: Illustrate the parable of the Good Samaritan, Luke 10:30-37. Consider,
a) The characters in this parable: 1) A certain man beaten and robbed, 2) a certain priest, 3) a Levite, and 4) a certain Samaritan. Jesus describes the “behavior” of these characters in the parable.
b) However, the man who was beaten, robbed, and left for dead was not identified. Why?
c) Because everyone in peril is our neighbor! Recall,
5) The priest and Levi saw the man’s plight but passed by on the other side.
6) The Samaritan saw the stranger and had compassion upon him. He performed the American Red Cross’ “Three Life-saving Steps.” He then took him to the Holiday Inn, cared for him, paid the Innkeeper, and promised to make up anything lacking in the stranger's other service. Jesus asked the Lawyer and us,
7) Which of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?” And he (the lawyer) answered,
8) “He that shewed mercy on him.” The certain Samaritan behaved like a neighbor. Then Jesus said unto him,
9) “Go and do thou likewise," Luke 10:36-37. Perhaps this is what America is lacking: compassion!
NOTE: You can download our lesson, "Go and Do Likewise," on SermonCentral.com.
d. Additional, he noted: "But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes," 1 John 2:11. What is John stating? Observe,
1) The word "darkness" means dimness or obscurity: dark (-ness). Darkness is the spiritual environment in which we walk when we are filled with hatred, prejudice, and anger. We are no longer walking in the light.
2) "Blinded" means to make blind, i.e., to obscure. It also means blunting one's mental discernment and darkening the mind. Blindness is the spiritual condition of our walk. Our hearts are darkened, and “our eyes are scaled, causing spiritual blindness,” Acts 9:18. Just like “Saul of Tarsus” was once! He had to become blind before seeing the “light of Jesus Christ,” John 8:12; 2 Corinthians 4:5-7.
3) The heart looms in darkness, with spiritual blindness, aided by the devil’s cunning and evil devices, John 8:44.
4) Blindness is the devil's work against “truth and godliness,” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-14.
NOTE: Illustrate the “Captivity of the Devil,” 2 Timothy 2:24-26. Read and comment!
5) Only Christ “can give thee (you) light,” John 8:12; John 1:10-12.
e. Finally, John wrote: “We know that we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren. He that LOVETH NOT his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him,” 1 John 3:14-16. And finally, “We love Him, because…loved us. If any man says: I love God and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this is the commandment…He who loveth God love his brother also,” 1 John 4:19-21. John is teaching us,
f. Conclusion: If our hearts are full of bitterness, Hatred, and prejudice, we’re walking in darkness. If we hate our brother, we’re murderers; and we’re liars, and we’re haters of God also. So saith the word of God!
[Stay with me. We are nearing the end of point three in this series. You have been a kind audience.] Is there,
E. Hope for America. Yes, there is hope for America. If we keep our trust in God and deal righteously, kindly, and with integrity unto all men, God will be well pleased and heal our Nation. We are witnessing, even to this day, the cry of God's people on earth. He will come down and deliver us as He did for His people in Egypt. Christ's people are the children, and the Israel of God, Galatians 3:26-29; Galatians 6:16. Observe,
1. Moses wrote: “And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and I have heard their cry because of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows: And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians,” Exodus 3:7-10. I love Jehovah's summation of the problem and solution!
2. Solomon wrote: “Righteousness exalts a nation. But sin is a reproach to any people. The king’s favor is toward a wise servant. But his wrath is against him who causes shame,” Proverbs 14:34-35.
3. Isaiah noted: “With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness,” Isaiah 26:9. This pandemic COVID-19 shall teach America and the world of God's righteousness.
4. Amos penned: "But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream," Amos 5:24.
5. Application: We must turn our eyes now to America. This Nation for nearly 245 years, the powers within have dealt treacherously and discriminately against some of its people. These powers (political and police) have subjected some of its people to tyranny, cruelty, beatings, oppression, and even killings. At the same time, most of America’s clergy and ministers were silent, sanctioning these acts (by saying nothing about them). Recently,
a. Many have sat in silence to the recent killing of George Floyd, a black man, at the hands of 4 white police officers. Where were the cries of Micah, Jeremiah, Amos, and others against this brutality and cruelty before the world from America’s pulpits? These injustices without accountability have gone on too long!
NOTE: How Long, O’ Lord? Not Long! “Until I come and rain righteousness down upon you like a mighty stream!” MLK. How long, O’ Lord, shall your children suffer needlessly?
b. It is time for America to: “Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he comes and rain righteousness upon you,” Hosea 10:12.
1) Thank God for our youth. The youth of America, in and out of the church, have been stirred up in their hearts against the wickedness and corruption in all levels of government and businesses throughout America.
