Sojourn Bible Church: Recent Episodes
Sojourn Bible Church
Bible talks at Sojourn Bible Church Brisbane.
Catch up on a talk you missed. Revisit if you'd like to dig deeper.
Our regular pattern is to look at sequential sections of a Bible book.
We're convinced God speaks the Bible, so we aim to echo what he says in the text in the sermon or Bible study.
Revelation 4-7 Reading: Revelation 7:9-17
Introduction See who is on the throne * God our Maker (4:1-11) * Jesus the only Saviour (5:1-14)
See history in Jesus’ hand (6:1-11) * unfolding according to God’s plan
See the end (6:12-14) * the judgment everyone deserves (Revelation 6:15-17) * the gathering of God’s rescued people (7:1-17)
Conclusion
Daniel 12:1-13
Introduction The final vision (10:1-12:13) God’s rule in the end… (12:1-4) …shapes wisdom in the meantime (12:5-13) Conclusion
Introduction
The final vision (10:1-12:13)
Prediction of the time readers live through four centuries
- Persia then Greece (11:2-4)
- kings of the south and kings of the north (11:5-20)
- a contemptible person (11:21-35) and the rest
pattern prediction (11:36-45)
Four implications expect victors to be defeated (11:4,6,9,12,14,16,17,18,19,20,25,27,29,45)
expect God’s people to be victims of defeat and frustration (11:14,16,22,30-35,41)
recognise our God’s control of everything (11:2 cf. 10:21 and 11:24,27,29,35,36,40)
let what God reveals define folly and wisdom (11:14,30-35)
Conclusion
Daniel 10:1-11:1
Introduction The final vision (10:1-12:13) The beginning of the vision * while Daniel mourns (10:2-4) * he sees a vision (10:5-11:1)
- a magnificent angel (10:5-6,11,13,21)
See the invisible spiritual conflict * opposing God’s plan (11:1) * stopping God’s word (10:13) * the battle still rages (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Trust the word is true Conclusion
Preacher: Matt Osborne
Hebrews 2:5-18
Jesus fulfils our purpose and brings us to glory (vv5-10)
Jesus calls us family (vv10-13)
Jesus offers us help (vv14-18)
Daniel 9:1-27 * Reading: Daniel 9:1-19
Introduction Bible background God warned about exile (Leviticus 26:27-28,33)
God promised a return (Jeremiah 25:11-12; 29:10)
Daniel read the promise (9:1-2) so Daniel prayed the promise (9:3)
and God immediately answered (9:20-23 cf. Matthew 7:7-11)
- and spoke about bigger, better blessings beyond (9:24-27)
A lesson in prayer (9:4-19) the LORD he speaks to (9:4)
their sin against God (8:5-15)
the shame they deserve (9:7-8,11-14)
he asks God to act (9:15-19)
- for his own sake and because of his great mercy
Conclusion
Daniel 8:1-27 * Reading: Daniel 8:1-12
Introduction Daniel is appalled * more! (8:27) * a vision for the end (8:15-19,26-27) * vision and explanation given by God (8:1-2,15-19,26-27)
Susa before Babylon fell (8:1-2) The ram (8:3-4,20) The male goat (8:5-8,21-22) A little horn (8:9-14,23-26) Conclusion
Daniel 7:1-28 * Reading: Daniel 7:1-18
Introduction Visions (Daniel 7-12) Rewind to Belshazzar’s first year (7:1) The vision four beasts (7:2-6) a fourth beast (7:7-8) Ancient of days (7:9-110)
- judges the beasts (7:11-12)
- gives dominion to one like a son of man (13-14)
Explanation about the vision
- Daniel asks (7:15-16)
- the angel explains (7:17-18)
about the fourth beast
- Daniel asks (7:19-22)
- the angel explains (7:23-27)
Daniel’s response (7:28)
Conclusion
the son of man and the saints (Mark 8:31,10:45,14:61-62)
Daniel 6:1-28 * Reading: Daniel 6:1-11
Introduction A new empire (5:30-31) * with Daniel near the top again (6:1-3) * the others set a trap (6:4-9)
Only God can save * Daniel continues to pray (6:10) [towards Jerusalem (cf. 1 Kings 8:27,30)] * the trap falls (6:11-13) * the king cannot save (6:14-17) * God is able to save (6:18-24)
God rules now and always (6:25-28) Conclusion
Preacher: Matt Osborne
The Leader We Need John 6:1-21
Introduction Jesus' miraculous feeding (6:1-15) * The impossible demonstrated (vv11-14) * Jesus retreats (v15)
The crowd's expectations * Passover time (v4) * A new Moses (vv14-15) * What's your agenda for Jesus?
