(Unfortunately, the audio of this sermon cut out early. The fill-in’s have been provided below.)
Developing Compassion in an Angry World
Sermon series: Dependable – Part 3 of 7
Pastor John Fanous
April 6, 2008
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” – Jesus, nailed to a cross, praying for those who tortured him (Luke 23:34)
Matthew 5:21-22
21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
2 Facts about Anger
1. Anger always comes from FRUSTRATED expectations.
2. Anger at INJUSTICE is good.
“He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.” Mk 3:5
Testing for Sinful Anger
Who do I talk about NEGATIVELY in front of others?
Who do I ENJOY hearing negative comments about?
Sinful anger hurts ME more than THE OTHER PERSON!
The key to dealing with your anger…
PRAY for those who make you angry.
“But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Mt 5:44
Restoring a Relationship with a Christian
1. Start the CONVERSATION.
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Mt 5:23-24
“If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone.” Mt 18:15a (NRSV)
2. Describe the person’s BEHAVIOR and how it affected you.
3. Listen and CLARIFY.
4. Exchange FORGIVENESS.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Eph 4:32
Scott Martin just turned me on to this site and the option to listen to the past sermons. I chose this as my first one. I sounds great! I wish I could have listened to the entire sermon. I’ll keep listening as I lay around recovering from my surgery. Thank you for making the sermons available. I look forward to hearing one in person soon.