Most, if not all other world religions are based on principles. Islam’s center is not Muhammed, but action. The same can be said about Buddhism and Judaism. Moses and Buddha might be important, like Muhammed, but the principles of the religion extend beyond them. Not so with Christianity – we are a religion that centers not so much on principles as on a person. As we have seen what kind of King Jesus is, the incident with a withered fig tree helps to show us what kind of person Jesus ISN’T.

In our last installment on the Church and Politics, we consider how Christians handle themselves in our American context.

Political turnover in the past was chaotic. No matter how good the former King was, there was no indication as to what the next ruler would be like, or what his policies would be. While the father might have been a good and conscientious king, that was no promise that his son wouldn’t be a bumbling idiot and mean to boot. For many in Jerusalem, while they perhaps had heard of Jesus, they didn’t know much about him. In his introductory and triumphal entry, they learn something important about him: humility.

Many folks in America are "really" political. What of Christians? How political should we be? Maximally, as it turns out!

If we live in a new Kingdom, not of this world, how then are we to interact with the governments of this world? While we are to submit, we also must necessarily subvert.

How political is the gospel? As it turns out, it is political through and through

We are in the political ad season, with every candidate promising that they’ll look out for your interests and, at the same time, telling us the other won’t. “I care about you” is the theme of them all, and for good reason. All politicians know one inevitable human fact – we care about ourselves, and often to the detriment of the good of others. Jesus here tells his disciples that this cannot be so for them. But that inevitable human fact is hard to shake. That is why you need to learn humility.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Written over the course of a millennium, in different languages through the eyes of different cultures and people, it hits on a variety of subjects. Money, sex, anger, power, war are huge issues, but it also tackles smaller ones – friendship, speech, time-management, philosophy, even at times giving us a look at simple personal correspondence. Yet, there is one driving question that lingers in the background, one thing that is the Big Thing in the Bible – how do we gain eternal life? Jesus is presented with that very question and gives a surprising answer.

Marriage is uniquely important in the Bible. In Genesis, we find in the opening two chapters three basic points: God has created everything that is not himself; Humans were made in his image; and humans are given into marriage. That’s quite a place of importance for marriage! The fact that God calls his people his bride, that Jesus is the bridegroom, and one of the few pictures we have of heaven describe it as a wedding feast shows that the emphasis in Genesis is not lost. Today, we see the importance that marriage has in Jesus’ eyes, but also the importance of those who do not fit into that mold.

Everyone has rules. Very few people are true anarchists, and even they are probably kidding themselves. We may differ on what they are, but we all believe that some things are right and some wrong; and doing justice is nothing more than to right the world’s wrongs. But where does forgiveness fit in? What should we forgive, or how much? Today, we follow Peter’s question, and Jesus’ quite difficult answer, and see what it means for us

Discipline, no matter the form, is difficult stuff. No matter how we need to be disciplined, the fact that we must work at it indicates our deficiency in some way. At times, that is just working on the basics of the Christian life, becoming more like Christ in our thoughts and actions. But at other times, more outside help is needed. As we continue to think through how we are to live together as community, Jesus today commands that we be loving one another through discipline. But what does that look like?

Veterinarians are not novel and new things; ever since there has been a need to keep working animals upright and pulling, there has been a need to have people to keep them that way. Quickly, animal care spread from animals that do work for us to the animals that provide for us. The church is both the sheep and paradoxically the vet at the same time. We are to keep each other whole and healed, and work hard to prevent sin and its sickness from spreading.

The Olympics are in full swing, and it is hard not to think of both the triumphs and failures of the past. There are many times that teams, with much more individual talent have failed their ultimate test. USA Basketball, loaded with some of the most talented players in history, were humiliated when they took only a bronze medal in 2004 – the precise opposite of the “Miracle on Ice” of 1980. We know well that it is not just individual talent, but how that talent works together that matters. Jesus has instructed us on our own individual morality in the Sermon on the Mount; now he turns to teaching us how to play well together. These are sermons for the church, beginning in the smallest of places: children

We think that we would love to get whatever it is our hearts desire. To have a genie grant us wishes, or the power and money to get what we want. Some think that this is precisely what Jesus holds out to us, especially in passages like the one before us. “Nothing will be impossible for you” is quite the promise – but what does Jesus mean by that? And what role does our faith play in this great promise? More than you may think!

Humans will endure much, so long as they know what they are enduring for. Athletes like Michael Phelps will stretch their bodies to the limit to win medals and accolades. Ernest Shackleton and crew endured a year in the Antarctic just to survive. Jesus has made it clear that disciples will have to suffer in this world to gain their lives back in the next. What will sustain us through this suffering? Nothing but the most spectacular glory.

We are fallen, which means that, on this side of Adam and Eve’s transgression, we will sin. But it also means that we will just flat out get stuff wrong. Mistakes will be made, errors endured, failures felt. It just so happens that, whether a simple error or a sinful transgression, mistakes are wonderful opportunities to learn from. Peter has made a terrific blunder, but the Lord, in his kindness, never overlooks a good opportunity. He will use Peter’s sinful outburst as a chance to teach what true discipleship looks like, for Peter’s sake and ours.

There are questions and conversations that you will remember forever. Whether from someone who pushed you to be better, or saying “I do”, those moments define a good portion of our lives and who we are. Peter’s defining moment is before us today; yet it is not his alone. All of us share in this moment, for there is no other question that is more important. Who do you say Jesus is?

Bre and I attempted to teach our children some sign language when they were really young. It is an excellent way to get them to communicate with you before they can talk, and it has been useful beyond those early days. We had a limited vocabulary, however, and sometimes when I sign I need to make gestures that, to be frank, are not always understood. Or never understood. Turns out signs must be understood to be helpful. Today, the Pharisees and Sadducees want a sign from Jesus, but they won’t get one. Instead, Jesus pleads with his disciples to see the warning signs of their leaven.

It is probably fair to say that we have all experienced déjà vu at some point in our lives. That odd feeling that whatever we are experiencing we have already experienced before. Today, perhaps, we might feel that way. Just a month ago, and less than a chapter ago, Matthew recorded for us the feeding of the 5,000. Now, in a passage eerily similar, he records the same feat, this time for 4,000. Why do this? What can we learn from this passage that we haven’t learned before?

“Never take no for an answer!” It’s one of the most popular cliches used in our culture. Be persistent to get what you want, keep working and selling and eventually it will happen. Yet, it is also clear that sometimes such thinking is taken too far, and tragedy results. There is one person with whom persistence is of the upmost importance: Jesus. He loves persistent faith! Today, we have a story of such persistence, even amidst great suffering and much silence.

Traditions are fine things. We have a few of them in our house, which we love and follow. But we know that these traditions will one day end or need to be amended. All tradition ends this way. But Scripture, as we all confess, stands above this. God’s word to us is timeless, perfect, and undimmed by time. We do well to confess that it is unerring and good for us in all it says; but we must do more than that! Today, Jesus must deal with the Pharisees and their love of tradition, but it is not just their traditions that Jesus desires to lead us away from, but their way of handling Scripture as well.

Frank Abagnale was a con artist. He was known to forge checks to gain money, pretend to be a doctor, airline pilot, and social worker. When caught by the FBI, they began to uncover how most of the frauds went down, save one: how did he pass the Louisiana bar exam? Easy, he said: I studied! Frank had always shown himself bright and capable. It is one thing to believe what someone tells you – but you ought always believe what they show you. Jesus’ past two miracles show us precisely who he is, the very Son of God.

There are a number of ways that an event can be seen as major in the Bible. Sometimes much that comes after depends on them; sometimes it is the amount of text given over to the event. But there are some events that are shown to be important because they are repeated multiple times. The feeding of the 5,000 is a wondrous miracle, but doesn’t take a lot of text, and nothing explicitly flows from it. But all the Gospels tell us of it, and do so differently, helping us to see that much good can come from studying the nature of Jesus’ provision for his people here.

Nuance can create confusion for people. A distinction is typically, and rightly, drawn between faith and faithfulness; the first being a constant trust and reliance on Jesus, the second walking rightly before him. Matthew, however, wants to make sure that we don’t drive too large a gap between them. To have true faith is to be faithful to the call that Jesus makes on your life. This is why he writes to us about the life of Jesus, that we might walk as he walked. Today, however, he gives us the anti-picture of Jesus: Herod, the unfaithful king. How should we walk faithfully before Jesus?

We have all heard the saying that “familiarity breeds contempt.” The more we get to know people, the more of their issues and problems you are privy to. The people of Nazareth have the same issue with Jesus. His teaching is immaculate, but they are too knowledgeable of his people, indeed they think, of him to trust him. Let us learn from their mistake today!

Treasures are lost and found every day. Many of us have stories of such losses; fewer have stories of such finds. And while we might not find great artwork under our mattresses, or buried in our backyards, we have placed before us the greatest treasure we could ever hope for in the Kingdom of Heaven. But what does it take to make it ours?

Parables are a rich way to teach the truths of the Kingdom to all. Memorable and illustrative, they nevertheless provide a good deal of material for us to think through. Today, Jesus gives us three parables to consider, focusing on how the Kingdom of God relates to the world. Let those who have ears to hear, hear!

Appetizers are designed to simply whet the appetite for the real entrée. Often, though, we make full meals out of them. Last week we looked at the nature of the parables as something of an appetizer for them. While it was a full meal, it is hoped that meal simply made us hungrier for the rest! Today, we start by looking at the parable of parables, the parable of the sower.

The Gospels, as pictures of the life of Christ, run in a general chronological pattern. From his birth to the beginning of his ministry, to the triumphal entry and the eventual and fateful crucifixion and resurrection, the main timeline is kept intact. But the individual events are often compiled for the author’s own reason, as Matthew has done in his 13th chapter. But why teach in parables, when Jesus was so capable of teaching in other methods which were clearer and more straight-forward? The disciples ask the same question of him, and we look at his answer today.

Paul has finished the main body of the letter, the vast majority of his exhortations, and did it with quite a flourish. The resurrection is important to us, theologically as well as personally. We who await a better place than this, who know of bitterness and sadness here, are justifiably excited about a new and better home. Yet, it does us little good to just look up at the sky. Paul reminds the Corinthians that there is yet work to do here on earth, and much of it imperfect and filled with hardship.

Of all the days that Christians celebrate, today is the grandest of them all. Jesus Christ has risen from the grave, overwhelming death and justifying all who believe in him. Praise be to God! And, better still, this is a prelude of our own fate, of our own resurrection. So, let us consider the triumph of our resurrection and what it means for us!

Good Friday is a blessed day if, for no other reason, that it shows off the oddity and irony of the cross of Christ. It is a wondrous exchange: Christ knowingly gives us his life and righteousness and takes our death and sin. We talk often about this, central as it is; yet that very comfortability can, if we are not careful, lead to a flattening of the gospel. Today, with the help of one short verse, let us think about its depth and beauty.

Paul has argued for the basic necessity of the resurrection in the gospel, and its purpose in sealing our redemption and securing his reign. But we still have questions. What, precisely will our resurrection bodies be like? Will we be 20? Have perfect figures and muscles? The Corinthians ask these questions out of spite, but Paul has answers anyway.

We can understand why the Corinthians might have downplayed the resurrection. They were quite immature, and their culture looked down on the physical aspects of the world. They didn’t see the good in it, and they hadn’t thought through the theological implications of it. Paul will remedy that for them, and us, today. Why should we care about Jesus’ and even our, resurrection? What hangs on it? In a word, everything.

We can understand why the Corinthians might have downplayed the resurrection. They were quite immature, and their culture looked down on the physical aspects of the world. They didn’t see the good in it, and they hadn’t thought through the theological implications of it. Paul will remedy that for them, and us, today. Why should we care about Jesus’ and even our, resurrection? What hangs on it? In a word, everything.

The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is the proclamation that saves sinners from hell, delivers them from the power of Satan, and gives them an inheritance free from corruption. Such proclamation, if done in the nature of the world, would likely come with many footnotes and small print, needless complications, and debate. But, in truth, the gospel is straightforward to confess, understandable, and relatable. Today, let us consider the nature of the gospel that we confess!

From the very first words of the Bible, we are introduced to a God of order and carefulness. God is not a God of chaos, but of peace. When we gather to worship God, our worship ought to tell of that God; not just in the words we speak and sing, but in the very form and order of that worship. Here, Paul instructs the Corinthians to better picture the nature of God in their worship.

Today, we come to a chapter in 1 Corinthians that can easily be misunderstood if we do not observe the context. It is a very beautiful passage, very famous passage about love. It contains wonderfully crafted prose that resonates with us, and we will see that when it is applied to the local church, it is even more meaningful. The main point of the text is this: the Christian life is marked by love.

Many people today take personality tests, helping them to understand themselves, and even the people around them, better. These same types of tests have been used, certainly erroneously, to assess what gifts God may have given to people. What special advantage has God given to you in the Spirit? How are you to use this for the church? Paul is trying to clarify for us the nature of gifts of the Spirit in Corinth, certainly something that we can gain from! Let us consider Paul’s thoughts this morning.

Everyone likes to be complimented, to know that the job they are doing is being appreciated and seen. Last week, Paul started his comments by commending the Corinthians for their willingness to stick to the traditions. This gives the issues raised there a minor feel, as though they were a blip. This week however, no such commendation was given; Paul explicitly denies that he is doing anything of the such. The Corinthians’ disunity, demonstrated in the Lord’s Supper, is a problem near to their understanding of the gospel and shows just how deep their factions went.

Tetris is one of the best-selling games of all time, and was ubiquitous for the people of my generation worldwide. The point was to arrange blocks as they fell into complete rows, making them disappear. This is not unlike biblical theology, where we take texts and problems and try to arrange them rightly. Sometimes, however, the blocks fall so fast and their arrangement so complicated, that we can feel quite overwhelmed. This is especially true for the most difficult passage in 1 Corinthians, where Paul deals with head coverings. Let us see if we can make some sense of this somewhat strange and enigmatic passage.

Some things in this world are complicated because they need to be. MRI machines, the internal combustion engine, and the space shuttle are all tremendously complicated because they must be to do their job. There are, however, some things that are more difficult than they should be. Windshield wipers, IKEA furniture, and online recipes all seem needlessly complicated. So it is with Paul’s argument about meat in these last three chapters of 1 Corinthians. Why not just say “yes” or “no”? Primarily because Paul knew a good opportunity to teach when it presented itself. How should we handle ourselves in these situations?

Our nation has sprung up from a declaration of rights. We are a people who love to claim their rights, to fight for their rights, even to say that we would gladly die for our rights. What if, for the good of others, God might be calling you to lay down your rights? Would you? Paul pleads with the Corinthians to see the good in setting aside their rights that others might flourish in the Lord.

Doctrine has gotten a bad reputation in some segments of the church. For many, seeing the fights that have split the church over every jot and tittle in the Bible, doctrine is just a divisive force; one that divides but can never unify. We think differently. Yet, we must know the limits of our theology and our doctrine. Even when we get them right, we can be very wrong.

Christians uphold marriage as a foundational part of the culture in which we live. We rightly understand how important marriage is financially for individuals, not to mention for the quality of life of children. 1 Corinthians 7 is the longest straightforward treatment of marriage in Scripture. What Paul has to say is both helpful and surprising.

Each year, we prepare for the Christmas season through Advent. But what do the individual candles mean, and how are we to think of them as a collective whole? Today, let us consider the Advent season in full, and grow in our appreciation of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, come in the flesh.

Christianity, in its most basic form, is quite an easy thing to understand. God, out of love for us and pleasure in his justice, became a man so that he might die in our place, taking our sin and death and defeating them forever. We proclaim this, so that anyone who trusts and believes in that might have eternal life in him. See, easy! But how are we to live here and now? Do we follow the law? Well, sort of, but not really. How are we to determine what is right and wrong? Here, as in many places, Paul gives us a helpful answer.

There are many things in this life that we simply do not associate with one another. Pickles and ice cream; power and modesty; Christmas sweaters and class. These things simply belong in separate categories in our heads. Yet, there are many things that people generally feel do not mix well that are necessarily related. Discipline and love would rank high on that list. Discipline, even formal discipline, is a necessity within the church of Jesus, and is in fact a helpful and needed demonstration of our love.

There are many things in this life that we simply do not associate with one another. Pickles and ice cream; power and modesty; Christmas sweaters and class. These things simply belong in separate categories in our heads. Yet, there are many things that people generally feel do not mix well that are necessarily related. Discipline and love would rank high on that list. Discipline, even formal discipline, is a necessity within the church of Jesus, and is in fact a helpful and needed demonstration of our love.

When diphtheria or scarlet fever hit a home in older days, simple disinfectant procedures were not good enough. No detergents were strong enough nor scrubbing sufficient enough to remove the harmful bacteria. The only tool left was fire – not to purify, but to destroy. In Paul’s desire to destroy the pride and arrogance of the Corinthians, he has appealed to the cross and Scripture. Still, if these appeals are not sufficient, he is prepared to use fire. Such fire can be seen in his very words today, where he instructs the Corinthians that if they really wish to avoid factions, they must remember

When diphtheria or scarlet fever hit a home in older days, simple disinfectant procedures were not good enough. No detergents were strong enough nor scrubbing sufficient enough to remove the harmful bacteria. The only tool left was fire – not to purify, but to destroy. In Paul’s desire to destroy the pride and arrogance of the Corinthians, he has appealed to the cross and Scripture. Still, if these appeals are not sufficient, he is prepared to use fire. Such fire can be seen in his very words today, where he instructs the Corinthians that if they really wish to avoid factions, they must remember

When most people consider the meaning of the cross, they think of it in terms of salvation: forgiveness for sins, cleansing, being made right with God. This is good! Such things are true and form the foundation of all Christian preaching of the cross. Yet, the cross has more for us than salvation; it is the very wisdom of God distilled, able to help and guide through all parts of life. This is Paul’s very point in our passage today.

When most people consider the meaning of the cross, they think of it in terms of salvation: forgiveness for sins, cleansing, being made right with God. This is good! Such things are true and form the foundation of all Christian preaching of the cross. Yet, the cross has more for us than salvation; it is the very wisdom of God distilled, able to help and guide through all parts of life. This is Paul’s very point in our passage today.

We don’t place a great deal of worth on unity and community in the modern church. While this might be chalked up to many different influences, it nevertheless seems quite true. But what is also true, from even a cursory glance through the New Testament is that Paul doesn’t share that view. For him, unity is hard-baked into the gospel, as sure to be present among those who believe as the Spirit, as certain of an entailment as is forgiveness. We get of sense of why he saw things that way this morning.

We don’t place a great deal of worth on unity and community in the modern church. While this might be chalked up to many different influences, it nevertheless seems quite true. But what is also true, from even a cursory glance through the New Testament is that Paul doesn’t share that view. For him, unity is hard-baked into the gospel, as sure to be present among those who believe as the Spirit, as certain of an entailment as is forgiveness. We get of sense of why he saw things that way this morning.

Today, we start a new study looking at Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian congregation. This was a congregation built out of new converts, ignorant of many of the right and good practices of God before Paul came, and slow to move in the right direction at times. They were split into factions, had immoral sexual practices, seeking honor and power in the world. Yet Paul is so certain of their right standing in the Lord. Why is this so? Let us take a look at his argument throughout this book today.

Today, we start a new study looking at Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian congregation. This was a congregation built out of new converts, ignorant of many of the right and good practices of God before Paul came, and slow to move in the right direction at times. They were split into factions, had immoral sexual practices, seeking honor and power in the world. Yet Paul is so certain of their right standing in the Lord. Why is this so? Let us take a look at his argument throughout this book today.

In this text, we see judgment pronounced on six specific nations for the sins that they’ve committed. As we look at this verdict, we get a glimpse at the character of God, specifically how the almighty Lord of the universe carries out judgment. The main idea of this passage is this: The LORD will judge the world in righteousness and justice. As we work through this text, we will see eight aspects of God’s judgment.

In this text, we see judgment pronounced on six specific nations for the sins that they’ve committed. As we look at this verdict, we get a glimpse at the character of God, specifically how the almighty Lord of the universe carries out judgment. The main idea of this passage is this: The LORD will judge the world in righteousness and justice. As we work through this text, we will see eight aspects of God’s judgment.

WWJD bracelets were all the rage at one time. Their intent was to get the wearer to ask themselves, “What would Jesus do?” The problem with this is that one’s answer was totally subjective. Two people could have two radically different views as to what Jesus would do in any given situation. A better question to ask, and one that drives us to the gospels rather than our preconceived notions, is “What did Jesus do?” That’s precisely the question Paul asks as he presents Jesus as the perfect example of humility.

WWJD bracelets were all the rage at one time. Their intent was to get the wearer to ask themselves, “What would Jesus do?” The problem with this is that one’s answer was totally subjective. Two people could have two radically different views as to what Jesus would do in any given situation. A better question to ask, and one that drives us to the gospels rather than our preconceived notions, is “What did Jesus do?” That’s precisely the question Paul asks as he presents Jesus as the perfect example of humility.

There are a number of things to point to when asking why the western Church is in the state that it is in. Many could point to the lack of quality leadership, preaching of Christ, love, or the insistence on drawing crowds. One of the factors in all of these things is the simple idea of repentance. People like to be forgiven, but hate repentance. It can be a distaseteful and ugly thing. Why ought we to repent? Let us turn to teh words of our Lord and hear him well!

There are a number of things to point to when asking why the western Church is in the state that it is in. Many could point to the lack of quality leadership, preaching of Christ, love, or the insistence on drawing crowds. One of the factors in all of these things is the simple idea of repentance. People like to be forgiven, but hate repentance. It can be a distaseteful and ugly thing. Why ought we to repent? Let us turn to teh words of our Lord and hear him well!

Black holes are widely known and somewhat understood by people now; such was not the case 100 years ago. A completely unexpected outcome of a famous theory, they are monstrous in effect, crushing anything that comes to close to nothing, and stretching out that death forever. A better picture of sin could hardly be imagined. Today, we see how the Kingdom fights against this gravity, and the fate of those who pass beyond the point of no return.

Black holes are widely known and somewhat understood by people now; such was not the case 100 years ago. A completely unexpected outcome of a famous theory, they are monstrous in effect, crushing anything that comes to close to nothing, and stretching out that death forever. A better picture of sin could hardly be imagined. Today, we see how the Kingdom fights against this gravity, and the fate of those who pass beyond the point of no return.

Last week we considered how our interpretation of the law impacted our view of God. This week, we have a chance to see how our view of prophecy effects our understanding of Jesus. Many throughout the ages have been called to serve God’s people, both inside and outside the Scriptures. But only one is God’s chosen servant, sent to bring all his promises to fulfillment. There is only one Jesus.

Last week we considered how our interpretation of the law impacted our view of God. This week, we have a chance to see how our view of prophecy effects our understanding of Jesus. Many throughout the ages have been called to serve God’s people, both inside and outside the Scriptures. But only one is God’s chosen servant, sent to bring all his promises to fulfillment. There is only one Jesus.

Controversies are unfortunate things. We are strongly warned to not dip our toes into such streams carelessly, lest we be swept away with envy and deceit. Yet, we cannot always avoid such things – sometimes we must take up the word and fight. So far in his ministry, Jesus has avoided such contentious confrontations, but he can no longer. What is at stake is not merely an interpretation of the Sabbath, but what we think of as the very heart of God.

Controversies are unfortunate things. We are strongly warned to not dip our toes into such streams carelessly, lest we be swept away with envy and deceit. Yet, we cannot always avoid such things – sometimes we must take up the word and fight. So far in his ministry, Jesus has avoided such contentious confrontations, but he can no longer. What is at stake is not merely an interpretation of the Sabbath, but what we think of as the very heart of God.

We are indeed grateful for the beautiful gift of salvation. But we often lose sight of the importance of salvation really and truly being a gift. We still judge people as being closer or further from the Kingdom based on their deeds, as though salvation was somehow dependent upon their goodness. Jesus forcefully reminds us that salvation is not for the good, the great, or the go-getters, but for those who repent and believe.

We are indeed grateful for the beautiful gift of salvation. But we often lose sight of the importance of salvation really and truly being a gift. We still judge people as being closer or further from the Kingdom based on their deeds, as though salvation was somehow dependent upon their goodness. Jesus forcefully reminds us that salvation is not for the good, the great, or the go-getters, but for those who repent and believe.

Doubt is a persistent thing in most human lives; it can be good, sometimes bad, and often irrelevant to our lives. But for those of faith, whose entire life and salvation hang upon belief and trust, doubt is not only a source of anxiety and vexation, but can become a crisis and put people on the edge of devastation. What can we do to battle such doubts? Jesus is here, as always, to help us. Let us turn to him this morning.

Doubt is a persistent thing in most human lives; it can be good, sometimes bad, and often irrelevant to our lives. But for those of faith, whose entire life and salvation hang upon belief and trust, doubt is not only a source of anxiety and vexation, but can become a crisis and put people on the edge of devastation. What can we do to battle such doubts? Jesus is here, as always, to help us. Let us turn to him this morning.

Jesus is kind to us, even in the giving of difficult news. While the sermon on the mission opened with some encouraging notes, Jesus quickly and surely turned to the bad news, making certain that the apostles knew what was facing them. Yet he doesn’t leave them without some hope – hope that he places before them today. What can we hold onto, what can we pursue, to help us endure to the end?

Jesus is kind to us, even in the giving of difficult news. While the sermon on the mission opened with some encouraging notes, Jesus quickly and surely turned to the bad news, making certain that the apostles knew what was facing them. Yet he doesn’t leave them without some hope – hope that he places before them today. What can we hold onto, what can we pursue, to help us endure to the end?

While Matthew and Jesus have already spoken to us about the nature of missions, there is much more ground to cover. In this second part of our study through the Lord’s instructions about missions, we have placed before us the stark nature of what we are sent out to do, and the faith that is necessary to see us through.

While Matthew and Jesus have already spoken to us about the nature of missions, there is much more ground to cover. In this second part of our study through the Lord’s instructions about missions, we have placed before us the stark nature of what we are sent out to do, and the faith that is necessary to see us through.

Why do Christians spend so much time speaking about, giving to, and engaging in missions? Can not the word of God spread, like rain from the heavens, the message on its own, naturally and organically. Yes, indeed it does. But it happens naturally through the disciples of Jesus, not through a mystic movement of God’s word. Today, Jesus summons his disciples to engage in missions, and we would do well to eavesdrop on his comments to them, that we might hear again the importance of taking the good news of Jesus to this lost world.

Why do Christians spend so much time speaking about, giving to, and engaging in missions? Can not the word of God spread, like rain from the heavens, the message on its own, naturally and organically. Yes, indeed it does. But it happens naturally through the disciples of Jesus, not through a mystic movement of God’s word. Today, Jesus summons his disciples to engage in missions, and we would do well to eavesdrop on his comments to them, that we might hear again the importance of taking the good news of Jesus to this lost world.

Today, as we finish our brief study about apologetics, we review the material we have discussed over the past 6 weeks, and field any remaining questions.

Today, as we finish our brief study about apologetics, we review the material we have discussed over the past 6 weeks, and field any remaining questions.

Today, as we finish our brief study about apologetics, we review the material we have discussed over the past 6 weeks, and field any remaining questions.

We often hear the saying that there are two sides to every story. We tend to only believe one, and often the other is rancid and worthless, a fiction used to prop up sin and lies. Yet even these stories are useful; they show us the lengths that sin will trod to keep its hold on us, and warn us against our own deceptive hearts. Today, Jesus will heal more people, showing his power and his might. And while much faith in him will be demonstrated, we also get examples of the “other side of the story”; those who stand in unbelief and denial. Let us consider both sides this morning!

We often hear the saying that there are two sides to every story. We tend to only believe one, and often the other is rancid and worthless, a fiction used to prop up sin and lies. Yet even these stories are useful; they show us the lengths that sin will trod to keep its hold on us, and warn us against our own deceptive hearts. Today, Jesus will heal more people, showing his power and his might. And while much faith in him will be demonstrated, we also get examples of the “other side of the story”; those who stand in unbelief and denial. Let us consider both sides this morning!

Television shows like Survivor have become a window into the selfishness that characterizes our culture and fallen humanity as a whole. As contestants lie, cheat, and steal to gain advantage over their opponents, we recognize the same self-seeking, self-aggrandizing mindset that is all around us and, unfortunately, often within us. This mindset, while pervasive in 21st century America, is hardly unique to us. The early church had to contend with it, as well; it was, in fact, threatening to pull the Philippian church apart. As Paul continues the appeal for unity he began at the end of Philippians 1, we see some of the basic facts about the role our humility plays.

