“Wisdom of Justice (Part 2/2)” - Proverbs 21:2-3
Sermon series: Navigating Life with Proverbs
Sermon Title: Wisdom of Justice Pt. 2
Scripture: Proverbs 21:2-3
Introduction:
We continue off from learning that in God’s eyes, worship without justice is worthless. We defined justice as “giving people what they are due, whether it is punishment or protection or care”. This refers not only to personal justice but also to our neighbours.
There are many of us who think if we do right by our personal justice, this is enough. But God is pleading with us through today’s passage that we are called to stand up for those around us and work to make right the things that are unjust in the world. For the gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to transform and restore all injustices, brokenness, and forces of evil that are against the people of God.
Overview:
Let’s look first at our motives in working for justice:
We don’t need to fight for justice so we may be justified, we have already been justified by our faith in Jesus Christ
We fight for justice in remembrance of who we once were, as the vulnerable, the unfortunate, and the guilty – to our own sins
Applications:
Pay attention to the prompting of the Spirit.
What triggers you, and why?
Why do these issues trigger you?
The Lord will reveal to you how He wants you to respond to that injustice
Prayer is required.
We need God’s help through prayer against the work by the principalities and powers
We are anchored to address justice in the way of the cross, in the way of the kingdom, and in the way of Jesus
Protest
We are called to protest and speak out against the injustice that is happening in our world
Living the life of justice calls us to prioritize our proximity to the poor.
Until we are brought close to the ones who need the most care, we will not be able to let the goodness of God and His loving compassion of the Spirit in our lives flow out of us
The church is a representation of God’s kingdom, and this includes the poor, the needy, and the unfortunate
Sermon reflection questions:
Would you say you are informed on the key social issues in our world today? If not, what keeps you from staying engaged and updated?
Is the knowledge of being justified in Jesus Christ a motivator in how you work for justice in your own life or for those around you?
What would a church community which prioritizes and emphasizes social justice well, look like in your eyes? What would your role in how that church works for justice be?
Do you see prayer as powerful in your fight for justice?
