Sticks and Stones—by Jacques Genis
September 19, 2022
Sermon summary:
Matthew 12:34–37 We will be condemned or acquitted by our words. We will have to give account for every careless words we speak.
*Words reveal who we are in our hearts and character.
*Life is a string of unguarded moments where what's stored in our hearts.
Why don't we pay more attention?
*We under-estimate the impact of what we say.
James 3:2 We all stumble in our ways. Sometimes we will make mistakes, so don't judge someone else.
Proverbs 17:21 It has the power of life and death. Make an effort to create life in others.
Three things your words need to be:
- Cautious. Prov 28:20 not reckless. Think before speaking. We mean well, but sometimes the best form of encouragement is to say nothing at all. Pull up the handbrake (pray first before you speak; ask if it needs to said?).
- Honest. We are lied to between 10—200 times a day. Prov 12:17; Prov 16:13 Eph 4:25 Be truthful with who you are. There is a difference between what is true and truthful. Be honest with each other.
- Beneficial. Ephesians 4:29 Only what is helpful for building others up. Spur people on towards greater respect/love/good deeds.
Watch the full sermon here (starts at 42mins)
Words have the power to build up or break down. Speak with grace, avoid double-speak, and use words that reflect love, especially with our children.
God made us in His image to reflect his character. He loves us freely and calls us to walk in his presence and live in the freedom of forgiveness.
Following Jesus comes with the cost of persecution and rejection. If we face none, it may reveal compromise or conformity to the world. Are we influencing culture—or being influenced by it? True faith shares Christ boldly, just as the early disciples did. Let’s trust God with courage and live boldly for the One we serve.