Television shows like Survivor have become a window into the selfishness that characterizes our culture and fallen humanity as a whole. As contestants lie, cheat, and steal to gain advantage over their opponents, we recognize the same self-seeking, self-aggrandizing mindset that is all around us and, unfortunately, often within us. This mindset, while pervasive in 21st century America, is hardly unique to us. The early church had to contend with it, as well; it was, in fact, threatening to pull the Philippian church apart. As Paul continues the appeal for unity he began at the end of Philippians 1, we see some of the basic facts about the role our humility plays.

Evolution has been a particular thorn in the side of Christians for nearly 200 years. While some see no contradictions between this area of science and our faith, for many the problems between the two are insurmountable. Today, we look at some of the problems that evolution faces, and ways in which Christians can counter the claims of evolutionary biology.

Evolution has been a particular thorn in the side of Christians for nearly 200 years. While some see no contradictions between this area of science and our faith, for many the problems between the two are insurmountable. Today, we look at some of the problems that evolution faces, and ways in which Christians can counter the claims of evolutionary biology.

Many people notice evil around them, but if God is good and all-powerful, why does evil exist? What kind of defense can Christians give? Today, we consider the problem of evil and the Christian response.

Many people notice evil around them, but if God is good and all-powerful, why does evil exist? What kind of defense can Christians give? Today, we consider the problem of evil and the Christian response.

We often get stuck in seeing things certain ways because of our own culture and conventions. We tend to think we understand the world around us, and can make sense of all others, and their actions, through those lenses. As disciples, however, those ways of looking at things are at times challenged, and when challenged, ought to be discarded. Today, Jesus puts somewhat odd associations together for us, to help us see the world in (perhaps) a new light.

We often get stuck in seeing things certain ways because of our own culture and conventions. We tend to think we understand the world around us, and can make sense of all others, and their actions, through those lenses. As disciples, however, those ways of looking at things are at times challenged, and when challenged, ought to be discarded. Today, Jesus puts somewhat odd associations together for us, to help us see the world in (perhaps) a new light.

Do we really need to believe in miracles? There are many in our culture who see our belief in miracles as a clinging to the mystical past, a bygone era of superstition and unscientific trust. Friends, let us know better! The miracles of Jesus tell us as much about him, and what he has come to do, as any of his teachings. We need a miracle worker in our lives, and in Jesus we have just that. Praise him this morning as we read of his wondrous works!

Do we really need to believe in miracles? There are many in our culture who see our belief in miracles as a clinging to the mystical past, a bygone era of superstition and unscientific trust. Friends, let us know better! The miracles of Jesus tell us as much about him, and what he has come to do, as any of his teachings. We need a miracle worker in our lives, and in Jesus we have just that. Praise him this morning as we read of his wondrous works!

The central question concerning Christianity is historical and straightforward - Did Jesus rise from the grave? While many seek to deny this claim, we have very good reason to affirm it. Let us see why this morning!

The central question concerning Christianity is historical and straightforward - Did Jesus rise from the grave? While many seek to deny this claim, we have very good reason to affirm it. Let us see why this morning!

As much as Jesus might be known for his wise words of teaching, like in the Sermon on the Mount, he is renowned for his miracles. Many, who would not otherwise be able to tell you almost anything about him, would know that he is held by those who believe in him as a miracle worker. While we have been introduced in a general way to those miracles (4:23), here we have our first introduction to the personal side of them. Matthew is not content just telling us stories, but desires that even those stories be part of an even larger, and more important, story.

As much as Jesus might be known for his wise words of teaching, like in the Sermon on the Mount, he is renowned for his miracles. Many, who would not otherwise be able to tell you almost anything about him, would know that he is held by those who believe in him as a miracle worker. While we have been introduced in a general way to those miracles (4:23), here we have our first introduction to the personal side of them. Matthew is not content just telling us stories, but desires that even those stories be part of an even larger, and more important, story.

Today, we start our 7-part study in apologetics, or the defense of the truth. We begin with a simple introduction to the topic, and review the goals for the class.

Today, we start our 7-part study in apologetics, or the defense of the truth. We begin with a simple introduction to the topic, and review the goals for the class.

Aesop has given us many memorable fables over the years: the boy who cried wolf, the tortoise and the hare, the lion and the mouse. These have been given to us that we might, as little children, learn good morals. One of these, the goose that laid the golden egg, reminds us to flee from greed. But, as fables, we also learn well that anything that seems to good can’t last, or even be true. Today, Jesus challenges that assumption.

Aesop has given us many memorable fables over the years: the boy who cried wolf, the tortoise and the hare, the lion and the mouse. These have been given to us that we might, as little children, learn good morals. One of these, the goose that laid the golden egg, reminds us to flee from greed. But, as fables, we also learn well that anything that seems to good can’t last, or even be true. Today, Jesus challenges that assumption.

Judging others is natural for many of us, and somewhat inescapable. We are constantly making discerning judgments about things, and even people. So, when Jesus says “Judge not” – does he mean that we are to stop all these things? If not, what does he mean, and how are we to apply it? Today, we encounter one of the most misunderstood passages in the New Testament. Nevertheless, it has much wisdom for us. Let us listen well to our Lord!

Judging others is natural for many of us, and somewhat inescapable. We are constantly making discerning judgments about things, and even people. So, when Jesus says “Judge not” – does he mean that we are to stop all these things? If not, what does he mean, and how are we to apply it? Today, we encounter one of the most misunderstood passages in the New Testament. Nevertheless, it has much wisdom for us. Let us listen well to our Lord!

Worry and anxiety is, it seems, a part of life. Many in this world know what it is to be hungry and cold, and have understandable worries over their next meal and their clothing. Others have much of both, yet are still haunted by doubts about their security. Still others suffer from such strong and binding anxiety that nothing seems to be able to loosen. Jesus’ words today are for all of us. There is no need to fret over the worries and troubles of tomorrow, for God is Father, caring, concerned, and capable to give us all we need.

Worry and anxiety is, it seems, a part of life. Many in this world know what it is to be hungry and cold, and have understandable worries over their next meal and their clothing. Others have much of both, yet are still haunted by doubts about their security. Still others suffer from such strong and binding anxiety that nothing seems to be able to loosen. Jesus’ words today are for all of us. There is no need to fret over the worries and troubles of tomorrow, for God is Father, caring, concerned, and capable to give us all we need.

It is nice, as a pastor, to know we’re not the only ones who chase rabbits in sermons! Two weeks ago, Jesus starting to warn his disciples of acting like hypocrites, who performed their righteous feats only to get the applause of men. Yet, in the middle of that, he diverted to help us to understand how we ought to pray. Today, we resume and complete his teaching, as we are instructed to store up our treasures in heaven. Let those who have eyes to see, see!

It is nice, as a pastor, to know we’re not the only ones who chase rabbits in sermons! Two weeks ago, Jesus starting to warn his disciples of acting like hypocrites, who performed their righteous feats only to get the applause of men. Yet, in the middle of that, he diverted to help us to understand how we ought to pray. Today, we resume and complete his teaching, as we are instructed to store up our treasures in heaven. Let those who have eyes to see, see!

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

Prayer is one of the most basic Christian disciplines, and yet one of the most neglected, and for many, one of the hardest. We have reasons why: we don’t have time; we don’t have the words; we don’t know how. Jesus was not unaware of the problems that people had with prayer. In this, one of the most memorable and important passages in the Bible, Jesus teaches us how to pray and seeks to liberate us from our excuses that we may pursue God as we ought.

Prayer is one of the most basic Christian disciplines, and yet one of the most neglected, and for many, one of the hardest. We have reasons why: we don’t have time; we don’t have the words; we don’t know how. Jesus was not unaware of the problems that people had with prayer. In this, one of the most memorable and important passages in the Bible, Jesus teaches us how to pray and seeks to liberate us from our excuses that we may pursue God as we ought.

Every sport requires not just a desired goal, but a strategy of how to achieve it. Often, the goals are straightforward, but how the team or the individual will pursue those goals can be quite different. Our own goals in the Christian life have been, to a certain extent, laid out for us in chapter 5 by Jesus. But Jesus has some important words for us about how we are to pursue those goals. His warnings, and admonitions, come to us here in the beginning of chapter 6. How should we pursue righteousness?

Every sport requires not just a desired goal, but a strategy of how to achieve it. Often, the goals are straightforward, but how the team or the individual will pursue those goals can be quite different. Our own goals in the Christian life have been, to a certain extent, laid out for us in chapter 5 by Jesus. But Jesus has some important words for us about how we are to pursue those goals. His warnings, and admonitions, come to us here in the beginning of chapter 6. How should we pursue righteousness?

The world is filled with advice. Our friends give us advice, our parents, even the youngest among us are apt to spew their wisdom to whomever will listen! Some advice is good, some is bad, but none of it will ever be as good as the words of our Lord. His words are always true, even when difficult. But his words are not advice, but wisdom; this is not just the path to a better life, but the way to live wisely in his Kingdom. Let us listen well to his words as we consider the last 3 of his examples on the Greater Righteousness from Matthew 5.

The world is filled with advice. Our friends give us advice, our parents, even the youngest among us are apt to spew their wisdom to whomever will listen! Some advice is good, some is bad, but none of it will ever be as good as the words of our Lord. His words are always true, even when difficult. But his words are not advice, but wisdom; this is not just the path to a better life, but the way to live wisely in his Kingdom. Let us listen well to his words as we consider the last 3 of his examples on the Greater Righteousness from Matthew 5.

Humans, not just the scribes and the Pharisees, but all of us in some measure try to do the least we can and still make the grade. We want efficiency, to put in a little effort and get maximal output. Yet, when it comes to our morality before God, Jesus informs us that this simply cannot be the case. This was the error of those of old, keeping the law in its barest requirements, and never seeking more. Today, Jesus begins to show us how we are to stretch for more – for a greater righteousness.

Humans, not just the scribes and the Pharisees, but all of us in some measure try to do the least we can and still make the grade. We want efficiency, to put in a little effort and get maximal output. Yet, when it comes to our morality before God, Jesus informs us that this simply cannot be the case. This was the error of those of old, keeping the law in its barest requirements, and never seeking more. Today, Jesus begins to show us how we are to stretch for more – for a greater righteousness.

The nature and purpose of the law, now that Christ has come and redeemed us from its curse, has been and continues to be a major problem for Christians. We know that we are not saved by keeping it, but how much shall we look to it? How is it to instruct us, and what portions of it are we to follow? Such questions are given a variety of answers because they are indeed challenging. Today, we get help from the Lord, as he tells us his very condensed thoughts on the matter. This tightly packed statement will not tell us everything we need to know, but does provide some important guard rails for us as we move forward.

The nature and purpose of the law, now that Christ has come and redeemed us from its curse, has been and continues to be a major problem for Christians. We know that we are not saved by keeping it, but how much shall we look to it? How is it to instruct us, and what portions of it are we to follow? Such questions are given a variety of answers because they are indeed challenging. Today, we get help from the Lord, as he tells us his very condensed thoughts on the matter. This tightly packed statement will not tell us everything we need to know, but does provide some important guard rails for us as we move forward.

Salt and light have become so ubiquitous in our world, so normal and easy to find, that we hardly think of them anymore. This was, for the vast majority of human history, not the case. Salt was as good as gold, and light was perhaps even more precious. These are the very things that Jesus calls us to be. Today, as we hear his familiar words, let us be reminded again of the great call and urgent need there is in us being the salt of the earth and the light of the world.

Salt and light have become so ubiquitous in our world, so normal and easy to find, that we hardly think of them anymore. This was, for the vast majority of human history, not the case. Salt was as good as gold, and light was perhaps even more precious. These are the very things that Jesus calls us to be. Today, as we hear his familiar words, let us be reminded again of the great call and urgent need there is in us being the salt of the earth and the light of the world.

Humans tend to want the same things, no matter the culture or the climate: we want wealth, power, fame, health. We seek these things, or at least whatever we think will gain them, not because of them alone but because they bring with them a happiness, a flourishing in the world. But Jesus has good news for us: God’s flourishing for us, God’s desires for us, include none of those things! We all can have a sense of happiness, be in a state of flourishing, without the trappings of the world. To understand this, let us consider Jesus’ beatitudes.

Humans tend to want the same things, no matter the culture or the climate: we want wealth, power, fame, health. We seek these things, or at least whatever we think will gain them, not because of them alone but because they bring with them a happiness, a flourishing in the world. But Jesus has good news for us: God’s flourishing for us, God’s desires for us, include none of those things! We all can have a sense of happiness, be in a state of flourishing, without the trappings of the world. To understand this, let us consider Jesus’ beatitudes.

The Sermon on the Mount is known rightly as the greatest sermon ever preached. Preaching about it is really a daunting task! Why even try? The words of the sermon are always going to be better than anything that I offer, certainly. But, so it is for all of God’s words, and yet we still preach. Preaching is the method that God has given to clear away misunderstanding and to help his people rightly apply his word. To attempt this for the sermon, it is helpful to cover the overall vision of the message before we get into the particulars. There are three questions we will ask of the sermon this morning.

The Sermon on the Mount is known rightly as the greatest sermon ever preached. Preaching about it is really a daunting task! Why even try? The words of the sermon are always going to be better than anything that I offer, certainly. But, so it is for all of God’s words, and yet we still preach. Preaching is the method that God has given to clear away misunderstanding and to help his people rightly apply his word. To attempt this for the sermon, it is helpful to cover the overall vision of the message before we get into the particulars. There are three questions we will ask of the sermon this morning.

Jesus has had a busy week! But we celebrate today the dawning of the new week, the new work that God has in store for us in the resurrection. On Good Friday we thought through some of the implications of the cross, and today we get to do the same for the empty tomb. What are we to make of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ?

Jesus has had a busy week! But we celebrate today the dawning of the new week, the new work that God has in store for us in the resurrection. On Good Friday we thought through some of the implications of the cross, and today we get to do the same for the empty tomb. What are we to make of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ?

Jesus has had a busy week! It is not yet over for him, though. The yielding of his life will give way to the resurrection on Sunday. The two days are inexorably linked, yet they different questions surround them. On Friday, the questions are not so much, “Did Jesus die?”, but, rather, “Why did Jesus die?” What was the purpose of his dying, and what did it accomplish?

Jesus has had a busy week! It is not yet over for him, though. The yielding of his life will give way to the resurrection on Sunday. The two days are inexorably linked, yet they different questions surround them. On Friday, the questions are not so much, “Did Jesus die?”, but, rather, “Why did Jesus die?” What was the purpose of his dying, and what did it accomplish?

We teach our children, from the youngest age, about opposites. High and low, right and left, good and bad. These are helpful concepts to have in life! Yet, sometimes, we don’t rightly apply that very basic concept to the Kingdom of heaven. The Kingdom of Jesus comes as the opposite of the world, as an enemy of the world, which is constantly at war with the world. Let us consider what that means for us today, as we listen to Jesus’ words from the very beginning of his ministry.

We teach our children, from the youngest age, about opposites. High and low, right and left, good and bad. These are helpful concepts to have in life! Yet, sometimes, we don’t rightly apply that very basic concept to the Kingdom of heaven. The Kingdom of Jesus comes as the opposite of the world, as an enemy of the world, which is constantly at war with the world. Let us consider what that means for us today, as we listen to Jesus’ words from the very beginning of his ministry.

Temptation, for those striving for holiness, is never a welcome thing. For many, such trials just appear to be new ways to fail, to fall yet again into sin. Our text today is meant to be both a help and a comfort for us. For Jesus, temptation was real and yet overcome. And while he faces and defeats this temptation for us, he does by wielding weapons that we ourselves can wield. Let us be helped, and see the hope, that Jesus’ temptation is meant to provide.

Temptation, for those striving for holiness, is never a welcome thing. For many, such trials just appear to be new ways to fail, to fall yet again into sin. Our text today is meant to be both a help and a comfort for us. For Jesus, temptation was real and yet overcome. And while he faces and defeats this temptation for us, he does by wielding weapons that we ourselves can wield. Let us be helped, and see the hope, that Jesus’ temptation is meant to provide.

Crossway is a Baptist church, and gladly so. We share much with other Baptist churches, but like any group, we are also quite different. Even amongst those who insist on creedal baptism, we differ quite a bit on the nature of baptism and what it represents. We at Crossway think that it is more than just a symbol (although it is at least that!). Today, we get to see in Jesus the importance of our baptism, and how it is more than just a symbol, but the center of our confession and union with him.

Crossway is a Baptist church, and gladly so. We share much with other Baptist churches, but like any group, we are also quite different. Even amongst those who insist on creedal baptism, we differ quite a bit on the nature of baptism and what it represents. We at Crossway think that it is more than just a symbol (although it is at least that!). Today, we get to see in Jesus the importance of our baptism, and how it is more than just a symbol, but the center of our confession and union with him.

Jesus is a striking historical figure. Attempts to summarize him, to boil down his message or his work, have often failed for the basic reason that he comes to us, not as a simple person, but a complex one. He offers grace to the weakest and the most unholy of people, yet demands more from them than anyone in history had before. What are we to make of him? How do we rightly speak about these two distinct parts of Jesus’ own message? What insight might Matthew’s text today provide for us?

Jesus is a striking historical figure. Attempts to summarize him, to boil down his message or his work, have often failed for the basic reason that he comes to us, not as a simple person, but a complex one. He offers grace to the weakest and the most unholy of people, yet demands more from them than anyone in history had before. What are we to make of him? How do we rightly speak about these two distinct parts of Jesus’ own message? What insight might Matthew’s text today provide for us?

We often look to the skies for signs from God. Even as Christians, we know that the stars and heavens hold a message for us of God’s glory. Even so, we are also knowledgeable of our own failures in understanding that message, and humanity’s ability to pervert that message in the most foolish of ways. God has indeed given us a better revelation of himself. Today, as we think about the magicians from the east and their voyage to Jesus, let us think through what it means to receive God’s revelation, both in the sky and in the Scripture.

We often look to the skies for signs from God. Even as Christians, we know that the stars and heavens hold a message for us of God’s glory. Even so, we are also knowledgeable of our own failures in understanding that message, and humanity’s ability to pervert that message in the most foolish of ways. God has indeed given us a better revelation of himself. Today, as we think about the magicians from the east and their voyage to Jesus, let us think through what it means to receive God’s revelation, both in the sky and in the Scripture.

Why do evangelicals hold the virgin birth in such high esteem? It is tempting to think that this doctrine’s importance is only held up in relief to the skeptical time in which we live; a fundamentalist response to the challenge of modern science. But such is not the case! The early church felt strongly enough about it to place it in the creeds, and the church universal has long confessed it. Today, let us see how the virgin birth, as recorded in Matthew, should both comfort us and challenge us.

Why do evangelicals hold the virgin birth in such high esteem? It is tempting to think that this doctrine’s importance is only held up in relief to the skeptical time in which we live; a fundamentalist response to the challenge of modern science. But such is not the case! The early church felt strongly enough about it to place it in the creeds, and the church universal has long confessed it. Today, let us see how the virgin birth, as recorded in Matthew, should both comfort us and challenge us.

Where should biographies start? At the birth of the subject? But factors that shaped their lives were in place long before they were born. Parents, the nature of the culture that they were born into, the political situation? Each of our four Gospels starts in a unique position. Matthew, for his part, starts with a genealogy. We may question why Matthew would begin this way, but his introduction has questions for us as well!

Where should biographies start? At the birth of the subject? But factors that shaped their lives were in place long before they were born. Parents, the nature of the culture that they were born into, the political situation? Each of our four Gospels starts in a unique position. Matthew, for his part, starts with a genealogy. We may question why Matthew would begin this way, but his introduction has questions for us as well!

Today, we come to the end of our study in Exodus. The story has moved quickly for such a long book. God has seen his people’s trials and heard their cries, he has called Moses, destroyed their enemies, given them commands, forgiven their sin, and made a way to dwell with them. Yet, while so much has been completed and done, we are left with the feeling and implication at the end of the book that much more needs to be done. As we finish and recap, what shall we learn from the Exodus?

Today, we come to the end of our study in Exodus. The story has moved quickly for such a long book. God has seen his people’s trials and heard their cries, he has called Moses, destroyed their enemies, given them commands, forgiven their sin, and made a way to dwell with them. Yet, while so much has been completed and done, we are left with the feeling and implication at the end of the book that much more needs to be done. As we finish and recap, what shall we learn from the Exodus?

In 1961, the Soviet Union detonated the largest nuclear bomb ever exploded during a test in the Artic Circle. The bomb was over twice the strength and size as the next largest bomb ever detonated, and remains so to this day. It is staggeringly difficult to imagine the power of the blast. We use numbers and analogies, but still cannot quite grasp it with any meaningful metric. If that is true for a manmade bomb, think of what the glory of God, who made all things, must be like! What could we compare it to? How might we describe it? What’s more, how do we experience it? Our text today is about the bold request of Moses to experience that very glory; but what does it hold for us today?

In 1961, the Soviet Union detonated the largest nuclear bomb ever exploded during a test in the Artic Circle. The bomb was over twice the strength and size as the next largest bomb ever detonated, and remains so to this day. It is staggeringly difficult to imagine the power of the blast. We use numbers and analogies, but still cannot quite grasp it with any meaningful metric. If that is true for a manmade bomb, think of what the glory of God, who made all things, must be like! What could we compare it to? How might we describe it? What’s more, how do we experience it? Our text today is about the bold request of Moses to experience that very glory; but what does it hold for us today?

Anger is a part of the world. With sin so prevalent, and wrong so near, it would be odd if it wasn’t. Anger is rightly applied to the Lord in the presence of sin, so it is likewise a legitimate reaction for his people. Yet, it is never to control us or to be characteristic of God’s people. How, then, shall we be angry and not sin? While exhaustive rules would never suffice, our text today provides a very good model in Moses. Let us see how he handles his anger, that we might better handle ours.

Anger is a part of the world. With sin so prevalent, and wrong so near, it would be odd if it wasn’t. Anger is rightly applied to the Lord in the presence of sin, so it is likewise a legitimate reaction for his people. Yet, it is never to control us or to be characteristic of God’s people. How, then, shall we be angry and not sin? While exhaustive rules would never suffice, our text today provides a very good model in Moses. Let us see how he handles his anger, that we might better handle ours.

Illusion in the form of magic is so interesting. It is equal part showmanship, psychology, and mechanics. There are a number of well-known and rehearsed illusions, one of my favorites being the quick-change. Exodus 32 provides us with a theological picture of a quick change, but for the worse: the people who were exuberant in their confession of obedience in chapter 24 have suddenly gone rogue in 32. Why the sudden shift? What has happened? And can it happen to us?

Illusion in the form of magic is so interesting. It is equal part showmanship, psychology, and mechanics. There are a number of well-known and rehearsed illusions, one of my favorites being the quick-change. Exodus 32 provides us with a theological picture of a quick change, but for the worse: the people who were exuberant in their confession of obedience in chapter 24 have suddenly gone rogue in 32. Why the sudden shift? What has happened? And can it happen to us?

The light has come! What a glorious reality. In the deepest hours of the night, the light comes. In the darkest weeks of the winter, the light comes. Goodness and richness flow with it. But John promises something more: the darkness has not overcome it. Today, let us think through what John means by this little phrase as we celebrate the birth of our Lord together!

The light has come! What a glorious reality. In the deepest hours of the night, the light comes. In the darkest weeks of the winter, the light comes. Goodness and richness flow with it. But John promises something more: the darkness has not overcome it. Today, let us think through what John means by this little phrase as we celebrate the birth of our Lord together!

Moby Dick is considered by many the quintessential American novel, given over to the pursuit of vengeance and retribution, ephemeral monsters, and action pieces of grave import. Yet, it is also filled with much beside: talk of whale anatomy, uses for blubber, and the intricacies of whaling. The planning and building of the tabernacle are viewed in much the same light: distractions from the main thrust of the book. Yet, if we look closely, we can see there is much to learn from this wonderful Tabernacle!

Moby Dick is considered by many the quintessential American novel, given over to the pursuit of vengeance and retribution, ephemeral monsters, and action pieces of grave import. Yet, it is also filled with much beside: talk of whale anatomy, uses for blubber, and the intricacies of whaling. The planning and building of the tabernacle are viewed in much the same light: distractions from the main thrust of the book. Yet, if we look closely, we can see there is much to learn from this wonderful Tabernacle!

There are plenty of people who believe in a power beyond this world, a thing that controls through a plan long ago put in motion, but one who refuses to dirty themselves by interfering in the things of the world. Our God does not appear to be such a god. But, since we clearly see that as the case, why has God left justice completely up to the Israelites? Our text today reminds us that he hasn’t – indeed, God is instrumental in our carrying out justice.

There are plenty of people who believe in a power beyond this world, a thing that controls through a plan long ago put in motion, but one who refuses to dirty themselves by interfering in the things of the world. Our God does not appear to be such a god. But, since we clearly see that as the case, why has God left justice completely up to the Israelites? Our text today reminds us that he hasn’t – indeed, God is instrumental in our carrying out justice.

Mike Tyson famously said that everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth. God’s desire for his people has been laid out in the 10 commandments and in their further implications. But sin will punch back, and when it does how are the people to respond? Here, God begins to give his people the outline for justice, as they seek to right the wrongs that sin will cause among them. Justice is necessary where there is sin, so we all must strive for it in all our dealings.

Mike Tyson famously said that everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth. God’s desire for his people has been laid out in the 10 commandments and in their further implications. But sin will punch back, and when it does how are the people to respond? Here, God begins to give his people the outline for justice, as they seek to right the wrongs that sin will cause among them. Justice is necessary where there is sin, so we all must strive for it in all our dealings.

Modern America is littered with megachurches; that is, churches that have over 2.000 weekly attenders. What do many of these churches have in common, and what can we learn from them? This is part of an ongoing series at Crossway in Church history.

Modern America is littered with megachurches; that is, churches that have over 2.000 weekly attenders. What do many of these churches have in common, and what can we learn from them? This is part of an ongoing series at Crossway in Church history.

The ten commandments are not dissimilar to hot dogs in American culture; most know of them, have tasted of them, even like them, although they have a very limited idea as to what is in them. Today, we have the pleasure of thinking about these commands, their place among God’s people, and what they mean for our lives. They are much more than just black-and-white laws but represent a way of life for us.

The ten commandments are not dissimilar to hot dogs in American culture; most know of them, have tasted of them, even like them, although they have a very limited idea as to what is in them. Today, we have the pleasure of thinking about these commands, their place among God’s people, and what they mean for our lives. They are much more than just black-and-white laws but represent a way of life for us.

Historically, the black church has been quite involved with movements related to social justice, much more so than white churches. Today, we look at the reasons, historically and theologically, why that is so. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church.

Historically, the black church has been quite involved with movements related to social justice, much more so than white churches. Today, we look at the reasons, historically and theologically, why that is so. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church.

There are many works of literature in the world that mean more than what the plain words of the text mean. Animal Farm, the incisive novel by George Orwell, is one of those works. Clearly not meaning to write a book about the social order and governance of creatures on a farm, it is meant to have an importance beyond the animal world and tell us something of ours. The Bible often does this, and does this in our passage today. Let us see the importance of this deeper meaning and follow Jesus up the mountain.

There are many works of literature in the world that mean more than what the plain words of the text mean. Animal Farm, the incisive novel by George Orwell, is one of those works. Clearly not meaning to write a book about the social order and governance of creatures on a farm, it is meant to have an importance beyond the animal world and tell us something of ours. The Bible often does this, and does this in our passage today. Let us see the importance of this deeper meaning and follow Jesus up the mountain.

The Catholic Church has both been maintained in its essentials and adapted to the modern world since the Council of Trent. Today, we look at some of those adaptations, and hope for more changes to come. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church.

The Catholic Church has both been maintained in its essentials and adapted to the modern world since the Council of Trent. Today, we look at some of those adaptations, and hope for more changes to come. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church.

We are accustomed to war; it is part of the modern world, just as it has been a part of history. Fighting and bloodshed are part of the human condition. In the OT, those enemies were seen and known as the nations surrounding Israel. These both attacked Israel, and were attacked by them. Yet, this is not how we are instructed to handle our enemies – whoever they might be. What can we learn from a text like Exodus 17 if our response is to be so much different from Israel’s? We should learn, first of all, that not all enemies are as obvious as they seem!