Jesus the leader we need (6:16-21) * Jesus is greater than Moses, he is God himself * Jesus comes to reveal God to us * Jesus comes to bring salvation
Conclusion
Love the lost 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16
Introduction
The same love (3:12)
What drove Paul not the desire to avoid pain and shame (2:1-2)
his desire to please God (2:3-6)
his love for the lost (2:7-11)
- like a caring mother
- like a teaching father
- he cares how it turns out (2:13-14)
What opposing the gospel achieves (2:15-16) * they displease God and oppose all humans
Conclusion
Love one another 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13 Introduction Paul’s gospel hated opposition (Acts 7:58,8:1-3,9:1-2) * Paul’s gospel hearted love (1 Thessalonians 2-3, especially 3:12)
Paul’s gospel hearted love in Thessalonica (2:1-16) Paul’s gospel hearted love since he was forced to leave * he longed to get back to them (2:17-20) * he sent Timothy to do what he couldn’t do (3:1-5) * he rejoiced when he heard they were standing firm (3:6-10)
He wants to see the Lord work the same love in them (3:11-13) Conclusion
Colossians 1:13-20 * Visiting preacher: Bruce Bennett (FIEC)
Introduction Jesus is God the creator Jesus is God our Saviour Conclusion
Daniel 5:1-31 Reading: Daniel 5:1-9
Introduction Belshazzar’s story: Background
- who: Nebuchadnezzar’s (grand)son
- told: after his grandfather’s story (1:1-2, 4:34-35)
Belshazzar mocks God (5:1-4)
A hand writes on the wall (5:5-6)
- human wisdom can’t explain it (5:7-9)
- the queen knows who has the answer (5:10-12)
God’s judgment is revealed (5:13-17)
- Belshazzar knew (5:18-21)
- he refused to learn (5:22-23)
- and God will judge (5:24-29)
- God’s judgment falls (5:30-31)
Conclusion
Daniel 4:1-37 Reading: Daniel 4:1-18
Introduction Nebuchadnezzar in chapters 1-3 Nebuchadnezzar tells his story (4:1) * God showed him: God rules now and always (4:2-3) * he had a dream (4:4-18)
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scene 1, a huge tree (4:9-12)
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scene 2, a message from heaven (4:13-18)
- he heard what it meant (4:19-27)
- it happened the way God said (4:28-37)
Conclusion
Guest preacher: Josh Dickenson
Psalm 4 The Pain (4:1) The Prayer (4:2-7) - Set apart for The Lord - Trust The Lord - Praise The Lord
The Peace (4:8)
Daniel 3:1-30 Reading: Daniel 3:1-12
Introduction God rules now and always (Daniel 1-2) An image to say Nebuchadnezzar rules now and always (3:1 cf. 2:37-38) * everyone agrees (3:2-7) * everyone except three (3:8-12)
Three say we trust God who is able to save (3:13-23) God saves them (3:24-27) * Nebuchadnezzar glimpses reality (3:28-30)
Conclusion
- Visiting preacher: Wes Redgen who lectures at QTC
Outline Saved and empowered for mission Readings: Luke 24:44-49 and Acts 2:14-41
Introduction Luke 24 - the flow of the story Unless God opens eyes we will never see
- That is why they had to wait for the power of the Spirit
- The power of the Spirit is to open eyes/minds to understand the witness
Luke 24 → Acts … the flow of the story After Acts 2
- Peter now understands what Jesus has done
- They are all now bold to speak
- People hear their witness … they understand and repent
Conclusion We have been:
- Commanded to mission
- Empowered for mission
Daniel 2:1-49 Reading: Daniel 2:17-30
Introduction The truth about the gods * the gods don’t speak (2:1-16)
The truth about God in heaven * God reveals what we couldn’t know without him (2:17-35,46-49) * God rules now and always (2:36-45)
Conclusion
Introduction Lessons from Judah’s exile in Babylon (1:1,21)* God rules (1:1-2) Trained to serve a new ruler (1:3-7) What do they do? * They serve the God who rules the nations (1:8-16)
- 10:2-3; Isaiah 22:8-14
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and they serve the king (1:17-21)
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under God’s care (1:2,9,14,17,21)
Conclusion
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You'll find the map and timeline here:
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Babylonian empire map on visualunit.me
- Bible timeline on visualunit.me
Introduction A letter to young Christians (1:1) Their faith, love and hope… (1:3) * faith works * love labours * hope endures
…are God’s work (1:2-5a) * that’s why Paul thanks God for their attitudes and actions
Their story told the gospel (vv8-10) * turned from idols to serve the living and true God * and wait for his Son from heaven… who delivers from the wrath to come
Conclusion
