God Enjoys Giving!
The sermon emphasizes that all good gifts come from God, encouraging believers to trust in His goodness, especially during trials.
Theodore Epp emphasizes that God is the ultimate giver of all good gifts, as highlighted in James 1:16-18. He warns against the serious error of doubting God's goodness, reminding us that every gift, regardless of size, is a manifestation of God's grace. Epp encourages believers to view their trials through the lens of eternity, recognizing that God's gifts are not based on merit but are freely given. He contrasts heavenly gifts with earthly desires, urging us to focus on what truly lasts. Ultimately, Epp reassures us that God's divine power equips us for life and godliness.
Text
James 1:16-18
James left no doubt about the fact that God is the giver of all that is good. James cautioned, "Do not err" (James 1:16).
The Greek word translated "err" means "to go astray" or "to go off course." It was used to describe a ship that had been driven from its course and was in severe danger.
So James was not referring to making a minor mistake but to making a serious error in judgment that could have awesome and terrible results.
Notice that James did not say "every great gift" but "every good gift" (v. 17). It does not matter whether the gift is large or small, anything and everything that God gives is good.
Sometimes the one under severe trial might question whether everything that comes from the hand of God is good, but James assured such a person that he never needs to question this. Keep in mind that James was referring to gifts--things that are not obtained by merit but purely by God's grace.
James stressed that the kind of gift of which he was speaking "is from above" (v. 17). Here James contrasted the things of heaven with the things of earth.
We are so easily entangled in earthly affairs and so easily consumed with the desire for those things that do not last. We will not live on this earth forever, so even our trials should be viewed in the light of eternity.
"According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue" (2 Pet. 1:3).
Sermon Outline
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I
- God as the giver of good gifts
- Understanding the meaning of 'err'
- The significance of every good gift
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II
- The assurance of God's goodness in trials
- Grace versus merit in receiving gifts
- Gifts from above vs. earthly desires
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III
- The eternal perspective on trials
- Divine power and provision for life
- The call to glory and virtue
Key Quotes
“Do not err.” — Theodore Epp
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” — Theodore Epp
“According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Recognize and appreciate the good gifts in your life as blessings from God.
- Maintain an eternal perspective when facing trials, knowing they serve a greater purpose.
- Seek to understand the grace of God in your life rather than relying solely on personal merit.