August 5, 2007 INTRODUCTION –
Def. of Mercy – Webster – compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one’s power. Mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.
Vines says of merciful of Matt. 5:7 – (eleemon) – not simply possessed of pity, but actively compassionate – is used of Christ as our High Priest & of those who are like God as in Matt. 5:7 I. God is merciful – Psa. 86:15 119:156 145:8,9 Lam. 3:22,23
II. We are much in need of mercy Luke 18:9-14 Eph. 2:1-5
III. 3 reasons why we should be merciful in our dealings with A. God is merciful toward us Luke 6:36 Matt. 18:23-25
B. The merciful are happy, blessed, joyful – Matt. 5:7 Why do you think that is?
Abraham towards selfish and foolish Lot Joseph towards his brothers Moses towards rebellious Miriam David towards the guy that threw stones at him and cursed him; and towards Saul twice Jesus towards His murderers Stephen towards those who stoned him Paul eventually towards Mark
C. The merciful receive mercy Matt. 5:7 Jas. 2:13 II Tim. 1:16
IV. Why do we find this difficult? A. Not in our fallen nature – Rom. 1:29-31
B. Matt. 5:6 – pursuit of righteousness By mercy triumphs over judgment – and we will never totally attain to the biblical ideals
C. Need for church discipline – I Cor. 5 Jude 22,23
Need to be merciful towards youth
Conclusion – Communion – United we Stand