- Visiting preacher: Wes Redgen who lectures at QTC
- Next week: Empowered for mission
Outline The mission of the Church Luke 24:44-49 Reading: Luke 24:13-53
Introduction The content of the mission: * Witnesses of Jesus’ death and resurrection * Proclaimers of repentance and forgiveness
The place of good works: * Adorning the natural beauty of the message * But keep the message the message
The danger of mission Creep: * What is mission creep * Some examples * Jesus’ clear words
How to stay on mission: * Go deeper into the word * Go back to the basics
Conclusion: * Jesus’ sheep hear his voice and obey * Follow the master – be a witness
Introduction It is good to thank, praise and declare (92:1-2) - because it fits reality - because it fits us Thanks, praise and declaration - driven by thoughts * about who God is (92:1-2,8,15) * about what God does (92:4-15)
It is good to thank, praise and declare - accompanied by music (92:3) Conclusion
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Extended Outline Introduction It is good to thank, praise and declare (92:1-2) - because it fits reality - because it fits us Thanks, praise and declaration - driven by thoughts * about who God is (92:1-2,8,15)
Most High (92:1b,8)
God’s name, the LORD (92:1) Slide Exodus 3:13-15 Slide Exodus 34:6–7
steadfast love (92:2a)
faithfulness (92:2b)
upright, no unrighteousness (92:15)
- about what God does (92:4-15)
great works (92:4-5a)
deep thoughts (92:5b-6)
stops rebels (92:6-11)
makes his people flourish (92:10-15)
It is good to thank, praise and declare - accompanied by music (92:3) Conclusion
Introduction The LORD is my safety and security (91:1-2) The LORD is your safety and security (91:3-13) I, the LORD, will be HIS safety and security (91:14-16) Wonderful words for the people they belong to * not the wicked (91:8) * Christ
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the deserving heir (Matthew 4:5-7; 91:9,14-15)
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who received the reward of the wicked
- and Christ’s undeserving people
Conclusion
Introduction Jesus in foreign-land and homeland this map isn't marked up but you'll see all the places on it
- honoured as prophet and Saviour of the world (4:19,29,40-42)
- welcomed as a wonder-worker (4:43-45)
- (cf. Hebrews 11:13-16, 35-37)
Jesus back in Cana (4:46 cf. 2:1-12) * a Galilean official asks Jesus to heal his son (4:46-47) * Jesus rebukes the Galileans (4:48) * the official tries again (4:49) * Jesus speaks life and the man believes Jesus’ word (4:50-53) * what does the official believe? (4:54)
Conclusion
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Introduction God’s grace * John 3:16-21 * Ephesians 2:1-10
Head, heart and life tuned to God’s grace * We can enjoy not having to prove ourselves to God * We can enjoy not having to prove ourselves to ourselves * We can enjoy not making people prove themselves to us * We can enjoy being trophies of God’s grace
Conclusion
Introduction Reminder (3:14-15)
God’s global love (3:16) * he loves a bad world (3:19,20,36) * by giving his only Son (3:16 cf. 3:35)
Christ’s saving death * teaching and example do not save * Christ’s death saves (3:14 cf. 12:32-33)
Our personal response (3:16,18,19,20,21)
Our global love (3:17 cf. 17:18; 20:21)
Conclusion
Israelites looked and lived (Numbers 21:4-9) Signs and ‘belief’ (2:23-25 cf. 1:12-13) A man who sees signs and ‘believes’ (3:1-2) * unless one is born again (3:3-13)
- born again—born of water and the Spirit (3:3,5)
- cf. Ezekiel 36:22-28 * look at Jesus and live eternally (3:14-15)
Conclusion
Introduction We’re reading John not Matthew, Mark or Luke * a similar event (Matt 21:12–16; Mark 11:15-18; Luke 19:45–47) * a different focus
Jesus drives traders out of the temple (2:13-15) * because it’s not a place for trade (2:16) * and Jesus is zealous for his Father’s house (2:16-17, Psalm 69:9)
Jews demand a sign to prove Jesus’ authority (2:18) * Jesus gives a sign to prove it (2:19)
- not walls and stones (2:20)
- his flesh, blood and bones (2:21-22)
The Scripture and the word that Jesus spoke * consumed because of his zeal (2:17, cf. Psalm 69:9-11)
- with hope Psalm 69:1,13,29,35-36 * destroyed by the Jews and raised up in three days (2:19,22) * Jesus is the new temple (2:21)
Conclusion
Mark Fairhurst (CMS QNNSW Branch Director) visited to encourage us in our gospel partnerships and preach from 1 Corinthians
Introduction
What happened
- The wine runs out at a wedding (2:1-3)
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It’s not Jesus’ hour (2:4)
