922 Ministries - The CORE & St. Peter Lutheran - Appleton, WI Sermons: Recent Episodes
922 Ministries
The episodes are the weekly sermons from 922 Ministries campus in Appleton, WI. St. Peter is in the north part of Appleton. The CORE is our downtown Appleton campus.
What do you expect from your church? Your pastors? And what do they expect from you? As Moses (and Jesus and the Apostles) experienced, the answer must depend on the size of the group that you serve. Moses needed to change his church expectations in order to serve God’s people well and avoid his own burnout. This message looks at how churches of various sizes function, the blessings and challenges of each size, and how your church’s size must affect everyone’s expectations.
What do you expect from your church? Your pastors? And what do they expect from you? As Moses (and Jesus and the Apostles) experienced, the answer must depend on the size of the group that you serve. Moses needed to change his church expectations in order to serve God’s people well and avoid his own burnout. This message looks at how churches of various sizes function, the blessings and challenges of each size, and how your church’s size must affect everyone’s expectations.
This seems to make sense until you see Christians judging, warning, and threatening sinners with the fires of hell. What does it mean to love a sinner? Should they feel loved? And who decides what love is anyway?
This seems to make sense until you see Christians judging, warning, and threatening sinners with the fires of hell. What does it mean to love a sinner? Should they feel loved? And who decides what love is anyway?
“How’s your walk?” “I’m struggling in my walk with God?” “He started walking with God.” For an invisible being, God sure does do a lot of walking! What does that phrase imply? And how do it apply to our lives? Why do some people say that nothing matters more than “your walk”?
“How’s your walk?” “I’m struggling in my walk with God?” “He started walking with God.” For an invisible being, God sure does do a lot of walking! What does that phrase imply? And how do it apply to our lives? Why do some people say that nothing matters more than “your walk”?
“Join us for fellowship after church.” “I need some fellowship in my life.” “We had some great fellowship before the service.” What is fellowship? Just people? People and food? People and food connected to a church service?
“Join us for fellowship after church.” “I need some fellowship in my life.” “We had some great fellowship before the service.” What is fellowship? Just people? People and food? People and food connected to a church service?
“How’s your walk?” “I’m struggling in my walk with God?” “He started walking with God.” For an invisible being, God sure does do a lot of walking! What does that phrase imply? And how does it apply to our lives? Why do some people say that nothing matters more than “your walk”?
“How’s your walk?” “I’m struggling in my walk with God?” “He started walking with God.” For an invisible being, God sure does do a lot of walking! What does that phrase imply? And how does it apply to our lives? Why do some people say that nothing matters more than “your walk”?
Even an intelligent, religious man from Jesus’ day was confused when Christ said, “You must be born again.” What does that mean? What does that mean for us? Are you born again? Is so, when? And how? And how do you know?
Even an intelligent, religious man from Jesus’ day was confused when Christ said, “You must be born again.” What does that mean? What does that mean for us? Are you born again? Is so, when? And how? And how do you know?
Who would expect a man to be mad about a mission accomplished? But mad Jonah became, mad enough to die. This message examines the scandal of grace, our human instinct to judge God, and the forked road that stretches ahead of us all—Will you accept grace or not?
Who would expect a man to be mad about a mission accomplished? But mad Jonah became, mad enough to die. This message examines the scandal of grace, our human instinct to judge God, and the forked road that stretches ahead of us all—Will you accept grace or not?
God gave Jonah a second chance at his calling, which ended in the most unexpected blessing, the repentance of the wicked people of Nineveh. God does the same thing in our lives, offering us a chance to be different people who choose a different path now that we have a new knowledge of God’s power and love.
God gave Jonah a second chance at his calling, which ended in the most unexpected blessing, the repentance of the wicked people of Nineveh. God does the same thing in our lives, offering us a chance to be different people who choose a different path now that we have a new knowledge of God’s power and love.