We are accustomed to war; it is part of the modern world, just as it has been a part of history. Fighting and bloodshed are part of the human condition. In the OT, those enemies were seen and known as the nations surrounding Israel. These both attacked Israel, and were attacked by them. Yet, this is not how we are instructed to handle our enemies – whoever they might be. What can we learn from a text like Exodus 17 if our response is to be so much different from Israel’s? We should learn, first of all, that not all enemies are as obvious as they seem!

How ought we to speak to God when we face grave difficulties? When does crying out to God bleed over into grumbling? We know that such grumbling is never right, but if that is so, are we to never speak to God about our pain and circumstances? And what of God? If God puts us in difficult positions, is he just tempting us to fail? Today, we have an opportunity to hear of the grumbling of God’s people, and God’s gracious response.

How ought we to speak to God when we face grave difficulties? When does crying out to God bleed over into grumbling? We know that such grumbling is never right, but if that is so, are we to never speak to God about our pain and circumstances? And what of God? If God puts us in difficult positions, is he just tempting us to fail? Today, we have an opportunity to hear of the grumbling of God’s people, and God’s gracious response.

Liberalism was a movement, beginning in the 18th Century, that led many to deny the clear and evident words of the text of Scripture. Today, we investigate what theological liberalism is, its effects, and the response to it. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church.

Liberalism was a movement, beginning in the 18th Century, that led many to deny the clear and evident words of the text of Scripture. Today, we investigate what theological liberalism is, its effects, and the response to it. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church.

America's religious freedom has provided much good to Christians, allowing freedom of conscience in religious matters. However, this has also produced fertile ground for the production of heresy and cults. While not all of the movements we speak of this morning are cults or heresies, or are even strictly American, they have been produced and encouraged in a large part due to the unique American situation. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church

America's religious freedom has provided much good to Christians, allowing freedom of conscience in religious matters. However, this has also produced fertile ground for the production of heresy and cults. While not all of the movements we speak of this morning are cults or heresies, or are even strictly American, they have been produced and encouraged in a large part due to the unique American situation. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church

Christians have long been a singing people. Songs and singing have formed a part of our worship of God from the very earliest of days. But why? What is it about songs that is so important to our right worship of God? And what should our songs say? Today, as we eavesdrop on the song the Israelites sang upon the destruction of their enemies, let us consider the importance of song in the worship of our God and the retelling of his mighty deeds.

Christians have long been a singing people. Songs and singing have formed a part of our worship of God from the very earliest of days. But why? What is it about songs that is so important to our right worship of God? And what should our songs say? Today, as we eavesdrop on the song the Israelites sang upon the destruction of their enemies, let us consider the importance of song in the worship of our God and the retelling of his mighty deeds.

The history of the Christian church has placed a great deal of emphasis on God’s glory. It forms the center of our purpose in creation and our goal in life. As the reformation confessions say, the highest purpose of humans is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. This is good biblical exegesis, and most would agree with it, in theory. But in our lives, the glory of God can cost us much more than we may have considered. We have before us a great example, as the people of God are rescued, for his glory, by crossing a sea on dry ground. What complaints could they have?

The history of the Christian church has placed a great deal of emphasis on God’s glory. It forms the center of our purpose in creation and our goal in life. As the reformation confessions say, the highest purpose of humans is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. This is good biblical exegesis, and most would agree with it, in theory. But in our lives, the glory of God can cost us much more than we may have considered. We have before us a great example, as the people of God are rescued, for his glory, by crossing a sea on dry ground. What complaints could they have?

When reading through history, we are struck with numerous stories of people overcoming great odds and physical pain, only to feel the elation of victory. The majority of us can try to empathize with the wonder they felt at that moment, but the best we can really do is project from our own experiences. It would be hard to know how an Israelite felt when the Egyptians knocked on their door and told them to leave. It was elation of the highest order; centuries of slavery suddenly ended. Let us read of that very moment this morning, and of the Israelites great victory!

When reading through history, we are struck with numerous stories of people overcoming great odds and physical pain, only to feel the elation of victory. The majority of us can try to empathize with the wonder they felt at that moment, but the best we can really do is project from our own experiences. It would be hard to know how an Israelite felt when the Egyptians knocked on their door and told them to leave. It was elation of the highest order; centuries of slavery suddenly ended. Let us read of that very moment this morning, and of the Israelites great victory!

Charles Spurgeon was known as the "Prince of Preachers", and rightly so. Today we get to look at the life and ministry of this brilliant Baptist pastor. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Charles Spurgeon was known as the "Prince of Preachers", and rightly so. Today we get to look at the life and ministry of this brilliant Baptist pastor. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Slavery was absent from Christianity for centuries, and yet suddenly reappeared. Why did this happen, and what justification did slave-holders, claiming to be Christian, give for it? This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church

Slavery was absent from Christianity for centuries, and yet suddenly reappeared. Why did this happen, and what justification did slave-holders, claiming to be Christian, give for it? This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway Sunday School looking at the history of the Church

God has a spotless record in his fight with Egypt. A perfect 9-0! Yet, there is unfinished work to be done, one more great and mighty work to perform before Egypt will send his people away. Therefore, this is to be the act of their deliverance that they will always remember – indeed, God thinks this act so important that they were to always recall it forevermore. And so we do, thanks to Jesus, understand the full and complete Passover from death. But what does the Passover mean?

God has a spotless record in his fight with Egypt. A perfect 9-0! Yet, there is unfinished work to be done, one more great and mighty work to perform before Egypt will send his people away. Therefore, this is to be the act of their deliverance that they will always remember – indeed, God thinks this act so important that they were to always recall it forevermore. And so we do, thanks to Jesus, understand the full and complete Passover from death. But what does the Passover mean?

Jonathan Edwards is thought by many to be the greatest philosopher and theologian of the New World. While there is much to applaud in the work and life of Edwards, there is also much for thought. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Jonathan Edwards is thought by many to be the greatest philosopher and theologian of the New World. While there is much to applaud in the work and life of Edwards, there is also much for thought. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

We are always trying to make sure that the future is as secure as possible. Is this car I’m buying worth the money? How can I know I’m marrying the right person? What is the weather going to be like next week? Yet, the future remains a mystery to us. What of more important things – what of salvation? Indeed, we are given many assurances, but many of us still have doubts. What if we don’t believe rightly, or enough? What can Pharoah’s failure teach us about our own salvation? To change the question slightly, what can we do to assure our destruction?

We are always trying to make sure that the future is as secure as possible. Is this car I’m buying worth the money? How can I know I’m marrying the right person? What is the weather going to be like next week? Yet, the future remains a mystery to us. What of more important things – what of salvation? Indeed, we are given many assurances, but many of us still have doubts. What if we don’t believe rightly, or enough? What can Pharoah’s failure teach us about our own salvation? To change the question slightly, what can we do to assure our destruction?

As we continue to look at the miracles done in Egypt, we take on the second of the three triads of miracles, the sending of the flies, the plague on the livestock, and the boils sent on humans. In the first set, God took on the power of the magicians and showed himself much more powerful. Here? He directly challenges Pharaoh’s power. It is clear that Pharaoh cannot match God’s power and might. No power in the world can. So, do you trust in the power of God?

As we continue to look at the miracles done in Egypt, we take on the second of the three triads of miracles, the sending of the flies, the plague on the livestock, and the boils sent on humans. In the first set, God took on the power of the magicians and showed himself much more powerful. Here? He directly challenges Pharaoh’s power. It is clear that Pharaoh cannot match God’s power and might. No power in the world can. So, do you trust in the power of God?

As Paul moves into the main body of his letter to the Philippians, he has every reason to be miserable. He is a prisoner of Rome, shackled to a soldier night and day, and facing the prospect of execution. Additionally, a portion of the church at Rome is apparently seeking to bring harm or misfortune to him in his imprisonment. Despite all this, Paul has a true and abiding joy. In our text this morning, Paul gives two reasons for this joy, that we would do well to consider

As Paul moves into the main body of his letter to the Philippians, he has every reason to be miserable. He is a prisoner of Rome, shackled to a soldier night and day, and facing the prospect of execution. Additionally, a portion of the church at Rome is apparently seeking to bring harm or misfortune to him in his imprisonment. Despite all this, Paul has a true and abiding joy. In our text this morning, Paul gives two reasons for this joy, that we would do well to consider

This morning, we look at one of the greatest evangelists in church history, and perhaps the very first modern Christian celebrity George Whitefield. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

This morning, we look at one of the greatest evangelists in church history, and perhaps the very first modern Christian celebrity George Whitefield. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Charles Wesley was a monumental figure for both British and (what would become) American religious life in the middle-portion of the 18th Century. Today, we look at the founder of Methodism, and track some of his lasting impact. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Charles Wesley was a monumental figure for both British and (what would become) American religious life in the middle-portion of the 18th Century. Today, we look at the founder of Methodism, and track some of his lasting impact. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Today we finally begin to read through and consider the plagues God has visited upon Egypt! These were mighty works, designed to display the power and glory of God above every power conceivable to man. Here, in the first section of these wonders, God turns the Nile to blood, sends frogs upon the land, and brings lice out of the dirt. But what do such things tell us about God? If these are to be a demonstration of God and his power, what are they telling us?

Today we finally begin to read through and consider the plagues God has visited upon Egypt! These were mighty works, designed to display the power and glory of God above every power conceivable to man. Here, in the first section of these wonders, God turns the Nile to blood, sends frogs upon the land, and brings lice out of the dirt. But what do such things tell us about God? If these are to be a demonstration of God and his power, what are they telling us?

There were, generally, three responses to the increased rigor and dogmatism that seemed to define the Church after the Reformation. Today, we consider the first two of these responses, Rationalism and Spiritualism. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

There were, generally, three responses to the increased rigor and dogmatism that seemed to define the Church after the Reformation. Today, we consider the first two of these responses, Rationalism and Spiritualism. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

We at Crossway often talk about the sovereignty of God, his power and purpose being displayed in even the smallest of events, and even over the actions of his free and responsible creatures. There are numerous reasons to affirm this doctrine, but the most important of these is that we think that it is biblical. But is it? The debate over such things has gone on for some time, but often comes back to the texts that we will be talking about soon – the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart. As we consider these texts today, and the other ways in which God is showing his power over the created order, I hope we can bring clarity and inspire faithfulness in this important doctrine!

We at Crossway often talk about the sovereignty of God, his power and purpose being displayed in even the smallest of events, and even over the actions of his free and responsible creatures. There are numerous reasons to affirm this doctrine, but the most important of these is that we think that it is biblical. But is it? The debate over such things has gone on for some time, but often comes back to the texts that we will be talking about soon – the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart. As we consider these texts today, and the other ways in which God is showing his power over the created order, I hope we can bring clarity and inspire faithfulness in this important doctrine!

Jacob Arminius rejected some of the ideas current in his day, particularly regarding Predestination. But what did he, and especially the Remonstants really say? This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Jacob Arminius rejected some of the ideas current in his day, particularly regarding Predestination. But what did he, and especially the Remonstants really say? This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Talking about the Devil, or Satan, or Beelzebub, has become passé in many Christian contexts. For whatever reason, while they might hold onto the idea of an all-powerful and sovereign Lord over all, the idea of an angelic enemy that seeks the downfall of humanity is at best worn out, at worst humiliating. Yet, the Bible is relentless in seeing the Devil as our enemy, his attacks as real, and his power as standing behind evil. The OT is less emphatic in ways, but clear to the presence of a real enemy standing against the people of God. What do we do when he attacks? How will God respond?

Talking about the Devil, or Satan, or Beelzebub, has become passé in many Christian contexts. For whatever reason, while they might hold onto the idea of an all-powerful and sovereign Lord over all, the idea of an angelic enemy that seeks the downfall of humanity is at best worn out, at worst humiliating. Yet, the Bible is relentless in seeing the Devil as our enemy, his attacks as real, and his power as standing behind evil. The OT is less emphatic in ways, but clear to the presence of a real enemy standing against the people of God. What do we do when he attacks? How will God respond?

The Puritans, who were important and instrumental in shaping American Christianity, got their start just after the English Reformation. Today, we see the context in which they arose during the early portions of the 17th Century. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The Puritans, who were important and instrumental in shaping American Christianity, got their start just after the English Reformation. Today, we see the context in which they arose during the early portions of the 17th Century. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Families can be sources of the most brilliant moments of your life. Random moments at a dinner table, on some general Tuesday, may be remembered for a lifetime, and bring joy in the darkest of seasons. But those dark seasons may be brought on by that very same family. These are the people we are closest to; and for that very reason they play an outsized role in our lives. Today’s text is all about family, and how we as a family are bound together, for better or worse.

Families can be sources of the most brilliant moments of your life. Random moments at a dinner table, on some general Tuesday, may be remembered for a lifetime, and bring joy in the darkest of seasons. But those dark seasons may be brought on by that very same family. These are the people we are closest to; and for that very reason they play an outsized role in our lives. Today’s text is all about family, and how we as a family are bound together, for better or worse.

The Catholic Reformation was the counterpart to the Protestant movement in the 16th Century. Here, the Roman Catholic Church attempts to define its theology over and against what they considered the Protestant heresy. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The Catholic Reformation was the counterpart to the Protestant movement in the 16th Century. Here, the Roman Catholic Church attempts to define its theology over and against what they considered the Protestant heresy. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

It has been said that we become what we worship. If that is true, and I believe it to be so, then we would do well to try to form and shape our understanding of God the best we can by what he reveals to us in Scripture. In the stead of vain speculation and wish-fulfillment, we can be sure of that which God has spoken about himself, and trust in it to be true, accurate, and good for us. Moses, no doubt, has some thoughts about what God might be like. But today we get a brief glimpse into God’s introduction of himself to Moses, and how this God is very different from all other gods.

It has been said that we become what we worship. If that is true, and I believe it to be so, then we would do well to try to form and shape our understanding of God the best we can by what he reveals to us in Scripture. In the stead of vain speculation and wish-fulfillment, we can be sure of that which God has spoken about himself, and trust in it to be true, accurate, and good for us. Moses, no doubt, has some thoughts about what God might be like. But today we get a brief glimpse into God’s introduction of himself to Moses, and how this God is very different from all other gods.

Today, we look at Henry VIII and the mess he made of both his marriages and the church, and the good that God would make from it. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Today, we look at Henry VIII and the mess he made of both his marriages and the church, and the good that God would make from it. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Cultures generally have heroes. They are typically mythological, made up to embody the very virtues that the culture thinks are most important and vital. They help to shape the purpose and the nature of that culture. America has its own heroes, some more abstract, some more cinematic. But the Bible has its own set, different in nearly all its ways from those of America. Today, we are introduced to one of the greatest heroes, and invited to come along his path – for his road to being a hero is ours as well.

Cultures generally have heroes. They are typically mythological, made up to embody the very virtues that the culture thinks are most important and vital. They help to shape the purpose and the nature of that culture. America has its own heroes, some more abstract, some more cinematic. But the Bible has its own set, different in nearly all its ways from those of America. Today, we are introduced to one of the greatest heroes, and invited to come along his path – for his road to being a hero is ours as well.

Last week, we talked about Calvin's life. This week, we take on his contention about baptism; specifically his claim that both circumcision and baptism are meant to symbolize the same reality. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Last week, we talked about Calvin's life. This week, we take on his contention about baptism; specifically his claim that both circumcision and baptism are meant to symbolize the same reality. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

We have a bit of a mess on our hands. Our construction has just started, and while it is meant to make our lives easier around here, for the present time it will indeed bring dust, stress, and inconvenience to us. This is what happens when you build in this world. The same is true for God – he is not just giving redemption to his people, he is making them into a people, into a nation. This will cause some problems, as there are many who will stand in God’s path, and declare themselves enemies of his plan. In Exodus 1, we see these lines drawn clearly

We have a bit of a mess on our hands. Our construction has just started, and while it is meant to make our lives easier around here, for the present time it will indeed bring dust, stress, and inconvenience to us. This is what happens when you build in this world. The same is true for God – he is not just giving redemption to his people, he is making them into a people, into a nation. This will cause some problems, as there are many who will stand in God’s path, and declare themselves enemies of his plan. In Exodus 1, we see these lines drawn clearly

As the great second-generation reformer, John Calvin did much to set the theological heart of Protestants for centuries to come. Today, we look at his life and think through some aspects of his theology. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

As the great second-generation reformer, John Calvin did much to set the theological heart of Protestants for centuries to come. Today, we look at his life and think through some aspects of his theology. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The book of Exodus seems to many like a book of myth; filled with impossible stories meant to build up in the mind of the reader a reason for the existence of Israel. To some, it is a strictly historical book, depicting the long ago and far away rescue of a people that’s importance for us is obscure and somewhat removed from our everyday life. But neither of these is true! It is a book, not about Israel’s escape from Egypt, but about our escape from death. It is about our redemption, pictured. Today, we will try to see the layout of the book as a whole, so that our path through the texts will be clearer.

The book of Exodus seems to many like a book of myth; filled with impossible stories meant to build up in the mind of the reader a reason for the existence of Israel. To some, it is a strictly historical book, depicting the long ago and far away rescue of a people that’s importance for us is obscure and somewhat removed from our everyday life. But neither of these is true! It is a book, not about Israel’s escape from Egypt, but about our escape from death. It is about our redemption, pictured. Today, we will try to see the layout of the book as a whole, so that our path through the texts will be clearer.

On June 24, 2022, the United States Supreme Court handed down a monumental and sought after ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization that overturned the precedent of nearly 50 years set down in Roe v. Wade. Since that fateful day, there has been much heat generated, but very few sources of light. This morning, let us seek the light of the Word of God, and hear from it what it has to say about abortion, and pray that it gives us some guidelines on the road ahead.

On June 24, 2022, the United States Supreme Court handed down a monumental and sought after ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization that overturned the precedent of nearly 50 years set down in Roe v. Wade. Since that fateful day, there has been much heat generated, but very few sources of light. This morning, let us seek the light of the Word of God, and hear from it what it has to say about abortion, and pray that it gives us some guidelines on the road ahead.

The Anabaptist movement during the Reformation was a wide and diverse movement. Today, we look at the good and bad of the movement that sparked hatred from Protestants and Catholics alike. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The Anabaptist movement during the Reformation was a wide and diverse movement. Today, we look at the good and bad of the movement that sparked hatred from Protestants and Catholics alike. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

An important reformer, today we get to look at the life and theology of Ulrich Zwingli, the great Swiss theologian. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

An important reformer, today we get to look at the life and theology of Ulrich Zwingli, the great Swiss theologian. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The letter to the Romans is known as one of the greatest theological works of all time. Such a conclusion is hard to disagree with; where else can one find the details of the gospel laid out in such a clear and articulate fashion? And, in the book of Romans, not only does Paul seek to explain the gospel, but to implore others to help in promoting it throughout the world. Today, we get to hear Paul’s conclusion to the book, and see his love, concern, and hope for the Romans.

The letter to the Romans is known as one of the greatest theological works of all time. Such a conclusion is hard to disagree with; where else can one find the details of the gospel laid out in such a clear and articulate fashion? And, in the book of Romans, not only does Paul seek to explain the gospel, but to implore others to help in promoting it throughout the world. Today, we get to hear Paul’s conclusion to the book, and see his love, concern, and hope for the Romans.

The continuation of the life of Martin Luther, looking at his major theological points. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The continuation of the life of Martin Luther, looking at his major theological points. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

We, as Great Commission Baptists, know well our duty to take the gospel to the nations. The desire to take the gospel to where it has not been named is nearly as central to our identity today as it was to Paul’s as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, it is a dangerous venture, and one not taken lightly. There are things that we must remember, lest we get sidetracked, lose focus, and in doing so lose the gospel. Today, let us use Paul’s heart for missions as a guide for our own.

We, as Great Commission Baptists, know well our duty to take the gospel to the nations. The desire to take the gospel to where it has not been named is nearly as central to our identity today as it was to Paul’s as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, it is a dangerous venture, and one not taken lightly. There are things that we must remember, lest we get sidetracked, lose focus, and in doing so lose the gospel. Today, let us use Paul’s heart for missions as a guide for our own.

The continuation of the life of Martin Luther, including the Diet of Augsburg through the Diet of Worms. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

The continuation of the life of Martin Luther, including the Diet of Augsburg through the Diet of Worms. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

A recounting of the history of Martin Luther, up to the Diet of Augsburg. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

A recounting of the history of Martin Luther, up to the Diet of Augsburg. This is part of an ongoing series during Crossway's Sunday School reviewing church history.

Our walk through the wilderness of this world can be difficult and exasperating. Many, trying to cope with that reality, do so by lowering their goals and expectations. But Christians ought to rightly know that such a solution doesn’t really solve the problem. Christ places on us high expectations, even when he knows that we will fail. Therefore, Paul seeks to encourage both the Romans, and us, in the difficult tasks laid down in the letter. He does this by showing us his own mind and heart in Romans 15:14-21.

Our walk through the wilderness of this world can be difficult and exasperating. Many, trying to cope with that reality, do so by lowering their goals and expectations. But Christians ought to rightly know that such a solution doesn’t really solve the problem. Christ places on us high expectations, even when he knows that we will fail. Therefore, Paul seeks to encourage both the Romans, and us, in the difficult tasks laid down in the letter. He does this by showing us his own mind and heart in Romans 15:14-21.

All this talk of unity is not meant simply for the immediate body of believers; rather, it extends out to talk about all of our partnerships and how we are to have unity with them. For us at Crossway, that means the unity we have with our sister churches in the SBC, and our missionaries across the world. Paul sees this connected, not just to practical matters in Rome, but to the very purpose of God in the gospel. How are we to live in that purpose?

All this talk of unity is not meant simply for the immediate body of believers; rather, it extends out to talk about all of our partnerships and how we are to have unity with them. For us at Crossway, that means the unity we have with our sister churches in the SBC, and our missionaries across the world. Paul sees this connected, not just to practical matters in Rome, but to the very purpose of God in the gospel. How are we to live in that purpose?

At the end of Romans 14, Paul continues his discussion of the weak and the strong. The weak are in a precarious position, and the strong must be careful in how they use their liberty to not hurt the faith of those who are already weak. Why should this matter to them? Is not the sin of the weak their own sin? Why is food such a big deal, anyway? In this text, there are three primary actors, and we can learn much from each of them:

At the end of Romans 14, Paul continues his discussion of the weak and the strong. The weak are in a precarious position, and the strong must be careful in how they use their liberty to not hurt the faith of those who are already weak. Why should this matter to them? Is not the sin of the weak their own sin? Why is food such a big deal, anyway? In this text, there are three primary actors, and we can learn much from each of them:

Very early in the act of creation, God’s organization of chaos was seen. Light and darkness separate, as do the heavens and the waters and the land. Yet, God also brings some things together, as he does when Adam and Eve, although separate, are united as one. Today, Paul reminds us that what God has brought together we ought not separate, causing division or disruption to the people of God over our own opinions. Let us hear Paul’s wise advice for how we out accomplish this in the Spirit of God.

Very early in the act of creation, God’s organization of chaos was seen. Light and darkness separate, as do the heavens and the waters and the land. Yet, God also brings some things together, as he does when Adam and Eve, although separate, are united as one. Today, Paul reminds us that what God has brought together we ought not separate, causing division or disruption to the people of God over our own opinions. Let us hear Paul’s wise advice for how we out accomplish this in the Spirit of God.

Philippians 1:1-11

Philippians 1:1-11

Having spoken over specific instructions about love, that we should love our brethren, our enemies, and ourselves, and even speaking about a particular kind of love shown in obeying authorities, Paul turn to summarize why it is that we love the way we do: we are debtors in love to those around us. This high calling is difficult, so Paul likewise gives us encouragement in the trial, as he reminds us the dawn is near.

Having spoken over specific instructions about love, that we should love our brethren, our enemies, and ourselves, and even speaking about a particular kind of love shown in obeying authorities, Paul turn to summarize why it is that we love the way we do: we are debtors in love to those around us. This high calling is difficult, so Paul likewise gives us encouragement in the trial, as he reminds us the dawn is near.

We often wonder how Christians should handle themselves in the foreign land that is this world. Answers are not easy; problems are legion. So, in coming to Romans 13, we have perhaps the clearest and boldest statement of Paul to these questions. Christians, at the very least, are to have as their first instinct a mind of submission to the authorities of the world. Today, we think through how that applies to us.

We often wonder how Christians should handle themselves in the foreign land that is this world. Answers are not easy; problems are legion. So, in coming to Romans 13, we have perhaps the clearest and boldest statement of Paul to these questions. Christians, at the very least, are to have as their first instinct a mind of submission to the authorities of the world. Today, we think through how that applies to us.

In Romans 12:1-2, Paul instructed us to not be conformed to this world, but be transformed through the renewing of our minds. As Paul begins to lay out for us the practice of the Christian life, he gives us a hint at precisely what he means by this. The Christian life is meant to be lived in the body of Christ, his church, striving to serve one another in faith. How are we to do this, though? Paul helps us see how this all fits together in Romans 12:3-8.

In Romans 12:1-2, Paul instructed us to not be conformed to this world, but be transformed through the renewing of our minds. As Paul begins to lay out for us the practice of the Christian life, he gives us a hint at precisely what he means by this. The Christian life is meant to be lived in the body of Christ, his church, striving to serve one another in faith. How are we to do this, though? Paul helps us see how this all fits together in Romans 12:3-8.

In Luke, we have reported that Jesus was crucified with two criminals. Each of these has different and profound responses to Jesus; one rails and him while the other expresses trust. Each of these men, and Jesus' words themselves, provides for us three distinct images from Scripture. Let us hear from these pictures, that we may better see the beauty and wonder of the cross!

In Luke, we have reported that Jesus was crucified with two criminals. Each of these has different and profound responses to Jesus; one rails and him while the other expresses trust. Each of these men, and Jesus' words themselves, provides for us three distinct images from Scripture. Let us hear from these pictures, that we may better see the beauty and wonder of the cross!

“He is risen! He is risen indeed!” Is this just a cute phrase that the early church paraded around to who the worthiness of Jesus for worship and adoration, with out any real meaning? What does his resurrection really mean for us? More, perhaps, than you think. As Paul writes to the Corinthians and defend the resurrection, we learn much about the importance and the necessity of Jesus’ resurrection. Today, we will trace his argument in 1 Corinthians 15. Let us see the good of what we proclaim!

“He is risen! He is risen indeed!” Is this just a cute phrase that the early church paraded around to who the worthiness of Jesus for worship and adoration, with out any real meaning? What does his resurrection really mean for us? More, perhaps, than you think. As Paul writes to the Corinthians and defend the resurrection, we learn much about the importance and the necessity of Jesus’ resurrection. Today, we will trace his argument in 1 Corinthians 15. Let us see the good of what we proclaim!

As the end of chapter 11 acted as an epilogue, or an afterword, on the entirety of the first 11 chapters of the book of Romans, the first two verses of Romans 12 do the same for the last chapters of the book. This prologue or foreword helps to summarize all that Paul will call on the people of God to do and be. These famous verses are of great importance, as they set the tone for all Christian ethics and the direction for our devotion to God. May we hear these verses well this morning!

As the end of chapter 11 acted as an epilogue, or an afterword, on the entirety of the first 11 chapters of the book of Romans, the first two verses of Romans 12 do the same for the last chapters of the book. This prologue or foreword helps to summarize all that Paul will call on the people of God to do and be. These famous verses are of great importance, as they set the tone for all Christian ethics and the direction for our devotion to God. May we hear these verses well this morning!

Paul’s discussion of God’s good plan for Israel, as well as the laying out of salvation which has occurred over the past 11 chapters has lead Paul (and us!) to one of the most glorious benedictions in Scripture. We are ever being led by our own hearts to consider ourselves as central – God acts solely on our behalf and the universe itself twirls around our wants and whims. But such things are not for our good, for they are not the gospel – for the gospel itself is from, through, and to God. And all this, for our good!

Paul’s discussion of God’s good plan for Israel, as well as the laying out of salvation which has occurred over the past 11 chapters has lead Paul (and us!) to one of the most glorious benedictions in Scripture. We are ever being led by our own hearts to consider ourselves as central – God acts solely on our behalf and the universe itself twirls around our wants and whims. But such things are not for our good, for they are not the gospel – for the gospel itself is from, through, and to God. And all this, for our good!

There is very little in this world than feeling as though your time is being wasted. We get so short a time here on earth, and we typically want to feel as though we are spending it in the ways we desire. So, if that is so, why spend so much time worried about God’s dealings with a foreign nation, one whose people we likely do not deal with on a regular basis? Is this all a waste of time? No, certainly not. Indeed, we ought to find much to help us in hope and humility in his plan for Israel. Let us hear how today in Romans 11.

