The Opening of the Ear

Text:  Deuteronomy 15:12-18

Introduction: We look on service today as something beneath our dignity. We see it as especially dirty if it is what we call slavery. However, Jesus said, “And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:27). And here, in this passage, a temporary servant becomes a lifetime servant of his own free will. What is the Lord trying to teach us?

I.          THE HEBREW SERVANT (Deuteronomy 15:12-18)

A.      His Liberty (v.12; Jeremiah 34:13-17) 

B.      His Love (v.16) 

C.      His Likeness (v.17); physical change indicating permanent change of status 

D.      His Lowliness (v.17); a “servant for ever” 

II.        THE HEAVENLY SERVANT

A.      The Opening of the Ears (Psalm 40:6-8) 

B.      The Preparing of a Body (Hebrews 10:5-7) 

C.      God’s Servant the Branch (Zechariah 3:8) 

D.      God’s Chosen Servant (Matthew 12:17-21)

III.     THE HUMBLE SERVANT (Matthew 20:28)

A.      His Liberty (Psalm 40:6 – “not required”) 

B.      His Love (John 14:31) 

C.      His Likeness – a Body Prepared (Hebrews 10:5; Romans 8:3; Luke 2:6-7) 

D.      His Lowliness – the Opening of the Ear (Isaiah 50:5-6; Philippians 2:5-8; John 6:38)

IV.     THE HONOR OF SERVICE

A.      Our Liberty (2Corinthians 8:3-5) 

B.      Our Love (2Corinthians 5:14-15) 

C.      Our Likeness (Romans 12:1-2; 2Corinthians 3:18) 

D.      Our Lowliness (Philippians 2:3-5) 

Conclusion: Are you one whose ear is not opened (Isaiah 48:8)? We must freely surrender our liberty because of love so that our likeness can be transformed to the lowliness of Christ. Jesus is the door (John 10:7, 9). Would you place your ear on the door today to be opened by the Master?

 

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