#42: What Doth the Lord Require of Thee?

<ul>

<li> Email: [email protected]</li>

<li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li>

<li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li>

<li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/WHAT_DOTH_THE_LORD_REQUIRE_OF_THEE.pdf

</li>

<li>

This sermon on Micah 6:8 explores the profound requirements that the Lord has set for humanity: to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. The preacher emphasizes that God has clearly shown what is good; it's not a mystery hidden from humanity. This revelation is not exclusive to any particular group but is accessible to all, as evident from the examples of various biblical figures like Adam, Abel, Seth, Noah, and Job who knew and demonstrated what was good.

The sermon highlights the role of conscience as a God-given arbiter of good and bad, emphasizing the need for individuals to train their consciences to be spiritually fit. Going against one's conscience is deemed destructive.

The concept of doing justly is explained as aligning one's decisions with the will of God. Knowledge of the law, both earthly and divine, is crucial for such just actions. The distinction between ethics (theory of justice) and morality (action based on ethics) is drawn, emphasizing that acting justly requires knowledge of God's word.

Loving mercy is presented as more than just forgiveness; it involves having the power to seek justice but choosing to forgive. The example of Joseph forgiving his brothers, who had committed serious sins against him, is cited as an illustration of true mercy.

Walking humbly with God is defined as understanding one's true self outside of the salvation and grace of Jesus Christ. Humility involves recognizing one's origin in sin and acknowledging God's embodiment of humility in Jesus Christ.

The sermon concludes by presenting Jesus Christ as the perfect embodiment of Micah 6:8, as He is goodness personified, just in His actions, and the ultimate manifestation of God's mercy. Belief in Jesus and acceptance of His goodness, mercy, justice, and humility lead to baptism and a life aligned with the will of Jesus, fulfilling Micah 6:8. The congregation is encouraged to look to Jesus in an evil world and find in Him the revelation of what is truly good.

</li>

</ul>