Last week, we read a large section from Acts 2 about Pentecost, the speech that Peter gave, and his concluding line:
“Let God rescue you from this wicked[1] generation!”
Last week we focused on how God called the geographical nation of His people to be holy, to be separated, from the wickedness found in the nations around them. We then applied it to the church, which Peter describes as a “holy nation” that is intended to “proclaim the praises of Him who called you.”
In addition, Paul had something to say about generations,
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” (Philippians 2)
We are going to keep talking this morning about how we proclaim the praises of God (“shine like stars”) through the community we create as a church. Of course, the church is made up of individuals, so have a church that proclaims the praises of God with our lives means having churches that are filled with individuals who proclaim the praises of God with their lives.
To do this, I want to offer a contrast we see in Scripture. Let’s look first at Matthew 23, the infamous chapter of “woes” Jesus proclaims to the Pharisees. The religious leaders were doing things that made them part of a warped and crooked generation. In doing so, Jesus sounds a lot like an OT prophet.
Harshness: “They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads (of the Law) and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.” This echoes the OT theme of oppressing the vulnerable through religious or legal systems (see Micah 6:8; Zech. 7:9-10).
Pride: “Everything they do is done for people to see.” This matches OT critiques of arrogant rulers and false piety (see Isaiah 58, where the people fasted to be seen, not to seek justice).
Gatekeeping: “You do not enter [the Kingdom], nor will you let those enter who are trying to.” This parallels the OT call against arrogance and national elitism but not it’s religious elitism, drawing the boundaries for who was allowed in to the community of God’s people (see Jonah, Isaiah 56).
Corruption: “You make [converts] twice as much a child of hell as you are.” Another place Jesus said they were children of their father, the devil, meaning they were like him. (John 8) They didn’t disciple people into the kingdom; they either push them away or turn them into disciples of the devil. This echoes Malachi 2:8, “You have caused many to stumble…”
Oath-breaking. “You say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but anyone who swears by the gold of the temple is bound by that oath.’ You blind fools!” In other words, they are finding ways to break their word. This links with OT themes of corrupt courts and false covenants (Amos 2; Isaiah 1:23). The Law had become a tool for lies.
Confused Priorities. “You give a tenth of your spices…you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness.” This is the justice neglect theme again (Hosea 6:6; Micah 6:6-8). Do both, of course, but never ignore the weightier matters, the ones that involve people.
Hypocrisy: “You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence…on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.” God sees the heart (1 Samuel 16:7), not the outward appearance.
Violence: “You build tombs for the prophets… (but)… complete what your ancestors started!” They prove Jesus to be true when they get him crucified.
Jesus seems to be echoing the Old Testament prophets. In other places we see the Old Testament warning emerge in line with what we talked about last week. Meanwhile, a new vision of what it looks like to be a holy and righteous generation emerges.
Idolatry & Detestable Practices vs True Worship[2]
- Idolatry (Gal. 5:20; Col. 3:5)
- Trusting in created things (Rom. 1)
- Sorcery and occult (Gal. 5:20)
- Worship God alone (Rom. 12:1)
- Serve the Creator, not creation (Rom. 1:25)
Religious Hypocrisy vs. Religious Integrity[3]
- “Having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Tim. 3:5)
- Saying but not doing (Matt. 23)
- Pretending righteousness (Matt. 23)
- Genuine faith/obedience (James 1:22)
- Pure religion: caring for the vulnerable (James 1:27)
Oppression of the Vulnerable vs Care and Generosity[4]
- Exploiting the weak (James 5:4)
- Favoritism (James 2:1–9)
- Greed (Eph. 5:3; 1 Tim. 6:10)
- Care for the poor (Rom. 12:13)
- Generosity and justice (1 Tim. 6:18; 2 Cor. 8:13–15)
Violence and Bloodshed vs Peacemaking[5]
- Murder, rage (Matt. 15:19)
- Hatred, fits of rage (Gal. 5:20)
- Peacemaking (Rom. 12:18)
- Kindness and forgiveness (Eph. 4:32)
Greed and Materialism vs Contentment and Generosity[6]
- Covetousness (Col. 3:5)
- Greed (Eph. 5:3)
- Love of money (1 Tim. 6:10)
- Contentment (Heb. 13:5)
- Generosity (1 Tim. 6:18)
Pride and Arrogance vs Humble Service[7]
- Pride (Mark 7:22; 2 Tim. 3:2)
- Boastfulness, selfish ambition, slander (Phil. 2:3; Gal. 5:20)
- Humility (Phil. 2:3; 1 Pet. 5:5)
- servanthood (Gal. 5:13)
Injustice vs Justice (Righteousness) [8]
- Deceit (Mark 7:22; Col. 3:9)
- Partiality in courts (James 2:6)
- Slander and lying (Eph. 4:25; James 4:11)
- Honesty and fairness (Eph. 4:25; James 5:12)
- Advocacy for justice (Matt. 23:23; James 5:1–6)
