Sunday Morning | June 18, 2023 | John C. Majors | Louisville, Kentucky Pastor John delivered a powerful sermon on Father’s Day, highlighting the theme “No Good Deed Goes Unpunished” based on John 11:45-57. He began by celebrating William Wilberforce, who tirelessly fought against the slave trade in Great Britain, yet was vilified during his time. Pastor John emphasized how people love to criticize those who strive to do good, even fathers who are often portrayed as bumbling idiots in the media. He then turned to the passage from John 11, where Jesus faced various reactions and criticism after raising Lazarus from the dead. Some believed, while others snitched on Jesus with insincere motives. The religious leaders, fearing Roman intervention, gathered in the council and discussed what to do. Caiaphas, the High Priest, ignorantly declared that it was better for one man to die for the people, unknowingly prophesying about Jesus’ sacrificial death. Pastor John highlighted the different reactions to Jesus’ ministry, including murder plots and hopefulness among the people. He then provided practical advice on giving and receiving criticism, urging empathy, offering solutions or acknowledging one’s limitations, praying and pausing, and maintaining a focus on God’s purpose. Ultimately, he emphasized the importance of staying bold, fearless, and focused on the mission, just as Jesus did in his ministry.