2) They have come from all walks of life, from all races, religions, and social classes, to protest injustice and demand justice for all Americans.
3) Police officers' badges must return to being a sign of their resolve to “protect and serve” all the people of their communities. For decades, they have symbolized brutality, beatings, and murder to some of its citizens.
4) Why are so many sitting silently and turning their faces away from the evil destroying America? Have they,
NOTE: Read Jehovah’s warning. To Ezekiel: “Son of man, I have made thee a watchman…therefore give them warning from me,” Ezekiel 3:16-21. Warn the wicked and wayward man (righteous) of their iniquities.
5) There have been studies to provide solutions to these problems. We must review several terms our psychologists and sociologists use to understand why. The first is “systemic racism.” Please observe,
c. Systemic Racism. It has been defined as: “The oppression of a racial group to the advantage of another as perpetuated by inequity within interconnected systems (such as political, economic, and social systems). Merriam-Webster Dictionary “Systemic Racism.” This evil continues because the white clergy and ministers across America do not speak out against it. I adjure you in the name of the Lord: to speak out against this ungodliness. Still, another is “white silence.” These are not my words; they come from our psychologists.
d. White Silence. It is defined as: “White silence shelters the participants' views by keeping silent and hiding their particular perspectives from being known and unable to be challenged or corrected.” See page 5, Understanding and Dismantling Privilege (white privilege). These abuses and injustices exist because of “white silence.” The oppressors continue their wrongdoing because their peers do not chastise them: the righteous "white people of America." Their silence has permitted these acts of terrorism, brutality, and reprisals to continue in America. Click the link below in the references. To review the video: White Silence.” Hear me good!
1) I am speaking directly to the white clergy and ministers of this Nation, even among the churches of Christ.
2) Your pulpits have remained silent about these atrocities regarding American Politics and Law Enforcement.
3) This generation of “white silence” reminds me of the same kind of people who ignored the struggles of black people during the “Civil Rights Movement” in the 1960s. Some of you might remember these days.
4) It took a letter from Martin Luther King while he sat in a Birmingham Jail to arouse the Nation's conscience towards these evils. Who do you serve? To remain silent is to acknowledge consent to these terrible injustices. Prejudice, segregation, and hatred for people of color continue in America. Why? Let’s define our last term in this lesson, “white shame.” Some of our children might be dealing with it right now. Observe,
e. White shame. It is defined as: “Condemnation of yourself as a White person rather than specific racist actions. Someone might feel shame for engaging in racism (thoughts, feelings, beliefs, behaviors), having failed to stop others from engaging in racism (group, systemic, structural), and not living up to the false ‘non-racist White person’ ideal(s).” We cannot control the behavior of others, but we can manage our actions. None of us had a say in what family culture or race we were born. But we can decide how we live and behave with each other!
1) Their real fear is rejection by others if this “behavior” is discovered, and they often avoid others or withdraw as a coping mechanism rather than change.
2) Many White Americans are feeling this now because of their fear of opposing and speaking out against systemic racism and white silence. You are not at fault! White people may carry this “burden of shame in their hearts,” while their neighbors (people of color) “wear the scars from racism on their backs and in their souls!”
NOTE: White Shame is so hurtful to some that it has caused a backlash across the nation to eradicate and remove any records of their forefather's behavior, and our politicians are unable to acknowledge it ever exists. Recall one politician for fear of this backlash; she could not admit “slavery was the cause of America’s Civil War.”
3) The youth of America are creating this “backlash” of shame for all their friends and family who remain silent and exhibit a “do nothing” attitude to these social and racial injustices.
4) Conclusion: The Christian cannot be a party to racism and remain silent nor take a “do nothing attitude” when others are being oppressed and abused. This was Israel’s problem, which Micah wrote about. And this was Peter’s problem as a leader in the church of Jerusalem in the “first century.” Observe,
f. Peter’s fear of the Judaizers. Peter failed to exhibit “sincere love out of a pure heart fervently” in Antioch when “certain of the sect of the Pharisees” came from Jerusalem, 1 Peter 1:22; Acts 15:1-4. This was a time for him to demonstrate apostolic leadership. Yet, he failed because he feared that “certain who came from James,” Galatians 2:12. It took Paul to rebuke Peter for his weakness and fear of the Pharisees before the Antioch church. Some of you are likewise guilty! I trust you will not behave as Peter did in Antioch. Don't abandon the Lord, the church, and the youth of America. Stand with them! Applaud your sons and daughters for their courage and fortitude. Paul’s love for Peter and the church in Antioch required him to rebuke Peter in public! Observe,
1) Paul’s rebuke. He wrote: "But when Peter came to Antioch, I (Paul) withstood him to the face because he was to be blamed," Galatians 2:11. Why? Listen to,
2) Paul’s reason. He continues: “For before those certain came from James (the Jerusalem church), he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation,” Galatians 2:12-13. He acted “cowardly before the Lord, and the church,” John 14:27.
