Latter Encounter

Sermon Title: The Sovereignty of God vs. The Control of Man
​Scriptural Foundation: Psalm 121:1–2; Galatians 1:10
​Introduction: The Direction of the Gaze
​In this life, we often find ourselves looking at those around us—our brothers, our sisters, and our peers—for guidance and approval. But there is a danger when the gaze of our soul shifts from the Creator to the creature. When we look to man for help, we often find a leash instead of a hand. Today, we examine how to break the chains of human expectation to walk in the freedom of Divine Favor.
​I. The Peril of People-Pleasing (Galatians 1:10)
​The scripture tells us plainly: “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.”
​The Idolatry of Approval: When we allow others to "design" our lives, we are effectively worshipping their opinion over God’s purpose.
​The Stagnant Box: A life designed by a jealous person is a life designed to keep you small. If you are living to satisfy the insecurities of others, you have ceased to be a servant of the Most High.
​The Scriptural Truth: You cannot fulfill a God-sized destiny in a man-made cage.
​II. The Deception of the Smooth Word (Psalm 55:21)
​The Bible warns us of the "Judas Spirit"—the one who calls you "friend" or "sibling" while harboring a sword in their heart. “The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart.”
​The Spirit of Pretense: Not every "amen" in your life comes from a sincere heart. Some celebrate your struggles because it makes them feel superior. They tolerate your existence but tremble at your elevation.
​The Gift of Discernment: We must pray for the spirit of discernment (1 Corinthians 12:10). To survive the "Judas Kiss," one must realize that family is defined by fruit, not just by blood or title.
​The Scriptural Truth: True love rejoices in the truth and in the lifting up of others (1 Corinthians 13:6). Anything else is a counterfeit brotherhood.
​III. The Source of True Elevation (Psalm 121:1–2)
​When the "hills" of life seem filled with enemies and false friends, where do we turn? “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”
​Looking Above the Sabotage: Your enemies want you to look at them—to be distracted by their gossip and their control. But your help does not reside in your critics.
​The Creator’s Prerogative: The one who made the Heavens and the Earth is the only one qualified to map out your future. As Jeremiah 29:11 declares, His thoughts toward you are of peace, to give you an expected end—not the end your enemies have planned for you.
​The Scriptural Truth: When God promotes you, no man can demote you. When He opens a door, no jealous "brother" can shut it.
​Conclusion & Benediction
​Brethren, do not let the "smooth words" of men dictate the path of your feet. If you are walking a path that does not fit the soul God gave you, it is time to turn back to the Father. Lift your eyes above the hills of human jealousy and fix them upon the Throne of Grace.
​Closing Prayer:
"Lord, we repent for the times we have sought the approval of men over the favor of God. We break every soul-tie and every chain of control that has tried to keep us in the valley. Give us the wisdom of the serpent and the gentleness of the dove. Let our lives be a reflection of Your blueprint, and not the small designs of man. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen."
​Would you like me to provide a list of specific "Affirmations of Faith" based on these scriptures to help you stay strong during the week?

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Declarations and prayer

THE TIMELESS NATURE OF GODS WISDOM IS SUPREME

The Bible teaches us that respect is not solely the domain of the young towards the old. In 1 Timothy 5:1, we're instructed to "Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren."

However, this doesn't mean age automatically commands respect. The Bible also warns against showing favoritism based on outward appearances or status (James 2:1-4).

Wisdom is Key

Proverbs 9:10 says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Wisdom is not exclusive to the elderly; it's available to all who seek God (Proverbs 2:1-5).

In fact, some of the Bible's wisest figures were young men, like Solomon (1 Kings 3:7-15) and Daniel (Daniel 1:17-20). Their wisdom came from seeking God, not just their age.

Reciprocal Respect

Ephesians 5:21 instructs us to "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This means showing respect to all, regardless of age or position.

The Bible also warns against pride and arrogance, which can manifest when we use our age or status to belittle others (Proverbs 16:18, James 4:6).

Nigerian Context

In our Nigerian context, let's remember that respect is a two-way street 🚧. We should show respect to our elders, but they should also show respect to us, especially when we demonstrate wisdom and understanding.

Let's strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, regardless of age. Where the older generation shares their wisdom, and the younger generation brings fresh perspectives and energy.