Sexual Immorality vs Purity and Honor[9]
- Sexual immorality, impurity, lust (Matt. 15:19; Gal. 5:19; Eph. 5:3)
- Fornication, adultery (Mark 7:21)
- Holiness, self-control (1 Thess. 4:3–5)
- Honoring God with the body (1 Cor. 6:18–20)
Breaking Covenants vs. Keeping Covenants[10]
- Swearing deceitfully (James 5:12)
- Lying and theft (Col. 3:9; Gal 5:20)
- Truthfulness (Eph. 4:25)
- Integrity even when it costs (Psalm 15:4; echoed in Matt. 5:37)
Trust in our own Strength vs Trusting in God[11]
- Trusting in riches (1 Tim. 6:17)
- Boasting in power or wealth (James 4:13–16)
- Trust in God’s provision (Phil. 4:19; Matt. 6:33)
- Strength in weakness (2 Cor. 12:9–10)
Other Sins of the Heart vs Inward Holiness
- Evil thoughts (Matt. 15:19)
- Envy (Gal. 5:21; Mark 7:22)
- Bitterness (Heb. 12:15)
- Foolishness (Mark 7:22; Eph. 5:15–17)
- Renewed mind (Rom. 12:2)
- Spiritual wisdom (Col. 1:9–10)
- Joy and peace in the Spirit (Rom. 14:17; Gal. 5:22)
We are called out of that wickedness and into a Path of Life as a witness to the glory of God not just in what God can do in us, but what God can do in whole communities of people transformed by the cruciform love of Jesus. God, through His love, has shown us the path to life for our good and His glory.
Where the world is marked by cruelty, the church practices compassion.
We don’t burden others with shame or legalism; we gently lift the fallen and bear each other’s burdens. We embrace truth and boldness but we reject harshness in favor of mercy, reflecting the heart of the Shepherd who searches for His lost sheep until he finds it, and then carries it home.
Where the world celebrates image and performance, we embrace authenticity.
Our worship is not a show. Our prayers are not for attention. Our music is not for fame. My sermons are not to impress you. All of these things are a faithful response to the love of God. In God’s Kingdom, we don’t need to pretend to be more righteous than we are. In confession, accountability and vulnerability, we become well acquainted with the grace and love of God as we extend it and receive it from God’s people.
Where the world excludes, we open doors.
This church refuses to be gatekeepers of God’s grace, determining just how many of the “whosoever will” may come. (Revelation 22:17) We welcome the weary, the outsider, the sick, the sinner, the seeker. We welcome our neighbors – which the Parable of the Good Samaritan hints is everybody. We are not tribal or partial for any reason. We embody the radical hospitality of the Kingdom, where all who are weary and heavy laden, and need the rest that Jesus gives, are welcome.
Where the world is full of corruption, we are truthful and trustworthy.
We keep our word, even when it hurts. Our “yes” means “yes”. We don’t manipulate with spiritual language or power games. We don’t take advantage of anyone around us. We never use position, power or proximity to use people. We speak truth in love; we prove we are trustworthy by simply being worthy of trust over and over again. That kind of integrity is a light that chases away the darkness of deceit and duplicity.
Where the world neglects justice(righteousness), we champion it.
We don’t tithe scrupulously while ignoring the cries of the oppressed. We do both the little things and the big things because we know that God has called us to do so, and in His way is the Path of Abundant Life. (John 10:10) We speak for those who have no voice, or whose voices are being drowned out by injustice and corruption whether that is outside the church or inside the church. We advocate for those who are overlooked or left behind. We ask for true justice – for things to be made right - when people are hurt by others. We ask for a wise application of mercy be part of the process.
God willing, the church will be the loudest voice defending the cause of the sick, the exploited, the poor, the powerless and voiceless in our community, our nation, and around the world.
Where the world focuses on appearance, we tend to the heart.
We know that holiness is not a façade or a costume. We examine our motives, not just our actions. We repent sincerely when needed, because we want to live in the blessing of righteous community (one where we are right with God and each other); we forgive freely, even when it’s hard – and it probably will be, because there is something to forgive that hurt us. We don’t want to just look righteous; we want to be righteous. We know that God judges the thoughts and intents of the heart, and we surrender our heart to Him for his purification.
Where the world is shaped by violence, anger, and revenge, we are peacemakers.
We refuse to repay evil for evil, but insist on overcoming evil with good. (Romans 12:21) We love our enemies; we bless those who curse us; pray for those who mistreat us. (Luke 6:27-28) We don’t avenge ourselves; we trust that God will take care of it. (Romans 12:19) We “give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12:17-18) Lamech was going to avenge 70 times (Genesis 4:24); we follow Jesus and forgive 70x7.
Where the world flaunts wealth and conspicuous consumption, we practice generosity and simplicity.
