Advent Series: Living As the Tsaddaqim, Part 3 – “Caring for the Marginalized” James 1:27 and Psalm 82:3-5, Kizombo Kalumbula 

I. Examine our Religious Practice
A. True religion is where compassion and holiness meet
 care for those in distress
 resistance to moral corruption

“The righteous disadvantage themselves for the sake of the community; the
wicked put the community at a disadvantage for their own sake.” Tim Keller
B. Religion that God accepts forms people who are attentive, disciplined, and
responsive.

II. God’s call to His people is to defend, to uphold, to rescue, and to deliver
the vulnerable
a) Defend
b) Uphold
c) Rescue
d) Deliver
 When the Tsaddiqim stay silent, injustice thrives.
 When the vulnerable are oppressed, society becomes unstable.

III. Jesus is the ultimate Tsaddiq
 - He embodies it.
 - He confronted injustice.

IV. What does it mean for us to become the Tsaddiqim today?
A. See the invisible
B. Enter the pain of others
C. Use our influence for those with none
D. Advocate for those caught in unjust systems
E. Examine our religious practices

Reflection Questions:
James 1:27; Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 10:17-18; Psalm 82:3-5
1. What is the Holy Spirit challenging you to do as you hear this message?
2. How are you reflecting God’s heart for the vulnerable?
3. How can you emulate the character of God in our community?
4. Are you using your strength to serve or to shield yourself?
5. Whom do I need to share this message with this week?