Honoring God’s Name

 

Honoring God’s Name

Mal 1:6-7

SUBJECT: NEGLECT OF WORSHIP

THEME: As We Serve God with Respect and Sincerity, Our Ministries Will Honor Him. This Must Be our Number One Priority in a Life of Worship.

RELEVANCE:  Have we succumbed to problems of neglect, expediency-convenience, and outright disobedience? Do we have a proper perspective of God, or do we doubt His faithfulness to His promises?  

Such opinions lead to widespread unfaithfulness, and it affects the worship of others. We need to renew our perspective, reestablish our hope, and promote a proper faithfulness to God.

INTRODUCTION:

1.  Wherever there are privileges there are also perils (Mal. 1:6; 2:1, 7)! What sins were the priests committing as they carried on their duties in the restored temple?

2.  Not surprisingly, the exiles who had returned to Judah and Jerusalem and lost a sense of God's love for them were unable to muster much love for Him in return. This showed in the way they kept up superficial religious behavior which actually insulted God.

3.  Beloved, have we “despised” God by offering unacceptable worship in direct violation of the word. Are we treating God in a way that we would not dare treat our human or spiritual leaders, family members, or fellow church members (1:8). Perhaps it’s time for us to repent also (1:9)!  By our “polluted” worship, and meaningless church exercises we demonstrated our disrespect for God (1:12-14). Aren’t we making the same mistakes?

MESSAGE:

I.  Give God the Honor Worthy of His Name.   (Mal. 1:6-7)

God focuses on the priests, who should have been the spiritual leaders of the land. The priests were not giving honor to God’s name; they were taking the best for themselves.

A.  THE ALLEGATION (Mal. 1:6)

This is the point made in v. 6. A person who is subordinate shows respect for his superior.

   1.  The Standard Expectation.  “A son honoreth his father, and a servant his master”

      — It is Normal for Fathers and Masters to Receive Respect.

      — Honor is high respect, as that shown for special merit; esteem. Glory or recognition; distinction.  The dignity accorded to position.

     A.  Affection— Fatherhood is a Matter of Relationship.   (Mal. 1:6) “If then I be a father”

           1.  Family Love and Responsibilities Reveal our obligations to God.

           2.  The Lord Jesus, Taught on the Fatherhood of God.

Matthew 7:11, If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

           3.  The Apostle Paul Taught on the Fatherhood of God.

Hebrews 12:9, Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

           4.   The Obligations of Love and Respect are to Always Mark our relationship With God.

While it is true that many know nothing about showing respect and honor for parents, God expects his children to love and honor Him.   Exodus 20:12, Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

     B.  Assignment— Mastery is a Matter of Responsibility.  (Mal. 1:6) “If I be a master”

           1.  This refers to a Master & Servant Relationship and Service is the main emphasis. 

           2.  The Priest Were Special Servants of God.

                 — Like the rest of God’s people, they came under the claims of children and the responsibilities;                                                     

                 — But, as priests, they were children honored with special trusts. They were favored children, and were obligated to be models to the rest of the children.

           3.  But they offered God crippled and lame animals as sacrifices. Such actions by priests and people revealed contempt for God, whom they should have honored as “the great King” He is (v. 14).

           4.  The obligation of the servant to the master is similar to that of the son to the father, but in the case of the child there is the help of personal affection. 

           5.  It is our duty to honor the Lord.

1 Tim. 6:1-2, Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. [2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.

APPLICATION: If God is first in our hearts our choices will reflect love for Him, and our every action will honor Him. Those in authority are worthy of respect (1 Sam 24:5-6). David had great respect for Saul, in spite of the fact that Saul was trying to kill him. Although Saul was sinning and rebelling against God, David still respected the position he held as God’s anointed king. David knew he would one day be king, and he also knew it was not right to strike down the man God had placed on the throne. If he assassinated Saul, he would be setting a precedent for his own opponents to remove him some day.

Rom 13:1-7 teaches that God has placed the government and its leaders in power. We may not know why, but, like David, we are to respect the positions and roles of those to whom God has given authority. There is one exception, however. Because God is our highest authority, we should not allow a leader to pressure us to violate God’s word.

Titus 2:9-10, Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; [10] Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

1 Peter 2:17-19, Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. [18] Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. [19] For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

   2.  The Indictment Clarified.    (Mal. 1:6) “Where is mine honor?” “. . . where is my fear?”

God’s complaint against Judah is that, though He has called this people into a relationship with Himself, the people have refused to honor Him.

     A.  Where is God’s Honor as Your Father?

            1.  God was the Father of Israel by creation, election, preservation, watchful guardianship (Deut 32:6; 64:8).   Exodus 4:22, And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord, Israel is my son, even my firstborn:

Isaiah 63:16, Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O Lord, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

            2.  Out of Personal Affection for Him We Should Honor Him. 

                   — The word “honor” also means “glory.”