Jonah’s best moment happened in the worst place. Surrounded by God knows-what-digestive fluids, he confessed his desperation and praised the Lord’s salvation. The same thing happens to us. Sometimes we have to hit bottom to realize our constant need for God and the grace that reaches us in our lowest places.
Jonah’s best moment happened in the worst place. Surrounded by God knows-what-digestive fluids, he confessed his desperation and praised the Lord’s salvation. The same thing happens to us. Sometimes we have to hit bottom to realize our constant need for God and the grace that reaches us in our lowest places.
Jonah, when given a clear mission from heaven, ran from God, a foolish idea. But we often do the same thing, running from a truth that challenges us to change. This message confronts spiritual “runners” and refuses to let them run too far without hearing the voice of God.
Jonah, when given a clear mission from heaven, ran from God, a foolish idea. But we often do the same thing, running from a truth that challenges us to change. This message confronts spiritual “runners” and refuses to let them run too far without hearing the voice of God.
The thrilling story of Boaz and Ruth ends with a marriage and a Messiah hinting genealogy, proof that God was up to something good in the midst of the mess. Those who call Christ their spiritual husband hold on to that same hope, that God is working out all things for the good of his people, even if the greatest good is generations into the future.
The thrilling story of Boaz and Ruth ends with a marriage and a Messiah hinting genealogy, proof that God was up to something good in the midst of the mess. Those who call Christ their spiritual husband hold on to that same hope, that God is working out all things for the good of his people, even if the greatest good is generations into the future.
Naomi and Ruth took a huge risk that night when the young Moabite snuck close to the threshing floor, but that is where her true connection happened with her “redeemer.” By God’s grace, we have those moments too, when we give up the world, deny ourselves, and take the risk of following our Redeemer. Thankfully, he doesn’t turn us away but instead “does not rest” until we are rescued and resting in God’s presence.
Naomi and Ruth took a huge risk that night when the young Moabite snuck close to the threshing floor, but that is where her true connection happened with her “redeemer.” By God’s grace, we have those moments too, when we give up the world, deny ourselves, and take the risk of following our Redeemer. Thankfully, he doesn’t turn us away but instead “does not rest” until we are rescued and resting in God’s presence.
Everything changed for Ruth’s story when she met the man, the one who would show her favor and give her comfort. Remind you of Anyone you know/worship? Jesus is the better Boaz, the “man of standing” who sees us and saves us in our greatest time of need. Staying close to him, as Ruth did with Boaz, is the best way to find peace in the midst of the mess.
Everything changed for Ruth’s story when she met the man, the one who would show her favor and give her comfort. Remind you of Anyone you know/worship? Jesus is the better Boaz, the “man of standing” who sees us and saves us in our greatest time of need. Staying close to him, as Ruth did with Boaz, is the best way to find peace in the midst of the mess.
Wise Christians go beyond the issue of right/wrong. They think deeply about what is beneficial for their souls and for the souls of those they love. This message attempts to do just that, suggesting wise boundaries to increase screens’ blessings and minimize screens’ curses as we seek the God who saved our souls
Wise Christians go beyond the issue of right/wrong. They think deeply about what is beneficial for their souls and for the souls of those they love. This message attempts to do just that, suggesting wise boundaries to increase screens’ blessings and minimize screens’ curses as we seek the God who saved our souls.
Every researcher knows that something has drastically changed in our digital age. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide have spiked like never before. What factors best explain the sad data? Internet usage and social media. Yet screens can do the same type of damage on our souls as they do our minds, robbing us of true fellowship and weakening our minds so they are unable to meditate on the deep truths of God’s Word. This message warns us to think critically about the devices we hold in our hands.
Every researcher knows that something has drastically changed in our digital age. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide have spiked like never before. What factors best explain the sad data? Internet usage and social media. Yet screens can do the same type of damage on our souls as they do our minds, robbing us of true fellowship and weakening our minds so they are unable to meditate on the deep truths of God’s Word. This message warns us to think critically about the devices we hold in our hands.