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to be glorified on the cross (cf. 7:30; 8:20; 12:23-28; 13:1 & 17:1)
- Ceremonial washing jars are filled with water (2:6)
- Water made into an extravagantly enormous quantity of top-quality wine (2:6-10)
- It’s a sign (2:11)
Its sign-ificance—Jesus’ glory
- Jesus is the maker (cf. 1:3)
- Jesus is full of grace and truth (cf. 1:14,17)
- Jesus brings his people into rich blessings (cf. Jeremiah 31:12; Hosea 14:7; Amos 9:13–14)
- Jesus is the bridegroom (cf. 3:29; Hosea; Isaiah 61:10)
Conclusion
- Isaiah 25:6–9; Revelation 19:6–9
Introduction
The writer keeps saying, “Meet Jesus”
· Jesus is the person Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote about (1:45)
· Jesus is the Lamb of God (1:36)
· Jesus is the Messiah-Christ (1:41)
· Rabbi/ Teacher — the anointed Prophet (1:38,49)
· the Son of God— the anointed King of Israel (1:49)
· Jesus is Son of Man (1:51)
Disciples saying to other people, “Come and meet Jesus”
· John points two of his disciples to Jesus and they follow Jesus (1:35-39)
· Andrew brings his brother (1:40-42)
· Jesus calls Philip to follow
· Philip finds his friend and says, “Come and see” (1:44-51)
Conclusion
Beyond John, these Bible passages are also mentioned:
Isaiah 53:5–6, Deuteronomy 18:18, 2 Samuel 7:12–14, Psalm 2:7–12, Daniel 7:13–14 and Genesis 28:12
Outline (overview) Introduction
John the Pointer
John points to Jesus
- The Lamb of God
- The eternal God become human
- Revealed by God
- The Son of God
John is happy to fade
Jesus is the prophet
Conclusion
Outline with references
Introduction
John the Pointer
- Who he is
- not the Christ, Elijah or the Prophet (1:20-21)
- he is the voice pointing to who comes next (1:22-23)
- Why he baptised
- Because of who comes next (1:26-27)
John points to Jesus
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The Lamb of God (1:29)
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The eternal God become human (1:30 cf. vv15,27)
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Revealed by God (1:31-33)
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The Son of God (1:34)
- Christ (2 Samuel 7, Psalm 2)
- God the Son (1:14,18)
John is happy to fade (3:22-30)
Jesus is the prophet (3:31-36)
Conclusion
Introduction
Two ways of looking at verses 1-18
- time: from before creation to now (1:1-5), from John’s witness to now (1:6-13) and from Jesus’ birth to now (1:14-15)
- themes: Jesus Rejected & Received
Jesus
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The Word is eternal (1:1)
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The Word is a person (1:1)
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The Word is God (1:1)
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The Word is creator (1:3)
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The Word is the source of life and light
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The true light who came into the world
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The Word became flesh (1:14)
Rejected
Received
Conclusion
This is a topical talk
Reading: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
Introduction
Our change is God’s work
We are actively involved in our change
- prayerfully understanding and applying
Applying God’s word to our heads and hearts:
- thoughts
- conscience
- will
- passions
Conclusion
The preacher, Matt Osborne, is a sojourner.
He's an MTS apprentice with ES on the UQ campus.
other Bible passages referred to:
Matthew 25:34
2 Timothy 2:11-12
Romans 8:35-37
Luke 2:1-20
Introduction
The good news
• an unlikely king (2:1-7)
• is the King who saves (2:8-20)
Conclusion
Introduction
We have what Luke wrote
· we have variants which let us see the original
· we have a translation we can be confident it
Luke wrote what really happened
· he aimed to write a thorough, accurate, organised account
· so we can be sure
His writing fits reality
· many have found certainty
· many have recognised the accuracy
· what he says fits with what other sources say
Conclusion
Reading: Psalm 2
Introduction
God says this is the way things are:
- Humans rebel (Psalm 2:1-3)
- Resistance is futile, offensive and destructive (Psalm 2:4-5)
- The Son of God will judge and save (Psalm 2:6-12)
Mark, Philippians and 2 Peter
- what’s already happened makes the truth more certain (2 Peter 1:19)
Heads, heart and lives tuned to the reality
This short series revisits bits and pieces of the parts of the Bible we've heard God speak in our Sunday gatherings through 2021.