There is very little in this world than feeling as though your time is being wasted. We get so short a time here on earth, and we typically want to feel as though we are spending it in the ways we desire. So, if that is so, why spend so much time worried about God’s dealings with a foreign nation, one whose people we likely do not deal with on a regular basis? Is this all a waste of time? No, certainly not. Indeed, we ought to find much to help us in hope and humility in his plan for Israel. Let us hear how today in Romans 11.

No one wants to be rejected. It is a horrible feeling, no matter how gently one is let down. Whether rejected for a job or in love, it can crush even the best of us. How much more crushing, then, would it be to be rejected by God? To be sworn off forever, with no hope of salvation? Given what Paul has said in Romans 9-10, is this the very fate of the people that God has called his own, even Israel? No, Paul argues, God has not forsaken completely his people. Today, as we begin Romans 11, we begin to see why.

No one wants to be rejected. It is a horrible feeling, no matter how gently one is let down. Whether rejected for a job or in love, it can crush even the best of us. How much more crushing, then, would it be to be rejected by God? To be sworn off forever, with no hope of salvation? Given what Paul has said in Romans 9-10, is this the very fate of the people that God has called his own, even Israel? No, Paul argues, God has not forsaken completely his people. Today, as we begin Romans 11, we begin to see why.

We live in an unprecedented age of information distribution. Who might have guessed, even 15 years ago, how easy it would be to gain real-time information of world events? Twitter and Facebook give us updates on a war halfway across the globe; the Super Bowl provides opportunities for companies to promote their messages to millions in a single moment. Yet, the mission of God goes forward with a slow and steady pace, not aided by the technological innovations of our modern age, but by the presence of the Spirit in the church. Today, let us see what the mission of God looks like in Romans 10.

We live in an unprecedented age of information distribution. Who might have guessed, even 15 years ago, how easy it would be to gain real-time information of world events? Twitter and Facebook give us updates on a war halfway across the globe; the Super Bowl provides opportunities for companies to promote their messages to millions in a single moment. Yet, the mission of God goes forward with a slow and steady pace, not aided by the technological innovations of our modern age, but by the presence of the Spirit in the church. Today, let us see what the mission of God looks like in Romans 10.

Americans love new things. Whether seeking after a new car, a new phone, or new furniture, we love to have the newest and latest things. This is no less true in religious circles – we like innovation in almost every way. This seems embodied in Christianity. After all, we are New Testament people. Even so, Paul seems intent on dissuading the Romans from the pursuit of novelties. Faith in Jesus Christ is new in a real sense, but it is also as radically old as the law itself. Today, let us think about the salvation that Jesus affords us yet again.

Americans love new things. Whether seeking after a new car, a new phone, or new furniture, we love to have the newest and latest things. This is no less true in religious circles – we like innovation in almost every way. This seems embodied in Christianity. After all, we are New Testament people. Even so, Paul seems intent on dissuading the Romans from the pursuit of novelties. Faith in Jesus Christ is new in a real sense, but it is also as radically old as the law itself. Today, let us think about the salvation that Jesus affords us yet again.

Paul has made it clear that salvation depends upon God alone; for he will have mercy upon who he has mercy. Even so, we know that God’s decreed will has clear and noticeable outcomes in people’s actions: Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and he did not let people go. So what has Israel done that demonstrated their failure to obtain the blessings? What is the source of their unbelief? Paul makes it clear: they pursued the law by works, not by faith. This is the failure of all who forsake the grace of Christ!

Paul has made it clear that salvation depends upon God alone; for he will have mercy upon who he has mercy. Even so, we know that God’s decreed will has clear and noticeable outcomes in people’s actions: Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and he did not let people go. So what has Israel done that demonstrated their failure to obtain the blessings? What is the source of their unbelief? Paul makes it clear: they pursued the law by works, not by faith. This is the failure of all who forsake the grace of Christ!

Paul has started, at the beginning of the 9th chapter, to explain to the Romans the reason for the rejection of Jesus as the Messiah by Israel. Today, we look as Paul continues his discussion of election by looking at the benefits of election, what it tells us about God and how his work in salvation is sufficient and complete. While election can be a difficult subject for us to reconcile with other fundamental doctrines, we should embrace the goodness of it, for in it we see the glory of God.

Paul has started, at the beginning of the 9th chapter, to explain to the Romans the reason for the rejection of Jesus as the Messiah by Israel. Today, we look as Paul continues his discussion of election by looking at the benefits of election, what it tells us about God and how his work in salvation is sufficient and complete. While election can be a difficult subject for us to reconcile with other fundamental doctrines, we should embrace the goodness of it, for in it we see the glory of God.

Following his encouraging discussion of God’s unfailing love at the end of Romans 8, Paul shifts his focus in Romans 9 to consider the sad reality that Israel, who played a central role in salvation history, has failed to embrace their longed-for Messiah. In verses 1-13, Paul begins to tackle this difficult subject using the examples of Isaac and Jacob.

Following his encouraging discussion of God’s unfailing love at the end of Romans 8, Paul shifts his focus in Romans 9 to consider the sad reality that Israel, who played a central role in salvation history, has failed to embrace their longed-for Messiah. In verses 1-13, Paul begins to tackle this difficult subject using the examples of Isaac and Jacob.

Romans 8:31-39 is Paul’s conclusion, not just to the first thirty verses of chapter 8, but to the train of thought he’s been developing since chapter 5. He’s thoroughly explained the status and blessings that belong to those who are saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, apart from the Law, and he concludes now with words of hope and encouragement regarding the love of God.

Romans 8:31-39 is Paul’s conclusion, not just to the first thirty verses of chapter 8, but to the train of thought he’s been developing since chapter 5. He’s thoroughly explained the status and blessings that belong to those who are saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, apart from the Law, and he concludes now with words of hope and encouragement regarding the love of God.

Last week, Paul briefly mentioned suffering. Such suffering, as we strive for holiness in the world, will be inevitable. What could possibly make such suffering worth persevering through? What assurance did those who gave their lives for the faith have that such acts were truly good for them? And do we have access to such assurances as well? Paul desires that God’s people be encouraged through their suffering to hold on to Christ, and he begins that good work today by reminding us of what we are striving toward: Glory.

Last week, Paul briefly mentioned suffering. Such suffering, as we strive for holiness in the world, will be inevitable. What could possibly make such suffering worth persevering through? What assurance did those who gave their lives for the faith have that such acts were truly good for them? And do we have access to such assurances as well? Paul desires that God’s people be encouraged through their suffering to hold on to Christ, and he begins that good work today by reminding us of what we are striving toward: Glory.

While we have seen that Romans 7 was not meant to imply the struggle that Christians have with sin, we are right to insist that there is indeed a struggle. If anyone was to gain the implication from Paul’s work that the fight with sin is over because of what Christ has done, they are sorely mistaken. Paul knows the battle ahead for all Christians, one of toil and hardship as they battle the sin in their bodies. Today, he not only implores us to do all we can to pursue holiness, he also gives us the ammunition we need to fight that good fight.

While we have seen that Romans 7 was not meant to imply the struggle that Christians have with sin, we are right to insist that there is indeed a struggle. If anyone was to gain the implication from Paul’s work that the fight with sin is over because of what Christ has done, they are sorely mistaken. Paul knows the battle ahead for all Christians, one of toil and hardship as they battle the sin in their bodies. Today, he not only implores us to do all we can to pursue holiness, he also gives us the ammunition we need to fight that good fight.

Paul continues to hit the same melody, but as a great composer, he tinkers with the arrangement. In the beginning of chapter 8 it is the glorious news that “there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.” This has been the theme of his letter, and of all Christendom since its inception. But what does this have to do with our sanctification? Is not Christ’s death and resurrection simply our pass out of hell and into heaven? Here, Paul argues that it is not; rather, the very work of Christ is the center of all of our holiness. Let us consider:

Paul continues to hit the same melody, but as a great composer, he tinkers with the arrangement. In the beginning of chapter 8 it is the glorious news that “there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.” This has been the theme of his letter, and of all Christendom since its inception. But what does this have to do with our sanctification? Is not Christ’s death and resurrection simply our pass out of hell and into heaven? Here, Paul argues that it is not; rather, the very work of Christ is the center of all of our holiness. Let us consider:

The difficulty of Romans 7 comes through in many ways. Is Paul talking about himself? Is he speaking of his life in Christ, or of the struggle he had in the law before his conversion? How could he consider himself once “alive” apart from the law, or the law dead until the command came? Today, we hope to provide some guidance for questions such as this, knowing that full confidence is likely impossible. But we of one thing we are assured: struggling against sin in our own power is futile, but through Christ we have all the victory we will ever need!

The difficulty of Romans 7 comes through in many ways. Is Paul talking about himself? Is he speaking of his life in Christ, or of the struggle he had in the law before his conversion? How could he consider himself once “alive” apart from the law, or the law dead until the command came? Today, we hope to provide some guidance for questions such as this, knowing that full confidence is likely impossible. But we of one thing we are assured: struggling against sin in our own power is futile, but through Christ we have all the victory we will ever need!

The law has a unique pull for Christians, especially those of the first Century. It was the expression of faithfulness for millennia, and held out a type of holiness that Christians wanted to gain. Yet, Paul is clear: not only do we not need the law to gain holiness, it is even a hindrance to the very holiness we seek. Today, as we return to the book of Romans, let us consider how the law is a hindrance to our holiness, as we pursue with passion the things of our God.

The law has a unique pull for Christians, especially those of the first Century. It was the expression of faithfulness for millennia, and held out a type of holiness that Christians wanted to gain. Yet, Paul is clear: not only do we not need the law to gain holiness, it is even a hindrance to the very holiness we seek. Today, as we return to the book of Romans, let us consider how the law is a hindrance to our holiness, as we pursue with passion the things of our God.

The end of the year, or the beginning of the next, is always a good time to reflect on the year, and to assess ourselves. The book of Malachi gives us a unique opportunity to do so; for as Malachi prophesies to his people, he asks them a series of questions seeking to show them their failings and to encourage them in the right pursuit of God. Let us do the same this morning! Today, we ask 5 questions of ourselves:

The end of the year, or the beginning of the next, is always a good time to reflect on the year, and to assess ourselves. The book of Malachi gives us a unique opportunity to do so; for as Malachi prophesies to his people, he asks them a series of questions seeking to show them their failings and to encourage them in the right pursuit of God. Let us do the same this morning! Today, we ask 5 questions of ourselves:

Zechariah is not best known as the prophet of Christmas. Yet, the themes that we find in his visions and prophecies help us to understand Christmas better. God has promised good for his people, and he will bring that good about. He will do this in unexpected ways, through Jesus himself. And so, we are to feast with our God, as a symbol of our faith that God’s Kingdom is soon in coming. Let us hear from Zechariah himself about God’s grace for us.

Zechariah is not best known as the prophet of Christmas. Yet, the themes that we find in his visions and prophecies help us to understand Christmas better. God has promised good for his people, and he will bring that good about. He will do this in unexpected ways, through Jesus himself. And so, we are to feast with our God, as a symbol of our faith that God’s Kingdom is soon in coming. Let us hear from Zechariah himself about God’s grace for us.

Haggai is a very short book, just 37 verses total, covering a mere 4 months of Old Testament history. And not much is known about prophet himself. Despite these two realities, the book is an important one, as it covers a significant event in the history of the Old Testament people of God. By studying the 2 chapters of Haggai, we can observe:

Haggai is a very short book, just 37 verses total, covering a mere 4 months of Old Testament history. And not much is known about prophet himself. Despite these two realities, the book is an important one, as it covers a significant event in the history of the Old Testament people of God. By studying the 2 chapters of Haggai, we can observe:

This morning we have had the great pleasure of witnessing 5 baptisms. Praise God! In light of this, I think that it would be a good time to think through in some more detail the meaning of the Lord’s Supper that these new members will be taking for the first time as members of Crossway Christian Church. What does the NT indicate that the Lord’s Supper means? Is it merely symbolic of Jesus’ death, or is it more than that? If more, what? While much more can be said, this morning let us meditate on a couple of features of our Lord’s Supper.

This morning we have had the great pleasure of witnessing 5 baptisms. Praise God! In light of this, I think that it would be a good time to think through in some more detail the meaning of the Lord’s Supper that these new members will be taking for the first time as members of Crossway Christian Church. What does the NT indicate that the Lord’s Supper means? Is it merely symbolic of Jesus’ death, or is it more than that? If more, what? While much more can be said, this morning let us meditate on a couple of features of our Lord’s Supper.

Zephaniah is not a well-known prophet. While a good deal of his writing and style finds its way into the imagery of Revelation, not much is used from him in other places in the NT. This, however, doesn’t mean that he is not important! Rather, he has much to say to God’s people, even today. In his three short chapters, he reminds us of the way in which God deals with all people, with justice and equity, promising destruction and salvation to the world.

Zephaniah is not a well-known prophet. While a good deal of his writing and style finds its way into the imagery of Revelation, not much is used from him in other places in the NT. This, however, doesn’t mean that he is not important! Rather, he has much to say to God’s people, even today. In his three short chapters, he reminds us of the way in which God deals with all people, with justice and equity, promising destruction and salvation to the world.

The problem of evil, its existence and how God will solve it, is a problem that will evade our understanding forever. We are also, thankfully, not the first to ask such questions. How can God allow evil? Why does he not abolish it forever? What’s more, why does he use evil in the world, even if it is to bring about that which is good? Habakkuk has these same questions, and yet the answers that he gets are not the answers he desires. Nevertheless, he is content to simply trust in the Lord to work good through their wickedness. Can we say the same?

The problem of evil, its existence and how God will solve it, is a problem that will evade our understanding forever. We are also, thankfully, not the first to ask such questions. How can God allow evil? Why does he not abolish it forever? What’s more, why does he use evil in the world, even if it is to bring about that which is good? Habakkuk has these same questions, and yet the answers that he gets are not the answers he desires. Nevertheless, he is content to simply trust in the Lord to work good through their wickedness. Can we say the same?

It is not hard to imagine that Nahum was precisely the prophet that Jonah wanted to be. Nahum, like Obediah, was sent to give a particular message of destruction to a particular people. Like Jonah, Nahum speaks of Assyria and its capital of Nineveh, but unlike Jonah, his prophecy is one of unredacted wrath. What has brought such wrath upon Nineveh, and what might we learn from it even today? Let us turn to Nahum and hear what the prophet from Elkosh has to say!

It is not hard to imagine that Nahum was precisely the prophet that Jonah wanted to be. Nahum, like Obediah, was sent to give a particular message of destruction to a particular people. Like Jonah, Nahum speaks of Assyria and its capital of Nineveh, but unlike Jonah, his prophecy is one of unredacted wrath. What has brought such wrath upon Nineveh, and what might we learn from it even today? Let us turn to Nahum and hear what the prophet from Elkosh has to say!

Micah the prophet hits all of the notes that the rest of the prophets do: there will be wrath and destruction over the sins of the people of both Judah and Israel. Yet, the way that Micah plays those notes is distinct from the other prophetic voices we have heard; wrath is present, yet the overriding theme is God’s eventual and faithful deliverance of his people. Deliverance, not just from his wrath, but also from their own sin, through a humble man from the humble town of Bethlehem Ephrathah. What themes do we discover as we read through Micah?

Micah the prophet hits all of the notes that the rest of the prophets do: there will be wrath and destruction over the sins of the people of both Judah and Israel. Yet, the way that Micah plays those notes is distinct from the other prophetic voices we have heard; wrath is present, yet the overriding theme is God’s eventual and faithful deliverance of his people. Deliverance, not just from his wrath, but also from their own sin, through a humble man from the humble town of Bethlehem Ephrathah. What themes do we discover as we read through Micah?

Jonah is a well-loved and well-known story. It is an amazing story about a prophet who doesn’t want to prophesy, and the fish that swallowed him. It is really that last bit that captures our attention – who has ever heard of such a thing? The story is truly amazing, which is why so many people doubt its veracity. But we ought not doubt its truthfulness, for Jonah was not penned to give us an fable or a myth, nor even just a good story, but a realistic picture of ourselves and our savior.

Jonah is a well-loved and well-known story. It is an amazing story about a prophet who doesn’t want to prophesy, and the fish that swallowed him. It is really that last bit that captures our attention – who has ever heard of such a thing? The story is truly amazing, which is why so many people doubt its veracity. But we ought not doubt its truthfulness, for Jonah was not penned to give us an fable or a myth, nor even just a good story, but a realistic picture of ourselves and our savior.

Obadiah is a short book, but don’t let that fool you – it has a powerful and timely message for us. Although the Edomites thought they had done no wrong, and that Judah may have had its destruction coming to them, God knew better. Their pride has deceived them, and led them into their own destruction. So, what shall we learn from this little letter? What does an inner-family rivalry from the 6th Century BC actually have to do with us? Much, in every way!

Obadiah is a short book, but don’t let that fool you – it has a powerful and timely message for us. Although the Edomites thought they had done no wrong, and that Judah may have had its destruction coming to them, God knew better. Their pride has deceived them, and led them into their own destruction. So, what shall we learn from this little letter? What does an inner-family rivalry from the 6th Century BC actually have to do with us? Much, in every way!

Amos is not a difficult book to comprehend. He doesn’t mince words, and he doesn’t hold back on his shots. The people of Israel have affronted God; they have largely abandoned seeking to know him, and it shows in all of their works. They do not love their neighbor, they do not seek justice, they do not seem to have any inkling of the depth of righteousness the Lord desires. Rather, they are fat, sleek, comfortable, and content with the world while others suffer in their midst. God will not stand for this among his people – so will he do so among us? What should we do to escape their fate?

Amos is not a difficult book to comprehend. He doesn’t mince words, and he doesn’t hold back on his shots. The people of Israel have affronted God; they have largely abandoned seeking to know him, and it shows in all of their works. They do not love their neighbor, they do not seek justice, they do not seem to have any inkling of the depth of righteousness the Lord desires. Rather, they are fat, sleek, comfortable, and content with the world while others suffer in their midst. God will not stand for this among his people – so will he do so among us? What should we do to escape their fate?

Many prophetic books have a similar flow and presentation. The nation of Israel has sinned; the wrath of God is coming upon them and the nations; yet God is glorious in his mercy and love, and will spare his people in the end. Joel, however, sounds different. There is no mention of Israel’s sin, rampant idolatry, or poor leadership. Instead, there are pleas to rightly handle common tragedy, and to practice right responses. This liturgy of Joel, of experiencing hardship and coming close to the Lord, seeks to help us rightly respond ourselves. How should we respond to tragedy?

Many prophetic books have a similar flow and presentation. The nation of Israel has sinned; the wrath of God is coming upon them and the nations; yet God is glorious in his mercy and love, and will spare his people in the end. Joel, however, sounds different. There is no mention of Israel’s sin, rampant idolatry, or poor leadership. Instead, there are pleas to rightly handle common tragedy, and to practice right responses. This liturgy of Joel, of experiencing hardship and coming close to the Lord, seeks to help us rightly respond ourselves. How should we respond to tragedy?

The book of Hosea is well known for many passages. Even so, readers may find the book daunting as it stands, mixing metaphors and, it seems, even messages. Israel has been adulterous to their God, unfaithful to the last. The Lord, therefore, will cut them off from his presence, and bring all of the curses of the law’s failing down upon them. Yet, in the same breath, Hosea makes it clear that God will also forgive, pardon, and show almost impossible mercy. This mystery of God’s wrath and love, mixed and poured out, is answered ultimately in Jesus Christ, the sacrifice for our sins, and the husband who makes faithful the unfaithful bride.

The book of Hosea is well known for many passages. Even so, readers may find the book daunting as it stands, mixing metaphors and, it seems, even messages. Israel has been adulterous to their God, unfaithful to the last. The Lord, therefore, will cut them off from his presence, and bring all of the curses of the law’s failing down upon them. Yet, in the same breath, Hosea makes it clear that God will also forgive, pardon, and show almost impossible mercy. This mystery of God’s wrath and love, mixed and poured out, is answered ultimately in Jesus Christ, the sacrifice for our sins, and the husband who makes faithful the unfaithful bride.

Many want to have their cake and eat it, too. Christians want to both have assurance of salvation, to avoid hell, but also to live out their sinful lives as they see fit. They take comfort in the idea that Christ forgives their sin. But here in Romans, Paul argues that such ideas are foolish and ignorant. Christians are not free to live lives bound to sin and death; but rather, having been freed from sin, we are to be bound to Christ, to live faithfully before him. Let us read from Romans 6 today, and see how we ought to live as saints, under grace.

Many want to have their cake and eat it, too. Christians want to both have assurance of salvation, to avoid hell, but also to live out their sinful lives as they see fit. They take comfort in the idea that Christ forgives their sin. But here in Romans, Paul argues that such ideas are foolish and ignorant. Christians are not free to live lives bound to sin and death; but rather, having been freed from sin, we are to be bound to Christ, to live faithfully before him. Let us read from Romans 6 today, and see how we ought to live as saints, under grace.

Many want to have their cake and eat it, too. Christians want to both have assurance of salvation, to avoid hell, but also to live out their sinful lives as they see fit. They take comfort in the idea that Christ forgives their sin. But here in Romans, Paul argues that such ideas are foolish and ignorant. Christians are not free to live lives bound to sin and death; but rather, having been freed from sin, we are to be bound to Christ, to live faithfully before him. Let us read from Romans 6 today, and see how we ought to live as saints, under grace.

Many want to have their cake and eat it, too. Christians want to both have assurance of salvation, to avoid hell, but also to live out their sinful lives as they see fit. They take comfort in the idea that Christ forgives their sin. But here in Romans, Paul argues that such ideas are foolish and ignorant. Christians are not free to live lives bound to sin and death; but rather, having been freed from sin, we are to be bound to Christ, to live faithfully before him. Let us read from Romans 6 today, and see how we ought to live as saints, under grace.

Our culture often uses the phrase “she’s my type” to mean that a person has either the personality or physical traits that another person desires. The NT and theologians also use it in a positive sense, often when looking at how figures in the OT shadow and demonstrate the nature and work of Christ. Melchizedek, Moses, and David are all wonderful examples of this. Yet, here in our text today, Adam stands as our type; not of one who walks faithfully to show us Christ, but one that Christ will be the negative of, his complete and utter opposite. For Jesus has undone the evil and harm that Adam wrought, and he has become the true and better Adam.

Our culture often uses the phrase “she’s my type” to mean that a person has either the personality or physical traits that another person desires. The NT and theologians also use it in a positive sense, often when looking at how figures in the OT shadow and demonstrate the nature and work of Christ. Melchizedek, Moses, and David are all wonderful examples of this. Yet, here in our text today, Adam stands as our type; not of one who walks faithfully to show us Christ, but one that Christ will be the negative of, his complete and utter opposite. For Jesus has undone the evil and harm that Adam wrought, and he has become the true and better Adam.

The passage we come to today is fraught with difficulties. It is the subject of much debate, both in that parts are difficult to put together, and in that so much rides on our interpretation of them. To manage this difficulty, we will walk slowly through these verses, which on their own are only a prelude to a bigger and better point that Paul wishes to make. Yet, if we do not understand these words correctly, we can misconstrue that larger point, and miss the glory of the work of Jesus for us. What does Adam’s sin and guilt have to do with us? Let us turn to Romans 5:12-14 and hear the Word of our God.

The passage we come to today is fraught with difficulties. It is the subject of much debate, both in that parts are difficult to put together, and in that so much rides on our interpretation of them. To manage this difficulty, we will walk slowly through these verses, which on their own are only a prelude to a bigger and better point that Paul wishes to make. Yet, if we do not understand these words correctly, we can misconstrue that larger point, and miss the glory of the work of Jesus for us. What does Adam’s sin and guilt have to do with us? Let us turn to Romans 5:12-14 and hear the Word of our God.

One of my favorite films of all time, The Shawshank Redemption was originally a short-story by Stephen King, best known for his horror novels. Yet, Shawshank is rather a meditation on hope. What happens when a man loses his hope? What’s worse – what happens when a man persists through pain and sorrow in hope, only to have his hopes dashed? King wasn’t the first to think through such issues. In some sense, we all do. We know that sometimes we hope against hope, and we get burned. Yet, for Christians, we have a hope that is both grand and secure. Let us listen to the apostle Paul today as he talks about the nature of our hope as Christians.

One of my favorite films of all time, The Shawshank Redemption was originally a short-story by Stephen King, best known for his horror novels. Yet, Shawshank is rather a meditation on hope. What happens when a man loses his hope? What’s worse – what happens when a man persists through pain and sorrow in hope, only to have his hopes dashed? King wasn’t the first to think through such issues. In some sense, we all do. We know that sometimes we hope against hope, and we get burned. Yet, for Christians, we have a hope that is both grand and secure. Let us listen to the apostle Paul today as he talks about the nature of our hope as Christians.

The Lord Jesus Christ is the true shepherd of the church. Yet, he has given to the church under-shepherds, men given over to the task of caring for and maintaining the well-being of the sheep. How are we to do this? Let us follow the path of the Good Shepherd to find out!

The Lord Jesus Christ is the true shepherd of the church. Yet, he has given to the church under-shepherds, men given over to the task of caring for and maintaining the well-being of the sheep. How are we to do this? Let us follow the path of the Good Shepherd to find out!

We are often sold the idea that lives are directed and fashioned by solitary moments in our lives, monumental events that happen to us that change fundamentally who we are and what we are about. Yet, for many of us, this is not our reality. Our lives are not changed by any solitary moment, but by many moments, strung together, slightly altering both us and our trajectory in life. Abraham’s life of faith is no different. Although the promise of Genesis 15 was a momentous occasion for him, his was not a momentary faith, but a lifelong walking with God. What kind of faith did Abraham have, and how should we imitate him?

We are often sold the idea that lives are directed and fashioned by solitary moments in our lives, monumental events that happen to us that change fundamentally who we are and what we are about. Yet, for many of us, this is not our reality. Our lives are not changed by any solitary moment, but by many moments, strung together, slightly altering both us and our trajectory in life. Abraham’s life of faith is no different. Although the promise of Genesis 15 was a momentous occasion for him, his was not a momentary faith, but a lifelong walking with God. What kind of faith did Abraham have, and how should we imitate him?

Circumcision was not a small deal to the Jewish people. It was a religious mark, a physical reminder not only of God’s promise, but of their belonging to God through their father Abraham. Yet, almost offhandedly, Paul sweeps away all concerns about circumcision with 4 small verses here in his letter to the Romans. Why can he do this? He offers a brief, straightforward explanation: Abraham was justified without, so too, then, are we. Other than not becoming Jewish, what does this mean for our lives? What can we learn from Paul’s insistence on faith being not just all we need, but the only thing we can have to be justified before God?

Circumcision was not a small deal to the Jewish people. It was a religious mark, a physical reminder not only of God’s promise, but of their belonging to God through their father Abraham. Yet, almost offhandedly, Paul sweeps away all concerns about circumcision with 4 small verses here in his letter to the Romans. Why can he do this? He offers a brief, straightforward explanation: Abraham was justified without, so too, then, are we. Other than not becoming Jewish, what does this mean for our lives? What can we learn from Paul’s insistence on faith being not just all we need, but the only thing we can have to be justified before God?

This morning we have the great privilidge of baptizing two young men, Nate LaBo and Isaac Wallaker. Both young men not only are baptized today, but therefore have the opportunity to take the Lord’s Supper for the first time. While we often speak of the meaning of the Lord’s Supper, this is a good opportunity to speak about what baptism means, why we at Crossway handle it as we do, and how it relates to the Lord’s Supper. As we approach thinking about baptism, let us ask some foundational questions

This morning we have the great privilidge of baptizing two young men, Nate LaBo and Isaac Wallaker. Both young men not only are baptized today, but therefore have the opportunity to take the Lord’s Supper for the first time. While we often speak of the meaning of the Lord’s Supper, this is a good opportunity to speak about what baptism means, why we at Crossway handle it as we do, and how it relates to the Lord’s Supper. As we approach thinking about baptism, let us ask some foundational questions

We can no longer live the same lives we lived before there were smart phones, the internet, automobiles, and refrigeration. Yet, of all the events that have changed the course of human history, the cross of Jesus Christ stands at the apex. Nothing has radically shaped the future quite like that one weekend 2,000 years ago. So, what was life like before that? Or, rather, what was salvation like before? If saints of old were saved by faith, what did they believe in? Or were they just saved by works? Today, Paul points to our shared salvation with those who have come before us; even with those who came before Christ.

