Today's sermon will come from John 2:13-25, and the theme is going to be "corruption". It can be a challenging topic. Often we apply this word to those in positions of power, sayings like "power corrupts & absolute power corrupts absolutely", are common in our modern culture. Yet I believe the Truth is far closer to home and far deeper in perspective.
Corruption starts with our sinful selfish state. Acts of sin are an outflow of our self centered nature we all receive as humans, passed on through our fathers because of the curse of the fall in Genesis. This sin and its outcomes will cause corruption if it is left unchecked. If no one brings correction and there is no repentance, the act of remorse and change from our sinful direction, then corruption will seep in. Corruption will eventually take power and authority and much damage will be done. Common examples we hear about have to do with money, lies and sex. But corruption can often fly beneath the radar for a long time.
Lets consider that people often do not like change. So instead of listening, praying and responding to God and the voice of the Holy Spirit. They make decisions based on what is "normal" or what is comfortable or easy. Yet if we are seeking to make decisions on our own, then we are sinning. If we have allowed such sinful practices to take control then corruption has set in and we are headed for trouble.
Anytime we are allowing our sin nature to be in a position of control we are in danger of corrupt behavior and decision making. Even things that seem harmless and acceptable can have deep consequences because we are not seeking to live under the Lordship of Christ. I am not saying that this is easy to avoid. It is hard.
We must be courageous, we must make the hard decisions to follow God and seek His voice, regardless of what "we want". Our own selves should not be the barometer for our decision making. Our likes, dislikes, emotions and traditions can not be trusted. God can be trusted. So please join with me in a stand to be courageous. Let us be Honest about our fears, hopes, dreams, challenges, etc.. yet let us walk with Integrity, not allowing such things to have a hold on us. May we be Transparent, not hiding our weakness and failures, but having a true spirit of humility so that God is glorified in us.
As we take on the path of courage, in following Jesus fully. Part of the path is for us to show great amounts of grace to our brothers and sisters who are struggling with their own selfishness and weakness. We are to walk with them and help them, not slaughter them like enemies. Such a negative attitude is from our prideful selves, please do not hold up righteousness in order to damage your brothers and sisters. True courage to follow Christ sets His glory first and follows the Biblical model for how we are to grow together.
Walk with humble courage!
Pastor Bruce
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