Revisit 2021-1: Mark 8:31–38; Philippians 2:1–10; 2 Peter 3:8–15a
Introduction
Mark 8:34-38
Philippians 2:1-10
2 Peter 3:8-15a
Conclusion
2 Peter 3:11-18
Introduction
God has spoken
- but false teachers twist the truth (2:1, 3:16)
- when we listen to him, we see reality
We see the reality of what will be
- Because we know judgment will come, today’s a good day to turn to Christ (3:8-10)
- Because we know false teachers will be judged, today’s a good day to be careful not to follow them (3:17)
- Because we know a renewed creation will come, today’s a good day to pursue holiness (3:11, 14)
- Because Jesus will save those who trust him to the end, today’s a good day to grow in grace and the knowledge of Christ (3:18)
- Because we know why the end hasn’t come yet, today’s a good day to call others to trust (3:12,15)
All to the glory of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (3:18b)
2 Peter 3:1-10
Introduction
Remember God’s word (3:1-2 cf. 1:12-15,21)
- (remember 1:16-21)
Scoffers scoff at God’s word (3:4)
- following their own sinful desires (3:3)
God has always worked through his word
- he made the heavens and the earth (3:5)
- he flooded the world (3:6)
God’s is working through his word
- he is keeping the heavens and earth until judgment (3:7)
- he is patiently calling you to repent (3:8-9)
The Lord will keep his word (3:10)
Conclusion
2 Peter 2:10-22
Introduction
The character of false teachers
- they despise authority (2:10b-13:a)
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they are driven by defiling desires (2:13b-16)
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shameless sinning inside the Christian community (2:13b)
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never sickening of sin (2:-14a)
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always exercising Balaam-like greed (14b-16)
The results of their influence
- they promise much but deliver nothing (2:17-22)
- they never changed (2:20-22)
Conclusion
2 Peter 2:1-10a
Introduction
Peter’s been saying (1:1-21)
There were false prophets (2:1 cf. Deuteronomy 13:1-5)
- and there are false teachers (2:1-3)
God condemned rebels to judgment (2:4-6)
- the Lord Jesus knows how to condemn and judge (2:9)
God rescued from judgment (2:5-8)
- the Lord Jesus knows how to rescue the godly from trials (2:9)
2 Peter 1:12-21
Introduction Peter knows his death is soon (1:13, c.f. John 21:18–19)
Peter began by saying (1:1-11)
Therefore:
- Peter wants to remind them what he taught (1:12-15)
- Peter wants to reassure them about what he has taught (1:16-18) /
The words God spoke from heaven echo the prophetic word (1:17 cf. Psalm 2:7-9 Isaiah 42:1-3,53:5) * Peter wants them to recognise the reliability of the Old Testament (1:19-21)
Conclusion
2 Peter 2:1-11
Introduction
Equally precious faith (1:1-2)
-Peter’s authority
-equally precious faith
-multiplied grace and peace
Progress provided for (1:3-4)
Make every effort (1:5-7)
-two ways to live (1:8-9)
-live Christ’s purpose (1:10-11)
Conclusion
Philippians 4:10-23
Paul sees what they did and rejoices in the Lord (4:10)
He doesn’t need what they gave (4:11)
- because he doesn’t need ‘enough’ (4:12-13)
They did a good thing (4:14-6)
- that benefits them (4:17-19)
Family greetings (4:21-22)
All to God’s glory (4:20,23)
Introduction
Stand (4:1)
Agree in the Lord (4:2)
Rejoice in the Lord (4:4)
Be gentle (4:5)
Do not be anxious, but pray (4:6-7)
Think about and do (4:8-9)
Philippians 3:12-4:1
Introduction I press on toward the goal (3:12-16) Imitate progress (3:17) * don’t imitate the earthly minded (3:18-19) * do live waiting (3:20-21)
Conclusion
Introduction
Rejoice in the Lord Jesus (3:1)
- not in what you’ve done (3:2-6) it’s rubbish (3:7-8)
- in what he has done, is doing and will do for you (3:9-22)
Conclusion
Philippians 2:12-30
Introduction Work out your own salvation (2:12-18) Do all things without grumbling or disputing with (2:14) Some people are worth imitating (2:17-30) Conclusion
Philippians 1:27-2:11
Introduction One thing: live as if Christ’s gospel is good and true (1:27a) * stand together for gospel truth (1:27b-30) * have the same mind (2:1-4) * — the mind of Christ Jesus (2:5-11)
Conclusion
Philippians 1:12-26
Introduction Christ’s gospel is going to more people (1:12-18a) * while Paul is in chains (1:12) because people are telling Paul’s story (1:13) because believers are more courageous (1:14-18)
and that’s what matters most Christ honoured whether by life or by death (1:18b-21) Life and death both have benefits (1:22-26)
- [Useful gospel work ] ^ [Going to be with Christ]
- [BETTER FOR THEM] ^ [Better for him if he dies]
- ---if Paul lives---------------^-----------if Paul executed---
Conclusion
God completes his good work Our Father answers our prayers The Spirit of Jesus Christ helps his people --
Our efforts are the effort of going along
Two questions for reflection after the talk:
- Are there specific things we can be praying for you in your Christian progress?
- How can we help each other see our effort as effort to go along with what God is doing?
