Series: Jesus- Son Of Man [#24]
REMEMBERING THE FAITHFUL
Luke 7:18-35
Introduction:
Today, as we think about Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom. In our text, Jesus teaches us about the importance of true faith and the lives of people who lived devoted and helpful lives. Just like we honor our fallen heroes, we also need to remember the faithful people, (those who have shown us the way in faith and love) so their example can inspire us. This morning, let’s learn how remembering those who are faithful makes us more thankful, stronger in our faith, and encourages us to live with the same dedication and purpose.
This message invites us to look inside our hearts and think about how we honor the faith of those who came before us. When we remember the faithful, it helps us trust God more and live in a way that shows His goodness. As we learn from Luke today, let’s be inspired to hold onto the memories of God's faithfulness and to share His love with others, especially in a World that really needs hope and truth.
Luke 7:18-20
Show honor to those who…
1. Seek truth amid doubt.
John the Baptist, (who was in prison and feeling unsure) sent messengers to Jesus to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” This shows us that even faithful people like John can have moments of doubt. It’s important for us to respect and honor those who are searching for truth, especially when they are feeling uncertain. As followers of Jesus, we should create a Church where doubts are not judged but are met with kindness and patience. Recognizing that everyone, even strong believers, can question helps us show grace and understanding. This encourages people to keep seeking God without fear, knowing that God loves and understands them.
Practically speaking, this means we need to be careful in how we talk to those who are struggling with their faith. Instead of dismissing their doubts, we should listen with compassion and help point them to the things that show Jesus is real- His miracles, His teachings, and how He fulfills God's promises. Showing respect to those searching for truth builds a community of humility and love. It helps questions become pathways to stronger faith, not reasons to give up. As we remember how faithful God is, we should honor those who are looking for Him, knowing that their honesty about doubt is an opportunity for us to show Christ’s grace and help lead them closer to Him in love.
Luke 7:21-25
Show honor to those who…
2. Recognize Jesus' divine authority.
We see Jesus showing His divine power by healing people and His identity being confirmed by John the Baptist’s followers. Recognizing that Jesus has divine authority means we should honor Him as the Son of God. His power over sickness and death shows He is in control of everything. In our daily lives, this means we trust Jesus completely, believe in His power, and follow Him. When we do this, we show that we respect His authority and want to obey Him. It also encourages us to share His greatness with others, especially when we face difficult times.
Knowing Jesus has divine authority also means we should honor the leaders and teachers God has put in our Church and community. Just as we respect Jesus’ authority, we should support and show respect to those who serve as spiritual leaders. They are leaders given by God to help us grow in our faith. Doing this helps us stay humble and united as followers of Jesus. Remembering Jesus’ divine authority helps us to honor both Him and the leaders He has chosen, strengthening our faith and our community as we remember those who faithfully serve Him.
Luke 7:26-28
Show honor to those who…
3. Faithfully testify despite opposition.
Jesus talked about John the Baptist being the greatest among those born of women; but He also said that even the least in God's Kingdom is greater than him. This shows us how important it is to honor and respect people who stay faithful and tell the truth, even when others oppose them. Like John, who spoke about Jesus even when it was hard, we should support and encourage those who stand firm for what is right. When we show respect to faithful believers, (whether they are Pastors, friends, or fellow Christians) we help strengthen others and remind them to stay strong in their faith.
Spiritually, this reminds us that following Jesus can sometimes be difficult. People might oppose us or treat us badly because we believe in Him; but just like John the Baptist, we are called to share the Gospel and stand for what is true, no matter what. Practically, this means never giving up on telling others about Jesus, even if we face rejection or ridicule. When we remember those who have been faithful, it gives us courage to keep going. By honoring faithful witnesses and staying committed to our own testimony, we help build God's Kingdom and show that we trust Jesus.
Luke 7:29-30
Show honor to those who…
4. Live with integrity and humility.
We see that people who truly see God's work in their lives and respond with humility and honesty are the ones God honors. Living with integrity means doing what is right and being truthful in everything we do. Humility helps us remember that our worth and salvation come from God, not from ourselves. When we live this way, we show others God's character through our actions. Practical ways to do this include being honest with our words, humble about our successes, and open about our struggles. This builds trust and helps others see Jesus in us.
In our everyday lives, we can practice humility and honesty in how we treat our family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. By doing so, we show respect and kindness to everyone around us. Remembering those who were faithful before us, like John the Baptist and sinners Jesus praised, encourages us to live with humility and integrity too. When we do this, it helps us grow closer to God and shows others what it means to live for Him. Living honestly and humbly is a way to honor God and be a good example to those around us.
Luke 7:31-35
Show honor to those who…
5. Accept and respond to God's message.
Jesus shows that sometimes people find it hard to accept God's message, just like children who don’t want to play even when others try to get their attention. Spiritually, this teaches us that we need to be humble and open to God's truth. When we truly accept His message, we realize we need His help and are willing to change. Practically, honoring those who respond to God means encouraging them and showing that we see their faith. This helps build a caring community where everyone feels supported and more willing to listen to God.
To put this into practice, we should celebrate and support those who accept God's Word, maybe through kind words, prayer, or helping them. We should also be patient with those who find it hard to respond and pray for their hearts to be open. When we honor those who accept God, we create a welcoming place that shows humility and love. This encourages others to follow Jesus’ example and grow in their faith, making our community stronger and more caring.
Conclusion:
As we think about the message of remembering the faithful, let’s not forget the many saints who have gone before us, trusting God all their lives. Their example shows us how powerful faith can be and reminds us that even when we have doubts or face struggles, God's mercy is always with us. Today, as we honor their memory, I ask you to think about your own relationship with Jesus. Are you ready to renew your commitment? Are you willing to grow in faith and live as a testimony of God's love?
If you feel the Holy Spirit speaking to your heart, I encourage you to respond today. Come to the altar, leave behind any doubts or worries, and trust in Jesus. Whether you want to be saved, want to start fresh with God, or simply need His help, this is your moment. Don’t wait- Step forward now and show that you trust the One who remembers and rewards those who seek Him. Let’s remember the faithful by becoming faithful ourselves and may God's grace give us strength to live for Him.
