c15Pentecost 12 ~ August 19, 2007 ~ A sermon preached by The Rev’d Erl G. Purnell at Old St. Andrew’s Church, Bloomfield, CT

Jeremiah 23.23-29; Psalm 82; Hebrews 12.1-14; Luke 12.49-56

Two thoughts: Discipline (Hebrews) & Anger (Luke)

Discipline a) as a corrective; b) as a practice of self-control; c) a field of study

Corrective

·      punishment

·      painful

·      adjustment

Self-control

·      sacrifice

·      eye on the prize

·      way of being

Field of study

·      “Pursue peace w/ everyone”

·      Relationship

·      Love what is good; stand against evil

Anger
Jesus is angry! He’s allowed.

·      “Bring division”: disturbing

·      Gordian knot

·      sword of discernment

·      use anger judiciously, not to hurt

·      call it like it is

Sometimes we need to take a stand
Always against tyranny & injustice
Against terror
We’re allowed to be angry
But we need to be disciplined
Use the sword for discernment, not evil

         Amen.     

Copyright © 2007.  Erl G. Purnell
All rights reserved.