                   — The glory of God is spoken of frequently throughout the Scriptures (He is even called “the King of glory,” Ps. 24:7-10).

                   — The fact that glory and honor are due to the LORD is far beyond dispute.

            3.  Israel’s actions go beyond disrespect; they have “despised” God’s name (v. 6).

                A.  To regard with contempt or scorn or hold as insignificant.

                        1.  To feel contempt or look down on someone or something because it is thought to be bad, worthless, or distasteful.

                        2.  To regard as unworthy of one’s notice, consideration or interest. It may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing.

                        3.  Contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, or feeble.

                B.  The opposite of highly esteeming.

            4.  As the prophet pointed out, a son honors his father—and God had been a Father to Judah.

                   — The fifth of the Ten Commandments states that children are to honor their parents (Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16).

                   — Disobedient children who rebelled against discipline were to be stoned (Deut. 21:18-21).                                 

                   — Therefore should the nation which considered itself a “son“ of the Lord be less obedient?

     B.  Where is God’s Fear as Your Master?

            1.  A Master's Claim Only Illustrate God’s Claims of Honor from Us.

                  — Israelites might consider the Lord the Master of Israel. Scripture presents Israel as the Lord’s servant.  Isaiah 44:1-2,  Yet now hear, O Jacob my servant; and Israel, whom I have chosen: [2] Thus saith the Lord that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.

                  — How could the nation that was the Lord’s servant be disrespectful to Him?  

            2. “Fear” of God does not mean being terrified of Him;

                  — It means a proper respect and reverence for Him,

                  — A reverence that leads to worship and obedience.(Deut. 6:5 with Deut. 6:13).

                  — Where is the fear, respect, reverence the Lord deserves. “If I be a Master, where is my fear? saith the Lord. of host.”

            3.  A servant shows respect to his master;

                   — God is rightly called “Lord” and “Master” by His people.

                   — Why then was God treated in Judah as unimportant?

Luke 6:46, And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?

             4.  There is no necessary affection in this relationship, there is simply obligation and duty. A servant is bound to serve.

                   — Apply to the priests, who were precisely the servants of Jehovah's house, or temple.

                   — He had a right to claim service that would honor him, that would show reverence and fear, and would make others think highly of him. But that kind of service the priests were failing to render.

     C.  Where is God’s Honor as Your LORD?  “You O priests, that despise my name.”

          1.  Despise Means:

                A.  To regard with contempt or scorn.

                B.  To dislike intensely; loathe.

                C.  To regard as unworthy of one's interest or concern.

                        — A failure to look at attentively; observe closely.
                        — A failure to take into account; consider.

                D.  The opposite of highly esteeming.

          2.  God’s Name Means:

                A.  The Name of God is God himself and all that has to do with him.

                B.  In ancient Israel, a name was a symbol of a person’s character, works, and reputation. Therefore, this charge was most serious.

                C.  They were dishonoring God by defiling his name (Mal.1:6). How?  By not giving their best on the altar.

   3.  The Denial Offered.

        A.  The people of Judah react to this charge with another caustic reply. You can almost hear the tone of outraged innocence. “Wherein have we despised thy name?”

        B.  The priests have grown so callous and have so obscured true worship by their Pharisaical externalism, that they claimed to be utterly unaware of how they have shown contempt of God.

CONCLUSION:

The priests had “despised” God by offering offensive sacrifices in direct violation of the law (1:6-8; see Deut 15:21). They were mistreating God even disrespecting His name (1:8). Malachi was right to call them to repentance (1:9)! Are we making the same mistakes with our worship?

 

The Path of Peace

The Scriptures refer to several kinds of peace.  There is peace with God, which relates to salvation (Rom. 5:1).  Then there is the peace of God, which relates to prayerfully trusting the Lord with our circumstances (Phil. 4:7).  The Bible also mentions peace with the brethren and our fellowman (1Thess. 5:13; Col. 3:15).  This is where James is concentrating his energy in this passage. That is building peace into our relationship or walking together in peace. Once again we will see how the exercise of godly wisdom actually leads to peaceful interchanges and interactivity. In the cases where someone was able to bring about peace to a volatile situation, and on a personal level, they spoke with wisdom to secure harmony. This kind of proactivity or leadership is necessary weather the type of peace is political, professional, or interpersonal.  As believers in Jesus Christ, we should be Peace-makers (Matt. 5:9). James gives us a thorough look at how godly wisdom leads to interpersonal peace. 