While it is easy to turn the latest technology into the latest villain, the Bible (and Christians who love the Bible) see the blessing in scientific progress. Think of what animal hides, parchment, and ink meant to the prophets and the apostles. Think of what the printing press meant to Martin Luther. Think of what the Bible App means to us today. Let us thank God for those who develop new ways for the Word to reach to the
ends of the earth and fulfill Jesus’ great mission for his Church!
While it is easy to turn the latest technology into the latest villain, the Bible (and Christians who love the Bible) see the blessing in scientific progress. Think of what animal hides, parchment, and ink meant to the prophets and the apostles. Think of what the printing press meant to Martin Luther. Think of what the Bible App means to us today. Let us thank God for those who develop new ways for the Word to reach to the
ends of the earth and fulfill Jesus’ great mission for his Church!
Most, if not all, of us will have dear friends who are unfaithful in their marriages. When that happens, what should we do? What should we say? What should we avoid? This message speaks to the entire church as they seek, together, to help some of our brothers and sisters in their greatest time of need.
Most, if not all, of us will have dear friends who are unfaithful in their marriages. When that happens, what should we do? What should we say? What should we avoid? This message speaks to the entire church as they seek, together, to help some of our brothers and sisters in their greatest time of need.
What do you do when it was three instead of two? When your spouse broke your vows and your heart? When you ignored God’s voice and betrayed? How do couples recover from the pain, the shame, and the regret? Is there any hope after
an affair?
What do you do when it was three instead of two? When your spouse broke your vows and your heart? When you ignored God’s voice and betrayed? How do couples recover from the pain, the shame, and the regret? Is there any hope after an affair?
Almost every couple, even Christian couples, lives together before marriage. The reasons are many (testing compatibility, fear of divorce, saving money, convenience, etc.), but one question lingers—What does God think? Is living together a sin? If so, where does the Bible say that? If not, why has it long been considered dangerous for Christian couples? This message takes a fresh look at a topic that affects every church and every family.
Almost every couple, even Christian couples, lives together before marriage. The reasons are many (testing compatibility, fear of divorce, saving money, convenience, etc.), but one question lingers—What does God think? Is living together a sin? If so, where does the Bible say that? If not, why has it long been considered dangerous for Christian couples? This message takes a fresh look at a topic that affects every church and every family.
While our homes are unique and people are complicated, there is a simple equation that calls us to holiness and produces great happiness—Me first makes a mess but you first makes us blessed. Such a mindset is an imitation of the Savior who put us first in order that we might have a forever home with God.
While our homes are unique and people are complicated, there is a simple equation that calls us to holiness and produces great happiness—Me first makes a mess but you first makes us blessed. Such a mindset is an imitation of the Savior who put us first in order that we might have a forever home with God.
Few things can be freakier than talking about faith with our friends. In a culture that disagrees on almost everything, considers politics and religion to be impolite in mixed company, and shudders at the idea of absolute truth, how can we find fire to share the good news about Jesus. Paul, who preached to diverse groups, reminds us of the goodness and power of the Word that we share.
Few things can be freakier than talking about faith with our friends. In a culture that disagrees on almost everything, considers politics and religion to be impolite in mixed company, and shudders at the idea of absolute truth, how can we find fire to share the good news about Jesus. Paul, who preached to diverse groups, reminds us of the goodness and power of the Word that we share.
How do you read the Bible? This massive book is filled with tens of thousands of verses, archaic practices, and hard-to-pronounce names. So how do you get to become a daily Bible reader? A rich African man knows. Will you listen to his encouragement?
How do you read the Bible? This massive book is filled with tens of thousands of verses, archaic practices, and hard-to-pronounce names. So how do you get to become a daily Bible reader? A rich African man knows. Will you listen to his encouragement?
With so many debts to pay and so many things to buy, how do people become joyful and generous at the same time? In his parting words to a group of Christians he adored, the Apostle Paul reminds us of something Jesus once said that reframes the way we think about money.
With so many debts to pay and so many things to buy, how do people become joyful and generous at the same time? In his parting words to a group of Christians he adored, the Apostle Paul reminds us of something Jesus once said that reframes the way we think about money.
