Sermon Sense

Well, I did it. Our pastor asked me last week if I’d like to preach this Sunday. He was going to be out of town, the associate pastor was going to be out of town and the person they asked initially backed out. So they were down to me. 

I’ve never done that sort of thing before. I’ve taught a lot of “Sunday School” for adults, but never have I spoken at length for the worship service. It was an honor to be asked. It was a privilege to do it. And it was a bit scary. But I thought it went as well as could be expected for my degree of training and experience.

I initially thought I might talk about a different topic than what was on the schedule. I thought about discussing “a personal walk” (the “quiet time”) or something similar since that’s what I’m speaking about in a couple of weeks at another conference. But then I decided to pursue the original topic: “The Lies We Believe: Good Christians should never feel angry, anxious or depressed.” 

This is a dangerous topic on which to speak, as most of us have very definite ideas on the topic. We’ve (most of us) experienced various degrees of these emotions. So, when I bring up ideas that may be different than our preconceived ideas, they may not be well-received. 

In particular I attacked the concept of the medical model of illness as applied to emotional/personal issues. I said that we are far more than just a combination of biochemicals and genes. While taking a pill may be a part of the answer, it is only a part. We need to also address spiritual issues and particularly our response to stressors or even our response to depression itself. 

While most folks thanked me afterward, I know of at least one person (involved in the mental health field) who took exception to my understanding and message. 

Nevertheless, it is (and was) my prayer that people would not hear me, but rather hear the Holy Spirit and His Word, remembering ONLY what the Spirit was speaking to each of our hearts. 

One other thing, I am so thankful for my precious family. I gave the talk to them on Saturday and they provided such helpful feedback. Thanks so much! 

Two brief points of interest (what I learned): 1. 1 John 4:18: “...perfect love drives out fear…” can be taken two ways: A. Our understanding and experiencing of God’s perfect love drives out our fear or B. Our love for others, as it is perfected (made more mature), drives out our fear. 

2. I recommend Robert Rogers book “Into the Deep,” the story of his family’s demise in a flash flood in the middle of Kansas in 2003 (a true account) and his response to that event. Very powerful. Very inspiring.  

I’m thankful for the opportunity to have spoken. It was … fun.