A Foundation for Words, Part 2 - SERMON NOTES

Intro: (1) series recap (2) value of words (20:15) → (cf. bb cards) (3) ultimate value of love

Wisdom Words

1. Supportive words (31:8-9): (1) words that defend/help (cf. not present, can’t help themselves) (2) spoken to one with power/influence (3) categories → parent, boss, older, teacher, gov’t
2. Healing words (12:18): (1) injury vs. healing → rash reckless anger vs. humble care and concern (2) easiest toward those we’re closest to → “I am sorry” (3) me struggling with intensity
3. Hope-filled words (12:25): (1) all carrying anxiety (cf. relational, financial, vocational, spiritual, cultural, etc.) → REMEMBER (2) resist cultural hopelessness through Christ (cf. John 16:33)

Gospel Words

1. Truth words (Eph. 4:14-15): (1) unity/maturity goal of church → tied to Christ (2) happens
through rejecting human ideas, speaking truth in love (3) opinion, self-help, other religions (4) counter with “truth in love” (5) truth comes from scripture, love comes from relationship
2. Grace words (Eph. 4:29): (1) “corrupting” = rotten, putrid (cf. fruit, fish) → “decay-spreading conversation that runs others down and delights in their weakness” (3) “grace” talk = building others up (4) gracious speech flows from remembering our own need for grace (5) church name
3. Forgiving words (Eph. 4:32): (1) forgiveness begins vertically (2) forgiveness is the only way to remain soft-hearted (3) forgiveness is refusing to hold onto wrongs and/or retaliate
(4) furthermore, forgiveness is replacing offense with active kindness


Conclusion: love the ultimate litmus test (John 13:34), indication of Spirit (1 Cor. 13:4-7)