Austin CFC | Josh McGuire - A God of Comparison | 2020-06-14
Summary
The speaker argues that God is, in fact, a God of comparison, citing examples from Genesis (like Cain and Abel) and Job. He warns against projecting human comparative tendencies—which are based on appetite—onto God. The central message is to trust that when God compares us, His judgment comes from perfect righteousness, not our limited preferences.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Recapping repentance and ignoranceThe speaker recaps previous lessons, highlighting that repentance brings refreshing and that God overlooks past ignorance while calling people to repent.Acts 3:19
Does God compare things?Josh poses a question about whether God makes comparisons, noting that while human comparisons often stem from selfish fleshly preferences, God compares things righteously.
Comparisons from Genesis to JobScripture shows God comparing light and darkness in creation, distinguishing between Cain and Abel, and singling out Job as uniquely upright on earth.
The problem with our fleshly comparisonsHumans tend to project their own appetites and preferences onto God, but God's perspective and conclusions often run entirely counter to human flesh.
The widow's offering compared to large sumsIn Mark chapter 12, Jesus watches people give money to the treasury and points out with a sense of urgency that the poor widow's two small copper coins outweighed all the large contributions.
Applying the lesson of the widowGod wants to open our eyes to see beautiful acts of devotion and sacrifice in everyday life that we would otherwise overlook.
Jesus has something to say to youTurning to Luke chapter 7, Josh encourages listeners to put their own names in place of Simon the Pharisee and maintain an open attitude to receive correction from the Lord.
The parable of the two debtorsJesus tells Simon a story about two debtors and asks which one will love the creditor more, leading to a comparison between Simon's cold reception and the weeping woman's deep devotion.
From knowing truth to taking the step of faithKnowing biblical truth is not enough; believers must take the step of faith in obedience when the Lord points out areas for growth.
Summary of God's righteous comparisonsGod's comparisons are perfectly holy and serve to expose self-righteousness while revealing true devotion and sacrifice.
Closing prayerJosh prays that God would give believers sensitive ears to hear His voice, willingness to face personal correction, and a desire to see others the way He does.
