God Is Not Impressed
The sermon emphasizes that in God's eyes, all believers are equal regardless of their earthly status or wealth.
Theodore Epp emphasizes that God does not judge individuals based on their earthly status, as all are equal in His eyes. He explains that true worth is not determined by wealth or possessions, but by one's relationship with Christ. Epp highlights the importance of humility and lowliness of heart, reflecting the character of Jesus. He warns against being impressed by material wealth, reminding us that earthly riches do not guarantee a favorable standing before God. Ultimately, it is God who elevates or humbles individuals according to His divine purpose.
Text
James 1:9-11
When James wrote concerning a brother of "low degree" (James 1:9), we must remember that he was writing from a human viewpoint. Only humans characterize one person as being of low degree and another as being of high degree, because God is not a respecter of persons.
James was writing about a "brother"; that is, one who has trusted Jesus Christ as Saviour. Within the family of God everyone is equal in God's eyes. The low are exalted, the high are brought low.
God calls for lowliness of heart as seen in the Person of Jesus Christ.
The reason we should not be overly impressed by whether a person is of low estate or high estate is that his earthly possessions have nothing to do with his relationship before God.
Jesus pointed out this truth by telling a parable about a rich man who said, "I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?" (Luke 12:19,20).
Riches do not make a person better than anyone else, nor do riches prevent sickness or death.
Since Christ is meek and lowly in heart, those who know Him as Saviour and who allow Him to live out His life through them will exhibit the same characteristics.
"The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up" (1 Sam. 2:7).
Sermon Outline
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I
- Understanding the concept of low and high degree
- God's perspective on equality among believers
- The significance of being a 'brother' in Christ
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II
- The danger of valuing earthly possessions
- The parable of the rich fool
- The temporary nature of wealth
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III
- The call to lowliness of heart
- Christ as the model of meekness
- Exhibiting Christ-like characteristics
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IV
- God's sovereignty over wealth and status
- The role of humility in the Christian life
- The eternal perspective on earthly status
Key Quotes
“God is not a respecter of persons.” — Theodore Epp
“The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.” — Theodore Epp
“Riches do not make a person better than anyone else.” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Recognize that true value comes from our relationship with God, not our material possessions.
- Cultivate a humble heart by following the example of Jesus Christ.
- Focus on eternal truths rather than temporary earthly status.