We were created for community. No one, even those who appreciate great amounts of quiet time, want to go through life alone. But how do you find the spiritual family that so many of us long for? While there are many important answers to that question, James knows what bonds Christians together—Honest confession and sincere prayer.
Every Sunday is filled with dozens of to-do’s. Show up, sit down,sing, pray, sing, listen, sing, pray some more, give, sing, greet, go home. But how exactly do we get the most growth out of our weekly worship services? Paul’s charge to Timothy suggests an answer—Scripture.
Every Sunday is filled with dozens of to-do’s. Show up, sit down, sing, pray, sing, listen, sing, pray some more, give, sing, greet, go home. But how exactly do we get the most growth out of our weekly worship services? Paul’s charge to Timothy suggests an answer—Scripture.
We were created for community. No one, even those who appreciate great amounts of quiet time, want to go through life alone. But how do you find the spiritual family that so many of us long for? While there are many important answers to that question, James knows what bonds Christians together—Honest confession and sincere prayer.
What are the odds that good would triumph over evil and that God’s promise would be fulfilled? Great odds when you remember God.
What are the odds that good would triumph over evil and that God’s promise would be fulfilled? In the final message of this series, Pastor Tim Glende reminds us that they're great odds when you remember God
What are the odds that the scattered descendants of Abraham would survive the day of their annihilation? Outnumbered in foreign lands, what chances did they have to continue the Savior’s line alive? Great odds when you remember God
What are the odds that the scattered descendants of Abraham would survive the day of their annihilation? Outnumbered in foreign lands, what chances did they have to continue the Savior’s line alive? Great odds when you remember God.
What are the odds that evil would be caught and brought to justice? What are the odds that a well-resourced villain would get what his deeds deserve? Great odds when you remember God
What are the odds that evil would be caught and brought to justice? What are the odds that a well-resourced villain would get what his deeds deserve? Great odds when you remember God
What are the odds that an outnumbered tribe of people could survive a genocide sanctioned by the government’s most powerful forces? What chance would a lone woman have of saving her entire people? Great odds when you remember God.
What are the odds that an outnumbered tribe of people could survive a genocide sanctioned by the government’s most powerful forces? What chance would a lone woman have of saving her entire people? Great odds when you remember God.
What are the odds that an outnumbered tribe of people could survive a genocide sanctioned by the government’s most powerful forces? What chance would a lone woman have of saving her entire people? Great odds when you remember God.
What are the odds that an orphaned Jewish girl would become the queen of the world’s most powerful empire? And what are the odds that her cousin would uncover an assassination plot that would later saved the ancient family of Jesus? Great odds when you remember God.
What are the odds that an orphaned Jewish girl would become the queen of the world’s most powerful empire? And what are the odds that her cousin would uncover an assassination plot that would later saved the ancient family of Jesus? Great odds when you remember God.
In light of all of the opposition, all of our doubts, and all of our internal ugliness, how will we move forward with joy? Jude knows. “God is able.” God is able to keep us from falling away from Jesus. God is able to present us without fault by the blood of Jesus. When you are afraid, remember that God is able!
In light of all of the opposition, all of our doubts, and all of our internal ugliness, how will we move forward with joy? Jude knows. “God is able.” God is able to keep us from falling away from Jesus. God is able to present us without fault by the blood of Jesus. When you are afraid, remember that God is able!
Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, longed to celebrate God’s salvation with his fellow brothers and sisters in the faith. “But I had to write” and tell you to fight! Jude begins. His change-of-course is a blunt reminder that we live in a mixed up world that requires vigilance, courage, and caution. We might wish we could simply share the good news of God’s love week after week, but the real world requires more. “I had to” write so that the Church is ready to fight.
Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, longed to celebrate God’s salvation with his fellow brothers and sisters in the faith. “But I had to write” and tell you to fight!", Jude begins. His change-of-course is a blunt reminder that we live in a mixed up world that requires vigilance, courage, and caution. We might wish we could simply share the good news of God’s love week after week, but the real world requires more. “I had to write" so that the Church is ready to fight.