We can no longer live the same lives we lived before there were smart phones, the internet, automobiles, and refrigeration. Yet, of all the events that have changed the course of human history, the cross of Jesus Christ stands at the apex. Nothing has radically shaped the future quite like that one weekend 2,000 years ago. So, what was life like before that? Or, rather, what was salvation like before? If saints of old were saved by faith, what did they believe in? Or were they just saved by works? Today, Paul points to our shared salvation with those who have come before us; even with those who came before Christ.

We love to press forward. We can consider the past, sure, but there is little time to consider what has happened when there is so much that will happen! Paul, having finished announcing our great gift of justification in Christ, would not be faulted for doing the same. We have a great inheritance, a great salvation, glory itself to consider! But, while such things will indeed be spoken of, Paul is in no hurry to look beyond the things of the past. Instead, let us consider with Paul how understanding rightly what has come before helps us to move forward. What does our justification, by faith, teach us about the law?

We love to press forward. We can consider the past, sure, but there is little time to consider what has happened when there is so much that will happen! Paul, having finished announcing our great gift of justification in Christ, would not be faulted for doing the same. We have a great inheritance, a great salvation, glory itself to consider! But, while such things will indeed be spoken of, Paul is in no hurry to look beyond the things of the past. Instead, let us consider with Paul how understanding rightly what has come before helps us to move forward. What does our justification, by faith, teach us about the law?

Previously, as we walked through the first part of these verses, we saw that God’s salvation did not simply entail the putting aside of his justice, but rather the upholding of it. Oddly, when turning to our salvation, Paul notes that God has manifested his righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. All that is good! But how, precisely, does the work of Jesus make God both the just one and the justifier of sinners? How can God be both faithful to his promises to be merciful and bless us and faithful to his promise to punish sin? By having Jesus Christ, his faithful servant, die in our place!

Previously, as we walked through the first part of these verses, we saw that God’s salvation did not simply entail the putting aside of his justice, but rather the upholding of it. Oddly, when turning to our salvation, Paul notes that God has manifested his righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. All that is good! But how, precisely, does the work of Jesus make God both the just one and the justifier of sinners? How can God be both faithful to his promises to be merciful and bless us and faithful to his promise to punish sin? By having Jesus Christ, his faithful servant, die in our place!

This week, Bill Cosby, formerly convicted of sexual assault, was allowed to walk free in Pennsylvania. It was not because the court, the jurors, the prosecution, the press, or almost anyone else in America thought that he was truly innocent. Rather, he was released on a technicality. Knowingly guilty, he is now a free man. This is not much different than those who profess Christ; knowingly guilty, we are justified freely by Jesus’ death on our behalf. Yet, what of justice? It is hard to say that justice was served in Cosby’s case; does our forgiveness mean God is unjust? What can we say to these things?

This week, Bill Cosby, formerly convicted of sexual assault, was allowed to walk free in Pennsylvania. It was not because the court, the jurors, the prosecution, the press, or almost anyone else in America thought that he was truly innocent. Rather, he was released on a technicality. Knowingly guilty, he is now a free man. This is not much different than those who profess Christ; knowingly guilty, we are justified freely by Jesus’ death on our behalf. Yet, what of justice? It is hard to say that justice was served in Cosby’s case; does our forgiveness mean God is unjust? What can we say to these things?

Few people like to be the bearers of bad news. Those who are given such a task do not relish it. To have to inform someone that they are losing their job, that they have cancer, that some untold horror has come true is difficult for anyone. Yet, we have just such news to tell. And worse: our news is the worst that we can imagine; not simply a message of death, but of death eternal; of an all-powerful God whose wrath against us burns hot with no way for us to extinguish it. Yet, this very news is vital to grasp, for only in this, the worst of news, can we truly find the best of our God.

Few people like to be the bearers of bad news. Those who are given such a task do not relish it. To have to inform someone that they are losing their job, that they have cancer, that some untold horror has come true is difficult for anyone. Yet, we have just such news to tell. And worse: our news is the worst that we can imagine; not simply a message of death, but of death eternal; of an all-powerful God whose wrath against us burns hot with no way for us to extinguish it. Yet, this very news is vital to grasp, for only in this, the worst of news, can we truly find the best of our God.

Questions are incredibly useful things. They are the way that we find out what we don’t know, helping to increase our knowledge of the world. They help to clarify our thinking when we are foggy about things. They can likewise be used as weapons and as rhetorical tools. Paul has labored in the first two chapters of his letter to lay the foundational reality of sin that provides the necessity of the gospel – all, Jew and Greek, have sinned and need the work of Jesus in their life. Here, as we begin Romans 3, Paul helps to clarify his points through the use of questions.

Questions are incredibly useful things. They are the way that we find out what we don’t know, helping to increase our knowledge of the world. They help to clarify our thinking when we are foggy about things. They can likewise be used as weapons and as rhetorical tools. Paul has labored in the first two chapters of his letter to lay the foundational reality of sin that provides the necessity of the gospel – all, Jew and Greek, have sinned and need the work of Jesus in their life. Here, as we begin Romans 3, Paul helps to clarify his points through the use of questions.

Paul has been making his case that no one, on their own, is righteous before God. He has spent time focused on the unrighteousness of the Gentiles, and in the first half of Romans 2 began to turn his attention to the Jews. Now in our passage this morning, he turns his focus explicitly on the Jews. The Jews had great faith that the outward trappings of their religion would guarantee them safety from God’s judgment, but they neglected the deeper reality that was meant to be signified by these exterior marks.

Paul has been making his case that no one, on their own, is righteous before God. He has spent time focused on the unrighteousness of the Gentiles, and in the first half of Romans 2 began to turn his attention to the Jews. Now in our passage this morning, he turns his focus explicitly on the Jews. The Jews had great faith that the outward trappings of their religion would guarantee them safety from God’s judgment, but they neglected the deeper reality that was meant to be signified by these exterior marks.

Romans is known for its encouraging and uplifting passages. Few texts are quite as faith building and theologically rich as 3:21-26; few can encourage us in good works as 6:15-19; few are as uplifting in suffering as 8:18-39. These are the bright lights that many consider the heart of the epistle. Yet, we are not in these bright lights, but in Paul’s ongoing discussion of idolatry, sin, and judgment. But, even in these dark themes, we can see the light of the gospel shine brightly. Today, as we consider again God’s judgment, let us hear afresh the good news of Jesus’ grace.

Romans is known for its encouraging and uplifting passages. Few texts are quite as faith building and theologically rich as 3:21-26; few can encourage us in good works as 6:15-19; few are as uplifting in suffering as 8:18-39. These are the bright lights that many consider the heart of the epistle. Yet, we are not in these bright lights, but in Paul’s ongoing discussion of idolatry, sin, and judgment. But, even in these dark themes, we can see the light of the gospel shine brightly. Today, as we consider again God’s judgment, let us hear afresh the good news of Jesus’ grace.

One year ago this week, the dam at Edenville broke, sending some 2.8 billion cubic feet of water downstream, eventually causing the Sanford dam to break, and destroying the small town of Sanford. Even as the waters rescinded, the misery continued, as the devastation lingered, for many, even to this day. Our idolatry has broken the dam of our sin, and we now find that we are awash in it. In the last of Romans 1, Paul helps us to see our great predicament, and begins to prepare the path for the great salvation we are afforded in Christ.

One year ago this week, the dam at Edenville broke, sending some 2.8 billion cubic feet of water downstream, eventually causing the Sanford dam to break, and destroying the small town of Sanford. Even as the waters rescinded, the misery continued, as the devastation lingered, for many, even to this day. Our idolatry has broken the dam of our sin, and we now find that we are awash in it. In the last of Romans 1, Paul helps us to see our great predicament, and begins to prepare the path for the great salvation we are afforded in Christ.

Why is our sin so bad? Some of it is small and light, is it not? Would God send us to hell for lying in court to make sure the right verdict comes out? For simply getting angry now and again? Such questions are not new, but radically old, and are instructive. What is the real problem with our sin? And, if we can rightly identify that, what does the gospel of Jesus do about it? Today, we get a brief initial glance at our great problem, as Paul begins to outline the heart of the gospel in Romans 1:18-23. Let us hear from Paul about our great sin.

Why is our sin so bad? Some of it is small and light, is it not? Would God send us to hell for lying in court to make sure the right verdict comes out? For simply getting angry now and again? Such questions are not new, but radically old, and are instructive. What is the real problem with our sin? And, if we can rightly identify that, what does the gospel of Jesus do about it? Today, we get a brief initial glance at our great problem, as Paul begins to outline the heart of the gospel in Romans 1:18-23. Let us hear from Paul about our great sin.

Paul was not a man who lacked boldness. He fearlessly strode into places that he knew would not receive him well, where his enemies surrounded him and would relentlessly pursue his life. Yet, all the same, he persisted in preaching the gospel. What gave Paul his great confidence and boldness? Was it a confidence in himself? In his abilities and, if nothing else, his way with words? Let us consider today where that confidence of Paul has come from, and press to make it our own, lest we be said to be ashamed of the gospel.

Paul was not a man who lacked boldness. He fearlessly strode into places that he knew would not receive him well, where his enemies surrounded him and would relentlessly pursue his life. Yet, all the same, he persisted in preaching the gospel. What gave Paul his great confidence and boldness? Was it a confidence in himself? In his abilities and, if nothing else, his way with words? Let us consider today where that confidence of Paul has come from, and press to make it our own, lest we be said to be ashamed of the gospel.

Luther’s conversion to the true gospel was likely not accomplished in one specific moment. Yet, if there was a moment, it was in studying the passage that lies before us today. It was here, above all else, that Luther came to realize that God’s gift of salvation was truly that, a gift, and that he might leave behind all attempts to earn such favor through his own merits. And it happened as he considered the small phrase “the righteousness of God.” Let us take time to think through this important phrase this morning, and see in it the glory of the gospel of our God.

Luther’s conversion to the true gospel was likely not accomplished in one specific moment. Yet, if there was a moment, it was in studying the passage that lies before us today. It was here, above all else, that Luther came to realize that God’s gift of salvation was truly that, a gift, and that he might leave behind all attempts to earn such favor through his own merits. And it happened as he considered the small phrase “the righteousness of God.” Let us take time to think through this important phrase this morning, and see in it the glory of the gospel of our God.

Many see any claim to authority as a claim to power, and in that, the ability to oppress and use others. Such claims are not typically wrong. We see throughout Scripture and history that men (and women!) use their authority for evil purposes, and seek to control others for their own selfish good. But, through Christ, who is of the highest authority, we have the prime counter-example! He who had all authority came to give his life as a ransom. Paul, in our passage this morning, displays the same understanding of authority, as he serves the Romans through his apostleship.

Many see any claim to authority as a claim to power, and in that, the ability to oppress and use others. Such claims are not typically wrong. We see throughout Scripture and history that men (and women!) use their authority for evil purposes, and seek to control others for their own selfish good. But, through Christ, who is of the highest authority, we have the prime counter-example! He who had all authority came to give his life as a ransom. Paul, in our passage this morning, displays the same understanding of authority, as he serves the Romans through his apostleship.

The authority of the apostle was an ongoing issue in many churches, not least among those very churches that he founded (see 1, 2 Cor or Gal). Why would Rome be different? The Roman churches were not started by Paul, nor did Paul’s preaching and understanding form them as they began to take shape. What right does Paul have to write such a letter to them? Why should they listen? Why should we? Anticipating such questions, Paul gives a lengthy introduction to his letter, where his sets his apostleship from Christ as his authoritative stamp from the Lord himself.

The authority of the apostle was an ongoing issue in many churches, not least among those very churches that he founded (see 1, 2 Cor or Gal). Why would Rome be different? The Roman churches were not started by Paul, nor did Paul’s preaching and understanding form them as they began to take shape. What right does Paul have to write such a letter to them? Why should they listen? Why should we? Anticipating such questions, Paul gives a lengthy introduction to his letter, where his sets his apostleship from Christ as his authoritative stamp from the Lord himself.

Before you take a trip, it is always a good idea to look at a map of the place you will visit, even if you can navigate the city with your phone’s GPS. Doing so allows you to orient yourself correctly where you visit, and will undoubtedly help you to keep your experiences in context. Today, as we plan our visit to Paul’s letter to the Romans, we will look at the map of Romans, trying to capture the layout of the letter from a 30,000-foot view. What is it that Paul is trying to say in the book, and what are the major themes? Let us find out today, as we study the book of Romans.

Before you take a trip, it is always a good idea to look at a map of the place you will visit, even if you can navigate the city with your phone’s GPS. Doing so allows you to orient yourself correctly where you visit, and will undoubtedly help you to keep your experiences in context. Today, as we plan our visit to Paul’s letter to the Romans, we will look at the map of Romans, trying to capture the layout of the letter from a 30,000-foot view. What is it that Paul is trying to say in the book, and what are the major themes? Let us find out today, as we study the book of Romans.

Christmas is the American holiday. No other day comes close, really. Christmas has its own music, sweaters, trees, cookies, and movies. Easter, at least in America, cannot compete with that! Yet, since Christianity’s inception, Resurrection Sunday has been the church’s most important day of remembrance. It is not just that we celebrate it one day a year, but every Sunday that we gather is a microcosm of this day. But why make such a fuss? Why spend so much time bothering over something that happened so long ago? Given all that happens in the world today, all that we face, is this worthy of our time? Is Jesus worthy of all this?

Christmas is the American holiday. No other day comes close, really. Christmas has its own music, sweaters, trees, cookies, and movies. Easter, at least in America, cannot compete with that! Yet, since Christianity’s inception, Resurrection Sunday has been the church’s most important day of remembrance. It is not just that we celebrate it one day a year, but every Sunday that we gather is a microcosm of this day. But why make such a fuss? Why spend so much time bothering over something that happened so long ago? Given all that happens in the world today, all that we face, is this worthy of our time? Is Jesus worthy of all this?

Christians do many weird things. Today, we proclaim the day that the Lord of glory, the one in whom we hope for eternal life, dying at the hands of wicked and sinful men, is a day best described as "good." Of course, we have good reason to do so. By his blood, he has redeemed us from our sin and given us hope. Yet, there are some things that even we Christians find odd. What does the Apostles' Creed mean by saying that Jesus "descended to the dead"? Let us consider Jesus' victory over the dead, in his death, tonight.

Christians do many weird things. Today, we proclaim the day that the Lord of glory, the one in whom we hope for eternal life, dying at the hands of wicked and sinful men, is a day best described as "good." Of course, we have good reason to do so. By his blood, he has redeemed us from our sin and given us hope. Yet, there are some things that even we Christians find odd. What does the Apostles' Creed mean by saying that Jesus "descended to the dead"? Let us consider Jesus' victory over the dead, in his death, tonight.

Today we come to the end of the book of Esther. It has been a time, I hope, of worthwhile reflection on the work of God, even as it shadows the coming of the cross of Jesus Christ. Today, as we read and consider the last two chapters, we will focus on summing up the major themes of the book; themes that we no doubt have hit previously but will reward reflection. What have we to learn about God from a book that steadfastly refuses to even name him? Much, in every way! Let us turn to Esther and see the many ways in which this story reveals God to us.

Today we come to the end of the book of Esther. It has been a time, I hope, of worthwhile reflection on the work of God, even as it shadows the coming of the cross of Jesus Christ. Today, as we read and consider the last two chapters, we will focus on summing up the major themes of the book; themes that we no doubt have hit previously but will reward reflection. What have we to learn about God from a book that steadfastly refuses to even name him? Much, in every way! Let us turn to Esther and see the many ways in which this story reveals God to us.

St. Patrick, the great early missionary, and the man who helped to bring the gospel to the British Isles, is celebrated each year with a day dedicated to drinking and debauchery. How unfitting that is! But it is a good reminder to each of us that our influence and acts live on far after we die. In Esther 7, we reach the emotional climax of our story; yet, even so, there remains work to be done. In Esther 8, we get two major reversals: the first dealing with the enemy Haman, the second with his ungodly and sinful edict. In each of these reversals, we ought to be reminded of the nature of the gospel and the kind reversal that Jesus has secured for us!

St. Patrick, the great early missionary, and the man who helped to bring the gospel to the British Isles, is celebrated each year with a day dedicated to drinking and debauchery. How unfitting that is! But it is a good reminder to each of us that our influence and acts live on far after we die. In Esther 7, we reach the emotional climax of our story; yet, even so, there remains work to be done. In Esther 8, we get two major reversals: the first dealing with the enemy Haman, the second with his ungodly and sinful edict. In each of these reversals, we ought to be reminded of the nature of the gospel and the kind reversal that Jesus has secured for us!

Throughout the history of the church, many have questioned the nature and purpose of the OT. If we have Jesus, and he is the focus, why worry about the OT? Why not just focus on the new? The OT, however, is a necessary part of God’s revelation to us: it helps to shape and mold the very ways in which we are to think about Jesus and what he has done. The OT, then, builds up the picture of Jesus, like a mosaic, as each individual part has its purpose. Esther, in its own way, gives us an interesting and helpful picture of Jesus, and the way in which he saves us. Let us today think through the connections between Esther and the gospel.

Throughout the history of the church, many have questioned the nature and purpose of the OT. If we have Jesus, and he is the focus, why worry about the OT? Why not just focus on the new? The OT, however, is a necessary part of God’s revelation to us: it helps to shape and mold the very ways in which we are to think about Jesus and what he has done. The OT, then, builds up the picture of Jesus, like a mosaic, as each individual part has its purpose. Esther, in its own way, gives us an interesting and helpful picture of Jesus, and the way in which he saves us. Let us today think through the connections between Esther and the gospel.

James will end his epistle in Chapter 5 with his subject matter being a reflection of his heart. He was a godly man who was led by the one true God to be his witness as well as the author of this epistle. James lived a life of obedience to God's Word and law and a devotion to prayer. Today we will look at the first half of Chapter 5, verses 1-11. His audience is sinners and saints. The second half of Chapter 5 is centered on prayer, and we'll look at that at a later date. Today's Scripture has two topics. First, the faithless and merciless will be condemned. Second, he call believers to patiently persevere in the faith.

James will end his epistle in Chapter 5 with his subject matter being a reflection of his heart. He was a godly man who was led by the one true God to be his witness as well as the author of this epistle. James lived a life of obedience to God's Word and law and a devotion to prayer. Today we will look at the first half of Chapter 5, verses 1-11. His audience is sinners and saints. The second half of Chapter 5 is centered on prayer, and we'll look at that at a later date. Today's Scripture has two topics. First, the faithless and merciless will be condemned. Second, he call believers to patiently persevere in the faith.

Jesus, in speaking with Nicodemus in John 3, reminds Nicodemus that we do not know where the wind has come from or where it is going – but we can see its effects all around us. We know that the wind is there, for we see the results of its presence. Today, while we don’t see God, we see the effects of his presence all over Esther 6, especially in the working out of his justice. How do we know that God is truly there, even when we can’t see him? What does such presence tell us about the God that we serve? Let us press into these questions today, as we consider God’s beautiful and just work in Esther 6.

Jesus, in speaking with Nicodemus in John 3, reminds Nicodemus that we do not know where the wind has come from or where it is going – but we can see its effects all around us. We know that the wind is there, for we see the results of its presence. Today, while we don’t see God, we see the effects of his presence all over Esther 6, especially in the working out of his justice. How do we know that God is truly there, even when we can’t see him? What does such presence tell us about the God that we serve? Let us press into these questions today, as we consider God’s beautiful and just work in Esther 6.

Jesus often tells us very difficult things. One of the most difficult sayings that Jesus gives to us is found in Luke 16 (the parable of the dishonest manager). Shall we also be dishonest as this man was? What does Jesus want us to do? At the very least, I think, he desires for his people to be as Esther, who shows great deftness and savvy in how she handles the king. At the same time, the pride of Haman makes him fragile, forgetful, and foolish. Therefore, as we travel through the story this morning, let us follow the course set down for us in the person of Esther, who expertly deals with the problems before her, and find the repentance that escaped Haman.

Jesus often tells us very difficult things. One of the most difficult sayings that Jesus gives to us is found in Luke 16 (the parable of the dishonest manager). Shall we also be dishonest as this man was? What does Jesus want us to do? At the very least, I think, he desires for his people to be as Esther, who shows great deftness and savvy in how she handles the king. At the same time, the pride of Haman makes him fragile, forgetful, and foolish. Therefore, as we travel through the story this morning, let us follow the course set down for us in the person of Esther, who expertly deals with the problems before her, and find the repentance that escaped Haman.

There are many times that the Bible speaks to us about things that, if we’re being honest, have no immediate application for us. Many of you have no children, yet we still think it wise to read and preach passages related to parenting from Proverbs and Ephesians. For many in America, passages dealing with persecution and suffering are the same. We might not experience those problems right now – but they serve as warnings to prepare us for times of trial, if they come. We may be like Esther, separated from the evil that befalls others, but that should not mean that we cannot respond! What is our response to suffering?

There are many times that the Bible speaks to us about things that, if we’re being honest, have no immediate application for us. Many of you have no children, yet we still think it wise to read and preach passages related to parenting from Proverbs and Ephesians. For many in America, passages dealing with persecution and suffering are the same. We might not experience those problems right now – but they serve as warnings to prepare us for times of trial, if they come. We may be like Esther, separated from the evil that befalls others, but that should not mean that we cannot respond! What is our response to suffering?

We have all had those kinds of days – where nothing seems to be going right, and the dominoes of misfortune seem to fall one after another on top of us. Mordecai, at the end of Esther 2, seems to be riding high. Esther appears to be well taken care of, and he himself has thwarted a plot to assassinate the King, which certainly will come with a reward! Yet, by the time we get to the beginning of chapter 4, a mere chapter later, we will find Mordecai weeping, laying on the ground, covered in dust and ashes. How fleeting are the times of plenty in this life! Yet, even in times like that, there is much hope in God. Let us consider that hope this morning, as we read from God’s word!

We have all had those kinds of days – where nothing seems to be going right, and the dominoes of misfortune seem to fall one after another on top of us. Mordecai, at the end of Esther 2, seems to be riding high. Esther appears to be well taken care of, and he himself has thwarted a plot to assassinate the King, which certainly will come with a reward! Yet, by the time we get to the beginning of chapter 4, a mere chapter later, we will find Mordecai weeping, laying on the ground, covered in dust and ashes. How fleeting are the times of plenty in this life! Yet, even in times like that, there is much hope in God. Let us consider that hope this morning, as we read from God’s word!

There is no doubt that the people of Persia had different standards of right and wrong then we do today. Their relationship to authority, individual and social rights, government, and even God would have been so radically different from our we likely have a hard time even understanding how deep the differences go. The same would be true for those living in the Persian empire who were Jews. The difference between God’s desires and the culture in which they lived was vast. How could they be expected to navigate such a context in purity? How can we? Today, let us try to find some hope even as we live in a foreign land.

There is no doubt that the people of Persia had different standards of right and wrong then we do today. Their relationship to authority, individual and social rights, government, and even God would have been so radically different from our we likely have a hard time even understanding how deep the differences go. The same would be true for those living in the Persian empire who were Jews. The difference between God’s desires and the culture in which they lived was vast. How could they be expected to navigate such a context in purity? How can we? Today, let us try to find some hope even as we live in a foreign land.

Esther is a strange book. Out of the 66 books of the Bible, it is the only one not to mention God, or use his covenantal name. It mentions nothing of the law, Torah, the history of the Jewish nation, or its hope for the future. Yet, this is part of its beauty and genius. Esther desires to show us how God’s power, even when unseen and unspoken, is still stronger than the mightiest of men. While it seems, on its surface, to be simply a story of how a feast came to be celebrated, we will hopefully see that it is much more than that. Let us begin by today looking into Esther 1, and how humans wrongly relate to power.

Esther is a strange book. Out of the 66 books of the Bible, it is the only one not to mention God, or use his covenantal name. It mentions nothing of the law, Torah, the history of the Jewish nation, or its hope for the future. Yet, this is part of its beauty and genius. Esther desires to show us how God’s power, even when unseen and unspoken, is still stronger than the mightiest of men. While it seems, on its surface, to be simply a story of how a feast came to be celebrated, we will hopefully see that it is much more than that. Let us begin by today looking into Esther 1, and how humans wrongly relate to power.

Today, we reach the end of John’s Gospel. We will attempt to summarize the teaching of John’s lifetime of reflection on the wonder of Jesus, fine-tuned and clarified over decades, compiled in 21 chapters and some 866 verses. Surely, that is a tall order! And while any summary is bound to be, by nature, reductionistic, we can hit the highlights of John’s vision into the wonder of Jesus’ life and ministry. The ending of the book itself shows us that even John has summarized in order to write his Gospel! Let us, then, do the same, and recount what his Gospel has given to us, ponder it anew, and praise God for the wonderful gift that we have in Jesus!

Today, we reach the end of John’s Gospel. We will attempt to summarize the teaching of John’s lifetime of reflection on the wonder of Jesus, fine-tuned and clarified over decades, compiled in 21 chapters and some 866 verses. Surely, that is a tall order! And while any summary is bound to be, by nature, reductionistic, we can hit the highlights of John’s vision into the wonder of Jesus’ life and ministry. The ending of the book itself shows us that even John has summarized in order to write his Gospel! Let us, then, do the same, and recount what his Gospel has given to us, ponder it anew, and praise God for the wonderful gift that we have in Jesus!

What glory there is in our salvation! Christ has indeed saved us from our sin, freed us from our destiny to death, delivered us from the power of the Devil! There is glory in our salvation, but there is also the great need for humility. After all, our sin is detestable, and it comes with a great cost. Today, we see how deep the care of our Lord is for us, seen through his own care and concern for Peter. Although Peter’s denial was public and clear, Jesus loves him all the same, and here re-establishes him as the head of the apostles. What does Jesus do, what does he say, to affirm Peter’s forgiveness and appoint him to lifelong service?

What glory there is in our salvation! Christ has indeed saved us from our sin, freed us from our destiny to death, delivered us from the power of the Devil! There is glory in our salvation, but there is also the great need for humility. After all, our sin is detestable, and it comes with a great cost. Today, we see how deep the care of our Lord is for us, seen through his own care and concern for Peter. Although Peter’s denial was public and clear, Jesus loves him all the same, and here re-establishes him as the head of the apostles. What does Jesus do, what does he say, to affirm Peter’s forgiveness and appoint him to lifelong service?

Have you ever been to a movie you think should end, but it seems to have an extra 20 minutes of extra, and seemingly unneeded, material? Many scholars think that is what John 21 is like. The ending of chapter 20 wrapped up both the book and the resurrection appearances nicely. Yet, after that summary and purpose statement, we have yet another resurrection appearance! Why would John include this story? Today, we hope to find the answer to that question, and see something of the necessary relationship between Jesus and the Church.

Have you ever been to a movie you think should end, but it seems to have an extra 20 minutes of extra, and seemingly unneeded, material? Many scholars think that is what John 21 is like. The ending of chapter 20 wrapped up both the book and the resurrection appearances nicely. Yet, after that summary and purpose statement, we have yet another resurrection appearance! Why would John include this story? Today, we hope to find the answer to that question, and see something of the necessary relationship between Jesus and the Church.

We live in an age of skepticism. We find there to be much merit, even virtue, in thinking that if we can’t see it, if there is no overwhelming proof, then we won’t believe it. This attitude of skepticism has obvious trouble with the claim that Jesus was resurrected from the dead. How can we be sure? There are many answers to this question, but the most important is simply the mercy of Jesus our Lord. It is his mercy that allows us to truly see and believe. Today, as we look at the last two of his four resurrection appearances, let us see the mercy that Jesus shows in calling to belief those who are his!

We live in an age of skepticism. We find there to be much merit, even virtue, in thinking that if we can’t see it, if there is no overwhelming proof, then we won’t believe it. This attitude of skepticism has obvious trouble with the claim that Jesus was resurrected from the dead. How can we be sure? There are many answers to this question, but the most important is simply the mercy of Jesus our Lord. It is his mercy that allows us to truly see and believe. Today, as we look at the last two of his four resurrection appearances, let us see the mercy that Jesus shows in calling to belief those who are his!

Mary's Magnificat is oneof the best known songs in Scripture. It is a song that magnifies what God has done in her; indeed, it magnifies the very work that God typically does. He magnifies the lowly and humble, and brings down the mighty and proud. This is not just a pattern of God's work, it is the very work of the gospel! So, let us sing with glad rejoicing, and in humility, for our great Savior!

