Audio: Earmarked for Kingdom Justice | Sojourners

Audio: Earmarked for Kingdom Justice

In this clip, Pastor Efrem preaches from the book of Proverbs, specifically chapters 10-18, in which there is a contrast made between the righteous person and the wicked person. Themes of justice, concern for the poor, and love of neighbor characterize the righteous, while humanity's default position is selfishness, foolishness, and wickedness if we are not walking in daily discipleship with God. He also talks about redefining American society's assumptions about "who is our neighbor" to a more biblical definition. Ultimately, he preaches, financial freedom means being able to lovingly, freely, cheerfully, but sacrificially give of yourself and your resources to advance God's kingdom. Anything less than that kind of freedom constitutes slavery to material things.

[Download the entire sermon, "The Road to Financial Freedom, Week 3"]

Efrem Smith is the senior pastor of The Sanctuary Covenant Church, with the vision to be an urban, multi-ethnic, relevant, holistic, and Christ-centered community. He has held leadership positions in organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of America and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and is the author of numerous articles and books, including The Hip-Hop Church.