Where Are The Nine
Keith Malcomson challenges believers to remember and give thanks for God's faithfulness, urging them to be among the grateful few who return to glorify Him, inspired by the story of the ten lepers in Luke 17.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of gratitude and faithfulness to God, highlighting the contrast between those who receive miracles but do not return to give thanks and those who remain faithful and grateful. It calls for a reflection on the miracles and experiences with God in the past, urging the listeners to have genuine faith that leads to wholeness in Christ.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Context and Setting
- Jesus travels between Samaria and Galilee on His way to Jerusalem
- The village and the ten lepers are nameless, emphasizing the spiritual message over geography
- The significance of the church building and memories tied to spiritual experiences
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II. The Condition of the Ten Lepers
- Lepers were socially isolated and unclean according to the law
- They recognized their desperate need and cried out to Jesus for mercy
- Their faith led them to seek Jesus despite their exclusion
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III. The Response and Healing
- Jesus instructs them to show themselves to the priests
- All ten were healed as they obeyed
- Only one returned to give thanks, highlighting the question 'Where are the nine?'
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IV. Application for the Church Today
- Importance of public meetings and gathering to hear Jesus' voice
- The call to heartfelt prayer and lifting up voices in desperation
- Remembering and giving thanks for God's work in our lives and church history
Key Quotes
“Where are the nine? I know I've got your attention now.” — Keith Malcomson
“They lifted up their voices and said, 'Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.'” — Keith Malcomson
“They can tear down the building but they can never steal the testimonies and the things that God done there.” — Keith Malcomson
Application Points
- Regularly attend public gatherings to experience the presence and power of Jesus.
- Cultivate a heart of gratitude by remembering and giving thanks for God's work in your life.
- When feeling distant or helpless, cry out to Jesus with faith and desperation for mercy and healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main question Jesus asks in this sermon?
Jesus asks, 'Where are the nine?' referring to the nine healed lepers who did not return to give thanks.
Why does Keith Malcomson emphasize the importance of public meetings?
He stresses that public gatherings around Jesus are life-changing environments where believers can experience God's power and encouragement.
What does the story of the ten lepers teach about gratitude?
It teaches that while many receive God's blessings, only a few return to express genuine thankfulness, which is vital in the Christian walk.
How does the sermon relate to the church building at 74 O'Connell Street?
The building symbolizes a place of many spiritual experiences and testimonies, but the sermon reminds that the spiritual impact is what truly matters, not the physical location.
What practical advice does the speaker give for those feeling distant from God?
He encourages believers to lift up their voices in prayer and cry out to Jesus with heartfelt desperation to receive mercy and healing.