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This is the audio from the January 25, 2026 sermon, “Unwrapped Fellowship: The Gift of MERCY!”, shared by Tom Lemler at the Deer Run Church of Christ.

Text: James 2:8-17

• Ministry:  James 2:8

  • As we unwrap fellowship to discover the gift of mercy, we find a calling to ministry.  It is through God’s mercy toward us that we experience how to love others in a merciful way.  While our church culture often things of ministry as a chosen way of life for those who are called to it, God views ministering to others as the responsibility of every believer.  The gift of mercy begins to be made known through us as we share in the gift of ministry. 

• Equality:  James 2:9

  • As we unwrap fellowship to discover the gift of mercy, we begin to see the equality in both value to God and in the need for mercy.  While we may be able to quote the scripture that says all have sinned, sometimes we fail to act like all sin is repulsive to God.  When it comes to mercy, God’s desire is for each of us to receive His mercy in a way which leads us to extend mercy without favoritism.  The gift of mercy is displayed to us, and should be displayed through us, in ways which show equality.

• Reflection:  James 2:10-11

  • As we unwrap fellowship to discover the gift of mercy, the ministry and equality of mercy should lead us to genuine and accurate reflection.  Our time with God and His Word should lead us to reflect on the plank in our own eye before we even begin to consider how to help our brothers and sisters with the specks in their eyes.  The gift of mercy gains power within us as we reflect on our need to receive it and share it.

• Compassion:  James 2:12-14

  • As we unwrap fellowship to discover the gift of mercy, we ought to be moved to compassion for every person we encounter.  While it is easy to join in the suffering of that we might identify with as “worthy”, God’s compassion towards us was made known even while we lived as His enemies.  It is this level of compassion that leads us to show mercy in a way which triumphs over judgment.  The gift of mercy in us is revealed more fully when we learn to live with compassion.

• Yourself:  James 2:15-17

  • As we unwrap fellowship to discover the gift of mercy, it is important to see yourself in both the giving and receiving of mercy.  As the grace and mercy of God cleanses us from all unrighteousness by the blood of Jesus, we have fellowship with God and with one another.  It is this gift of mercy which helps us grow in fellowship as life becomes centered around one another rather than on yourself.

Today, how will you live with the gift of MERCY?