We Will Be Accountable for Our Words (Matthew 12:36-37)
Introduction:
1. Recently, a great amount of attention has been given to several celebrities who have gotten themselves into trouble because of their words. 2. As God's people, we must guard against this kind of influence. 3. Our lesson is based on the Lord's statements in Matthew 12:36-37 where He taught that "we will be accountable for our words." 4. Let us begin by examining . . .
Discussion:
I. THE SITUATION THAT LED JESUS TO MAKE THESE STATEMENTS
A. (vs.22) Jesus healed a man possessed by a demon [he was blind and dumb]. B. There were 2 responses to this miracle. 1. (vs.23) The people were amazed and recognized Jesus as "the son of David." 2. (vs.24) The Pharisees claimed that Jesus cast out demons by Beelzebub. C. (vs.25-35) Jesus directed His comments to the Pharisees. 1. Jesus showed how absurd their accusation was (vs.25-30). 2. He continued by pointing out their errors. a. They were guilty of blaspheming God's Spirit (vs.31-32). b. Their words revealed the condition of their hearts (vs.33-35). D. (vs.36-37) Jesus directed His comments to everyone -- we will all give account for our words. E. Now that we are familiar with the situation that led Jesus to make His statements in Matthew 12:36-37, . . .
II. WHILE SPEAKING ABOUT OUR WORDS, JESUS MENTIONED "THE DAY OF JUDGMENT"
A. Both the Old and New Testaments teach that judgment will occur. 1. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 2. Hebrews 9:27 B. Everyone will face the Lord in judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10). C. According to Acts 17:30-31, there will be "a day" of judgment. D. That day will occur when Jesus returns (Matthew 25:31-33). E. Since we do not know when Jesus will return we are to watch and be ready (Matthew 24:42, 44). F. At the judgment we will be accountable for our words -- we will either be justified or condemned by our words. G. Let us turn our attention to . . .
III. INSTRUCTIONS THAT WILL HELP US SPEAK PROPERLY
A. Remember that God knows our words (Psalm 139:4). B. Ask God for help (Psalm 19:14). C. Listen to God's instructions (Psalm 34:13). D. Be determined to speak properly (Psalm 39:1). E. Distinguish between times to speak and be silent (Ecclesiastes 3:7). F. Keep the right things in the heart (Matthew 12:34-35). G. Follow the instructions given in: 1. Ephesians 4:29 2. Colossians 4:6
Conclusion:
1. As we endeavor to run the Christian race, we are to keep our eyes focused on the Lord (Hebrews 12:1-2). 2. We learn from 1 Peter 2:22 that Jesus "did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth." 3. Let us strive to imitate Him because "we will be accountable for our words."
