Title... Justice: Speaking Truth to Power
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.”
Introduction: Pentecost (50 days after Easter) isn't merely a celebration of when the church began, but also a recollection of why the church exists. We're not to be fearful, or hide under and behind bushes, or remain silent. Like Christ, whose name we bare, we must be justice seekers! Christians should stand for what's morally right and fair.
Transition: Our text transpires post the Holy Spirit leading Jesus into the wilderness (physical deprivation for spiritual development), to fill Jesus with the power to proclaim an old truth in a new time. It's presentation was pleasing, but the application is what made the congregation become violently aggressive.
Exposition: What was it that Jesus was filled for, and what was Jesus led to say?
1. The poor finally gets Good News
2. The captives can be released
3. The blind will be able to see
4. The oppressed will be set free
Justice is not political, it's biblical! Jesus was on the side of the helpless, hopeless and homeless!
Conclusion: At what time will these injustices will be made right? Now! The Lord's favor/grace has come through Jesus Christ!
Take-A-Way: The Holy Spirit is still leading us and filling us, to be on the right side of justice, by speaking truth to power and by putting feet to the faith we claim to possess!
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