Vocabulary of Divorce
Preaching through James is proving to be a deeply convicting labor. Over the last two Sundays, we have delved into the sin of partiality, as James tackles it in Chapter Two, verses One Through Thirteen. Though he applies it directly to economic status (rich or poor), we had to explore ways in which we may knowingly or unknowingly commit this same sin in our church today. While I hope I supplied enough examples and illustrations to help my listeners examine their hearts, I want to now add another category of people that I think we often treat with partiality in churches today:
Give Thanks
Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit (1 Thess 5:17-19).
Due Process
A single witness shall not suffice against a person for any crime or for any wrong in connection with any offense that he has committed. Only on the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses shall a charge be established . . . and if the witness is a false witness and has accused his brother falsely, then you shall do to him as he had meant to do to his brother. So shall you purge the evil from your midst" (Deut 19:15-19).
Judging the Judges (Part 7)
If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth (Numbers 30:2).
Judging the Judges (Part 5)
Deborah. The only female judge of Israel. A prophetess who spoke God's words to Israel.
Judging the Judges (Part 4)
Having now set the backdrop with the first three posts in this series, let's take a look at a few judges. Some well-known. Others not so much.