========================================================================
  SO DID NOT I, BECAUSE OF THE FEAR OF GOD.
  by F.B. Meyer
========================================================================

Summary: The sermon emphasizes the importance of humility and
selflessness in ministry, prioritizing love over duty and following
Christ's example.

Topics: "Sacrifice for Others", "Love vs. Duty"
Scripture References: Nehemiah 5:15, Matthew 22:37-39, John 15:13, Romans 12:1, 1 Corinthians 9:19-23, 2 Corinthians 5:14, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 5:2, Philippians 2:3-4, 1 John 4:19

------------------------------------------------------------------------
DESCRIPTION
------------------------------------------------------------------------

F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound impact of Nehemiah's decision to
forgo his rights out of reverence for God, illustrating that true
influence often requires personal sacrifice for the sake of others. He
draws parallels to the Apostle Paul's teachings, urging believers to
prioritize love over legalism in their service to Christ. Meyer
challenges the congregation to reflect on their own commitment to Jesus,
questioning whether their actions stem from love or mere duty. He
highlights that while many may justify their actions as legitimate, the
true measure of a believer is their devotion to their Master.
Ultimately, Meyer calls for a life led by love and grace, echoing
Nehemiah's declaration of faithfulness to God.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTENT
------------------------------------------------------------------------

So did not I, because of the fear of God. Neh. v. 15.

THESE were great words. Nehemiah had a perfect right to take this money.
Not a word could be said even by his critics, if he did. He was doing a
priceless work, and might justly claim his maintenance. On the other
hand, the people were very poor, and he would have a larger influence
over them if he were prepared to stand on their level, and to share with
them. It was just so that the Apostle argued in 1 Cor. ix. And from both
we learn that often we must forego our evident rights and liberties in
order to influence others for Christ. Do not always stand on your
rights; but live for others, making any sacrifice in order to save some
‑‑ even as Christ loved us, and gave Himself for us.

If Nehemiah did so much for the holy fear of God, what ought not we to
do for love? Love is more inexorable than law. Its exactions are more
stringent and searching. Are we doing as much for Iove of Jesus as
generations before did simply on the score of duty? It is much to be
questioned if Jesus does not get less, of outward service at least, out
of his followers, than Mehomet or Buddha does. But what He does get is
infinitely sweet to Him, in so far as love prompts it.

All around you people are doing things that they say are perfectly
legitimate; they call you narrow and bigoted because you do not join
with them; they are always arguing with you to prove you are wrong. But
your supreme law is your attitude to your Master. "I cannot do otherwise
for the love of Jesus."

"Not I, because of the fear of God."

"Not I, but the grace of God that was with me."

"Not I, but Christ liveth in me."

========================================================================
Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/fb-meyer/so-did-not-i-because-of-the-fear-of-god/
========================================================================