John Bradshaw, president and speaker for It Is Written, took the pulpit Thursday evening to bless the congregation with his energetic, Spirit-filled sermon. His message was titled “A Love Story,” and he highlighted the story of David and his friendship with Jonathan, son of King Saul.
David was renowned for his military prowess, but Saul was jealous of David’s success and tried to murder him on several occasions. However, the future king refused to harm the Lord’s anointed. Although Saul attempted to destroy David, his heir to the throne loved David “as his own soul” (1 Sam. 18:3) and made a covenant with his father’s true successor.
Their love for each other was so great that after Jonathan died and David eventually became king, instead of seeking out and executing Jonathan’s descendants according to the custom of the day, David tried to find a descendant to whom he could show mercy and kindness. David made Mephibosheth part of his family, giving him income, a place at the king’s table, and all of King Saul’s properties.
Bradshaw continued by talking about the dangers of jealousy and advised his listeners not to pity themselves but to be proactive with God’s work. It is not about the title but about doing God’s work with the skills God has given. “Do whatever God asks you to do,” he instructed.
The mercy Jesus showed fallen humanity is exemplified in the story of David, and Bradshaw transitioned to the story of God’s love for the fallen human race. “Why does God travel across the cosmos to this rebellious planet looking for people to whom He can give everlasting life?” he asked. God is still willing to pardon us even after all we’ve done wrong. Bradshaw concluded the message by encouraging the congregation to be merciful, especially to those with whom we disagree, since God has showed mercy to us. “If David could be gracious to Saul, we can be gracious to each other.”
—IVY SANTIAGO AND BENJAMIN LAWSON
photos by: Courtney Herod