Offensive to God

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message challenges the notion that everything in scripture is good news, and instead encourages us to consider how our 21st century American culture may be at odds with God's nature. We often try to avoid passages that make us uncomfortable, fearing they might offend others, but in doing so, we can inadvertently become offensive to God Himself.

Key Scripture References

• Exodus 20:4-5 - "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them." This passage is often seen as a clear command against idolatry, but it can be uncomfortable for those who struggle with materialism or consumerism.
• Isaiah 5:21 - "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil..." This verse highlights the tendency of humanity to redefine God's standards to fit our own desires. We may think we're being inclusive, but in reality, we can be perpetuating a culture that offends God.
• Psalm 2:1-3 - "Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed, saying 'Let us break their chains and throw off their fetters.'" This passage illustrates how humanity's rebellion against God is not a new phenomenon. We often try to justify our own ways as superior to God's.
• Matthew 5:17-20 - "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Jesus' statement emphasizes that He did not come to remove God's standards, but rather to bring them to their fullness. This challenges our tendency to selectively choose what we like from scripture.
• 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." This verse reminds us that everything we do should be done with a focus on honoring God. However, our actions often reveal a different priority.
• Romans 1:18-23 - "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness." This passage highlights how humanity's rebellion against God leads to divine judgment. We often try to avoid discussing this aspect of scripture, but it's essential for understanding our responsibility before a holy God.

Key Takeaways

• We must be careful not to selectively choose what we like from scripture, as this can lead us to redefine God's standards and become offensive to Him. Instead, we should strive to understand and apply the entire counsel of God.
• The way we live our lives reveals whether we are honoring or offending God. Our actions, words, and priorities all speak to our relationship with Him. We must examine ourselves to ensure we're not perpetuating a culture that offends God.
• Our 21st century American culture often values comfort, inclusivity, and tolerance above all else. However, this can lead us to compromise on God's standards, making us look more like the world than Christ followers. We must be willing to stand firm on God's truth, even when it's uncomfortable.
• As we navigate complex moral issues, we should ask ourselves: "What would God say about this?" or "How does this align with scripture?" This will help us avoid becoming offensive to God by promoting a culture that contradicts His nature and standards.

This Week's Challenge

Take time this week to re-examine your priorities, actions, and words. Ask yourself: "Am I living in such a way that honors God or do I need to make some changes?" Be specific about areas where you can improve and take concrete steps towards aligning your life with scripture.

Reflection Questions

• What are some passages in scripture that make you uncomfortable? How have you responded to them in the past, and how might you approach them differently now?
• Share an instance where someone's attempt to be inclusive or tolerant led to a compromise on God's standards. How did this affect your perception of their commitment to Christ?
• Consider a current issue or trend in our culture that challenges scripture. How would you explain the biblical perspective on this topic to someone who disagrees with you? What scriptural truths can you use to support your stance?