Lecture on Luke 7:36-50 and the Voice of Shame

Key Scripture: Luke 7:36-50

• The story involves Jesus dining with a Pharisee named Simon.
• An immoral woman anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume.
• The Pharisee questions if Jesus is a prophet because he lets the sinner touch him.
• Jesus reads Simon's thoughts and tells a parable about two debtors to illustrate forgiveness.

Main Themes

Encounter with Jesus

• Focuses on the interaction between Jesus and the immoral woman.
• Highlights Jesus' forgiveness and acceptance, unlike the judgmental attitude of the Pharisee.

Voice Series

• Speaker reflects on preparing for the sermon and the impact of the "Voices" series.
• Emphasizes breaking chains of shame and lifting burdens through this teaching.

Voice of Shame

• Shame can prevent people from hearing God's voice.
• Shame is a common struggle for everyone, not just those with visible sins.
• It often comes from within and from religious or judgmental communities.

Biblical Examples

• Many biblical figures had both flaws and moments of divine intervention:
  • Peter: Walked on water, preached at Pentecost, but also denied Jesus.
  • Noah: Found favor with God, but also got drunk.
  • David: Defeated Goliath, yet committed adultery and murder.
  • Samson: Had immense strength, but fell due to personal weaknesses.

Overcoming Shame

• Shift focus from personal failures to what Jesus has already done.
• Understand the difference between conviction (from God) and shame (from the enemy).
• Repent and turn away from sin to remove shame and mental torment.
• Know where to "bleed" or share your struggles — not on social media, but in safe, loving communities.

Encouragement to Use Gifts

• Emphasizes using God-given gifts for the body of Christ.
• Shame can paralyze individuals and prevent them from using their gifts.
• The story of the woman with the alabaster jar is an illustration of using one's gift for the body of Christ.

Practical Steps to Combat Shame

1. Shift the Focus: Concentrate on Jesus' power and forgiveness.
2. Repentance: Actively turn away from sin and towards God.
3. Resist Condemnation: Recognize the difference between conviction and shame.
4. Choose the Right Confidants: Share struggles with those who can offer grace and support.

Conclusion

• Shame is a significant barrier to spiritual freedom and using one's talents for the Kingdom of God.
• Jesus' death and resurrection have already removed our shame.
• Believers are encouraged to live free from the bondage of shame and to exercise their gifts for God’s glory.