Open Ears-Closed Mouth
The sermon emphasizes the importance of comprehending the Word of God and the dangers of quick retorts, encouraging listeners to respond with soft answers.
Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of being attentive to the Word of God, as true faith arises from hearing and accepting it. He points out the irony that while all creation obeys God's Word, many humans, made in His image, often fail to truly believe and respond to it. Epp warns against being quick to speak in response to criticism, highlighting the wisdom found in Proverbs about the dangers of hasty words and the value of a soft answer. He encourages believers to reflect on their speech and its impact, reminding them that controlling one's mouth is vital for a peaceful life.
Text
James 1: 19-21
James wanted all believers to be alert to comprehend the Word of God. This is very important since "faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17). The Word of God gives us faith to believe, and when we believe, God creates new life within us.
Many people hear the Word of God, but to some of them it is only words; they do not accept it as the Word of God. What a paradox it is that all creation obeys His Word except we who are made in the image of God and have the ability to choose. Many people have an extensive knowledge of the Word of God, but they do not really believe what it says, so they do not respond to it as His Word.
We should not be quick to retort when someone has spoken against us. To be quick with an answer can sometimes get us into much trouble. Consider what the Word of God has to say about these matters. Proverbs 29:20 says, "Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him." Proverbs 10:19 says, "In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise."
A rule that should govern our lives is stated in Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."
"The soul of the transgressors shall eat violence. He that keepth his mouth keepeth his life" (Prov. 13:2,3).
Sermon Outline
- I. The Importance of Comprehending the Word of God
- A. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17)
- B. The Word of God gives us faith to believe and creates new life within us
- II. The Paradox of Disobedience
- A. All creation obeys God's Word except those made in His image
- B. The ability to choose brings responsibility to obey God's Word
- III. The Dangers of Quick Retorts
- A. Proverbs 29:20 warns against hasty words
- B. Proverbs 10:19 cautions against the multitude of words
- IV. The Power of Soft Answers
- A. A soft answer turns away wrath (Proverbs 15:1)
- B. Grievous words stir up anger
Key Quotes
“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Rom. 10:17).” — Theodore Epp
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1).” — Theodore Epp
“He that keepth his mouth keepeth his life (Proverbs 13:3).” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- We should be careful not to respond quickly to criticism, as it can lead to trouble.
- Instead, we should strive to respond with soft answers that turn away wrath.
- By doing so, we can keep our lives and maintain a positive relationship with others.