3) Paul’s rationale. He concluded: “But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If, thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?” Galatians 2:14; 1 Corinthians 8:12-13.
6. Conclusion: Can we convert the world by living like it? We are set in the church "as evangelist…for the equipping of the saint, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,” Ephesians 4:11-16.
a. As Paul did in Ephesus, we must walk upright before God, the church, and the world. He reminded the elders: "Wherefore I take you to record this day, I am pure from all men's blood. I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God,” Acts 20:26-27. I told you the truth in all things.
b. If our pulpits do not declare the whole counsel, then we are not pure from the blood of all men, nor are we walking upright, according to the gospel. Don’t forget preachers and leaders; we’ll stand before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account. Some preachers and leaders will not hear the word of the Lord.
c. Paul told Timothy why, in 2 Timothy 3:5-13. And Titus, also, in Titus 3:10-11. Some are “heretics,” meaning “schismatic, factious, or followers of false doctrine.” Those who create or take part in schisms or “divisions.”
d. Moses wrote: Jehovah saith, “I will hide my face from them…they are a perverse generation—children in whom there is no faith,” Deuteronomy 32:20.
e. Paul wrote: “Pray for us…And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: For all men have not faith,” 2 Thessalonians 3:1-6.
7. God’s forgiveness. After 70 years of exile, the people return safely to their father’s land. Hear Jehovah,
a. Jeremiah wrote: “Israel is a scattered sheep; the lions have driven him away: The king of Assyria hath devoured him, and last this Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon hath broken his bones. Therefore, thus saith the LORD of the host, the God of Israel; Behold, I will punish the king of Babylon and his land, as I have punished the king of Assyria. And I will bring Israel again to his habitation, and he shall feed on Carmel and Bashan, and his soul shall be satisfied upon Mount Ephraim and Gilead. In those days, and in that time, saith the LORD, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah and they shall not be found: for I will pardon them whom I reserve,” Jeremiah 50:17-20. [Speak quickly about Israel’s return].
1) The word reserve means to swell up, i.e., to—leave, (be) left, let remain, a remnant, a reserve.
2) Jehovah promises to keep alive a remnant, to reserve for pardon and return.
b. Micah wrote: “Who is a God like unto thee: that pardoneth iniquity and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage?” Micah 7:18-20; Romans 3:23-26. Read and comment!
1) Micah again, "He will have compassion upon us; He will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea,” Micah 7:19. Oh, what a precious promise regarding the God we now serve! The prophet,
2) Micah speaks of God’s willingness to forgive and pardon His people.
3) Jehovah has put away all their sins. He can also “put away” or “cover” your sins, as in Psalms 32:1-2.
c. God's desire to forgive. Before I move to a conclusion, hear the words of the servants of the Lord, of Jehovah’s forgiveness. Observe David's words,
1) “As far as the east is from the west, So, far hath he removed our transgressions from us,” Psalms 103:12.
2) Isaiah again: “Behold, it was for my peace that I had great bitterness: But thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption; for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back,” Isaiah 38:17. Paul’s words,
3) "But the Holy Spirit also witnesses to us; for after He had said before, this is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the LORD: I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds, I will write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more,” Hebrews 10:15-17; Jeremiah 31:31-34.
4) Jesus came into the world to be offered “for the remissions of sins” and to be a “ransom for many,” Matthew 20:28; Galatians 1:4; 1 Timothy 2:3-7. America, God is willing to forgive her, too! His mercies are to every generation. Indeed, we need His love and mercy today!
[I am now concluding this series of lessons. I thank you for your patience.]
d. Conclusion: Jehovah has said, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land,” 2 Chronicles 7:14. America needs healing!
1) Herein is our charge, brothers, and sisters: to cause the people to call upon the Lord, humble themselves, pray and seek His face, and turn away from all their wickedness, that God might hear them, forgive them, and heal our land from sickness and disease. Will you join me in this soul-stirring charge to the church, its ministers, its leaders, and the entire Nation? Jesus saw Jerusalem’s end: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem…how often would I have gathered your children together, even as a hen does her chickens under her wings, and you would not! Behold, your house shall be left unto you desolate. For I say…ye shall not see me henceforth…Lord,” Matthew 23:36-39.
2) Before I close, I must confess that not all police, politicians, and people are wicked and ungodly. There are many more dedicated ones than evil in our police departments throughout America. There are also God-fearing politicians in Washington, D.C., and kind and loving saints sitting next to you in the assembly!