Philippians 1:1-11
Introduction
A letter from a servant-slave to saints (1:1-2)
Seeing God as ‘he who began a good work in you and will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ’ (1:6)
Joyfully thanking God for what he has done so far (1:3-8)
Asking God to keep completing what he has begun (1:9-11)
Conclusion
Introduction * Rome to Philippi * Timeline
The whole letter read Listen for these themes and repeated ideas:
- joy and rejoicing
- church as family
- active partnership
- servant‑heartedness
- suffering
- imitation
Reflect
Psalm 33
Introduction Who’s singing to who * Sung to the ‘righteous’ and ‘upright’ (33:1 cf. Psalm 32:10-11,5) * Sung to one another (33:20-21)
Words to hear from and sing to one another * “Praise the LORD (33:1-3) * “for who he is and what he’s done (33:4-19) * “We trust the LORD” (33:20-21)
Words to pray to the LORD (and hear one another praying) * “Save us who trust you” (33:22)
Conclusion (Revelation 4:8-11, 5:9-13)
Psalm 32 Introduction A godly sinner’s story (32:1-5) His prayer and teaching (32:6-10) Be glad and rejoice (32:11) Conclusion
Psalm 31 Introduction Anguished prayer and confident praise X2 * Prayer (31:1-6) * Praise (31:7-8) * Prayer (31:9-18) * Praise (31:19-22)
You too (31:23-24) Jesus entrusted himself to God (31:5, cf. Luke 23:46) Entrust yourself to God (1 Peter 4:12-19)
Introduction Which commandment is the most important of all? * a scribe's question (12:28) * Jesus’ answer (12:29-31 cf. Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Leviticus 19:18) * the scribe’s verdict on Jesus (12:32-33) * Jesus’ verdict on the scribe (12:34)
The greatest commandments * The Lord our God, the Lord is one * You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart… soul… mind… strength * You shall love your neighbour as yourself * The other commandments * These are more than burnt offerings and sacrifices
Conclusion
Introduction An ignored warning (12:1-12) Pharisees and Herodians come to trap Jesus (12:13-17) Sadducees come to mock resurrection (12:18-27) Conclusion
Introduction
on entering the kingdom of God * it’s free (10:13-16) * it costs everything (10:17-22) * it’s worth everything (10:23-31)
Conclusion
Introduction Pharisees ask, “Does God allow any divorce?” (10:1-2) Jesus’ answer * they go to a law about divorce (10:3-4 cf. Deuteronomy 24:1-4)
and Jesus says it’s a command for hard hearts (10:5)
- Jesus goes to Genesis (10:6-8a cf. Genesis 1:27, 2:24)
and applies it to those considering divorce (10:8b-9)
Jesus explains the implications (10:10-12)
God’s law in situations spoiled by sin (10:4-5) * Look again at Deuteronomy 24:1-4 * It’s designed to limit damage rather than to define good (cf. Mark 10:5) * It holds on to as much good as possible in a situation spoiled by sin
Conclusion
Introduction
on greatness (9:33-37)
on living with the end in mind (9:38-50)
- good is good, no matter who does it (38-41)
- don’t risk making one of Christ’s people fall (9:42)
- don’t risk stumbling and falling away from Christ (9:43-48)
- do aim to please God in everything (9:49-50)
Conclusion
Bible Reading Luke 4:1-13
The Bible verses referred to in the talk are listed below.
Overview Introduction
The Christ’s view of the Bible
The New Testament’s view of the Bible
The Christian view of the Bible
Implications
Outline Introduction
The Christ’s view of the Bible
- the Old Testament
to be believed, trusted, and obeyed
because God speaks it * the New Testament
he sent his apostles teach with his authority
The New Testament’s view of the Bible
- the Old Testament
God speaks it
Scripture says = God says * their own preaching and writing
they thought they spoke God’s words * the other New Testament writings
The Christian view of the Bible
Implications
- the Bible is our supreme authority
- trusting the Bible is personal
- reading the Bible is personal
Bible references The Christ’s view of the Bible - the Old Testament * Luke 24:25-26, 44-47 * Luke 4:1–13, especially verses 4,8,12 * Matthew 5:17-19 * Genesis 2:18–25, verse 24 quoted by Jesus as what God says in Matthew 19:4-5
- the New Testament
- John 14:24-27, John 20:2
The New Testament’s view of the Bible - the Old Testament * 2 Peter 1:21 * Hebrews 3:7 * 2 Timothy 3:16-17 * Genesis 12:1-3, verse 3 quoted as what the Scriptures says in Galatians 3:8 * Exodus 9:13–16, verse 16 quoted as what the Scriptures says in Romans 9:17
- their own preaching and writing
- 1 Thessalonians 2:13
-
Galatians 1:8-9
-
the other New Testament writings
- Deuteronomy 25:4 and Luke 10:7 quoted as what the Scriptures says in 1 Timothy 5:18
- 2 Peter 3:2,15-16
Introduction The verse about resurrection (16:10) Not just kept alive a little longer
David’s life beyond death (Exodus 3:6 cf. Mark 12:26–27) n.b. ‘the God of David’ in 2 Kings 20:5, 2 Chronicles 21:12, 34:3, Isaiah 38:5
The resurrection of David’s greatest Son (16:10b, Acts 2:24-32, 13:34-39 cf. 2 Samuel 7:12-13)
A psalm about something better than unimaginably long life Safe with God (16:1)
Enjoying God:
- knowing he is our highest, best good (16:2)
- delighting in his people (16:3)
- not joining with people who serve false gods (16:4)
- knowing God is enough (16:5-6)
- prizing his direction (16:7)
- anticipating eternal pleasure (16:8-11)
Conclusion
Introduction Quoted on the cross (118:1 cf. Mark 15:34) * The psalm fits Jesus better than its writer the Spirit of Christ… predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories (1 Peter 1:10-12) * Suffering and glory hinged on verse 21
Christ’s prayer as he suffered (22:1-21) * Why have you forsaken me? (22:1-2) * It’s not like you. Our fathers trusted and you came through (22:3-5, cf. Deuteronomy 31:7-8) * I’ve had no help and I’m mocked for trusting you (22:6-8) * I’ve always trusted. Please save (22:9-11) * They’re ready to kill me (22:12-13) * You’re killing me! (22:14-15) — the true horror of the cross — * The wicked have pierced me (22:16-18) * Save me! (22:19-21a)
Christ’s confidence in the subsequent glories (22:21-31) * After you save, I will praise you (22:22-24) * I’ll be praised not mocked (22:25-26) * All nations will say you saved me (22:27-31)
Conclusion
Introduction Who’s speaking * my-I-me and our-we-us * the king’s voice (118:10,14-16,19)
The psalm’s theme (118:1,29,2-3) * Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!
