The following is a new, previously unpublished writing by Jay Ferris, from November 2010.
Matthew 13:58 – “And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.”
Mark 6:5 – “He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them.”
Being the father of two sons, I had occasion to visit court rooms in various places and times. One of the very strong impressions that was made on me there was the importance of body language in the presence of a judge. On one occasion I witnessed a young man with hands in pockets and a slouched posture, severely rebuked by the judge for such contempt in his court room and presence. Body language most often speaks much louder than words. It was an impression that has stayed with me well into my adult life.
Some years ago I went on what might be considered a diplomatic mission. I went with the advice and consent of someone who at the time was one of the most recognized and recognizable elders of the Church in Charlotte. The mission was for the purpose of looking into whether or not a local “leader” might possibly be another elder in the city. When I got there a “worship” service was just getting started, and I entered the hall and tried to enter into what was happening. I couldn’t help but notice that “the leader/founder” and his assistants were not participating, but rather in the midst of things, even at the front of the hall, (in full view of those who were there). He and his assistant were engaged in conversation, including what appeared to be jokes, including body language, (hands in pocket, etc) that brought back to mind the judge’s rebuke of years before.
For me, I knew immediately that there was no eldership there appropriate to what God calls “church” in Charlotte or anywhere else, for that matter. The practitioners of such body language posture themselves as being above what is going on in the room, court, “church” hall, etc. I have tried to find Scriptural examples where such body language in the presence of God might have acceptance in Heaven. To date I have not found any. Now that I think about it, I think it’s called “contempt of court.”
Love!
P.S. There is a crying need to get the word “repentance” back, at least, for openers.
Loving Like God 
our ‘language’ reveals out heart, to others, nothing is hidden from His ‘eyes’
(1 Samuel 24:8, 2 Sam 14:4, 14:22, 14:33, 16:4,18:28, 19:18, 24:20, 1 Kings 1:16, 1:23, The attitude towards a king was to prostrate oneself. How much more should we prostrate ourselves in heart, mind and body before the King of Kings.
OMGoodness! I have SO recognized this “contempt of court” and wearied of it!! God have mercy on the ignorance of Your people! Forgive us! Wash us! Give us a new heart of reverence for Your Presence! Convict us of our flippancy!! Bring us back to the place where we won’t be able to stand in Your Presence! Slay us, O God!! In Jesus Name!!
I’m reminded of an old saying that goes something like this. What you do speaks so loudly that what you say, I can’t hear. And again, But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works (James 2:18). In this case I think that works (the outward stuff we do) can be applied.
Blessings and Honor to all.
Joe