Glorifying God Outside of Jericho

Luke 18:35-43

35 As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind beggar was sitting beside the road. 36 When he heard the noise of a crowd going past, he asked what was happening. 37 They told him that Jesus the Nazarene* was going by. 38 So he began shouting, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 39 “Be quiet!” the people in front yelled at him. But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40 When Jesus heard him, he stopped and ordered that the man be brought to him. As the man came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord,” he said, “I want to see!” 42 And Jesus said, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.” 43 Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too. (NLT)

Introduction: The Benefits of a Life that Glorifies God

Persuade the audience that a life which glorifies God is the life they want.

We often think that a life lived in pursuit of our dreams, happiness, plans, and desires is the best way to live. We also believe that the ulitimate in life is found once we realize those things.

However, the reality is very different.

Requirements for a Life that Glorifies God

1. Geniune Interaction with Jesus, Lk. 18:35-42. Elements of that interaction.
1. Interacts with Jesus compelled by a sense of personal need, vs. 38, "have mercy on me"
2. Interacts with Jesus compelled by a sense of urgency, vs. 39, "he only shouted louder"
3. Interacts with Jesus with a willingness toward divine change, vs. 41, "What do you want me to do for you?"
2. Faith-based Personal Transformation by Jesus, Lk. 18:42b-43a, "your faith has healed you ... instantly the man could see"
3. Public Profession in Jesus, Lk. 18:43d, "praising God"
4. Whole-hearted Discipleship, Lk. 18:43c, "he followed Jesus"