The king experienced the LORD’s steadfast love (118:5-15a) * his people praise the LORD who saves (118:15b-16)
The king’s confidence in the LORD’s steadfast love (118:17-22) * his people rejoice in God’s king and call on God to save (118:23-27)
God is good to us (118:28-29) Fulfilled in Christ Jesus (cf. Mark 11:9, 12:10-11, Acts 4:10–12) * Jesus’ people share the same confidence (Hebrews 13:5-6, 12:5–6)
Conclusion
Introduction The king’s Lord * greater than David (110:title-1, cf. Mark 12:35-37)
Jesus is * a King who rules (110:1-3) * a priest forever (110:4) * a warrior who wins (110:5-7)
Conclusion * Jesus is a warrior who wins, don’t try to ignore him * Jesus is willing to be your priest forever, lean into his sacrifice * Jesus is the king who rules, serve him eagerly
Reading: Psalm 2 Introduction Freedom fighters (2:1-3) * freedom is impossible (2:1,4) * attempting freedom is offensive (2:5)
The Son of God speaks (2:7) * there can be no freedom from him (2:8-9)
- Jesus (cf. Mark 1:1,11;9:7;15:39) * there is freedom with him (2:10-12)
Conclusion
Reading: Mark 15:33-16:8
Outline Introduction
A sudden ending (16:8)
Jesus said what would happen
- he has already died as king (14:61; 15:2,9,12,14,17-18,26,32,39)
- he has already died to save (10:45,14:27,36,15:31)
- he is raised to rule (16:1-8 cf. 13:26,14:62, Daniel 7:13-14)
- his gospel must be believed and preached (13:10, 1:15)
Conclusion
Mark 13:1-16:8
Reading: Mark 13:1-36
Introduction
Mark 13-16
Layered fulfilment in chapter 13
- the abomination of desolation and the tribulation (13:14-23)
- the Son of Man coming with great power and glory (13:26 cf. Daniel 7:13-14)
-
while we wait
-
expect opposition (13:9,11-13)
-
don’t follow false guides (13:5-6,21-22)
-
speak the gospel (13:27,9-11)
Mark 11:1-12:44
Reading: Mark 11:1-20, 12:41-44
Introduction
The Christ comes to his city (11:1-10, cf. Zechariah 9:9-10)
The Christ comes to the temple
- Nothing (11:11)
- A fruitless fig tree cursed (11:12-14)
- The temple stopped (11:15-19)
- The fig tree found withered (11:20-21)
Trust God who promised to save and judge (11:22-26, cf. Zechariah 14:3–12)
The Son speaks
- They ask, “Who gave Jesus the right?” (11:27-12:12)
- Jesus says, “What will God do?” (12:1-12)
- Jesus and the Old Testament scriptures (12:13-37)
- beware self-serving teachers (12:38-40)
A bud in the temple (12:41-44)
Conclusion
Reading Mark 8:22-8:38 (But best to read the whole section!)