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. (James 3:13–18, KJV)

What Is The Test Of True Wisdom? (Js. 3:13)

Before we can appreciate the application of godly wisdom, it would be helpful to review what it is. Actually, the test of true wisdom is an active humility. As James continues his instructions, he focuses on the subject of healthy spiritual wisdom, contrasting it with a lower wisdom which in reality is not wisdom at all. Although his instructions are beneficial for all of God’s people, his topic is decidedly aimed at teachers or leaders. And who does not expect their teachers and leaders to be people deeply influence by godly wisdom? They above all people should be wise and knowledgeable. Merely claiming to be wise and filled with holy insight is grossly inadequate. We must live in goodness and meekness toward God and others (Js. 3:13).  The solution for the problem of interpersonal conflict is to seek and secure divine wisdom (Js. 1:5).

The Definition of Wisdom

“Wise” is the common word for speculative knowledge and philosophy, but the Hebrews infused it with the much richer meaning of skillfully applying knowledge to matters of practical living. “Wise” (Js. 3:13) then describes a person with moral insight and skill in the practical issues of life. The know how to live God’s way. To be clear wisdom goes beyond knowing facts and is best understood as skills and spiritual techniques for daily practical matters. It is not reading a book about motorbike riding, but being a skilled motorbike rider.

The word “knowledge” portrays a specialist or professional who could skillfully apply his expertise to practical situations. “Knowledge” (Js. 3:13) then is understanding and refers to intellectual perception and scientific insight. James is referring to refined and honed perspectives that are distilled from life’s experiences and developments. Beloved, such individuals have learned from their successes and failures. James is asking who is truly skilled in the art of living. So wisdom and knowledge is generally the ability to live God’s way. As you would expect, such wisdom can be demonstrated and therefore detected when it is in use.

The Demonstration of Wisdom

When godly wisdom springs into action it can be recognized. Like a rainbow in the sky has distinct characteristic, so it is with spiritual wisdom. Note again what James says in verse 13.

Wisdom is shown or demonstrated. “Let him shew” (Js. 3:13) is what James prescribes. We are not speaking in philosophical nor theoretical terms, but in the everyday language of deeds, activities, and service. Wisdom from God is anchored in shoe leather and woven into the warp and woof of our life’s fabric. If a person is wise and knowledgeable, she or he will exhibit it by a “good conversation” coupled together with the humble spirit that is also deeply rooted in godly wisdom.

Wisdom is not measured by degrees but by deeds. It is not a matter of acquiring truth in lectures but of applying truth to life. The person who possesses godly wisdom (3:17) will meekly show it with works, not just words. (W. W. Wiersbe)

The attitude, persona, and actions of a truly wise Believer show they are indeed wonderfully influenced by God’s brand of wisdom.

This intimates the fact that believers should be slow to speak (1:19). When we do engage in conversation our words inform, heal, and accomplish worthy goals, thus revealing the marks of wisdom.  It is the way we use knowledge, not whether or not we have knowledge or even whether we are intelligent. The issue is one of showing what an earlier generation called “good sense” in daily life.

                                                     

Wisdom produces good works. James says, “Let him shew out of a good conversation his works” (Js. 3:13). “Good” refers to agreeable and pleasant—positive moral quality and that which is favorably valued. As you know the word “conversation” refers more to our lifestyle and manner of behavior. “Works” points to activities that are essentially related to our faith in Jesus Christ. Faith properly understood will produce good works, deeds, services, and actions that are right and good from God’s perspective. I know society can become confused on what is truly good and right, but God is not puzzled on these matters at all. True wisdom does not lie in good notions or speculations so much as in good and useful actions. Not the person who thinks well, or speaks well, is categorized as wise in the sense of the word. We must live and act well first and foremost. When this is the case others will be more incline to listen to what we have to say and follow our lead.

Wisdom Inspires Humility. “The meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13) describes the attitude in which a truly wise person’s works are done. The word “meekness” relates to “humility, or gentleness,” and describes the state of an animal which has been tamed so that its power is brought under control and directed in a useful manner. Here in James 3:13, it is used in contrast to actions motivated by selfishness and pride. “Meekness” is the opposite of arrogance and self-promotion (see Matt. 5:5; 1:21; Num. 12:3; Gal. 5:23). Meekness can be described as power under control.

The truly wise believer is humble; his or her good life and deeds are best portrayed in humility of mind and heart. The Lord Jesus, the embodiment of true wisdom, was not proud and arrogant; He was meek and lowly in heart (Matt. 11:29). Therefore, all who are truly wise will have the hallmark of genuine humility. My honest confession is that the more I learn, the more I realize I have so much more to learn. Knowledge made me arrogant early on in my ministry, but godly wisdom has correctly humbled my soul. My physical strength moved me to evidence pride in my youth, but maturing wisdom in my heart has allowed me to realize the strength of God in my weaknesses. My competence and capability drove me to independence in my immaturity, but spiritual wisdom from God changed me to genuinely value teamwork, interdependence, and collaboration. You see, Beloved, when we travel with the Lord Jesus along the path of wisdom, we become the kind of people that can work with others and they can freely work with us.