Mary's Magnificat is oneof the best known songs in Scripture. It is a song that magnifies what God has done in her; indeed, it magnifies the very work that God typically does. He magnifies the lowly and humble, and brings down the mighty and proud. This is not just a pattern of God's work, it is the very work of the gospel! So, let us sing with glad rejoicing, and in humility, for our great Savior!

The Christmas season is one made for families; many of our best and strongest memories of this season are of time spent with family. Yet, this year, many of us are saddened to only see family distantly, via phone or video. This sadness makes good theological sense, for the entire reason for the season is that God came to be near us, Immanuel! Today, we remember not the birth of Jesus, but the resurrection of Jesus, and his beautiful and varied work in moving his people to belief. We might think that belief would be easier if he would only be with us, physically. Yet, Jesus provides us with what we need to believe, physical presence or no.

The Christmas season is one made for families; many of our best and strongest memories of this season are of time spent with family. Yet, this year, many of us are saddened to only see family distantly, via phone or video. This sadness makes good theological sense, for the entire reason for the season is that God came to be near us, Immanuel! Today, we remember not the birth of Jesus, but the resurrection of Jesus, and his beautiful and varied work in moving his people to belief. We might think that belief would be easier if he would only be with us, physically. Yet, Jesus provides us with what we need to believe, physical presence or no.

Last week, we began our look at the passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ, and noted some of the ways in which his death and its effects were pictured and prophesied already in Scripture. The suffering and vicarious death of our God in the person of Christ was on display in David’s life, in the Passover, and through the prophets. Today, we continue to look at how the OT is fulfilled in the death of Christ, how all things are summed up in him, and how we can better know the work of our Lord when we understand the pictures given to us in the OT. Today, let us consider the fulfilment of Scripture in the death of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Last week, we began our look at the passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ, and noted some of the ways in which his death and its effects were pictured and prophesied already in Scripture. The suffering and vicarious death of our God in the person of Christ was on display in David’s life, in the Passover, and through the prophets. Today, we continue to look at how the OT is fulfilled in the death of Christ, how all things are summed up in him, and how we can better know the work of our Lord when we understand the pictures given to us in the OT. Today, let us consider the fulfilment of Scripture in the death of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Post Thanksgiving, we have entered into our Advent season, where we celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus as a humble child in a manger. Yet, as we work through John, we seem to be at the opposite end of the spectrum, reading and thinking through his trial, crucifixion, and death. However, in God’s providence, these two realities are not random separate events, but all part of a long plan to save sinners by the work of the Son. Today, even as we read how Jesus’ birth fulfilled God’s plan through Scripture, let us consider the multitudinous ways in which his death does precisely the same. Jesus is the culmination of all of God’s revelation to us!

Post Thanksgiving, we have entered into our Advent season, where we celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus as a humble child in a manger. Yet, as we work through John, we seem to be at the opposite end of the spectrum, reading and thinking through his trial, crucifixion, and death. However, in God’s providence, these two realities are not random separate events, but all part of a long plan to save sinners by the work of the Son. Today, even as we read how Jesus’ birth fulfilled God’s plan through Scripture, let us consider the multitudinous ways in which his death does precisely the same. Jesus is the culmination of all of God’s revelation to us!

God has been incredibly kind to us in the smallest of things, many of which we are so accustomed to that we typically miss them entirely. How difficult would life be without the slight delay, the filter, between what we think and feel and what we say? How would others view us if the thoughts of our hearts escaped immediately upon their thought? If we are honest, such a reality would be a dreadfully painful one, both for us and others. Here, at the end of the trial of Jesus in John, we have a picture of that moment when our filters are thrown off, our pretensions are eliminated, and we stand bare before God. What do we see in this text?

God has been incredibly kind to us in the smallest of things, many of which we are so accustomed to that we typically miss them entirely. How difficult would life be without the slight delay, the filter, between what we think and feel and what we say? How would others view us if the thoughts of our hearts escaped immediately upon their thought? If we are honest, such a reality would be a dreadfully painful one, both for us and others. Here, at the end of the trial of Jesus in John, we have a picture of that moment when our filters are thrown off, our pretensions are eliminated, and we stand bare before God. What do we see in this text?

Many philosophers throughout the ages have considered an interesting thought-experiment: how can we prove the existence of other minds? How do you know that what is around you is real? Or, is there some better, truer reality lurking just behind what you can see? Descartes thought about this in the 17th century, and the film The Matrix considered it popularly just 20 some years ago. What if I told you that there is a deeper, truer reality lying all around you, unnoticed? What if you have been blind to it your whole life? Today, let us consider how so many miss this greater and truer reality; let us see how so many miss the Kingdom of Christ.

Many philosophers throughout the ages have considered an interesting thought-experiment: how can we prove the existence of other minds? How do you know that what is around you is real? Or, is there some better, truer reality lurking just behind what you can see? Descartes thought about this in the 17th century, and the film The Matrix considered it popularly just 20 some years ago. What if I told you that there is a deeper, truer reality lying all around you, unnoticed? What if you have been blind to it your whole life? Today, let us consider how so many miss this greater and truer reality; let us see how so many miss the Kingdom of Christ.

We find many great examples of righteous courage throughout Scripture. Joshua took over the promised land with a rag-tag army; David faced the monstrous Goliath with five small stones; Esther faced her death simply to pose a question. These are valuable examples for us to follow. It is, however, perhaps better not to look at the positive examples of courage, but also at the negative examples of the cowards, for one suspects that we are nearer to the later rather than the former. Peter's failure is the prime example for us, and the one that we get to consider this morning. What can we learn from Peter's faithlessness?

We find many great examples of righteous courage throughout Scripture. Joshua took over the promised land with a rag-tag army; David faced the monstrous Goliath with five small stones; Esther faced her death simply to pose a question. These are valuable examples for us to follow. It is, however, perhaps better not to look at the positive examples of courage, but also at the negative examples of the cowards, for one suspects that we are nearer to the later rather than the former. Peter's failure is the prime example for us, and the one that we get to consider this morning. What can we learn from Peter's faithlessness?

The great liberal scholar project was to search through the rubble, remains, and ramblings of the Bible and to try to reconstruct the picture of the “real” Jesus. Certain that what we have in the Bible is skewed history (at best!), liberal scholars sought to find out who Jesus really was and what he really taught. Today, let us do better, and try to find something about the “real” Jesus of Scripture! As Jesus begins the march toward his trial and crucifixion, we have a nice series of contrasts between him and the principle characters of that scandalous event. Today, as we begin to read through John 18, let us see how Jesus is indeed greater than them all.

The great liberal scholar project was to search through the rubble, remains, and ramblings of the Bible and to try to reconstruct the picture of the “real” Jesus. Certain that what we have in the Bible is skewed history (at best!), liberal scholars sought to find out who Jesus really was and what he really taught. Today, let us do better, and try to find something about the “real” Jesus of Scripture! As Jesus begins the march toward his trial and crucifixion, we have a nice series of contrasts between him and the principle characters of that scandalous event. Today, as we begin to read through John 18, let us see how Jesus is indeed greater than them all.

Unity and togetherness are concepts that occupy much of the world’s attention. That our country, indeed our world, is fragmented, and that such a fragmentation is a bad thing, is readily understood. The church should be a place for unity and harmony. None of these things is widely debated. But, how ought the church strive for that unity? Should we pursue it by removing obstacles? Ought we be less concerned with “truth” and more with relationships? Should we strive for a unity in name, if not in doctrine? Today, we hear of Jesus’ prayers for our unity, as we get insight into what our unity ought to be.

Unity and togetherness are concepts that occupy much of the world’s attention. That our country, indeed our world, is fragmented, and that such a fragmentation is a bad thing, is readily understood. The church should be a place for unity and harmony. None of these things is widely debated. But, how ought the church strive for that unity? Should we pursue it by removing obstacles? Ought we be less concerned with “truth” and more with relationships? Should we strive for a unity in name, if not in doctrine? Today, we hear of Jesus’ prayers for our unity, as we get insight into what our unity ought to be.

This life is hard to keep balance in. Sin so affects us that we have a difficult time not over-adjusting to the problems that we face. We often see our problems in life, and think that Jesus is the easy solution to them. But, in doing this, we often just use Jesus as a holy talisman, a trinket used to get us what we really want. Or, reacting to that, we show Jesus as the high and mighty God, but forget that he doesn’t just demand our obedience, but wants our love and affection in light of the good he offers. In John 17, Jesus offers a prayer that helps us walk this fine line. As he prepares to leave the disciples, Jesus prays for his own glory, which is also for the good of us all.

This life is hard to keep balance in. Sin so affects us that we have a difficult time not over-adjusting to the problems that we face. We often see our problems in life, and think that Jesus is the easy solution to them. But, in doing this, we often just use Jesus as a holy talisman, a trinket used to get us what we really want. Or, reacting to that, we show Jesus as the high and mighty God, but forget that he doesn’t just demand our obedience, but wants our love and affection in light of the good he offers. In John 17, Jesus offers a prayer that helps us walk this fine line. As he prepares to leave the disciples, Jesus prays for his own glory, which is also for the good of us all.

Humility is the corrective for an adulterous heart, an aspersive spirit and an arrogant mindset.

Humility is the corrective for an adulterous heart, an aspersive spirit and an arrogant mindset.

Those who profess God should control their tongue. Earthly wisdom is jealously self seeking but, true wisdom shapes the wise. Teachers should continue in humility and in a spirit of a learner.

Those who profess God should control their tongue. Earthly wisdom is jealously self seeking but, true wisdom shapes the wise. Teachers should continue in humility and in a spirit of a learner.

If you watch many medical mysteries, you find something of a well-worn pattern in them. Something goes wrong medically which is hard to explain. Yet, the symptoms, seemingly random, point to something more sinister lying just below the surface. The rest of the show is, of course, getting at that underlying cause. In our passage this morning, the symptom of idleness, of the avoidance of work, is a clear problem that Paul needs to address. But under this symptom is a much more dangerous and cancer-like problem that might well metastasize to all the Thessalonian believers if it is not removed. Let us see what our Physician, Paul, says about this situation today.

If you watch many medical mysteries, you find something of a well-worn pattern in them. Something goes wrong medically which is hard to explain. Yet, the symptoms, seemingly random, point to something more sinister lying just below the surface. The rest of the show is, of course, getting at that underlying cause. In our passage this morning, the symptom of idleness, of the avoidance of work, is a clear problem that Paul needs to address. But under this symptom is a much more dangerous and cancer-like problem that might well metastasize to all the Thessalonian believers if it is not removed. Let us see what our Physician, Paul, says about this situation today.

We are taught, if we listen well, how to pray by our Lord. This instruction, found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7) as well as Luke 11, provides a template for faithful prayers, given in a memorable, if general, fashion. We do well to memorize this prayer, but we must realize that it was always meant to guide our own personal, heartfelt desires and needs. We can see something of how this was meant to work this morning as we turn to 2 Thessalonians 3. Here, Paul follows the Lord’s prayer well, whether intentionally or not, and helps us to see how to contextualize this model prayer for our own situation.

We are taught, if we listen well, how to pray by our Lord. This instruction, found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7) as well as Luke 11, provides a template for faithful prayers, given in a memorable, if general, fashion. We do well to memorize this prayer, but we must realize that it was always meant to guide our own personal, heartfelt desires and needs. We can see something of how this was meant to work this morning as we turn to 2 Thessalonians 3. Here, Paul follows the Lord’s prayer well, whether intentionally or not, and helps us to see how to contextualize this model prayer for our own situation.

Balance is difficult to achieve in this life. Given a beam on the ground, many of us would be able to walk over it with no alarm or problem. But placed over the Grand Canyon, with certain death below, and balance seems hard to come by! Christians realize the dangers and death that surround us and know that to fall on either side of many issues is to fall into death. Here is legalism – there is licentiousness. Here is a holding to obstructive traditions – there is a rejection of that which is helpful and good. How might we achieve balance in our Christian walk between the reality of justice and grace?

Balance is difficult to achieve in this life. Given a beam on the ground, many of us would be able to walk over it with no alarm or problem. But placed over the Grand Canyon, with certain death below, and balance seems hard to come by! Christians realize the dangers and death that surround us and know that to fall on either side of many issues is to fall into death. Here is legalism – there is licentiousness. Here is a holding to obstructive traditions – there is a rejection of that which is helpful and good. How might we achieve balance in our Christian walk between the reality of justice and grace?

We live in the end of days. While there is much to be said for this, it is clear that we are not alone in thinking so. We often say this, in Scripture, about the fact that the last age is here, that Jesus has come, died, and been resurrected, and will one day come again for his bride. But, many use the term in another way, thinking not just that we are in the last epoch, but in the very last days, and based on what we see in the world that we should expect Jesus’ return any day now. This is true! We ought always be looking for our Savior’s appearance. But, today, let us look soberly at what Scripture says about that day, and the events that surround it.

We live in the end of days. While there is much to be said for this, it is clear that we are not alone in thinking so. We often say this, in Scripture, about the fact that the last age is here, that Jesus has come, died, and been resurrected, and will one day come again for his bride. But, many use the term in another way, thinking not just that we are in the last epoch, but in the very last days, and based on what we see in the world that we should expect Jesus’ return any day now. This is true! We ought always be looking for our Savior’s appearance. But, today, let us look soberly at what Scripture says about that day, and the events that surround it.

Justice gets much focus today. Many speak of justice for the oppressed, others for the upholding of order in our streets. But, even in the best of cases, we ought to humbly admit that we do not have all the information that we need to understand the events perfectly; that our justice, even when blind, is still partial and ignorant. Yet, there is a perfect justice, given by one who sees all and knows even the very hearts of men. Today, we hear from Paul about that justice; a justice that is meted out by Jesus Christ to all – to those who believe and to those who stand opposed to the gospel. Let us hear what Paul has to say to us about the justice of God.

Justice gets much focus today. Many speak of justice for the oppressed, others for the upholding of order in our streets. But, even in the best of cases, we ought to humbly admit that we do not have all the information that we need to understand the events perfectly; that our justice, even when blind, is still partial and ignorant. Yet, there is a perfect justice, given by one who sees all and knows even the very hearts of men. Today, we hear from Paul about that justice; a justice that is meted out by Jesus Christ to all – to those who believe and to those who stand opposed to the gospel. Let us hear what Paul has to say to us about the justice of God.

We often speak of the need to read both broadly and deeply in the Bible. Reading widely takes in large portions of Scripture at a time. Doing so gives you a good understanding of the layout and structure of Scripture; it's big patterns and major ideas. But we also need depth. This means looking closely at texts, taking in and thinking through every blessed word saved for us by the Spirit, that we may understand not only the forest, but also the trees. Today, we come to what might look like a meager introduction -- but don't be fooled! From it we can glean much about who we are, and the God we serve!

We often speak of the need to read both broadly and deeply in the Bible. Reading widely takes in large portions of Scripture at a time. Doing so gives you a good understanding of the layout and structure of Scripture; it's big patterns and major ideas. But we also need depth. This means looking closely at texts, taking in and thinking through every blessed word saved for us by the Spirit, that we may understand not only the forest, but also the trees. Today, we come to what might look like a meager introduction -- but don't be fooled! From it we can glean much about who we are, and the God we serve!

We have come to the end of Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians. It is a tremendously positive letter, filled with love and encouragement. Nevertheless, Paul does have instruction and admonition for the young congregation. Here, Paul rifles through final exhortations, leaving for the Thessalonians a compendium of items that they need to pursue. We would do well to listen to this list, to pursue these items with fervency and delight. We can and should do these things, not because it wins us our salvation, nor because we are able to in our own might, but rather because it is the will of God for us, and the God of peace himself will sanctify us completely!

We have come to the end of Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians. It is a tremendously positive letter, filled with love and encouragement. Nevertheless, Paul does have instruction and admonition for the young congregation. Here, Paul rifles through final exhortations, leaving for the Thessalonians a compendium of items that they need to pursue. We would do well to listen to this list, to pursue these items with fervency and delight. We can and should do these things, not because it wins us our salvation, nor because we are able to in our own might, but rather because it is the will of God for us, and the God of peace himself will sanctify us completely!

This week, even today, we remember the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Perhaps these two events, as well as a smattering of others, have prompted our great desire to think about and ponder the end of the world. Yet, our generations are not the first to be preoccupied by such things. For Christians, these “things” primarily swirl around the return of the Lord – when and how he will return for his people. Today, we come to a text that deals directly with that day and moment. But while we may have many questions about the end, what does God deem best for us to know? What must we actually know and do to prepare for the end?

This week, even today, we remember the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Perhaps these two events, as well as a smattering of others, have prompted our great desire to think about and ponder the end of the world. Yet, our generations are not the first to be preoccupied by such things. For Christians, these “things” primarily swirl around the return of the Lord – when and how he will return for his people. Today, we come to a text that deals directly with that day and moment. But while we may have many questions about the end, what does God deem best for us to know? What must we actually know and do to prepare for the end?

Death is hard to reckon with. It is a great unknown, and brings in its wake trepidation and uncertainty. We will face it someday, and probably have already faced it as we have lost others. The Thessalonians have great cause for grief, as several of their own have died. Their grief, however, is somewhat misplaced, and their misunderstanding is causing them harm. Today, Paul seeks to encourage the Thessalonians in the Lord, giving them, even in their grief, a sense of hope in the gospel. Let us take these words to heart, learn from them, and use them well in our lives. Death might come for us all, but we have reason to hope even in our sorrow because Christ himself lives.

Death is hard to reckon with. It is a great unknown, and brings in its wake trepidation and uncertainty. We will face it someday, and probably have already faced it as we have lost others. The Thessalonians have great cause for grief, as several of their own have died. Their grief, however, is somewhat misplaced, and their misunderstanding is causing them harm. Today, Paul seeks to encourage the Thessalonians in the Lord, giving them, even in their grief, a sense of hope in the gospel. Let us take these words to heart, learn from them, and use them well in our lives. Death might come for us all, but we have reason to hope even in our sorrow because Christ himself lives.

Love is not an off-shoot of the Christian life; an accidental by-product of Christ’s sacrifice for us. Rather, it stands as the center of our whole purpose and being. Of all the things to be applauded for, the Thessalonians find themselves to have gotten the major parts right: they need no instruction about brotherly love. Yet, Paul is not out of words to say to them, as he will press them to excel in their love for one another, so that Christ might be preached more effectively to the outside world. Let us consider our own love before the world today, as we hear Paul’s helpful admonition to the Thessalonians.

Love is not an off-shoot of the Christian life; an accidental by-product of Christ’s sacrifice for us. Rather, it stands as the center of our whole purpose and being. Of all the things to be applauded for, the Thessalonians find themselves to have gotten the major parts right: they need no instruction about brotherly love. Yet, Paul is not out of words to say to them, as he will press them to excel in their love for one another, so that Christ might be preached more effectively to the outside world. Let us consider our own love before the world today, as we hear Paul’s helpful admonition to the Thessalonians.

Our culture is always standing against God. One of the chief ways in which many of us see this today is in its attitude towards sex. All things, they say, are good so long as it is consensual, and no physical harm comes to others. It is, after all, a private matter. As Paul seeks to lead the Thessalonian church in such matters, he confronts just such opinions. Sex is, in Christian understanding, truly profound and important. To think that we ought not live out this portion of our being under the instruction and wisdom of the Lord is foolish and unfaithful. Today, let us come to our text and see the manifold wisdom of God where so much of the world might reject it.

Our culture is always standing against God. One of the chief ways in which many of us see this today is in its attitude towards sex. All things, they say, are good so long as it is consensual, and no physical harm comes to others. It is, after all, a private matter. As Paul seeks to lead the Thessalonian church in such matters, he confronts just such opinions. Sex is, in Christian understanding, truly profound and important. To think that we ought not live out this portion of our being under the instruction and wisdom of the Lord is foolish and unfaithful. Today, let us come to our text and see the manifold wisdom of God where so much of the world might reject it.

We live in an age when good news seems mighty hard to come by. What's more, we live in an age when good news is hardly waited for. If we want to hear from our loved ones, they are hardly ever more than a button push away. We find the lag time on email difficult to bear, let alone letters that need to be physically delivered. Paul had no such luxuries. He likely waited for months for the news of the Thessalonians to be delivered by Timothy, and he was not disappointed. It was good news all the way around. In Thessalonians 3:6-13, we see Paul's thankfulness in God's kind provision, and see that we have much to gain from imitating him.

We live in an age when good news seems mighty hard to come by. What's more, we live in an age when good news is hardly waited for. If we want to hear from our loved ones, they are hardly ever more than a button push away. We find the lag time on email difficult to bear, let alone letters that need to be physically delivered. Paul had no such luxuries. He likely waited for months for the news of the Thessalonians to be delivered by Timothy, and he was not disappointed. It was good news all the way around. In Thessalonians 3:6-13, we see Paul's thankfulness in God's kind provision, and see that we have much to gain from imitating him.

There are many passages to think through when elders are being considered. Of course, 1 Timothy 3 comes to mind, but others are just as important. 1 Peter 5; Titus 1; even OT passages relating to the failure of Israel's shepherds and the calling of Peter to "feed my sheep" by Christ are worthy of our consideration. Yet, I have always been drawn to the brief yet wisdom filled Hebrews 13:17. This one verse does not tell us everything that we need to know about elders - but it does well to briefly sketch the beautiful relationship between an elder and his congregation. Tonight, as we consider this verse, I want to show how it answers three questions for the congregation and the pastor both: What, How, and Why.

There are many passages to think through when elders are being considered. Of course, 1 Timothy 3 comes to mind, but others are just as important. 1 Peter 5; Titus 1; even OT passages relating to the failure of Israel's shepherds and the calling of Peter to "feed my sheep" by Christ are worthy of our consideration. Yet, I have always been drawn to the brief yet wisdom filled Hebrews 13:17. This one verse does not tell us everything that we need to know about elders - but it does well to briefly sketch the beautiful relationship between an elder and his congregation. Tonight, as we consider this verse, I want to show how it answers three questions for the congregation and the pastor both: What, How, and Why.

We always have much to learn from Paul’s life and ministry. There is treasure in his theology, his grasp of the Old Testament, and his understanding of the church, to mention only a few. Yet, we have much more to learn from Paul than simply what was stuffed in his head – we ought to also learn about that which filled his heart. Paul lives consistently: his confession matched his practice. But he doesn’t do this simply out of shear duty; serving the churches, ministering to new believers, was his profound joy. He loved them deeply.

We always have much to learn from Paul’s life and ministry. There is treasure in his theology, his grasp of the Old Testament, and his understanding of the church, to mention only a few. Yet, we have much more to learn from Paul than simply what was stuffed in his head – we ought to also learn about that which filled his heart. Paul lives consistently: his confession matched his practice. But he doesn’t do this simply out of shear duty; serving the churches, ministering to new believers, was his profound joy. He loved them deeply.

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

Paul lived a certain kind of life. No doubt, he knew not everyone was cut out for that kind of life. He had a calling, a gifting placed upon him before he was ever born. Yet, while we might not have the same calling and gifting that Paul had, it is clear that much of the way that he lived his life was shaped and fashioned by the same thing that our lives should be shaped by: the gospel. Today we see something of a continuation from last week. Paul earnestly pleads with the Thessalonians that he was this, wasn’t that; today, Paul lets us know why these things were so.

Paul lived a certain kind of life. No doubt, he knew not everyone was cut out for that kind of life. He had a calling, a gifting placed upon him before he was ever born. Yet, while we might not have the same calling and gifting that Paul had, it is clear that much of the way that he lived his life was shaped and fashioned by the same thing that our lives should be shaped by: the gospel. Today we see something of a continuation from last week. Paul earnestly pleads with the Thessalonians that he was this, wasn’t that; today, Paul lets us know why these things were so.

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

We are told by our Lord that our mission in the world is to make disciples. Yet, for many of us, this is a task that is done best by the professionals. Pastors, teachers, missionaries: these are the ones who are really expected to make disciples. Yet, in this small overlooked book we find a young church that nevertheless flourishes not only in being disciples, but in making them as well. Their example is one for us to follow. Let us see how we can become better at both ends of this mission for the church, turning to ! Thessalonians to become better both at being disciples and become disciple-makers.

We are told by our Lord that our mission in the world is to make disciples. Yet, for many of us, this is a task that is done best by the professionals. Pastors, teachers, missionaries: these are the ones who are really expected to make disciples. Yet, in this small overlooked book we find a young church that nevertheless flourishes not only in being disciples, but in making them as well. Their example is one for us to follow. Let us see how we can become better at both ends of this mission for the church, turning to ! Thessalonians to become better both at being disciples and become disciple-makers.

We at Crossway have rightly used the phrase, "the gospel is Trinitarian, and the Trinity is the gospel." We believe that the gospel is ultimately about God revealing himself and showing his mercy to sinners for his glory. Here, we come to a passage in John that will help us see that the gospel is indeed, rightly understood, standing as the center and foundation of our salvation.

We at Crossway have rightly used the phrase, "the gospel is Trinitarian, and the Trinity is the gospel." We believe that the gospel is ultimately about God revealing himself and showing his mercy to sinners for his glory. Here, we come to a passage in John that will help us see that the gospel is indeed, rightly understood, standing as the center and foundation of our salvation.

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

Sermon Audio from Crossway Christian Church

The church is left with a daunting task - to persuade a world that hates God and loves their sin to leave their sin and love God. How are we to persuade the world to give up what they love and embrace that which they despise? What logic, what reasons, what beauty can we portray to the wide world that might lead them to Christ? There is none, really. No mixture of words, no special music, no stirring of the heart, can effect the change that the world needs. But we have good news, there is a helper sent to us: the Holy Spirit, who convicts the world and leads them to the repentance and faith that Jesus requires.

The church is left with a daunting task - to persuade a world that hates God and loves their sin to leave their sin and love God. How are we to persuade the world to give up what they love and embrace that which they despise? What logic, what reasons, what beauty can we portray to the wide world that might lead them to Christ? There is none, really. No mixture of words, no special music, no stirring of the heart, can effect the change that the world needs. But we have good news, there is a helper sent to us: the Holy Spirit, who convicts the world and leads them to the repentance and faith that Jesus requires.

Today, we look at John 13:21-30, as Jesus predicts Judas' betrayal of him, and begin to think about what this might entail for us as we face an unusual global crisis. Jesus is good, friends, and we can trust in him even in the darkest of times!

Today, we look at John 13:21-30, as Jesus predicts Judas' betrayal of him, and begin to think about what this might entail for us as we face an unusual global crisis. Jesus is good, friends, and we can trust in him even in the darkest of times!

The Bible often uses everyday language and pictures to help us understand the reality that lies behind not only our lives but also our salvation. Jesus has shown us his power and identity as God-incarnate through the signs of his miracles. These displayed the reality of who Jesus was. As Jesus washes his disciples’ feet, he gives us a sign that is meant to display the reality of what Jesus does. Whereas we might expect to see a picture of the Passover Lamb, John gives us instead a foot washing. Buy why? Today in John 13, we have a wonderful picture of the great work of Jesus in our lives: his unmatched ability to cleanse us completely from our sin and guilt!

The Bible often uses everyday language and pictures to help us understand the reality that lies behind not only our lives but also our salvation. Jesus has shown us his power and identity as God-incarnate through the signs of his miracles. These displayed the reality of who Jesus was. As Jesus washes his disciples’ feet, he gives us a sign that is meant to display the reality of what Jesus does. Whereas we might expect to see a picture of the Passover Lamb, John gives us instead a foot washing. Buy why? Today in John 13, we have a wonderful picture of the great work of Jesus in our lives: his unmatched ability to cleanse us completely from our sin and guilt!

In the two millennia since Christ died and rose again, we see the promise of Jesus to build his church has been largely fulfilled, even if there is much more to go. Yet, at the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus' mission does not seem to have been fulfilled. The leaders hated him and the crowds were not fully swayed by him. Indeed, in a short time, so many would turn against him that he would die an agonizing death as a traitor and a heretic. John, knowing these things, steps in today to help us rightly understand the success of Jesus' ministry, as it is tied to God's glory, and the afterglow of that glory in our own lives.

