WARN THOSE WHO SCORN by Major Frank Materu
----Main Bible Verse:
“But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people, and the sword comes and takes someone’s life, that person will be taken away because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.” — Ezekiel 33:6 (NIV)
----Introduction:
The purpose of this teaching is to highlight the importance of warning those who scorn, particularly the wicked who have chosen to live in sin and rejection of the truth. In a world where many are blinded by evil forces, it is essential for us to boldly declare the message of repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, we are called not only to love but to warn those who are on the path of destruction. This message emphasizes the urgency and responsibility of warning others, as well as the mercy and grace of God in offering salvation.
----The Scorners: Those Who Reject the Truth
Scorners are individuals who mock and reject the truth. They are driven by evil motivations, having allowed themselves to be deceived by the devil. They scorn the teachings of God, dismissing His Word and those who follow it. This behavior leads them to destruction. As believers, we must recognize that scorners are not only found in the world but can also arise among those who once knew the truth and turned away from it.
“For they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord. They would have none of my counsel and despised my reproof.” — Proverbs 1:29-30 (ESV)
----The Call to Warn the Scorners
As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to warn those who scorn the truth, urging them to repent and return to God. It is not enough to quietly observe the evil around us; we are called to speak out, to share the message of redemption, and to declare the wrath of God that awaits those who do not repent. Even when scorners attempt to justify their actions, we must stand firm in delivering the message of salvation and the consequences of rejecting the truth.
“He who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor than he who flatters with the tongue.” — Proverbs 28:23 (NKJV)
----The Mercy and Wrath of God
Though the scorners are deserving of judgment, God’s mercy is available to all who repent. God desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance. As we warn the wicked, we must also remind them of the mercy of God through Jesus Christ. Without repentance, the wrath of God will fall upon those who continue in their rejection of His ways.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” — 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
----The Consequences of Scorning
The consequences of scorning are dire. Those who continue in their rebellion and sin will face eternal damnation. It is crucial that we understand the severity of this reality. For the scorners who have heard the truth and yet refuse to repent, their future is bleak. As the watchmen of our generation, we are responsible for warning them, ensuring that their blood is not on our hands.
“But if anyone obeys His word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in Him.” — 1 John 2:5 (NIV)
----The Importance of Obeying God’s Call
We must be steadfast in our obedience to God’s call to warn the scorners. We should not hesitate or feel discouraged when others reject the message. Remember, our job is not to force others to accept the truth but to faithfully declare it. The results are in God’s hands, and our responsibility is to be faithful witnesses.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” — Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
----Summary
In this teaching, we have discussed the importance of warning those who scorn the truth. It is not enough to passively observe the wickedness around us; we are called to take action and declare the message of repentance and salvation. God’s mercy is available to all who turn from their wicked ways, but His wrath will fall on those who reject Him. We are called to be faithful in warning others, ensuring that we fulfill our duty as watchmen and witnesses of the truth.
----Conclusion
As believers in Christ, we have a responsibility to speak out against the wickedness in the world and to warn those who scorn the truth. This is not a message of condemnation but of hope, offering the chance for repentance and salvation. God’s mercy is available to all who choose to turn to Him. Let us be bold in delivering this message, knowing that our obedience is essential in fulfilling God’s plan.
----Call to Action
I urge you to be steadfast in warning those who scorn the truth. Do not shrink back or be intimidated by the world’s rejection. Stand firm in your faith and share the message of repentance and salvation. Pray for those who are lost and ask God to give you the strength and courage to be faithful in your mission.
----Final Word of Encouragement
Remember that God has called you for such a time as this. Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season you will reap a harvest. Trust in His guidance and know that He is with you every step of the way. Be encouraged and remain faithful in your mission to warn the scorners and lead them to salvation through Jesus Christ.