Introduction
Blind to Partial Sight to Seeing Clearly (8:22-26)
- Blind say, “Prophet” (8:27-28)
- Partially sighted disciples say, “Christ” (8:29-33)
See Jesus Clearly
Glorious Christ
- Son of Man (8:31,38 cf. 2:10,28; Daniel 7:9-14)
- Transformed (9:2-13)
- Commands, heals and speaks (9:14-10:52)
come to serve by suffering
- He must suffer, die and rise (8:31,9:31,10:33-34)
- He came to serve—give his life as a ransom (10:45)
The disciples followed who they ‘saw’ (9:32-37, 10:35-42)
Follow the Glorious Christ who came to serve (10:43-45, 8:34-38)
Conclusion
Reading: Mark 6:14-29; 7:9-23 Outline Introduction
Jesus’ influence expands (6:7-13)
King Herod
- misread the signs (6:14-16)
- obviously and consciously unrighteous and unrepentant (6:17-29)
King Jesus cares for his sheep
- 5,000 in the wilderness (6:30-44)
subjects without a king (6:34 cf. Numbers 27:17, 2 Samuel 5:2, 1 Kings 22:17) * His disciples (6:45-52) * Many (6:53-56)
Pharisees unrighteous with a ‘clean’ conscience
- skin deep cleanness (7:1-5)
- new rules dodge God’s law (7:6-13)
- heart-deep uncleanness (7:14-23)
Jesus blesses to the ‘unclean’
- a gentile woman (7:24-30)
- a gentile man (7:31-37 cf. Isaiah 35:5-6)
- a gentile feast (8:1-10)
Pharisees reject the signs they’ve been given (8:11-13)
The disciples still don’t understand (8:14-21)
Conclusion
Reading: Mark 4:35-41, 6:1-6
Outline Introduction
Five stories
- Who commands nature? (4:35-41)
- Who commands the evil spirit world? (5:1-20)
- Who makes the unclean clean? (5:21-34)
- Who gives life to the dead? (5:21-24,35-43)
- Who misses out on kingdom blessings? (6:1-6)
Conclusion
Introduction Why the secrecy? (3:7-12) Insiders and outsiders **The twelve include a defector (3:13-19)
Jesus’ family misunderstand him (3:20-21 cf. 5:16)
Scribes think he is possessed by Satan (3:22)**
- Jesus’ parables reveal the truth (3:23-30)
- the demons weren’t trying to help
Jesus’ people listen to him (3:31-35)
Not everyone who hears listens **A parable told to outsiders (4:1-9)
Explanation given to insiders (4:10-12 cf. Isaiah 6:8-10)**
- the same word makes hidden differences obvious (4:13-20)
- nothing will be hidden (4:21-25)
- the kingdom is like… (4:26-32)
Conclusion
Reading: Revelation 7:9-16
Introduction
God’s rescued people at the end (7:1-17)
See heaven & history
- God on his throne (4:1-11)
- The Lamb who was slain (5:1-14)
- History unfolds according to God’s plan (6:1-11)
See the end (6:12-14)
- God coming to judge everyone (Revelation 6:15-17)
- all God’s rescued people gathered (7:1-17)
See the eternal realities
- Your life tuned to eternity
- Our lives tuned to eternity
- Their lives tuned to eternity
Conclusion
Introduction The LORD Jesus preaching and healing (1:16-45) * He called four and they followed (1:16-20) * He teach with authority and commanded an unclean spirit (1:21-28) * He healed many more (1:29-34) * He came to preach (1:35-39, cf. 1:15) * He cleansed a leper (1:40-45)
and the cured leper disobeyed him!
Controversies: * Jesus forgiving and healing (2:1-12) * Jesus accepting sinners (2:13-17) * Disciples feasting not fasting (2:18-22) * Disciples “harvesting” on the Sabbath (2:23-28) * Jesus healing on the Sabbath (3:1-6)
Conclusion
Introduction
Jesus is the Christ (v1)
The LORD’s promise (vv2-3 cf. Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3)
• to send a messenger before he comes
As it is written (1:2a)
• the messenger came (vv4-8)
‘Elijah’ (1:6 cf. Malachi 4:5-6, 2 Kings 1:7-8)
Jesus came (vv9-13)
• baptised and confessed pleasing (1:10-11 cf. 1:5)
the Spirit descends in peace
a voice from heaven (1:11)
— you are my beloved Son (cf. Psalm 2:6-7, 2 Samuel 7:14; Mark 1:1)
— with you I am well pleased (cf. Isaiah 42:1, 53:5)
• tempted in the wilderness (1:12-13)
As it is written
• the LORD Jesus came after the messenger (1:14-15)
Conclusion
Most people know something about Jesus.
Some of what they know is true.
Some of it isn’t.
It may surprise you but
you can see Jesus more clearly by reading Mark’s gospel than if you’d been there.Just look at the eyewitnesses in his story!
Read it with us and see Jesus more clearly.
Bible Reading: Mark 2:1-12; 3:1-6 Outline Introduction Eyewitnesses saw what happened in history Apostolic hindsight tells us why it matters * eyewitnesses didn’t see the truth about Jesus at the time * but when they looked back, the apostles saw
Mark wrote carefully to help you see clearly Conclusion
Reading: Colossians 1:3-20
Apologies for the audio cutting out shortly before the end of the talk.