In the two millennia since Christ died and rose again, we see the promise of Jesus to build his church has been largely fulfilled, even if there is much more to go. Yet, at the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus' mission does not seem to have been fulfilled. The leaders hated him and the crowds were not fully swayed by him. Indeed, in a short time, so many would turn against him that he would die an agonizing death as a traitor and a heretic. John, knowing these things, steps in today to help us rightly understand the success of Jesus' ministry, as it is tied to God's glory, and the afterglow of that glory in our own lives.

Our Scripture today deals with two main ideas, the sin of partiality, and, faith without works is a dead faith. What connects both of these topics together, I believe, is our faith in Christ and our response coming from that faith. The relationship of faith and good works is one that may be distinguished but never separated. A right understanding of works is crucial to understanding saving faith.

Our Scripture today deals with two main ideas, the sin of partiality, and, faith without works is a dead faith. What connects both of these topics together, I believe, is our faith in Christ and our response coming from that faith. The relationship of faith and good works is one that may be distinguished but never separated. A right understanding of works is crucial to understanding saving faith.

James, the Lord's half brother, is known as a pillar of the early church who wanted to be known as a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. James' epistle gives a number of insights into the attributes of God: faithfulness, generosity and truth as seen in chapter one.

James, the Lord's half brother, is known as a pillar of the early church who wanted to be known as a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. James' epistle gives a number of insights into the attributes of God: faithfulness, generosity and truth as seen in chapter one.

There is much to admire about Jesus. He is a wonderful teacher, able to take the mundane things of life and demonstrate the beautiful picture that they weave about life with God. He is a powerful healer; not even death is beyond his ability to make right. He is a forceful leader; standing up to those in power for the good of those under their boots. But none of these things is enough. Ultimately, we need someone to take away our sins and make us right with God again. In his death, Jesus does this. Today, as Jesus begins to speak most clearly about his impending death, we have 11 reasons why Jesus needed to die. Let us consider them briefly this morning!

There is much to admire about Jesus. He is a wonderful teacher, able to take the mundane things of life and demonstrate the beautiful picture that they weave about life with God. He is a powerful healer; not even death is beyond his ability to make right. He is a forceful leader; standing up to those in power for the good of those under their boots. But none of these things is enough. Ultimately, we need someone to take away our sins and make us right with God again. In his death, Jesus does this. Today, as Jesus begins to speak most clearly about his impending death, we have 11 reasons why Jesus needed to die. Let us consider them briefly this morning!

Jesus' miracle in raising Lazarus continues to spread, for those who have been witnesses of it cannot help but speak of it. For many, this implies one thing: Jesus is the long-awaited King of Israel, sent to liberate her yoke of the foreign nations, and to rule over them in peace. In fact, Jesus is precisely this! He was indeed the much-anticipated King, filled with glory and spledndor. Yet, even in all this, there is room for us to grow both in our understanding and in our trust of this great King. Today, as we consider John 12:12-19, let us prepare our hearts for this great king, and trust him in all our ways.

Jesus' miracle in raising Lazarus continues to spread, for those who have been witnesses of it cannot help but speak of it. For many, this implies one thing: Jesus is the long-awaited King of Israel, sent to liberate her yoke of the foreign nations, and to rule over them in peace. In fact, Jesus is precisely this! He was indeed the much-anticipated King, filled with glory and spledndor. Yet, even in all this, there is room for us to grow both in our understanding and in our trust of this great King. Today, as we consider John 12:12-19, let us prepare our hearts for this great king, and trust him in all our ways.

In our baptism, we are buried with Christ in his death and raised in his life. We are with him, united to him, tied to him. But is this just passive? In a certain sense, yes; we rely fully and finally on God's abiding presence with us. After all, the Son took on flesh to save us -- we didn't come to him. But these realities do not mean that we have no responsibility in our union to Christ. John 12:1-11 shows us something of what it means to know and belong to Christ; to love him and revere him.

In our baptism, we are buried with Christ in his death and raised in his life. We are with him, united to him, tied to him. But is this just passive? In a certain sense, yes; we rely fully and finally on God's abiding presence with us. After all, the Son took on flesh to save us -- we didn't come to him. But these realities do not mean that we have no responsibility in our union to Christ. John 12:1-11 shows us something of what it means to know and belong to Christ; to love him and revere him.

We are all wrong at some time in our lives. Whether we admit it or not, it is a typical state of affairs for most of us. To err, after all, is said to be human. However, there are some things that are more important to get right than others. For most of us, whether we have gotten a math problem right or wrong is not a life or death decision. When it comes to how we respond to Jesus’ miracles, however, a wrong response might not just cost us our lives here, it may just cost us eternally. Today in John, we get to see some of the worst responses to his miraculous work that the Gospels record; mistakes we can hopefully avoid, as they

We are all wrong at some time in our lives. Whether we admit it or not, it is a typical state of affairs for most of us. To err, after all, is said to be human. However, there are some things that are more important to get right than others. For most of us, whether we have gotten a math problem right or wrong is not a life or death decision. When it comes to how we respond to Jesus’ miracles, however, a wrong response might not just cost us our lives here, it may just cost us eternally. Today in John, we get to see some of the worst responses to his miraculous work that the Gospels record; mistakes we can hopefully avoid, as they

Jesus raises Lazarus

Jesus raises Lazarus

The death of Lazarus has affected many. Crowds pour out of Jerusalem and the countryside to be with the family, but that comfort must come to all differently. Martha has questions; her sister has emotional needs. Both seek out Jesus. In our passage today, we learn of Jesus' great concern for us, and for us as whole beings. He is not just a shoulder to cry on, but one who knows and arranges all things for our good. He is also not just a cold reactionary, but one who feels deeply the pain of his people. Today, in John 11, we see how Jesus responds to both of these concerns, as he once again shows himself to be a great and perfect savior for his people.

The death of Lazarus has affected many. Crowds pour out of Jerusalem and the countryside to be with the family, but that comfort must come to all differently. Martha has questions; her sister has emotional needs. Both seek out Jesus. In our passage today, we learn of Jesus' great concern for us, and for us as whole beings. He is not just a shoulder to cry on, but one who knows and arranges all things for our good. He is also not just a cold reactionary, but one who feels deeply the pain of his people. Today, in John 11, we see how Jesus responds to both of these concerns, as he once again shows himself to be a great and perfect savior for his people.

Written in 1984 and released in 1991, the popular Christmas song Mary Did You Know? has reached the top ten songs on two different Billboard charts. But it is an odd song – the questions don’t really ever get answered and some are not even worth asking! From a biblical perspective, it is a better option to ask of her questions we already have answered. What did Mary know? In Luke, Mary’s praise of God in the presence of Elizabeth demonstrates a surprising depth of faith and biblical acumen. She might not have known everything, and certainly had many lingering questions, but we can learn much from what Mary knew.

Written in 1984 and released in 1991, the popular Christmas song Mary Did You Know? has reached the top ten songs on two different Billboard charts. But it is an odd song – the questions don’t really ever get answered and some are not even worth asking! From a biblical perspective, it is a better option to ask of her questions we already have answered. What did Mary know? In Luke, Mary’s praise of God in the presence of Elizabeth demonstrates a surprising depth of faith and biblical acumen. She might not have known everything, and certainly had many lingering questions, but we can learn much from what Mary knew.

Pain is a part of life. This world is filled with sickness, sorrow, and at times it is hard to understand why. Why doesn’t Jesus intercede? Why doesn’t he, sovereign as he is, stop it? John 11 is a picture of our salvation, and a picture of Jesus’ sovereign control over the world. We get some insight, for those with the faith to see, why the world looks like it does, and why Jesus delays in his salvation. Friends, it is out of love, not animosity, not apathy, not anger, that Jesus delays. Today, as we focus in on this important text and this wonderful miracle, let us consider the strange love of our Savior.

Pain is a part of life. This world is filled with sickness, sorrow, and at times it is hard to understand why. Why doesn’t Jesus intercede? Why doesn’t he, sovereign as he is, stop it? John 11 is a picture of our salvation, and a picture of Jesus’ sovereign control over the world. We get some insight, for those with the faith to see, why the world looks like it does, and why Jesus delays in his salvation. Friends, it is out of love, not animosity, not apathy, not anger, that Jesus delays. Today, as we focus in on this important text and this wonderful miracle, let us consider the strange love of our Savior.

Often has man dreamed of having the rights and privileges of God. Men dream of having unlimited creativity, of having unsearchable power, of having unrestrained authority. Christians instinctively know that such things are not ours to have. Yet, in John 10:34 we have one of the oddest passages in Scripture quoted and affirmed by Jesus. Here, we are told, God has looked at us and has said “you are gods.” What does it mean to affirm it, not allowing Scripture to be broken? And how do we make sense of it in John? Today, we have the opportunity to look at this difficult passage of Scripture today, and to see once again the brilliance of our Christ.

Often has man dreamed of having the rights and privileges of God. Men dream of having unlimited creativity, of having unsearchable power, of having unrestrained authority. Christians instinctively know that such things are not ours to have. Yet, in John 10:34 we have one of the oddest passages in Scripture quoted and affirmed by Jesus. Here, we are told, God has looked at us and has said “you are gods.” What does it mean to affirm it, not allowing Scripture to be broken? And how do we make sense of it in John? Today, we have the opportunity to look at this difficult passage of Scripture today, and to see once again the brilliance of our Christ.

Jesus is our Good Shepherd. This means his love is best seen in his laying down his life for us. Last week, we spoke of the loving side of Jesus as the shepherd, today we look at his strength. A shepherd must be willing to fight for his sheep, to lay down his life and risk his limbs to fight away the predators that assail them on every side. In this world, we will have many seeking to harm and destroy us – if not our bodies than, more importantly, our souls. Yet, we fear not, for we have a good and mighty shepherd, one who is more than ready to fight our enemies and make us dwell in security! Today, let us meditate on the strength of Jesus.

Jesus is our Good Shepherd. This means his love is best seen in his laying down his life for us. Last week, we spoke of the loving side of Jesus as the shepherd, today we look at his strength. A shepherd must be willing to fight for his sheep, to lay down his life and risk his limbs to fight away the predators that assail them on every side. In this world, we will have many seeking to harm and destroy us – if not our bodies than, more importantly, our souls. Yet, we fear not, for we have a good and mighty shepherd, one who is more than ready to fight our enemies and make us dwell in security! Today, let us meditate on the strength of Jesus.

Shepherds were not how we might picture them today. We often think of shepherds as being somewhat soft or effeminate, but they were hardly that. Shepherds are much closer to our modern myth of the cowboy than to the gentle pictures of a smiling, clean man holding a luxuriously soft sheep in his arms. In both pictures, the weak and the strong, are wrong in certain respects, yet speak the truth in others. How are we to think of Jesus as our Good Shepherd? Today, as Jesus furthers his instruction from the metaphor of 10:1-6, we can see how a Good Shepherd loves his sheep.

Shepherds were not how we might picture them today. We often think of shepherds as being somewhat soft or effeminate, but they were hardly that. Shepherds are much closer to our modern myth of the cowboy than to the gentle pictures of a smiling, clean man holding a luxuriously soft sheep in his arms. In both pictures, the weak and the strong, are wrong in certain respects, yet speak the truth in others. How are we to think of Jesus as our Good Shepherd? Today, as Jesus furthers his instruction from the metaphor of 10:1-6, we can see how a Good Shepherd loves his sheep.

When people today call others sheep, they typically mean it as an insult. It is meant to indicate someone who is only capable of following, unable to lead or to have original thoughts on their own. Biblically, though, while sheep were known to be dull and helpless, being called the sheep of God's pasture was not meant as an insult, but rather as a comfort. Truth is, we are fairly dull in knowing how to handle the world, and what's more, we need a great deal of protection and care. Jesus in John 10 provides us with a metaphor, a figure of speech, that we will explore, that we may learn how Jesus protects us and his great love for his people.

When people today call others sheep, they typically mean it as an insult. It is meant to indicate someone who is only capable of following, unable to lead or to have original thoughts on their own. Biblically, though, while sheep were known to be dull and helpless, being called the sheep of God's pasture was not meant as an insult, but rather as a comfort. Truth is, we are fairly dull in knowing how to handle the world, and what's more, we need a great deal of protection and care. Jesus in John 10 provides us with a metaphor, a figure of speech, that we will explore, that we may learn how Jesus protects us and his great love for his people.

The man born blind has stood his ground in John 9:13-34; confronted with harsh and unmoving Jewish leadership, he refuses to throw Jesus under the bus, and instead rightly confesses the truth, as far as he understands it, before the hostile leaders. And yet, when we look closer at his confession, it is filled with necessary truths, but it is still insufficient as a true and real confession. So, what must happen for this man, so aided and healed by Jesus, to become a full disciple? What must happen for him – and, more importantly, what must happen for us to become full disciples of the risen Christ?

The man born blind has stood his ground in John 9:13-34; confronted with harsh and unmoving Jewish leadership, he refuses to throw Jesus under the bus, and instead rightly confesses the truth, as far as he understands it, before the hostile leaders. And yet, when we look closer at his confession, it is filled with necessary truths, but it is still insufficient as a true and real confession. So, what must happen for this man, so aided and healed by Jesus, to become a full disciple? What must happen for him – and, more importantly, what must happen for us to become full disciples of the risen Christ?

Jesus’ parables are treasure troves of insight and knowledge. For the first hearers, they may have been difficult to comprehend. And not always just for the first hearers! While John doesn’t include Jesus’ parables, in John 9 we can see the parable of the soils acted out in the characters and groups engaged in a battle over the healing of the man. The word, Jesus himself, has been thrown into their midst. What will they do with him? How do they respond? Indeed, these are the same questions we should ask ourselves, and daily: What will we do with Jesus? How do we respond to his commands and his presence? Let us briefly examine our own soil this morning!

Jesus’ parables are treasure troves of insight and knowledge. For the first hearers, they may have been difficult to comprehend. And not always just for the first hearers! While John doesn’t include Jesus’ parables, in John 9 we can see the parable of the soils acted out in the characters and groups engaged in a battle over the healing of the man. The word, Jesus himself, has been thrown into their midst. What will they do with him? How do they respond? Indeed, these are the same questions we should ask ourselves, and daily: What will we do with Jesus? How do we respond to his commands and his presence? Let us briefly examine our own soil this morning!

While the process of writing a great story might be difficult to detail and describe, the results of a great story are easy to spot. Great stories bring you back to them again, and always reward another reading. John 9, the story of a blind man given sight by Jesus, is perhaps one of the greatest stories in the Bible. It stands as a symbol off our salvation, an encapsulation of the very act of Christ that gives us our freedom and mission. Today, we get the chance to look at the beginning of this story. It rings with many themes that are clear to us, and many that might be a surprise.

While the process of writing a great story might be difficult to detail and describe, the results of a great story are easy to spot. Great stories bring you back to them again, and always reward another reading. John 9, the story of a blind man given sight by Jesus, is perhaps one of the greatest stories in the Bible. It stands as a symbol off our salvation, an encapsulation of the very act of Christ that gives us our freedom and mission. Today, we get the chance to look at the beginning of this story. It rings with many themes that are clear to us, and many that might be a surprise.

C. S. Lewis famously stated the argument that Jesus never wanted to leave us with the possible idea that he was just a nice moral teacher, however misunderstood. Either he was a lunatic, a liar, or our Lord. Possibly nowhere in the Bible does this truth become more apparent than here at the end of John 8. Jesus, charged with having a demon, continues to press those around him to have faith in him and his incredible promises. But, how are we to know that Jesus wasn’t just insane? How are we to believe that he truly was the Son of God, the image of the living God, and not insane or a liar?

C. S. Lewis famously stated the argument that Jesus never wanted to leave us with the possible idea that he was just a nice moral teacher, however misunderstood. Either he was a lunatic, a liar, or our Lord. Possibly nowhere in the Bible does this truth become more apparent than here at the end of John 8. Jesus, charged with having a demon, continues to press those around him to have faith in him and his incredible promises. But, how are we to know that Jesus wasn’t just insane? How are we to believe that he truly was the Son of God, the image of the living God, and not insane or a liar?

What if we are just living in a simulation? What if some being, brighter and bigger than us, is just pulling the strings and making us dance in some complicated computing scheme? While such problems and ideas have long been addressed by philosophy and science, we know that these are best addressed by religion. Jesus has come to help us understand the very nature of reality as it truly exists. But, because our eyesight is so limited and our understanding so poor, the adjustment to the truth of reality is daunting. Nevertheless, our good Lord Jesus has come to our aid! Let us consider the real reality today from John 8:31-47.

What if we are just living in a simulation? What if some being, brighter and bigger than us, is just pulling the strings and making us dance in some complicated computing scheme? While such problems and ideas have long been addressed by philosophy and science, we know that these are best addressed by religion. Jesus has come to help us understand the very nature of reality as it truly exists. But, because our eyesight is so limited and our understanding so poor, the adjustment to the truth of reality is daunting. Nevertheless, our good Lord Jesus has come to our aid! Let us consider the real reality today from John 8:31-47.

In John 8:12-20, we considered the fact that Jesus was indeed the light of the world. Today, in a continuation of that theme, we get to consider more carefully what Jesus might mean when he says that he is the “Light of the World.” Jesus is not one who will allow us to be confused about who he is. He is indeed the servant, send to achieve the salvation of the world; yet, he is not just a servant sent, he is the creator who stands above all other created thing. And that sets him quite apart from us, who are fallen and wretched. Let us look to John 8:21-30 and see what a great salvation has been afforded us by such a great Savior!

In John 8:12-20, we considered the fact that Jesus was indeed the light of the world. Today, in a continuation of that theme, we get to consider more carefully what Jesus might mean when he says that he is the “Light of the World.” Jesus is not one who will allow us to be confused about who he is. He is indeed the servant, send to achieve the salvation of the world; yet, he is not just a servant sent, he is the creator who stands above all other created thing. And that sets him quite apart from us, who are fallen and wretched. Let us look to John 8:21-30 and see what a great salvation has been afforded us by such a great Savior!

John’s gospel is unashamedly about the nature and wonder of Jesus Christ. He began his gospel with the most theological of all origin stories, as he told of the Word in/as God before time began. Yet, as Jesus comes on the scene, we expect more reaction than we actually get. His glory as God is covered, muted, hidden. But for those with eyes to see, Jesus is the light of the world. Today, we get a chance to ruminate on this truth. What does it mean for Jesus to be the light of the world? Why should it matter to us? And, perhaps most importantly, how do we know that it is true? In order to rightly consider these things, let us turn to John 8, and listen to Jesus himself!

John’s gospel is unashamedly about the nature and wonder of Jesus Christ. He began his gospel with the most theological of all origin stories, as he told of the Word in/as God before time began. Yet, as Jesus comes on the scene, we expect more reaction than we actually get. His glory as God is covered, muted, hidden. But for those with eyes to see, Jesus is the light of the world. Today, we get a chance to ruminate on this truth. What does it mean for Jesus to be the light of the world? Why should it matter to us? And, perhaps most importantly, how do we know that it is true? In order to rightly consider these things, let us turn to John 8, and listen to Jesus himself!

This chapter in Acts is not the first time Paul has had occasion to defend himself. It tells of a man who is bold to point to Christ for a life that has been changed. His testimony is not that of a man who is giving witness in his own defense, but that of a man who can only give public profession of what Christ has done is his life. His example is worth a good look - not only to encourage us but also to show us how we too can be a witness for Christ..

This chapter in Acts is not the first time Paul has had occasion to defend himself. It tells of a man who is bold to point to Christ for a life that has been changed. His testimony is not that of a man who is giving witness in his own defense, but that of a man who can only give public profession of what Christ has done is his life. His example is worth a good look - not only to encourage us but also to show us how we too can be a witness for Christ..

The central focus of 1 Timothy has been the pursuit of godliness in the lives of the people of God. The church, in all her functions and usefulness, is the means on the earth that God has provided to help his people rightly pursue godliness in an ungodly age. Here we have a summary of the journey God's church is continually on, and what we must be aware of along the way.

The central focus of 1 Timothy has been the pursuit of godliness in the lives of the people of God. The church, in all her functions and usefulness, is the means on the earth that God has provided to help his people rightly pursue godliness in an ungodly age. Here we have a summary of the journey God's church is continually on, and what we must be aware of along the way.

Many heros of our faith have put up with extraordinary circumstances. These simply stand in a long history of Christian patience and longsuffering, starting with Jesus and continuning through the apostles, including Paul. Jesus instructed us not to be anxious about anything, even clothing nor food - a tall order indeed! This is not really our experience, as we are told by our culture that the best way to be successful is to never be content, to work and strive to get all we can, to keep your foot on the gas. But discontentment can be a rot in God's house - here, we have the opportunity to think through why.

Many heros of our faith have put up with extraordinary circumstances. These simply stand in a long history of Christian patience and longsuffering, starting with Jesus and continuning through the apostles, including Paul. Jesus instructed us not to be anxious about anything, even clothing nor food - a tall order indeed! This is not really our experience, as we are told by our culture that the best way to be successful is to never be content, to work and strive to get all we can, to keep your foot on the gas. But discontentment can be a rot in God's house - here, we have the opportunity to think through why.

God cares about how we interact with authorities in our lives, and true Chrisstian obedience adorns the gospel and glorifies God. The passage today outlines the ways in which God expects us to interact with authority.

God cares about how we interact with authorities in our lives, and true Chrisstian obedience adorns the gospel and glorifies God. The passage today outlines the ways in which God expects us to interact with authority.

We are said to relate to God in many ways. He is, simply, our God and Creator, the great Potter, who forms us and fashions us. He is our King, and we are the citizens of his realm. Yet, God is also (amazingly) our Father, who provides and prtoects us against the hard that others might wish to inflict. He is our brother, who lays down his life that we might be co-heirs with him. So, then, we are family as well, bonded by the blood of Jesus together in covenant. This train of thought has many implications for how we are to love and take care of one another. Here we think through the applications of this text.

We are said to relate to God in many ways. He is, simply, our God and Creator, the great Potter, who forms us and fashions us. He is our King, and we are the citizens of his realm. Yet, God is also (amazingly) our Father, who provides and prtoects us against the hard that others might wish to inflict. He is our brother, who lays down his life that we might be co-heirs with him. So, then, we are family as well, bonded by the blood of Jesus together in covenant. This train of thought has many implications for how we are to love and take care of one another. Here we think through the applications of this text.

Our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. And while he never changes – we do nothing but change! It is in the very nature that God has given to us. We are forever learning, experiencing, morphing. Given that, what kind of assurance do we have that we won’t fall away from the God who has saved us? While we know that Jesus holds fast all who are his – what is the human side of that equation? What is our responsibility before the Lord? Shall we simply “let go and let God” or is more required? Let us consider this today, as we look to Paul’s advice to his young protégé Timothy, and how Timothy ought to work in God’s grace.

Our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. And while he never changes – we do nothing but change! It is in the very nature that God has given to us. We are forever learning, experiencing, morphing. Given that, what kind of assurance do we have that we won’t fall away from the God who has saved us? While we know that Jesus holds fast all who are his – what is the human side of that equation? What is our responsibility before the Lord? Shall we simply “let go and let God” or is more required? Let us consider this today, as we look to Paul’s advice to his young protégé Timothy, and how Timothy ought to work in God’s grace.

God has given you something of infinite value. How do you guard and protect that? As we see in our passage today, God has instituted the church for this purpose. The church is a communty formed by God to guard and uphold the truth.

God has given you something of infinite value. How do you guard and protect that? As we see in our passage today, God has instituted the church for this purpose. The church is a communty formed by God to guard and uphold the truth.

Great movements typically have at least one thing in common: great leadership. This is the ultimate secret behind the success of the Church: we have a wonderful leader in Jesus Christ our Lord! But all great movements need more than one great leader; it needs others to step up to make it successful. The church is no different. While Christ rules from heaven, he must also have his people rule well here on earth. Today we get the chance to think through what makes for great leaders in the church as we think through Paul’s directions on the qualification for both elders and deacons. Let each of us heed well Paul’s words on these two important offices.

Great movements typically have at least one thing in common: great leadership. This is the ultimate secret behind the success of the Church: we have a wonderful leader in Jesus Christ our Lord! But all great movements need more than one great leader; it needs others to step up to make it successful. The church is no different. While Christ rules from heaven, he must also have his people rule well here on earth. Today we get the chance to think through what makes for great leaders in the church as we think through Paul’s directions on the qualification for both elders and deacons. Let each of us heed well Paul’s words on these two important offices.

Gender is a problematic and difficult issue in our day. It is a point of contention in the secular world and in the church. But such contentions are nothing new. Paul knew of the difficulties that were brought about any time that roles for men and women were addressed. And because of this, he has some difficult things to say to both his culture, and ours, even as each stand likely opposed to one another. Here in 1 Timothy, we have one of the most controversial passages in Scripture. Today, we will try to understand what Paul is saying, in context, and how to not only rightly apply it to our own situation, but how to avoid misapplications as well.

Gender is a problematic and difficult issue in our day. It is a point of contention in the secular world and in the church. But such contentions are nothing new. Paul knew of the difficulties that were brought about any time that roles for men and women were addressed. And because of this, he has some difficult things to say to both his culture, and ours, even as each stand likely opposed to one another. Here in 1 Timothy, we have one of the most controversial passages in Scripture. Today, we will try to understand what Paul is saying, in context, and how to not only rightly apply it to our own situation, but how to avoid misapplications as well.

Paul’s gospel was summarized in the brief but memorable phrase “Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners.” It was the goal of Christ, the proclamation of which became the goal of Paul, who passed the torch to Timothy. As we open chapter 2, then, we would be right to expect something about evangelism, especially as Paul begins by stating “First of all, I urge you…” Instead, what we get is a somewhat unexpected call to prayer. And prayer for what might be the most unlikely of people. What are we to make of this call to pray for kings and prominent people, and how does it shape our evangelism?

Paul’s gospel was summarized in the brief but memorable phrase “Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners.” It was the goal of Christ, the proclamation of which became the goal of Paul, who passed the torch to Timothy. As we open chapter 2, then, we would be right to expect something about evangelism, especially as Paul begins by stating “First of all, I urge you…” Instead, what we get is a somewhat unexpected call to prayer. And prayer for what might be the most unlikely of people. What are we to make of this call to pray for kings and prominent people, and how does it shape our evangelism?

Last week we ended in 1 Timothy with Paul’s statement that sound doctrine was in “accordance with the good news of the glory of the blessed God.” Good news can mean so many different things. We declare good news when babies are born, promotions are gained, games are won, dinner is served. This good news is not just any news, though: it is the good news of the glory of the happy God. It is the announcement that speaks of the most glorious, happy being of which we could ever conceive. What does such good news mean for us? What does such news even have to do with us? Let us consider today the kind of good news Paul was entrusted with:

Last week we ended in 1 Timothy with Paul’s statement that sound doctrine was in “accordance with the good news of the glory of the blessed God.” Good news can mean so many different things. We declare good news when babies are born, promotions are gained, games are won, dinner is served. This good news is not just any news, though: it is the good news of the glory of the happy God. It is the announcement that speaks of the most glorious, happy being of which we could ever conceive. What does such good news mean for us? What does such news even have to do with us? Let us consider today the kind of good news Paul was entrusted with:

Paul often tells us of the importance of every believer, sets forward the need for communal submission, and tells us that gifts are given for the mutual edification for all people. So why do we need elders? What purpose do elders serve if, as we would rightly confirm, all are equal at the foot of the cross? Paul insists on having elders to ensure right teaching within the church. Doctrine is not an unimportant matter to the church – good doctrine sets the tone and the direction of good practice, and is a reliable map for us to set forward the glory of God. So today, let us consider the nature of elders within a church – their position, purpose, and power.

Paul often tells us of the importance of every believer, sets forward the need for communal submission, and tells us that gifts are given for the mutual edification for all people. So why do we need elders? What purpose do elders serve if, as we would rightly confirm, all are equal at the foot of the cross? Paul insists on having elders to ensure right teaching within the church. Doctrine is not an unimportant matter to the church – good doctrine sets the tone and the direction of good practice, and is a reliable map for us to set forward the glory of God. So today, let us consider the nature of elders within a church – their position, purpose, and power.

We are often told that certain activities are bad for us: if we continue smoking, drinking the wrong things, or eating poorly, we face the prospect of early death. But these warnings are often blunted by the fact that we are always promised death – and what is a couple of years spent not doing what you love? Jesus promises something better, and thus his warnings have teeth, an edge that other warnings in our lives do not. Today, Jesus gives us a glimpse of the great things that await those who trust in Jesus, things that are available to us here and now. Let us today see these great promises of Jesus and hear the warnings of turning away from them.

