10 Mar Condemning vs Interceding
Condemning vs Interceding
Romans 8:34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.
“Who is to condemn?”
Condemners = critics, enemies, own hearts, demonic realm (technology/social media)
Condemning & men
- Men default to condemnation & have been conditioned in it from youth
- Men hate disrespect/dishonor especially in front of others
- Men move condemn to contempt over time
When someone does something wrong:
- Was it a sin or a mistake?
- How will you respond?
Option 1. Condemn (no relationship)
Option 2. Intercede (forgive & seek to bring help)
- Spirit intercedes for us – Rom. 8:27 “the Spirit intercedes for God’s people”
- Jesus intercedes for us – Rom. 8:34 “Christ Jesus….is interceding for us”
When someone you lead does something wrong:
- Was it a sin or a mistake?
- If it’s a sin, are you going to condemn or intercede?
Condemn Intercede
Start with them Start with God
Person is the problem Person has the problem
Criticize Coach
Beat them down Build them up
Walk away Draw near
Hopeless Hopeful
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Story this week
Group Questions
- Do you honestly see God more as condemning or interceding for you?
- Who in your life has been a good intercessor?
- Who do you struggle to intercede for rather than condemn?
- How can we pray for you?
