Today's ethics was like no other. The preacher didn't attempt to tickle our emotions or caress our ego. He didn't mince words in condemning how much we have replaced worship with entertainment. Being a member of the worship team back home, I know how much such messages pierce the hearts of musicians. The choir had just performed a superb medley. Such a message is the least they would expect.
The preacher was supposed to preach on Gen 15:1 "After these things, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision saying I am thy shield and exceeding great reward." But in trying to explain 'after these things' he took us to 2 Tim 2:19 "Nevertheless, the foundations if the Lord stands sure bearing this seal: the Lord knows those who are His and let everyone who is named with the name if the Lord depart from iniquity." I would say the sermon was "The Lord knows those who are His."
He made a powerful illustration. He called an NYSC official who had a son in secondary school. He asked a question "if your son walked past among 500 people, will you recognize him?" She responded in the affirmative. The preacher increased the number to 10000, then 50000 and continued until 5 million. Her answer was still in the affirmative. He made a comment "If a human, mortal with all limitations can still recognize a son, how much more God." No one can deceive God with a great voice or excellent skills. God knows His own.
I could go on and on but I know those who understand already know what I mean. The sermon was thought-provoking, called for increased consecration and introspection. It called for emphasis on personal relationship than collective worship. He returned to Gen 15 and said "God will only be a shield to those who bears His seal..."
It is my prayer that we won't be defensive to God's word. We would be humble and patient to be transformed by God's word.
Amen #Shouting#
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