Sermons on the outward appearance:

Sheep Or Goats

Contributed by Gaither Bailey on Nov 22, 2014

We judge people by their outward appearance. God judges us by what we have done for "the least of these.l"

Sheep or Goat – Matthew 25:31-46 Intro: Raise your hand if you would: Like to loose 20 pounds. Like to be taller? Like to be seen as a prize Persian when you are really an old alley cat. Perhaps you know someone who thinks they are a prize poodle when they are really just a mangy ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46

Denomination: Presbyterian/Reformed

Humility Or Hypocrisy

Contributed by Gaither Bailey on Oct 30, 2020

As followers of Christ Jesus, we should be more concerned about the orientation of our heart and lives than we are about outward appearances.

Humility or Hypocrisy Matthew 23: 1 - 12 Intro: A story is told of a Texas rancher who met up with a Wisconsin dairy farmer. The 2 men talked about their land & the dairy farmer told the rancher that he operated his farm on 125 acres. The Texan, not to be outdone said, “Yankee, that ain’t ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 23:1-12

Denomination: Presbyterian/Reformed

Peter's Vision: Breaking Down Walls Series

Contributed by Mark Schaeufele on Jan 12, 2024

Let God change the way you see people. Stop looking at outward appearances or misguided mindsets and start looking at the heart that needs Jesus.

Peter’s Vision: Breaking Down Walls Text: Acts 10:9-23 Introduction 1. Illustration: “Preacher isn't talkin' 'bout religion no more He just wants to praise the Lord People aren't as stuffy as they were before They just want to praise the Lord And it's very plain to ...read more

Scripture: Acts 10:9-23

Denomination: Methodist

Overcoming False Humility And False Change Of Heart Series

Contributed by Shaila Touchton on Dec 10, 2024

In this sermon, we will explore the biblical teachings on this topic, examining the characteristics of false humility and false change of heart, and providing guidance on how to overcome these counterfeit spiritual experiences.

As believers, we are often encouraged to cultivate humility and to seek a change of heart. However, the Bible warns us about the dangers of false humility and false change of heart. In this sermon, we will explore the biblical teachings on this topic, examining the characteristics of false humility ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 23:5

Our Approaches To Truth And Sin

Contributed by Dr. Madana Kumar, Phd on May 29, 2008

People should not be judged by their outward appearances. It is our approaches to sin and truth that make a difference in how we impact others. John teaches us some things in this

Our approach to Sin 1 John 1: 5-10 5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is ...read more

Scripture: 1 John 1:5-10

Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

Appearances Can Be Deceiving Series

Contributed by Jeff Strite on Jun 7, 2009

God doesn’t judge from ouward appearance... but too often we do. What can we do to avoid that tendency?

OPEN: How many of you have ever watched “American Idol”? (Nearly ½ the congregation raised their hands). Ok, how many of you have ever seen “Britain’s Got Talent.”? (A few hand went up) That’s understandable since “Britain’s Got Talent” is aired in Britain. It’s the English cousin of our “American ...read more

Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:1-23

Denomination: Christian/Church Of Christ

Do Not Judge By Appearance

Contributed by James Dina on May 29, 2021

Learn to judge men, by the things that are not seen in their nature but seen in their fruits (Matthew 7:20), and also by their graces and spiritual glory. Judge them by their patience, meekness, holiness and uprightness.

DO NOT JUDGE BY APPEARANCE "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment." (John 7:24) A change in our outward condition causes many people to change their opinions concerning us. While Job did swim in the full streams of riches and honor, many respected him; but ...read more

Scripture: John 7:24

Denomination: Pentecostal

Trusting In The Lord Series

Contributed by Rich Anderson on Feb 16, 2011

Trust in the Lord. Inward trust and faith, outward obedience. If we truly put our trust in the Lord, giving up relying on our own intellect, than our outward appearance should reflect this faith and trust.