In his final recorded words in the Bible, Peter offers his fellow Christians two overarching commands—Guard and grow. Be on your guard against all that opposes the the truth of the Word. Grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus. This is the wisest way to live as we prepare to see our Savior’s face.
In his final recorded words in the Bible, Peter offers his fellow Christians two overarching commands—Guard and grow. Be on your guard against all that opposes the the truth of the Word. Grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus. This is the wisest way to live as we prepare to see our Savior’s face.
Why does this broken planet keep on spinning? If Jesus promised to return to put an end to our pain, why isn’t he back yet? Why does he allow us to continue to hurt? Peter gives us perspective on this essential questions for our faith.
One day, Jesus will show up unannounced, abruptly ending the pain, suffering, and darkness of this world as he brings a new home, a new reality, and a new future where everything is right and good. In light of that day, what should we do?
How should we live? Peter urges us towards godliness in holiness as we eagerly await for Jesus to return.
One day, Jesus will show up unannounced, abruptly ending the pain, suffering, and darkness of this world as he brings a new home, a new reality, and a new future where everything is right and good. In light of that day, what should we do? How should we live? Peter urges us towards godliness in holiness as we eagerly await for Jesus to return.
Why does this broken planet keep on spinning? If Jesus promised to return, to put an end to our pain, why isn’t he back yet? Why does he allow us to continue to hurt? Peter gives us perspective on this essential questions for our faith.
Peter spends an entire chapter warning his friends about the “false teachers” that would show up in their church. With scathing analysis, he labels them “arrogant,” “experts in greed,” and “dogs” that lick up their own vomit. Why would the man who just encouraged us to be kind and loving say such things (and encourage modern Christians to feel the same way)? This chapter has the answer.
Peter spends an entire chapter warning his friends about the “false teachers” that would show up in their church. With scathing analysis, he labels them “arrogant,” “experts in greed,” and “dogs” that lick up their own vomit. Why would the man who just encouraged us to be kind and loving say such things (and encourage modern Christians to feel the same way)? This chapter has the answer.
One of life’s scarier realities is uncertainty. When you are uncertain about your health, your grades, your parents’ marriage, or your own relationship. That doubt can rob us of confidence, joy, and peace. Perhaps that’s why God’s Spirit moved men long ago to write divine words on ancient scrolls, leaving behind a Book “more certain” than anything else in the world.
One of life’s scarier realities is uncertainty. When you are uncertain about your health, your grades, your parents’ marriage, or your own relationship. That doubt can rob us of confidence, joy, and peace. Perhaps that’s why God’s Spirit moved men long ago to write divine words on ancient scrolls, leaving behind a Book “more certain” than anything else in the world.
Peter kicks off his letter with a reminder of (1) who we are in Christ and (2) what we are called to become through Christ. We already have divine power, precious promises, and the calling of God over our lives. That is why this apostle urges us to “make every effort” to grow in our faith, adding more virtue and knowledge and love as the days pass, all in light of the day when we see King Jesus face to face.
Peter kicks off his letter with a reminder of (1) who we are in Christ and (2) what we are called to become through Christ. We already have divine power, precious promises, and the calling of God over our lives. That is why this apostle urges us to “make every effort” to grow in our faith, adding more virtue and knowledge and love as the days pass, all in light of the day when we see King Jesus face to face.
Perhaps more than ever, we are aware of our need for self-care. In a busy, burn-out world, God’s people are called to rest, be still, and just “be” in the presence of God. But can self-care become selfish? Can a focus on ourselves go too far? Do we need to relearn the rhythms of exhausting work and actual rest?
Perhaps more than ever, we are aware of our need for self-care. Ina busy, burn-out world, God’s people are called to rest, be still, and just “be” in the presence of God. But can self-care become selfish? Can a focus on ourselves go too far? Do we need to relearn the rhythms of exhausting work and actual rest?
