Talk the Talk (2)

Many times, the problem with peace is greater than the problem with war. People always say I will do better, but they never do better. They have no power within them to do better until they come to Christ. Billy Graham

The following two sermons Will be on ‘Talking the Talk’ and next week will be ‘Walking the Walk’

Before talking comes reading and praying, and listening, why do you think most people don’t go to church? The other person will answer something, usually including why they don’t go if they don’t ask them why they don’t. Answers will be widely variable. Suppose they say that there is no God. Ask them about their worldview. Or switch it around. Worldview, then don’t go to church. The worldview question should bring out some creator function that you may call God; you may be able to tell your story then How God saved you.

““A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. And I tell you this; you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” Matthew 12:35–37 NLT

Let’s pray for good things from the treasury of your good heart. Talk to people! Over the last couple of years, I feel as though people are more reticent, so they don’t mind talking but don’t do it. But when you listen to them you may hear that they enjoy communicating.

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. James 1:19–21 NLT

It seems that James is telling us to get right with God too! I cannot imagine that you want to be a hypocrite. Saying one thing and doing another.

If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. James1:26 NLT

Peter has another view. He would like you to not be afraid to approach people. Remember to be humble and gentle.

Who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong! 1 Peter3:13–17 NLT

Once again Paul is telling to get right with God and get along with one another.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31–32 NLT

Long ago David had the notion that people were bad-mouthing others and lying to one another.

Come, my children, and listen to me, and I will teach you to fear the Lord.

Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous?

Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies!

Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. Psalm 34:11–14.NLT