Sermon Notes: Oct. 8, 2023
Mercy Matters
Matthew 5:7
Pastor Jason Carlson
Matthew 5:1-7
Mercy Matters:
- The meaning of mercy
1 Corinthians 1:3
1 Timothy 1:1-2
Mercy = eleos (pity, compassion)
Grace = charis (kindness, goodwill, favor)
“The noun eleos (mercy)… always deals with what we see of pain, misery and distress, these results of sin; and charis (grace) always deals with the sin and guilt itself. The one extends relief; the other pardon…” – John Stott
Ephesians 2:1-7
“the central idea of ‘grace’ is God’s unmerited love; but the central idea of ‘mercy’ is that of relieving the misery that those sins have brought about.” – Richard Trench, 19th c. Anglican Bishop
1 John 1:9
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Mercy is grace in action.” – James Montgomery Boice
- The means of mercy
Luke 10:25-37
The 4 aspects of mercy in the parable of the Good Samaritan:
1) Mercy recognizes suffering (v. 33)
2) Mercy moves the heart with compassion (v. 33)
3) Mercy seeks to relieve suffering (v. 34-35)
4) Mercy acts without partiality (v. 33)
“(mercy is) a melting disposition whereby we lay to heart the miseries of others and are ready in all occasions to be instrumental for their good.” – Thomas Manton, 17th c. Puritan clergyman
- The model of mercy
Hebrews 4:14-16
Sermon Discussion Questions
Questions for reflection:
- Why is mercy an essential character-trait of “Jesus people”?
- What would it look like for you to become a more merciful person?
Questions for discussion:
- What is the difference between grace and mercy? How do we see this in the message of the gospel?
- How would you respond to the idea that Jesus is teaching salvation based on works in Matthew 5:7?
- Is it possible to become a more merciful person? If so, how?