“Didn’t Jesus say you shouldn’t judge?” Many people who know very little about the Bible know this much, namely, that Jesus had issues with people judging. Is that true? If so, wouldn’t it be wrong to judge another person for theirjudgment attitude? Or to confront someone for abusing a child? Or to look down on anyone for their racist views? These questions force us to think twice about what Jesus hasto say about judging so that we can judge in Jesus’ way.
“Didn’t Jesus say you shouldn’t judge?” Many people who know very little about the Bible know this much, namely, that Jesus had issues with people judging. Is that true? If so, wouldn’t it be wrong to judge another person for theirjudgment attitude? Or to confront someone for abusing a child? Or to look down on anyone for their racist views? These questions force us to think twice about what Jesus hasto say about judging so that we can judge in Jesus’ way.
Everyone agrees that love, in general, is good. But not everyone agrees that love, in specific instances, is equally good. How does one determine which love passes the morality test? Religion? Local culture? Personal feelings? Mutual consent? Does true love require more nuance than what our “love is love is love is love” culture currently tells us?
Everyone agrees that love, in general, is good. But not everyone agrees that love, in specific instances, is equally good. How does one determine which love passes the morality test? Religion? Local culture? Personal feelings? Mutual consent? Does true love require more nuance than what our “love is love is love is love” culture currently tells us?
You are wonderfully and uniquely designed by the God who has never once made a mistake. Therefore, you should be true to yourself. Be authentically you. Don’t hide yourself or fit into the mold made by those who don’t know your heart. Few messages are more often heard in our day than “Be you.” What should followers of Jesus make of this? Does our Father call us to be ourselves? Or is he offering us something much harder (and much better)?
You are wonderfully and uniquely designed by the God who has never once made a mistake. Therefore, you should be true to yourself. Be authentically you. Don’t hide yourself or fit into the mold made by those who don’t know your heart. Few messages are more often heard in our day than “Be you.” What should followers of Jesus make of this? Does our Father call us to be ourselves? Or is he offering us something much harder (and much better)?
God told me. God called me. God spoke to me. I felt God leading me, moving me, telling me to...What should we make of these often-heard statements? Is God whispering to each of us in a quiet voice that only those who still their souls can hear? What about those who were convinced that God spoke to them only later to find out that he didn’t? How can we confidently know that we have heard the voice of God?
God told me. God called me. God spoke to me. I felt God leading me, moving me, telling me to...What should we make of these often-heard statements? Is God whispering to each of us in a quiet voice that only those who still their souls can hear? What about those who were convinced that God spoke to them only later to find out that he didn’t? How can we confidently know that we have heard the voice of God?
It seems obvious that objective evidence should trump subjective opinion. Perhaps that is why scientists and their latest discoveries are frequently cited as the ultimate authority. But should modern people trust the “real” scientific conclusions of the 1700’s? 1800’s? 1900’s? If not, to what degree should we put our absolute trust in scientific matters today? How can a follower of Jesus thank God for scientific progress without turning today’s scientific theories into their preferred religion?
It seems obvious that objective evidence should trump subjective opinion. Perhaps that is why scientists and their latest discoveries are frequently cited as the ultimate authority. But should modern people trust the “real” scientific conclusions of the 1700’s? 1800’s? 1900’s? If not, to what degree should we put our absolute trust in scientific matters today? How can a follower of Jesus thank God for scientific progress without turning today’s scientific theories into their preferred religion?
If there is one moment in all of human history that you shouldn’t miss, it is this. The grave empty. The Enemy defeated. The Savior wins. No news is better than the news we celebrate on this big day. The faith of Christians hinges on Christ's resurrection. In this sermon, Pastor Mike Novotny goes into detail the significance of Good Friday's events plus Easter Sunday. Both fulfill Old Testament prophecies and put the final stamp of victory for Jesus over Satan.
