Informing The Whole World Of What His Right Hand Is Doing - Rick Warren's Sermon At Desiring God (Part 10)

The following commentary corresponds to the following video from 36:00 to 37:35



To emphasize the importance of having convictions Warren decides here to give an illustration comparing opinions with convictions. The only thing is, he quotes Bible verses to furnish examples of convictions. Rick, Scripture goes way beyond convictions - it is the inerrant and infallible God breathed Scripture. It is Gospel truth whether it convicts you or not . . . unless perhaps there are Bible verses that you are less convicted about??? I just don't get the point here anyway. I just don't know why Piper didn't invite someone that might have something worthwhile to say.

Anyway, in the midst of all this, the outlandishly humble Pastor Warren (and remember his call to humility earlier in the sermon) can't help himself but give one of his favorite "conviction illustrations". I have heard numerous Rick Warren sermons and I can only recall two common denominators in each message. Firstly, no Gospel content and secondly, how he gives away 91% of his income. Earth to Rick Warren - that is not an example of a conviction, it is an example of boasting. And, by the way, Jesus has some advice for you:

Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (Matthew 6:1-4)

If it's any comfort to pastor Warren, according to Jesus, he already has his reward. So well done, enjoy your reward as you continue to blaze that bright trail of humility.

More to come . . .

Go On To Part 11
Go Back To Part 9
Go Back To Part 1