So Did Not I, Because of the Fear of God.
The sermon emphasizes the importance of humility and selflessness in ministry, prioritizing love over duty and following Christ's example.
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.
Text
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."
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Humility in Ministry
- The Contrast Between Fear and Love
- The Call to Selflessness in Following Jesus
- Prioritizing love over duty
- The sweetness of love in service to Jesus
Key Quotes
“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.” — F.B. Meyer
“Not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” — F.B. Meyer
“Not I, but Christ liveth in me.” — F.B. Meyer
Application Points
- We should be willing to forego our rights and liberties in order to influence others for Christ.
- Love is a more inexorable motivation than duty, and it brings a sweetness to Jesus that is not found in mere obedience.
- We should prioritize love over duty in following Jesus, making sacrifices for others and living for their benefit.