If there is one moment in all of human history that you shouldn’t miss, it is this. The grave empty. The Enemy defeated. The Savior wins. No news is better than the news we celebrate on this big day. The faith of Christians hinges on Christ's resurrection. In this sermon, Pastor Tim Glende goes into detail the significance of Good Friday's events plus Easter Sunday. Both fulfill Old Testament prophecies and put the final stamp of victory for Jesus over Satan.
The Kingdom of God is unlike any other kingdom, because Jesus is unlike any other king. Our Key humbly rode into Jerusalem to the shouts of the crowd, picturing the humble end of Holy Week, where our King would fight death for us and open the gates to the kingdom of light.
The Kingdom of God is unlike any other kingdom, because Jesus is unlike any other king. Our Key humbly rode into Jerusalem to the shouts of the crowd, picturing the humble end of Holy Week, where our King would fight death for us and open the gates to the kingdom of light.
At the cross, Jesus looked nothing like God. Darkness covered the sky. Nails held him to the tree. Death struck again. Perhaps that’s why Jesus made sure his closest friends didn’t miss that moment on the mountain, the one where he revealed his glory and proved his true identity. As we walk with Peter, James, and John to the cross in the next two weeks, let us see the glory of Jesus with fresh eyes and remember how much he held back in order to be our Savior.
At the cross, Jesus looked nothing like God. Darkness covered the sky. Nails held him to the tree. Death struck again. Perhaps that’s why Jesus made sure his closest friends didn’t miss that moment on the mountain, the one where he revealed his glory and proved his true identity. As we walk with Peter, James, and John to the cross in the next two weeks, let us see the glory of Jesus with fresh eyes and remember how much he held back in order to be our Savior.
You give what you get. That little sentence summarizes so much of the Christian faith, especially after you read the tense story of the sinful woman who crashed the Pharisee’s party. Jesus used this awkward moment to proclaim forgiveness to sinners and remind us of the only logical response to a God who has forgiven our entire spiritual debt.
You give what you get. That little sentence summarizes so much of the Christian faith, especially after you read the tense story of the sinful woman who crashed the Pharisee’s party. Jesus used this awkward moment to proclaim forgiveness to sinners and remind us of the only logical response to a God who has forgiven our entire spiritual debt.
To call Jesus just a “good teacher” or a “religious influencer” would be to miss this moment, that is, the moment when he stopped a funeral process in its tracks. Jesus’ ability to raise the dead proves that he is indeed great, as great as God himself, and able to do the greatest thing of all—give us life through his sacrificial death.
To call Jesus just a “good teacher” or a “religious influencer” would be to miss this moment, that is, the moment when he stopped a funeral process in its tracks. Jesus’ ability to raise the dead proves that he is indeed great, as great as God himself, and able to do the greatest thing of all—give us life through his sacrificial death.
When you are tempted by the sins that know you all too well, don’t miss the moment was Jesus was tempted too. There, in the desert just beyond the Jordan River, Jesus showed us how to fight temptation by turning constantly to God’s Word. Even better, however, he fought for us, overcoming the Tempter and maintaining his identity as the sinless Son of God who came to save us.
When you are tempted by the sins that know you all too well, don’t miss the moment was Jesus was tempted too. There, in the desert just beyond the Jordan River, Jesus showed us how to fight temptation by turning constantly to God’s Word. Even better, however, he fought for us, overcoming the Tempter and maintaining his identity as the sinless Son of God who came to save us.
The baptism of Jesus is an equally confusing and wonderful moment. Even the man who baptized him, John, wondered if the sinless Son of God should be baptized at all. But Jesus indeed was baptized, and the entire Trinity showed up to celebrate the moment. The voice of the Father came from heaven, reminding us all that Jesus is his beloved Son, the only one equipped to save us from our sins.
The baptism of Jesus is an equally confusing and wonderful moment. Even the man who baptized him, John, wondered if the sinless Son of God should be baptized at all. But Jesus indeed was baptized, and the entire Trinity showed up to celebrate the moment. The voice of the Father came from heaven, reminding us all that Jesus is his beloved Son, the only one equipped to save us from our sins.