The Encourager
“Excuses”
Excuses
by Jeff Curtis
In Exodus chapters 3 and 4, Moses questions to God could be used to introduce a sermon on excuses. The lesson could go on from Moses’ excuses to those offered by other Bible characters – Adam, Aaron, Saul, those invited to the feast (Luke 14:16-24), and others – and then go on to the excuses people offer today for not becoming Christians or for not being faithful as Christians.
Another possibility is to devote an entire lesson to Moses’ excuses as compared to excuses people offer today. (1) Moses asked, “Who am I?” Some people believe they are inadequate t do the will of God, are you? (2) “Who are You?” Some people don’t respond because they don’t understand God’s nature. (3) “They will not believe.” Maybe the closest thing to this excuse today is “Why should I believe?” God offers signs, which are recorded in the Bible, to help us believe. (4) “I am not eloquent.” The “I can’t” syndrome keeps many people from becoming Christians or fulfilling their potential as Christians. (5) “Send someone else.” The heart of the matter is that people do not want to answer God’s call. They need to learn that no one else can do for you what God wants you to do.
Some look at Exodus 3 and 4 and view this account of Moses at the burning bush as Moses talking back to God. So, let’s look at this for a moment.
Is it right to “talk back to God” or to argue with Him?
Should we try ton talk Him out of what He plans to do?
Moses did, and God was patient with him. Job did, and God was patient with him. Maybe we are too reluctant to express the true feelings of our hearts when we go to God in prayer. We may need to speak to God more openly and boldly to God, as Moses did. To speak to God boldly shows faith, not the lack of faith. In the end, that major question is not “Did we ‘talk back’ to God?” but “Did we at last submit to God’s will?” Moses submitted, and Job submitted. We must do the same.
(I read this on Facebook. It is from retired preacher’s page. His son posted it and gave me permission to use it in this bulletin.)
How To Identify A Lukewarm Christian
He has time to read the news every day but not the Bible.
He spends more time with the sports shows than he does in prayer.
He spends as much for tobacco as he gives to the Lord.
For lack of study, he is unqualified to teach others.
When things are not done the way he wants them, he pouts and will not cooperate. "It must be my way or none."
He expects to be visited or checked up on when sick, but never visits the sick.
He doesn't have enough interest in the souls of the lost to make a serious effort to convert them.
He expects the church to develop leaders, but never comes to the men's training class.
Instead of having confidence in the gospel and its power to save, he is ashamed of the word. He often criticizes the preaching.
He sets a bad example by missing church services.
He continually finds fault with those who are trying.
He knows he should be giving more but loves his money too much.
He is not regular in Bible study.
(Now the tough question. Can this be applied to us here at Eastside? Something to think about.)
