Notes from a sermon by Dr. Greg Sloop preached at Kannapolis Church of God in the 10:30 am morning worship service on March 19, 2017.
Luke 7:17–23 (NKJV)
17 And this report about Him went throughout all Judea and all the surrounding region.
18 Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. 19 And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?”
20 When the men had come to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, saying, ‘Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?’ ” 21 And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight.
22 Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.”
When Discouragement Comes
Verse 19 – “Are you the One?”
John Was in Prison
The establishment (religion, government, etc.) was against him
It is easy to get discouraged (sickness, poverty, depression).
You may even wonder occasionally if all this religion is real.
Jesus Never Stops Blessing His People
Verse 21 – “that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight.”
Jesus Performed Mighty Miracles
What has the Lord done for you?
To what miracles can you testify?
Never forget the greatness of God. Someone may need to hear it!
Go and Tell of His Works
Verse 22 – “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard…”
Jesus Sent Them to the Uncertain with Good News
God is calling us to tell the story
We should always begin with our story with Christ
Your personal testimony can lift the discouragement of another!
Two Kinds of People
The Encouraged
You are called to encourage others
You are called to witness of His greatness
The Discouraged
You have an opportunity for encouragement
You have an opportunity for deliverance
You have an opportunity for salvation
Takeaway Thoughts
Everyone gets discouraged sometimes. Don’t be ashamed!
Jesus’ love and His works can raise your spirits. Look to Him.
Find someone in need of encouragement and give the uncertain what they need!
Devoted To You 