We are not lazy or irresponsible, but we are content because we are free from the love of money, which is the root of all kinds of evil. (1 Timothy 6:10) We find financial peace by trusting God. (Hebrews 13:5) We are not driven by consumerism or competition. We know that life is not about an abundance of possessions. (Luke 12:15) We look forward to “giving as we are able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which He has given you." (Deuteronomy 16:17) We see our possessions as tools of blessing rather than markers of status. We take care of our neighbors in the church and the community as God provides us the means.
Where the world is full of pride, we are clothed in humility.
We don’t seek titles or positions; we serve joyfully in hidden places. Applause is nice – and we ought to find excuses to give it freely to others! – but we don’t need it. It is enough when God is pleased. We celebrate others’ gifts without jealousy and delight in their success. We don’t brag; we are content to simply be ourselves and let that speak for itself. Once again, we repent when we have hurt others, because we aren’t too proud to do that. We know we aren’t perfect, and that doesn’t fill us with shame. It just makes us aware that there might be times we will have make things right when we have done something wrong, and we do it.
Where the world is ruled by lust and selfish desire, we honor bodies, boundaries, and covenants.
Our love is patient and kind, never coercive or exploitative. It always protects. (1 Corinthians 13) Our relationships are marked by faithfulness, self-control, and deep respect. In a world where desire is often detached from dignity, where “consent” is the only ethic, and commitment is optional, the Church offers a better story. We proclaim that every body is sacred, every person made in the image of God. Sex is not just a transaction—it’s a covenantal act meant to reflect divine faithfulness. Our love sees others not as objects of gratification but as treasures to be protected. We are called to the kind of love that takes responsibility for the emotional, spiritual, and even physical well-being of others. The Church must be a place where the bodies of others are never tools for gratification because they are temples of the Holy Spirit.
Responsive Reading: A People Set Apart
(based on Acts 2, Matthew 23, Galatians 5, and the teachings of Jesus)
Leader: In a world darkened by cruelty and power,
People: We will walk in compassion, clothed with mercy and kindness.
Leader: Where hearts grow cold and violence reigns,
People: We will be peacemakers, bringing hope in the midst of strife.[12]
Leader: In an age obsessed with image and outward appearances,
People: We will value righteousness and purity of heart.
Leader: Where hypocrisy and performance deceive,
People: We will live with authenticity and grace.[13]
Leader: In a culture that rejects with unrighteous judgement,
People: We will move toward others in the name of Christ.
Leader: When others say, “We don’t want you here,”
People: We say, “Come to God’s table, there is room at the feast for all.”[14]
Leader: In a generation that calls evil good and good evil,
People: We will hunger and thirst for righteousness.
Leader: Where injustice is ignored and the weak are crushed,
People: We will act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.[15]
Leader: When the world chases wealth and self-exaltation,
People: We will pursue contentment, generosity, and humility.
Leader: Where pride builds thrones and hoards treasure,
People: We will follow the crucified King who gave himself for all.[16]
Leader: When people trade love for lust and covenant for convenience,
People: We will honor one another with boundaries and sacred trust.
Leader: Where others use and discard,
People: We will protect, cherish, and remain faithful.[17]
Leader: When others stir up hatred and division,
People: We will walk by the Spirit with love, peace, and self-control.
Leader: In the face of a crooked generation,
People: We will shine like stars by following in the footsteps of Jesus.[18]
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[1] Or crooked, bent, or warped.
[2] Other passages: Rom 1:18–25; Gal. 5:20; Col. 3:5
[3] Other passages: Matt. 23; Mark 7:6; 2 Tim. 3:5; James 1:22, 27
[4] Other passages: James 2:1–9; 5:4; Rom. 12:13; 1 Tim. 6:18
[5] Other passages: Gal. 5:20; Matt. 15:19; Eph. 4:32; Rom. 12:18
[6] Other passages: Col. 3:5; Eph. 5:3; 1 Tim. 6:10, 18; Heb. 13:5
[7] Other passages: Mark 7:22; 2 Tim. 3:2; Phil. 2:3; 1 Pet. 5:5
[8] Other passages: Mark 7:22; Eph. 4:25; James 2:6; Col. 3:9
[9] Other passages: Matt. 15:19; Mark 7:21; Gal. 5:19; 1 Thess. 4:3–5; 1 Cor. 6:18–20
[10] Other passages: James 5:12; Col. 3:9; Eph. 4:25; Psalm 15; Matt. 5:37
[11] Other passages: 1 Tim. 6:17; James 4:13–16; Phil. 4:19; 2 Cor. 12:9–10
[12] "Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." (Colossians 3:12)
[13] "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me." (Matthew 15:8)
[14] "Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." (Romans 15:7)
[15] "But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." (Amos 5:24)
[16] "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."
(Philippians 2:3)
[17] "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality… that each one know how to control his own body in holiness and honor." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4)
[18] "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." ( Galatians 5:22-23)