Wisdom Evidences Meekness. James also employed the phrase, “meekness of wisdom,” (James 3:3) signifying two important things according to Dr. Wiersbe,

Meekness is the right use of power, and wisdom is the right use of knowledge. They go together. The truly wise person will show in his daily life (conversation means “behavior”) that he is a child of God. Attitude and action go together.

In James 1:21, “meekness” also connotes a readiness to receive instruction from the Word. There is nothing like working with people who are still growing, learning, and expanding in Christ. Unfortunately, few things are more egregious than putting up with an insufferably arrogant know-it-all. Just as “wisdom,” is the proper and insightful application of knowledge, meekness is the proper and insightful application of power. Such “meekness” is an evidence of salvation and the continuing work of the Spirit of Grace in our hearts. Such “wisdom” is the generous gift of God to a growing Christian (Ja. 1:5) trusting God for it. Together these terms describe a wonderful possibility and manner of life. That is a character and conduct which is conformed to Christ’s and a soul richly empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Meekness is a condition of mind and heart which demonstrates gentleness, not in weakness, but in power. It is a balance born in strength of character. Meekness is not primarily expressed in outward behavior nor toward other people, but chiefly toward God. It is that attitude of spirit of accepting God’s dealings with us as good and refusing to dispute with or resist Him. This selfless and non-self-assertive meekness comes from divine wisdom.(See Js. 1:5; Job 9:4; 28; Pss. 104:24; 111:10; Prov. 1:7; 2:1–7; 3:19,20; 9:10; Jer. 10:7,12; Dan. 1:17; 2:20–23; Rom. 11:33; 1 Cor. 1:30; Eph. 3:10; Col. 2:3).

Beloved, we can examine ourselves for the operation of true wisdom in our motives, desires and actions. Consider these questions as you pause before the Lord God. Am I sustaining meaningful relationships because I habitually use godly wisdom? Is my history peppered with painful broken friendships? Do I find myself in conflict more than in harmony? Am I easy to work with on team projects? Do I value the suggestions and ideas of others or must I have my way regardless? Am I willing to let the best ideas advance even if they are not mine? Have I made the mistake of substituting academic degrees for godly wisdom?

You and I are only required to answer these questions before the Lord. If you need to confess some things then do not hesitate. God is merciful and forgiving when we come to Him in a spirit of repentance. Remember wisdom is demonstrated in our attitudes and actions resulting in healthy stronger relationships. Peace marks those who walk in the way of wisdom. 

Prove the Sincerity of Your Love....

 What is it that stirs, stimulates, and inspires us to take action? Is it a desire for distinction, prestige, or the nature of the need? Could it be we are driven by professionalism, reputation, or to sustain a certain image? What about heroism or courage? Perhaps it is humanitarianism or old fashion kindness that moves us to share ourselves, time, and substance with another. Can we know our love is sincere—free of any pretense? Paul identifies just three specific motivations that often fuel followers of our Lord Jesus. Certainly there are other high impetuses such as hope, faith, and God’s glory, but here he writes,

I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. 9, For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9)

The actions of our hands are rightly tethered to the motives of our hearts. We well understand our motives and actions matter greatly to God. On the one hand, we can simply act on a command out of respect, obligation, and a pure sense of responsibility. In another scenario, we may strictly follow the very good examples of worthy models who have done right and well in the eyes of the Lord. Still yet, we might possibly take action because our hearts are genuinely filled with the love of God. “Sincerity” (2 Cor. 8:8) uncompromisingly demands harmony between the heart and hands! Anything else is a form of pretense—a kind of hypocrisy.

Clearly these motives are not mutually exclusive; of the three options (duty, example, and love), love is the highest. Accordingly, note the essential nature of this higher impulse and what distinguishes agape-love from the others. This love is “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Cor. 8:9). While it is true that love moved our Lord to leave the excellent glories of Heaven, become a man, live as a servant, persist penniless, and suffer through Gethsemane, Gabbatha, and Golgotha (Rom. 5:8); this love is a form of “grace” towards us undeserving sinners (2 Cor. 8:9). In our passage this “grace” is demonstrated through literally giving Himself entirely, selflessly, and sacrificially for our spiritual welfare. Calvary is the most extravagant and epic form of generosity to ever walk across the stage of history (John 3:16)! Who then can justifiably withhold anything from Christ Jesus?

We too can give of ourselves out of pure obligation, to follow worthy examples, or out of this holy sacrificial love. This brand of love exemplified and exercised by our Lord is portrayed in the Word as one of the highest motivations for Believers (1 Cor. 13:13).  Agape-love is characteristically selfless, sacrificial, unconditional, generous, serving, and transforming. Such love could only be inspired in us by the Lord Jesus Christ who is most gracious! It is a substantial undertaking then “to prove the sincerity of your love.”