For they are a rebellious people,
lying children,
children unwilling to hear
the instruction of the LORD;
10 who say to the seers, “Do not see,”
and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us what is right;
speak to us smooth things,
prophesy illusions,
11 leave the way, turn aside from the path,
let us hear no more about the Holy One of Israel.”
There are few things as amusing as a child cupping their ears and screaming to avoid hearing what they do not want to hear. When adults do it, it is no longer funny but sad. It is also reminiscent of Israel. Isaiah prophesied what the Lord told him to say but the people did not want to hear it. They were not interested in the truth or God’s will. They wanted to live life the way they chose and have no one say a word in protest, especially God.
“Tell us we’re good and make it short. I don’t want to be late for lunch.” Few churchgoers would actually say that but it certainly enters the mind of some. For them, church is a place to be entertained and flattered so they can feel good about themselves. Sadly, there are many churches eager to please these people with harmless preaching on smooth things, preaching nothing about the Holy One of Israel. Their itching ears are scratched by feel good sermons. Real preaching, however, makes us say “Oh no! I am a sinner!” Then the gospel makes us say, “Oh yes! There is a Savior, Jesus Christ!” Let us be willing to hear the instruction of the Lord, whether it is convenient to us or not. We can no longer be a rebellious people. We need the truth. Tell us…
We need Jesus.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church