We are often told that certain activities are bad for us: if we continue smoking, drinking the wrong things, or eating poorly, we face the prospect of early death. But these warnings are often blunted by the fact that we are always promised death – and what is a couple of years spent not doing what you love? Jesus promises something better, and thus his warnings have teeth, an edge that other warnings in our lives do not. Today, Jesus gives us a glimpse of the great things that await those who trust in Jesus, things that are available to us here and now. Let us today see these great promises of Jesus and hear the warnings of turning away from them.

John routinely presents Jesus speaking over the heads of his hearers, as if he is in on a joke no one else in the narrative gets. Yet, all the while, John seems to expect that we are in on the joke, understand its background, and laugh at its punchline. Here, that routine occurrence happens again in Jesus’ enigmatic statement that he will be leaving, and we will neither find him nor are able to follow him. Today, we will try to unpack this statement, to see in it many warnings against unbelief. Much like an inside joke, we can also see the layers of this statement, and see how it means different thing to different groups.

John routinely presents Jesus speaking over the heads of his hearers, as if he is in on a joke no one else in the narrative gets. Yet, all the while, John seems to expect that we are in on the joke, understand its background, and laugh at its punchline. Here, that routine occurrence happens again in Jesus’ enigmatic statement that he will be leaving, and we will neither find him nor are able to follow him. Today, we will try to unpack this statement, to see in it many warnings against unbelief. Much like an inside joke, we can also see the layers of this statement, and see how it means different thing to different groups.

We would like to think that we are part of the most knowledgeable time in history. We have the facts of history at our fingertips; we have pictures of matter from billions of light years away; we have the ability to take pictures of atoms and watch the movement of light; we can hear and watch news, instantaneously, from across the other side of the world. We know the big and small, the far and near, with more accuracy and depth than ever before. And we still know next to nothing. Friend, our lack of true knowledge means we must be shown what is truly good and truly true; and that in being shown, we must believe.

We would like to think that we are part of the most knowledgeable time in history. We have the facts of history at our fingertips; we have pictures of matter from billions of light years away; we have the ability to take pictures of atoms and watch the movement of light; we can hear and watch news, instantaneously, from across the other side of the world. We know the big and small, the far and near, with more accuracy and depth than ever before. And we still know next to nothing. Friend, our lack of true knowledge means we must be shown what is truly good and truly true; and that in being shown, we must believe.

If you were to ask the man on the street, or the people in the pews, or the scholar in the University about Jesus, almost universal recommendation would be given to his teaching of love, kindness, and forgiveness. His miracles? Not so much. Our culture would be quick to distance themselves from his miracles, but just as quick to affirm his role as one of the great teachers in history. Ironically, for the culture that knew Jesus best, this was precisely the opposite. They, having seen them, were sure of his miracles, but suspect of his teaching. How, according to Jesus, can we spot a good teacher? What characteristics should we look for? How does he commend himself?

If you were to ask the man on the street, or the people in the pews, or the scholar in the University about Jesus, almost universal recommendation would be given to his teaching of love, kindness, and forgiveness. His miracles? Not so much. Our culture would be quick to distance themselves from his miracles, but just as quick to affirm his role as one of the great teachers in history. Ironically, for the culture that knew Jesus best, this was precisely the opposite. They, having seen them, were sure of his miracles, but suspect of his teaching. How, according to Jesus, can we spot a good teacher? What characteristics should we look for? How does he commend himself?

As we look again at John 7:1-13, let us see a warning about our own times, as we think through how we live out our faith in this world. How should we walk faithfully in the world?

As we look again at John 7:1-13, let us see a warning about our own times, as we think through how we live out our faith in this world. How should we walk faithfully in the world?

Jesus has claimed great things in the last two chapters of John. In chapter five, he was shown to be God, while in chapter six shown to be all that mankind could ever need. Given these things, his brothers plead with him to make himself known. But such requests (demands?) are not the marks of faith. How should we speak to Jesus about what he has claimed and promised? Should our prayers be marked with language of “claiming promises”? Or, rather, is there a more faithful way to think about how we understand God’s promises and trust in his word? Today, let us think through why the language of “claiming” promises from Christ is a mark of unbelief.

Jesus has claimed great things in the last two chapters of John. In chapter five, he was shown to be God, while in chapter six shown to be all that mankind could ever need. Given these things, his brothers plead with him to make himself known. But such requests (demands?) are not the marks of faith. How should we speak to Jesus about what he has claimed and promised? Should our prayers be marked with language of “claiming promises”? Or, rather, is there a more faithful way to think about how we understand God’s promises and trust in his word? Today, let us think through why the language of “claiming” promises from Christ is a mark of unbelief.

Gospel is meant to be “good-news”; it is meant to be a comfort to restless souls, water for the thirsty, and food for the hungry. But this does not mean that the gospel doesn’t come with difficulties. For many, the best way to deal with these trouble spots is to ignore them. But this is unthinkable for us, if for no other reason that Jesus refused to do so himself! The gospel proclaims good news, but it is only good to those who are willing at accept the bad news of reality. Today, we get to see how Jesus deals with the rejection of his own proclamation of good news, and through this we will hopefully find some help for our own evangelism.

Gospel is meant to be “good-news”; it is meant to be a comfort to restless souls, water for the thirsty, and food for the hungry. But this does not mean that the gospel doesn’t come with difficulties. For many, the best way to deal with these trouble spots is to ignore them. But this is unthinkable for us, if for no other reason that Jesus refused to do so himself! The gospel proclaims good news, but it is only good to those who are willing at accept the bad news of reality. Today, we get to see how Jesus deals with the rejection of his own proclamation of good news, and through this we will hopefully find some help for our own evangelism.

Jesus said, "Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life." Such a thought is difficult to digest but, we believe what the Bible says, and so we believe that this is true, in some sense. But how?

Jesus said, "Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life." Such a thought is difficult to digest but, we believe what the Bible says, and so we believe that this is true, in some sense. But how?

Jesus is hard to present as just a normal guy. After all, he did wonderful acts, was brilliant in response, holy in spirit, and loving to all. For anyone who has spent any time dealing with people, or ourselves, we know that such qualities are rare indeed. Yet, Jesus is much more than just a good man – he is God Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth; the Great I Am. His presence as a man, no matter how great, makes such statements difficult to grasp. His countrymen had problems with this as well, and their grumbles were loud and clear. Yet, Jesus is undaunted. Grumble not!

Jesus is hard to present as just a normal guy. After all, he did wonderful acts, was brilliant in response, holy in spirit, and loving to all. For anyone who has spent any time dealing with people, or ourselves, we know that such qualities are rare indeed. Yet, Jesus is much more than just a good man – he is God Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth; the Great I Am. His presence as a man, no matter how great, makes such statements difficult to grasp. His countrymen had problems with this as well, and their grumbles were loud and clear. Yet, Jesus is undaunted. Grumble not!

Jesus is presented in John 6 as the provision of God for us. But this provision is not just to give us life as we might conceive of it. Rather, to understand what the symbolism means we must understand the picture that it is derived from: the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites. If the picture that Jesus intends to place in our mind is of the exodus from Egypt, what does that symbolism mean for us? While it is true that it is an old picture, it is still relevant for us today. Let us consider the importance of Jesus being the bread of life from these six small verses of John today.

Jesus is presented in John 6 as the provision of God for us. But this provision is not just to give us life as we might conceive of it. Rather, to understand what the symbolism means we must understand the picture that it is derived from: the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites. If the picture that Jesus intends to place in our mind is of the exodus from Egypt, what does that symbolism mean for us? While it is true that it is an old picture, it is still relevant for us today. Let us consider the importance of Jesus being the bread of life from these six small verses of John today.

Christ is risen! This statement is simple, and yet for Christians since that fateful morning some 2,00 years ago, it is the most profound thing we can utter. It is the core and center of our faith, and thus of our salvation. But if this is true, why is it such a New Testament phenomenon? The Old Testament didn't make much out of the resurrection, did it? Today, we think through the nature of the promises that God made to Abraham, and what it was that Abraham believed in. Abraham was not just trusting in any God, but a God who "gives life to the dead" (Romans 4:17). Today, we see how Abraham's faith is indeed our faith, a faith in the resurrection.

Christ is risen! This statement is simple, and yet for Christians since that fateful morning some 2,00 years ago, it is the most profound thing we can utter. It is the core and center of our faith, and thus of our salvation. But if this is true, why is it such a New Testament phenomenon? The Old Testament didn't make much out of the resurrection, did it? Today, we think through the nature of the promises that God made to Abraham, and what it was that Abraham believed in. Abraham was not just trusting in any God, but a God who "gives life to the dead" (Romans 4:17). Today, we see how Abraham's faith is indeed our faith, a faith in the resurrection.

We have gathered to celebrate and remember Good Friday, the day that the Lord of life was crucified and killed. It is, admittedly, an odd day to celebrate, but we understand by faith the life giving power and the sin cancelling nature of his death. Tonight, as we look at the four words Jesus uttered on the cross in Matthew 27:46, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani” we have a chance to think through the grave problems this declaration gives to us, and a chance to wonder in amazement at the cross.

We have gathered to celebrate and remember Good Friday, the day that the Lord of life was crucified and killed. It is, admittedly, an odd day to celebrate, but we understand by faith the life giving power and the sin cancelling nature of his death. Tonight, as we look at the four words Jesus uttered on the cross in Matthew 27:46, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani” we have a chance to think through the grave problems this declaration gives to us, and a chance to wonder in amazement at the cross.

Everyone does what they think will give them the most pleasure, given the limitations of the options before them. You may find owning a yacht pleasing, but given the $5 in your account, you are unlikely to have one. Yet, you still spend (or save) that $5 in the way that you think will bring you the most happiness and satisfaction. Given our limited resources, where are we to find satisfaction? Or, perhaps a better question would be: where do we find satisfaction, and how deep and abiding is that satisfaction? Today, Jesus wants to press upon many who seek him to find a greater satisfaction, not in what he can give to them, but in Jesus himself.

Everyone does what they think will give them the most pleasure, given the limitations of the options before them. You may find owning a yacht pleasing, but given the $5 in your account, you are unlikely to have one. Yet, you still spend (or save) that $5 in the way that you think will bring you the most happiness and satisfaction. Given our limited resources, where are we to find satisfaction? Or, perhaps a better question would be: where do we find satisfaction, and how deep and abiding is that satisfaction? Today, Jesus wants to press upon many who seek him to find a greater satisfaction, not in what he can give to them, but in Jesus himself.

If we were to summarize John 5, we might say that it presents Jesus as our rest; Jesus gives us healing and life. Like any beautiful jewel, though, Jesus is best viewed in multiple lights. In John 6, John switches perspectives on Jesus, and instead views his glory through the lens of provision. In Jesus, God has given us what we all lack, and our lack is great indeed! Beginning John 6, we have the great miracle of the feeding of the 5,000. Here, Jesus gives us just a taste of the great provision he gives to mankind, miraculously multiplying a small supply of bread and fish to feed multitudes.

If we were to summarize John 5, we might say that it presents Jesus as our rest; Jesus gives us healing and life. Like any beautiful jewel, though, Jesus is best viewed in multiple lights. In John 6, John switches perspectives on Jesus, and instead views his glory through the lens of provision. In Jesus, God has given us what we all lack, and our lack is great indeed! Beginning John 6, we have the great miracle of the feeding of the 5,000. Here, Jesus gives us just a taste of the great provision he gives to mankind, miraculously multiplying a small supply of bread and fish to feed multitudes.

In John 5, Jesus has claimed some great things: not only equality with God but the accompanying power and authority. Such claims are naturally wild - what kind of man claims such things? And, more importantly, what proof does he have? No doubt these were the questions that were floating through the heads of the Jews which stood before Jesus. Great claims need great evidence! Fortunately, those of us who believe have three grand sources of evidence to support the claims that Jesus makes. Today we get to think through these witnesses, and how we can use them for encouragement and evangelism today.

In John 5, Jesus has claimed some great things: not only equality with God but the accompanying power and authority. Such claims are naturally wild - what kind of man claims such things? And, more importantly, what proof does he have? No doubt these were the questions that were floating through the heads of the Jews which stood before Jesus. Great claims need great evidence! Fortunately, those of us who believe have three grand sources of evidence to support the claims that Jesus makes. Today we get to think through these witnesses, and how we can use them for encouragement and evangelism today.

Jesus has implied that he is equal with God, something that he has then clarified (while not backing down from) in 5:1-24. Here, having mentioned the resurrection, Jesus gives some more elaboration on the nature of the resurrections, and his authority to give life to whom he will. To speak of the resurrections, plural, is important as an implication of this text. We are not simply waiting for the resurrections on the final day, but we have already experienced something of a passage from death unto life with our faith in Christ. What does Christ seek to teach us about the resurrections today?

Jesus has implied that he is equal with God, something that he has then clarified (while not backing down from) in 5:1-24. Here, having mentioned the resurrection, Jesus gives some more elaboration on the nature of the resurrections, and his authority to give life to whom he will. To speak of the resurrections, plural, is important as an implication of this text. We are not simply waiting for the resurrections on the final day, but we have already experienced something of a passage from death unto life with our faith in Christ. What does Christ seek to teach us about the resurrections today?

The Jews rightly realized Jesus’ claim to equality with God. But Jesus wants to make sure that all might know rightly his relationship to his Father. So today, we look at what it means for Jesus to be the true Son of God, how this impacts his relationship with the Father, and how this makes him equal with God. Such teaching will touch at the very heart of the Trinitarian relationships and essence, and as such is difficult and challenging. However, desire to know the nature of God should not be viewed as crass intellectualism, but rather a act of faith by which we love God with our minds. Today, then, let us consider the equality of the Son by looking at . . .

The Jews rightly realized Jesus’ claim to equality with God. But Jesus wants to make sure that all might know rightly his relationship to his Father. So today, we look at what it means for Jesus to be the true Son of God, how this impacts his relationship with the Father, and how this makes him equal with God. Such teaching will touch at the very heart of the Trinitarian relationships and essence, and as such is difficult and challenging. However, desire to know the nature of God should not be viewed as crass intellectualism, but rather a act of faith by which we love God with our minds. Today, then, let us consider the equality of the Son by looking at . . .

The Sabbath has a controversial history. Does the Sabbath translate to the “Lord’s Day” in the New Testament? Are we supposed to keep it still? What would “keeping” the Sabbath look like today? How does the work of Christ fit into our understanding of the Sabbath? While such questions abound, my guess is that many of us have given little thought to the Sabbath, other than assuming it was another way the hypocrisy of the Jews was made evident. But it has great symbolic importance and tells us much about the purpose of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, as we think again on John 5:1-18, let us try to answer three basic questions about the Sabbath.

The Sabbath has a controversial history. Does the Sabbath translate to the “Lord’s Day” in the New Testament? Are we supposed to keep it still? What would “keeping” the Sabbath look like today? How does the work of Christ fit into our understanding of the Sabbath? While such questions abound, my guess is that many of us have given little thought to the Sabbath, other than assuming it was another way the hypocrisy of the Jews was made evident. But it has great symbolic importance and tells us much about the purpose of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, as we think again on John 5:1-18, let us try to answer three basic questions about the Sabbath.

Money is a touchy subject for many people. We are told the best things in life are free, which is often true, but the basic necessities of life often are not. Money is essential to life, even if it comes with many dangers and difficulties. Many of us struggle with money, regardless of how much money we make. Unsurprisingly, the Bible has much to say about how we think about, use, make, and esteem our money. Now, as we turn to Proverbs again, let us try to think through how to best steward our money wisely.

Money is a touchy subject for many people. We are told the best things in life are free, which is often true, but the basic necessities of life often are not. Money is essential to life, even if it comes with many dangers and difficulties. Many of us struggle with money, regardless of how much money we make. Unsurprisingly, the Bible has much to say about how we think about, use, make, and esteem our money. Now, as we turn to Proverbs again, let us try to think through how to best steward our money wisely.

We are said to be made in the image of a God who creates using just his words; it should come as little surprise that Scripture has much to say to us about the nature of our speech. What’s more, given that the fall has marred the image of God placed in us, it is also unsurprising that we struggle to speak rightly before God and the world. Proverbs, as the very wisdom of God, seeks to help us understand how to speak better, applying wisdom to the use of our lips. Today, let us consider how to speak more faithfully, and what the effects of that speech might be.

We are said to be made in the image of a God who creates using just his words; it should come as little surprise that Scripture has much to say to us about the nature of our speech. What’s more, given that the fall has marred the image of God placed in us, it is also unsurprising that we struggle to speak rightly before God and the world. Proverbs, as the very wisdom of God, seeks to help us understand how to speak better, applying wisdom to the use of our lips. Today, let us consider how to speak more faithfully, and what the effects of that speech might be.

Sex seems to linger close to the center of most of the greatest points of contention in our country today. These divides typically occur over the nature and purpose of sex, spilling out into issues over LGBTQ and transgender rights, divorce law, and further downstream, abortion. This is not a modern issue, arising because of the decadence of our land in an age of prosperity. These issues seem to be fundamental to who we are. We would be right, then, in assuming that the Bible has much to say about these things! Let us listen well to the wisdom of our God.

Sex seems to linger close to the center of most of the greatest points of contention in our country today. These divides typically occur over the nature and purpose of sex, spilling out into issues over LGBTQ and transgender rights, divorce law, and further downstream, abortion. This is not a modern issue, arising because of the decadence of our land in an age of prosperity. These issues seem to be fundamental to who we are. We would be right, then, in assuming that the Bible has much to say about these things! Let us listen well to the wisdom of our God.

Wisdom is something that everyone desires. No one wants to be seen as naive, simple, or as a fool. And the world is full of ways to gain knowledge and wisdom. We push for education as a means of liberation for all people. We think that simply gaining age, knowing how to maneuver oneself through the world, is enough to gain wisdom. But what does Scripture actually say that wisdom is? What is its value? Why should we pursue it? How should we pursue it? Here we begin to think through these great questions as we enter into a study of Proverbs.

Wisdom is something that everyone desires. No one wants to be seen as naive, simple, or as a fool. And the world is full of ways to gain knowledge and wisdom. We push for education as a means of liberation for all people. We think that simply gaining age, knowing how to maneuver oneself through the world, is enough to gain wisdom. But what does Scripture actually say that wisdom is? What is its value? Why should we pursue it? How should we pursue it? Here we begin to think through these great questions as we enter into a study of Proverbs.

Because of Haggai’s message from the Lord to the officials and the people, “The people feared the Lord.” (v12) Then, chapter 1 ends with “And they came and worked on the House of the Lord of Hosts, their God.” (v14) This week we will see the encouragement of those who are building the temple.

Because of Haggai’s message from the Lord to the officials and the people, “The people feared the Lord.” (v12) Then, chapter 1 ends with “And they came and worked on the House of the Lord of Hosts, their God.” (v14) This week we will see the encouragement of those who are building the temple.

Like God's people after the exile, God has called you to consider your ways - to consider how it is you have lived before him - and he compels you to respond in grace-filled, spirit-fueled obedience.

Like God's people after the exile, God has called you to consider your ways - to consider how it is you have lived before him - and he compels you to respond in grace-filled, spirit-fueled obedience.

Our salvation ought to be a dear thing to us. We ought to never tire of hearing of how Jesus has saved us from hell and our sins! It is the new song that we will sing with one another forever! Today, we have a wonderful, and helpful, picture of our salvation played out in the interaction between a sick man and Jesus. As Jesus heals him, we get a glimpse at our own problems, our own needs, as embodied by this lame man who awaits a healing that he knows he will never gain. But, while his superstition cannot make him well, Jesus can. Let us see ourselves in this text, as we look at the three major characters of John 5:1-18.

Our salvation ought to be a dear thing to us. We ought to never tire of hearing of how Jesus has saved us from hell and our sins! It is the new song that we will sing with one another forever! Today, we have a wonderful, and helpful, picture of our salvation played out in the interaction between a sick man and Jesus. As Jesus heals him, we get a glimpse at our own problems, our own needs, as embodied by this lame man who awaits a healing that he knows he will never gain. But, while his superstition cannot make him well, Jesus can. Let us see ourselves in this text, as we look at the three major characters of John 5:1-18.

Sin is very deceitful. It is good to be reminded of this fact – we are easily led astray by our sin into thinking that we are alright with God, even as we linger in our sin. Do we really exhibit the kind of faith to which the Bible calls us? The kind of faith that upholds the greatest commandment “to love the Lord your god with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matt 22:37, ESV) – or, in other words, to honor Jesus? But what does that look like? How can we keep ourselves from being misled into thinking that we love God, when we only love the idol of God we made? John here helps us to see how to rightly honor Jesus.

Sin is very deceitful. It is good to be reminded of this fact – we are easily led astray by our sin into thinking that we are alright with God, even as we linger in our sin. Do we really exhibit the kind of faith to which the Bible calls us? The kind of faith that upholds the greatest commandment “to love the Lord your god with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matt 22:37, ESV) – or, in other words, to honor Jesus? But what does that look like? How can we keep ourselves from being misled into thinking that we love God, when we only love the idol of God we made? John here helps us to see how to rightly honor Jesus.

We gather today to commission the Brubakers for work in China. God has opened doors for them to strengthen relationships between Crossway and our mission partners in China, and to forge new relationships as well. So, today, we gather to bless them on their journey. But we are not just laying our hands on our friends and commissioning them for the work on the field. In a very important way, we are commissioning ourselves this morning. We are commissioning ourselves to the Brubakers, to the work that they have taken up, and to take upon ourselves the very work that marks their lies.

We gather today to commission the Brubakers for work in China. God has opened doors for them to strengthen relationships between Crossway and our mission partners in China, and to forge new relationships as well. So, today, we gather to bless them on their journey. But we are not just laying our hands on our friends and commissioning them for the work on the field. In a very important way, we are commissioning ourselves this morning. We are commissioning ourselves to the Brubakers, to the work that they have taken up, and to take upon ourselves the very work that marks their lies.

We have reviewed the necessary importance of mission, and implored all to be involved fully in missions, whether through praying, sending, going or giving. Yet, all this is lost if we don't understand the mission of Jesus in coming in the first place. We are sent out by Jesus as Jesus has been sent out by the Father, so what was Jesus' mission?

We have reviewed the necessary importance of mission, and implored all to be involved fully in missions, whether through praying, sending, going or giving. Yet, all this is lost if we don't understand the mission of Jesus in coming in the first place. We are sent out by Jesus as Jesus has been sent out by the Father, so what was Jesus' mission?

We hope that it is clear to all who come into this place of worship or interact with the people of Crossway that we are a missions minded people. That is, we understand that God has put us on mission with the gospel, to make it known to the farthest reaches of the world as well as next door. This is indeed our hope. But we are not there yet. Today, as the second half of the story of the woman at the well unfolds, we will see what it means for us to be missions minded, and what it takes for us to understand the mission that Jesus Christ has left us with.

We hope that it is clear to all who come into this place of worship or interact with the people of Crossway that we are a missions minded people. That is, we understand that God has put us on mission with the gospel, to make it known to the farthest reaches of the world as well as next door. This is indeed our hope. But we are not there yet. Today, as the second half of the story of the woman at the well unfolds, we will see what it means for us to be missions minded, and what it takes for us to understand the mission that Jesus Christ has left us with.

In Acts 13, we see an example of the New Testament church putting the Great Commission into action. They have taken the command from our Lord seriously, and fulfill his directions by praying, sending, and going to the unreached with the gospel of Christ.

In Acts 13, we see an example of the New Testament church putting the Great Commission into action. They have taken the command from our Lord seriously, and fulfill his directions by praying, sending, and going to the unreached with the gospel of Christ.

We do not stray far this morning from our text last week. The story of the woman at the well is told well by John. It is a poignant story of God’s love for those who are cast off by society, and Jesus’ love for those that many would consider unlovable. But the story does not end there. Woven into the fabric of the story is another story, one that plays out below the surface of the text and is a rather revolutionary retelling of the nature of Israel and of God’s people. Today we will examine this deeper level of John’s story, for in it we find much to consider and to give God praise for! Within this story, we will see John compare: Jesus and Jacob; Nicodemus and the Woman.

We do not stray far this morning from our text last week. The story of the woman at the well is told well by John. It is a poignant story of God’s love for those who are cast off by society, and Jesus’ love for those that many would consider unlovable. But the story does not end there. Woven into the fabric of the story is another story, one that plays out below the surface of the text and is a rather revolutionary retelling of the nature of Israel and of God’s people. Today we will examine this deeper level of John’s story, for in it we find much to consider and to give God praise for! Within this story, we will see John compare: Jesus and Jacob; Nicodemus and the Woman.

There are many famous passages in the Gospel of John. the raising of Lazarus, the miracle of wine in Cana; but perhaps the most famous story in the gospel is Jesus meeting with the woman at the well. This passage is rich and deserves more detailed look than one sermon can provide. Today, we will start our several week study in this important passage with a brief overview. In this passage, Jesus shows us how the gospel spreads. By doing so, John provides us with another profound example of how to evangelize, while at the same time reminding us of some very important truths about the gospel. So, how is the gospel spread?

There are many famous passages in the Gospel of John. the raising of Lazarus, the miracle of wine in Cana; but perhaps the most famous story in the gospel is Jesus meeting with the woman at the well. This passage is rich and deserves more detailed look than one sermon can provide. Today, we will start our several week study in this important passage with a brief overview. In this passage, Jesus shows us how the gospel spreads. By doing so, John provides us with another profound example of how to evangelize, while at the same time reminding us of some very important truths about the gospel. So, how is the gospel spread?

John the Baptist's disciples get in a conversation with a fellow Jew about a purification ritual - which turns their attention to Jesus' actions in baptizing. they seem to be quite shocked that he is doing precisely what John was (quite literally) known for doing. But John's answer is what we have come to expect from him: humble and Christ glorifying. Friends, Jesus is better, more important, and worthier of every good thing than you. Whether God puts you in palaces or in prisons, he does so for the sake of his only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Here we examine John's response, and see why the Baptist thinks that Jesus is better.

John the Baptist's disciples get in a conversation with a fellow Jew about a purification ritual - which turns their attention to Jesus' actions in baptizing. they seem to be quite shocked that he is doing precisely what John was (quite literally) known for doing. But John's answer is what we have come to expect from him: humble and Christ glorifying. Friends, Jesus is better, more important, and worthier of every good thing than you. Whether God puts you in palaces or in prisons, he does so for the sake of his only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Here we examine John's response, and see why the Baptist thinks that Jesus is better.

I was deadly afraid of aliens as a child. This fear led me to come up with elaborate plans to avoid their detection, and even to reasons why they can’t exist. So, why do some people believe in them? Why should we believe their reports of seeing them? In some ways, this is close to what we have in Christ: a man, fully human, but sent from a place outside of this world, who we are told to believe in because of eye-witness accounts. Why do we believe in Christ? Why do some others not believe? And, for all that, why did Jesus even come? Today, we get to think through what John states as the reason for our belief in Christ, and why others refuse to believe.

I was deadly afraid of aliens as a child. This fear led me to come up with elaborate plans to avoid their detection, and even to reasons why they can’t exist. So, why do some people believe in them? Why should we believe their reports of seeing them? In some ways, this is close to what we have in Christ: a man, fully human, but sent from a place outside of this world, who we are told to believe in because of eye-witness accounts. Why do we believe in Christ? Why do some others not believe? And, for all that, why did Jesus even come? Today, we get to think through what John states as the reason for our belief in Christ, and why others refuse to believe.

If there is one thing that Christianity, in all its various stripes and manifestations, can agree on is the refrain from 1 John 4:8, 16 - "God is Love". He is the essence of what love is, his actions define love, and love is only knowable by us because God manifests himself to the world. But, the manner and means by which God loves the world, a world filled with sin, hatred, jealousy, and spite, is quite another thing altogether. John 3:16 is perhaps the best-known biblical verse of all time and is able to be repeated by people who have never broken open a Bible, never heard a sermon, and have never darkened the door of a church. But what is John saying in this verse?

If there is one thing that Christianity, in all its various stripes and manifestations, can agree on is the refrain from 1 John 4:8, 16 - "God is Love". He is the essence of what love is, his actions define love, and love is only knowable by us because God manifests himself to the world. But, the manner and means by which God loves the world, a world filled with sin, hatred, jealousy, and spite, is quite another thing altogether. John 3:16 is perhaps the best-known biblical verse of all time and is able to be repeated by people who have never broken open a Bible, never heard a sermon, and have never darkened the door of a church. But what is John saying in this verse?