Hey there! How’s it going? I wanted to tell you about a worship service happening at LivingStone Church on September 17th. The video of the service is by LivingStone Church and it starts off with the pastor expressing gratitude to Bill and Mike for filling in while he was sick. The pastor then begins a teaching on Luke chapter 20 verses 19-26, which revolves around the problem of politicians speaking without actually answering questions. In the passage, Jesus is faced with opposition from religious leaders trying to get rid of him, and he responds truthfully, leaving them speechless. The content of the video touches on themes of light and darkness, with a focus on opposition to the truth and the importance of speaking it boldly.
LivingStone Church Worship Sept 17
Introduction
Welcome to LivingStone Church’s worship service on September 17th! We’re excited to have you join us today as we dive into God’s Word and worship together.
Acknowledgment of Illness
Before we begin, I want to express my gratitude to Bill and Mike for stepping in and leading while I was ill. Their willingness to serve and support during my absence is truly appreciated. Thank you all for your understanding and prayers during that time.
Teaching on Luke chapter 20 verses 19-26
Now, let’s turn our attention to the teaching for today, which focuses on Luke chapter 20 verses 19-26. This passage takes place during the last week of Jesus’ life, where the religious leaders are trying to get rid of him. They want to silence his message and his influence, and their opposition becomes evident in their attempts to trap him with a question about paying taxes to Caesar.
Opposition to Jesus
The opposition to Jesus is driven by the devil, who is pulling their strings. They are not interested in tolerance or engaging in meaningful debate. Their only goal is to silence and destroy the truth. In fact, those who oppose the church and the gospel are driven by Satan, with the ultimate goal of extinguishing the light of Christ.
Jesus’ True Nature
In this passage, Jesus exposes the true nature of his opposition as being servants of the devil, rather than representatives of God. He sees through their trickery and understands their true intentions. When they ask about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus answers truthfully and without hesitation. He advises giving to Caesar what belongs to him and giving to God what belongs to God. This truthful response leaves the opposition speechless and showcases Jesus’ commitment to speaking the truth, regardless of the consequences.
Theme of Light and Darkness
The theme of light and darkness is prominent in this passage. As believers, we should not fear our opponents, even if they threaten us with death or imprisonment. Our value to God is immeasurable, and we are called to be a light in a dark world. The opposition will try to extinguish that light, but we must remember that we bear the image of God and represent Him on Earth. The darker the night, the brighter the light should shine. Therefore, we are encouraged to be bold and courageous in being a light in this dark world.
Example of Unengaged Debate
The passage also provides an example of unengaged debate from Jesus’ opposition. They ask provocative questions but avoid engaging in a meaningful debate. Their primary goal is to catch Jesus in a statement that can be used against him. This scheme is driven by their desire to silence Jesus and exert their power over him. This example serves as a reminder of the monitoring and censorship of speech in our modern society, including within our own church. We must be aware of the unjust tactics employed by those who oppose the truth and be prepared to speak up and speak the truth, following the example of Christ.
Warning of Future Censorship
In light of the monitoring and censorship of speech, both on social media and within the church, the speaker warns that a time may come when what is said from the stage will be flagged and shut down for going against the world’s narrative. This warning serves as a reminder of the unfair and unjust tactics driven by the god of this world. However, the importance of speaking the truth and upholding biblical principles remains paramount.
Encouragement to Speak the Truth
Despite the challenges we may face, the speaker emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth in the face of opposition. We are called to follow the example of Christ, who never shied away from speaking the truth, even when it was difficult or unpopular. Our role as Christians is to be truth-bearers and light-bringers in a world that desperately needs it.
Pretentious Individuals
The passage also discusses the presence of pretentious individuals who pretend to be righteous but have ulterior motives. Jesus sees through their trickery and understands their true intentions. As believers, we must be discerning and cautious when engaging with individuals who may be pretending to be on our side but are actually working against the Kingdom of God.
Trickery of the Spies
The spies sent by the religious leaders engage in trickery in an attempt to catch Jesus in a statement that can be used against him. However, Jesus sees through their scheme and responds truthfully. He reveals their true nature and leaves them speechless. This example serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing to speak the truth, even in the face of opposition and trickery.
Jesus’ Response about Paying Taxes
When asked about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus responds with wisdom and truth. Instead of avoiding the question or giving a politically motivated answer, he advises giving to Caesar what belongs to him and giving to God what belongs to God. This response leaves the opposition speechless and showcases Jesus’ commitment to truth and righteousness.
Leaving the Spies Speechless
Jesus’ response to the question about paying taxes leaves the spies speechless. They are unable to come up with a rebuttal or a trap to ensnare him. This moment highlights Jesus’ authority and wisdom, as well as his ability to navigate difficult situations with grace and truth.
Do Not Fear Opponents
As believers, we are encouraged to not fear our opponents, regardless of the threats they may pose. Jesus reminds us that our value to God is immeasurable, and we should be bold and courageous in speaking the truth. Our role as light-bearers in a dark world is crucial, even if those who oppose us try to extinguish the light. We must remember that we represent God on Earth and embody the brightness of His light.
Importance of Speaking the Truth
Speaking the truth is of utmost importance, even in the face of opposition or potential consequences. Just as Jesus spoke truthfully and without hesitation, we must follow his example and continue to speak the truth. Our commitment to truth and righteousness should outweigh any fear or concern about the opposition we may face.
Our Value to God
It is essential to recognize our value to God. Jesus reminds us that we are more valuable than a great number of sparrows in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. This reminder should embolden us to stand firm in our faith and speak the truth, regardless of how it is received by others. Our worth is determined by God, not by the opinions or actions of those who oppose us.
Being a Light in a Dark World
As followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in a dark world. The opposition we face may try to extinguish that light, but we must remember that the darker the night, the brighter the light shines. Our role as light-bearers is crucial in showing others the love and truth of Jesus Christ. Let us embrace the challenge of being a light in this dark world.
Representing God on Earth
We bear the image of God and are called to represent Him on Earth. This responsibility is not to be taken lightly, especially in the face of opposition. Just as Jesus represented God in His ministry, we are called to do the same. Our actions and words should reflect the character and love of God, even when faced with opposition or adversity.
Encouragement for Boldness and Courage
In conclusion, I want to encourage each one of you to be bold and courageous in speaking the truth. Just as Jesus faced opposition and remained steadfast in His mission, we too can face opposition with confidence and grace. Our value to God is immeasurable, and our role as light-bearers in a dark world is vital. Let us embrace the challenge and continue to represent God on Earth with boldness and courage.