3) I do not want to obscure their faith, work, and patronage of this beautiful country, so it should go unnoticed without our thanks. I honor these in the name of the Lord. I pray many more will rise and walk as these do in the coming days. I pray for you also to remain on "task," to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly before our God. Now,
4) Lastly, I want to tell you about some loving white people I have encountered during my walk of faith (Jim Kerby, John Peabody, and Patrick Touchard). Time escapes me to rehearse the names of the white and black families in the church who loved me as a son. Who insisted I resided in their homes and treated me as family. Not all white people are evil, nor are all black people. There is good and evil in all of us! In closing, permit me to tell you of a wonderful white lady who loved and cared for me as a child and an adult.
NOTE: Illustrate the love of a lady. God permitted me to later in life to teach her about the love of Christ and who one day obeyed the gospel of the Son of God. And my eyes were full of tears of joy! That lady I was speaking about was…I felt this was necessary to help some of you change your mind about me possibly hating and despising white people! I know how Satan works. Now, as I close, recall we discussed,
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. That We Do Justly
2. That We Love Mercy
3. That We Walk Humbly
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we observed what God required: "We do justly" before Him, our brethren, and our fellow man, regardless of their religious, racial, political, or economic standing. God had somewhat against Judah. They were not dealing honestly and with integrity among each other or with their fellow man. The rich oppressed the poor. The merchants defrauded their customers. Their religious leaders permitted these sins of immorality, injustices, and corrupt practices to go unchecked. Micah was crying out within the land against the people, while Isaiah was accusing: "That the leaders of this people have caused them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed," Isaiah 9:16. Is there one crying out in this land, to do justly, that God might be well pleased?
2. Second, we considered what God required: that “we love mercy" and shew compassion and goodwill unto all men. We are witnessing a time of sickness and death in America; none have seen it since the "Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918." Micah cries: "Who is a God like unto thee? There is none just as the King of Kings, and none so merciful, who pardons the remnant of His heritage. Jehovah’s hand is stretched out to pardon and forgive Judah of all her iniquities," Isaiah 9:17.
3. Lastly, we investigated that the Lord required "we should walk humbly before Him." If there is one sin that magnifies all others in this Nation, it is a sin of pride. One person thinks it is superior to another. We are not walking humbly before God when we lift ourselves over others. This Nation no longer walks humbly before God. We once trusted and reverenced God. But now, we walk in arrogance, pride, and divisiveness before God and the world. We are no longer a people envied by others; we are "a people to be pitied" by all nations and people. Like Judah, we have become "an abomination before God."
C. Invitation. Present God’s pattern of conversion. Jesus said: "Come unto me all ye that labor," Matthew 11:28-30. [Explain the POC, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; that is to: "repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost," Acts 2:38; Ephesians 1:12-14].
D. Exhortation. "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved," Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: "Save thyself," Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
References
1. Book Review: The Flag and the Cross
The Flag and the Cross: White Christian Nationalism and the Threat to American Democracy: Philip S. Gorski, Samuel L. Perry: 9780197618684 - Christianbook.com
2. Video Review: Two Toddler Boys
Watch the TV commercial of two little boys running to hug each other. Click on this link, or
copy and paste this link into your browser. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzGPOQfGKLc
/ CNN.com, #VanJonesShow, Two Toddler boys hug each other on the street. Their love went viral.
3. Video Review: Black Lives Matter
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/white-silence-on-social-media-why-not-saying-anyth ing-is-actually-saying-a-lot/?intcid=CNM-00-10abd1h
4. Sermon Review: What Does God Require? Ron Freeman, Evangelist, Archive.org
https://archive.org/search?query=Ron+Freeman%2C+Evangelist
THE GETTYSBURG ADDRESS
(In the dedication of the Soldier’s National Cemetery)
Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
We are now engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation or any nation so conceived and dedicated can endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting place for those who gave their lives that this nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will (little) note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work (which) they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced.
It is instead for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us: that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion, that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain, that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
—Abraham Lincoln
November 19, 1863
Gettysburg, PA
Soldier’s National Cemetery
Address length: 271 words.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gettysburg_Address
(Copy and paste this link into your Internet browser)
“The most humbling address President Lincoln ever made to the nation.”
“That these dead shall not have died in vain.”
3,000 Troops Put Down Mississippi Rioting: And Seize 200 as Negro Attends Classes; Ex-Gen. Walker is Held for Insurrection (nytimes.com). SP4, Ron Freeman, 101st Airborne Division, from Fort Campbell, KY, participated in this military deployment. He faulted not in faith or duty to his beloved Lord and nation!
https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/library/national/race/100262race-ra.html
Lesson Updated 5/26/2024, by Ron Freeman, Evangelist