In Proverbs chapter 3, verses 1-10, Solomon teaches us about wisdom. My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, ...read more

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-10

Denomination: Christian Church

Upward And Outward

Contributed by Daryl Bahn on Oct 5, 2001

The Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year C; The people of the world live lives that are DOWNWARD and INWARD. As God’s people, redeemed by Jesus’ blood and righteousness, we can live our lives UPWARD and OUTWARD.

Imagine a ship at sea. The clouds are dark, the wind is strong, and the waves are rough. Is the ship in danger? It all depends on direction—which way it is headed. If it is going toward the harbor, it’s safe. If it is pointed toward the rocks, it’s in trouble! Life is like that. Two identical ...read more

Scripture: Luke 16:1-13

Denomination: Lutheran

The Danger Of Hypocrisy

Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Jan 29, 2025

Hypocrisy is the act of pretending to be something one is not, especially in matters of faith and morality. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, exposing their focus on outward appearances while neglecting inner purity.

Title: THE DANGER OF HYPOCRISY By Rev. Samuel Arimoro Main Text: Matthew 23:25-28 Supporting Texts: Luke 12:1-2, 1 Samuel 16:7, Proverbs 26:24-26, Galatians 6:7-8, James 1:22-24 INTRODUCTION: Hypocrisy is the act of pretending to be something one is not, especially in matters of faith and ...read more

Scripture: Matthew 23:25-28, Luke 12:1-2, 1 Samuel 16:7, Proverbs 26:24-26, Galatians 6:7-8, James 1:22-24  (view more)  (view less)

Denomination: Assembly Of God

Appearances Can Be Deceiving

Contributed by Timm Meyer on Sep 11, 2007

Pentecost 12(A) - Appearances can be and often are deceiving. Our Almighty God comes as a gentle Savior and his believers go out with this power of the Lord.

APPEARANCES CAN BE DECEIVING (Outline) August 19, 2007 - PENTECOST 12 - 1 Kings 19:9b-18 * * * * * * * * * INTRO: Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? That is the question that haunts every living being. Thankfully, you and I are not able to look ...read more

Scripture: 1 Kings 19:9-18

Denomination: Lutheran

Appearances Series

Contributed by Pat Cook on Aug 31, 2004

Part 4 in resurrection series - to whom did Jesus appear after He rose, and the overwhelming proof contained therein.

Acts 1:1-3 – Appearances In 1963 the body of 14-yr-old Addie Mae Collins, one of 4 black girls tragically murdered in a church bombing by white racists, was buried in Birmingham, AL. For years family members kept returning to the grave to pray and leave flowers. In 1998 they made the decision ...read more

Scripture: Acts 1:1-3

Denomination: Baptist

The Appearance Series

Contributed by Kevin Ruffcorn on Jan 5, 2017

John baptizes, bear fruit worthy of repentance and share what you have.

Introduction God and Suffering is one of the greatest conundrums that people of faith face. Where is God in pain, persecution and loss? The length of suffering increases the questions. It is one thing to struggle with God's presence when one is turned down for a job promotion, or has gall bladder ...read more

Scripture: Luke 3:1-22

Denomination: Lutheran

Appearances Series

Contributed by Paul Clemente on Mar 17, 2015

what does God look at first when he looks at us?

We have been learning form a man named Saul, chosen by God to be king of Israel, but because of his arrogance and disobedience to God, Saul was rejected by God. Today, in preparation for our worship with water baptisms, we will note the difference on how man sees things in comparison to God. Open ...read more

Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:1-7

Denomination: Independent/Bible

The Kingdom Within

Contributed by Howard Strickland on Dec 17, 2006

We are a people who have been guilty of looking for the anointing on the outside, but outward appearances can deceive. The Pharisees were great preachers, and keepers of the law, but they looked at Jesus and called Him “Beelzebub.”

The Kingdom Within! Text: Romans 14: 17-18 (What I’m speaking about this morning, the devil doesn’t want you to ever grasp because he understands that if you do, he will loss his grip on your life.) 17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and ...read more

Scripture: Romans 14:17-18

Denomination: Pentecostal