"The true test of one's character is what he does when there's nobody else watching."
--Pastor Jack King
In "Heart Integrity - Part 1," Pastor Jack King of Freedom Road Christian Ministry delves into the concept of integrity using the dramatic story of Abraham and Abimelech from Genesis 20. He recounts how Abimelech unknowingly took Sarah, Abraham's wife (who Abraham had falsely claimed was only his sister), into his household, only to be confronted by God in a terrifying dream. Pastor King highlights Abimelech's quick repentance and God's demand for restitution, emphasizing God's protective hand over Sarah and the lineage of Christ.
The message expands on the nature of integrity, defining it as uprightness of character and honesty, particularly when no one is watching. Pastor King shares personal anecdotes, including lessons from classic Westerns and his hardworking parents, illustrating how character is built and tested. He underscores the destructive nature of lies and the importance of "agreeing with your adversary quickly," even when it means personal cost. The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder that we never truly know who we are dealing with, echoing James's caution against judging by outward appearance, and stressing that true Christian living requires actions that reflect the integrity we claim.
Scriptures for Further Study
Genesis Chapter 20: The full account of Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech.
James 1:15: "Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death."
James 2:1-4: Addressing favoritism based on outward appearance.
1 Samuel 16:7: "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"
Matthew 5:25: "Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the judge, the judge hand you over to the officer, and you be thrown into prison."
John 10:10: "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (Referenced in the context of the devil's mission).
This is episode 087.
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By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
