Anchored Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
Anchored Baptist Church
When Jesus saved You he gave gifts, privileges, and responsibilities to You in his Church.
Because Jesus is a good chooser, any and all kinds of people are forgiven and welcomed into new life, even You.
Jesus Builds His Church By His Word and Through His Spirit for Worship.
For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
Jesus has come to save you and he will cause all necessary offence to pull a confession from you.
Jesus made you precious and gifts you to one another, building you into His Church.
1 Peter 2:1–10
[1] So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. [2] Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—[3] if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
[4] As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, [5] you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. [6] For it stands in Scripture:
“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
[7] So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,
“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,”
[8] and
“A stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense.”
They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.
[9] But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. [10] Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (ESV)
In Building His Church Jesus has Gifted Deacons who Remove Obstacles to His Good News by Physically Caring for His People.
Ephesians 4:7–16
[7] But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. [8] Therefore it says,
“When he ascended on high he led a host of captives,
and he gave gifts to men.”
[9] (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? [10] He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) [11] And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, [12] to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, [13] until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, [14] so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. [15] Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, [16] from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (ESV)
Big Idea: Jesus, the Word, is sown in the world gifting life to You.
[1] That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. [2] And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. [3] And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. [4] And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. [5] Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, [6] but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. [7] Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. [8] Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. [9] He who has ears, let him hear.”
[10] Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” [11] And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. [12] For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. [13] This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. [14] Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says:
“‘“You will indeed hear but never understand,
and you will indeed see but never perceive.”
[15] For this people’s heart has grown dull,
and with their ears they can barely hear,
and their eyes they have closed,
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.’
[16] But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. [17] For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.
[18] “Hear then the parable of the sower: [19] When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. [20] As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, [21] yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. [22] As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. [23] As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”
(Matthew 13:1–23)
You Saints of Anchored, misfits, called and gathered according to the Word himself, Jesus, and his Gospel for the purpose of blessing those who have not yet heard.
What do we have to show for these last seven years? Something humble, that is true. Also, Jesus’ own church.
Cian told one of Finnegan’s friends yesterday that this church was planted, like a seed in the ground. Like that tree over there.
Simple as it may seem, this is exactly what Jesus has done. He has established one of his Kingdom outposts. A forward operating base where each week we are sent into those calling God has placed us in and each week we are called back to be reminded of and built up by the Good News. He has built his church as he promised to do. This morning I want us to hear about the True, Good, and Beautiful of Anchored Baptist Church.
What my ambitions for ABC have always been and also what I am encouraging all of us to hold fast to.
"We are unworthy of Christ if we do not take up our cross, by which we suffer, die, are buried and resurrected together with him." (Hilary of Poitiers)
Jesus gathers you as helpless sheep and sends you as ready shepherds.
Lectionary Texts
Liturgy
[6] For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. [7] For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die—[8] but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [9] Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. [10] For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. [11] More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
[12] Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned—[13] for sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law. [14] Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come.
[15] But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. (Romans 5:6–15)
Big Idea: The one name of our Triune God is placed on you as you go. You are called, equipped, and sent out by God on a mission you were created to join in.
[16] Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. [17] And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. [18] And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16–20)
In Jesus’s baptism, we see the Father, Son, and Spirit’s inseparability in their mission to make all things new; in the Great Commission, we see the triune God’s call to join that mission: to make disciples of all nations and baptise them in his name.
The doctrine of the Trinity is a call to worship, not a call to decoding mere theological facts. The name and mission of God transforms everything about us. The Father sent his Son into the world for our salvation. The Son secured our salvation and brought us into God’s family and mission. The Spirit is sent to live within us, empowering us to join this mission. We are not called to save anyone from their sins; this is the work of the triune God, the power of his name and not ours. And yet, as he has throughout all human history, God uses broken people in his mission to un-break all things and make the world whole again. By our triune God’s authority and equipping, we carry his name and mission to the ends of the earth.
Smith, Brandon D. The Biblical Trinity: Encountering the father, son, and holy spirit in scripture. Lexham Press, 2022.
https://www.amazon.com/Biblical-Trinity-Encountering-Father-Scripture-ebook/dp/B0C2JCMBK1/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written,
“Fear not, daughter of Zion;
behold, your king is coming,
sitting on a donkey’s colt!”
His disciples did not understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written about him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to bear witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.” (John 12:12–19)
Jesus offers you himself, who is the Resurrection and the Life, and gifts you the faith you need to receive him.
Jesus has planned to meet you this morning so that you can be brought into his people and live in his forgiveness.
Jesus is your completed hope from God;who endures and encourages you,and by the Holy Spirit who overflows you.
The end may seem near but in every struggle, pain, and sorrow Jesus is as near to you as he will be on that last day.
Jesus has set you free from death and damnation so that you can work for your neighbours good and his Glory.
Jesus knows you are in need of his gift of righteousness, do not reject Him with your “righteousness”.
Liturgy
Weekly Readings
Big Idea: The Grace, Love, and Intimate Friendship of God is with You because of Jesus.
At last, brothers and sisters, be joyful. Work for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live at peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy embrace. All the saints (all the brothers and sister here) greet you.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
(2 Corinthians 13:11–14)
Big Idea: The Holy Spirit is sent to reveal the truth of Jesus, give you the comfort of his peace, and bring you together with God’s people.
Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me.
“These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here. (John 14:21–31)
Big Idea: A Completed Brought-Togetherness, Humanity, and Love is Ours in Jesus.
I do not ask for these disciples only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word,
that they will all be one, just as you and I are one. In the same way that you are in me Father, and I am in you, may they also be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.
I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one.
I am in them and You are in me so they will be completely one (experience complete brought-togetherness) and the world will know that you sent me, and that you love them as much as you love me.
Father, I want these people you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they will see all the glory you gave me because you loved me before the creation of the world.
Righteous Father, the world does not know you but I do; and these disciples know you sent me.
I have revealed You to them, and I will continue to make you known to them. Then Your love for me will be in them and I will be in them.
1. The Last Two Years and the Two to Come. (00:00:40)
2. What You Make of It (00:13:30)
3. What it Makes of You (00:25:18)
Big Idea: The Holy Spirit gifts and applies each good thing Jesus has won and accomplished for You. He has made all things new; Turing your sorrow to Joy.
“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
“A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” So some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I am going to the Father’?” So they were saying, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We do not know what he is talking about.” Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me’? Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. (John 16:12–22)
Big Idea: Jesus is Your Rescuer, Shepherd, and King.
At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the colonnade of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name bear witness about me, but you do not believe because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” (John 10:22–30)
Liturgy
Readings
Big Idea: Jesus Forgives You, Restores You, and Sets You Free.
After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off.
When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.” (John 21:1–19)
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
The All Powerful One Who Created and Sustains All Things Is Your God and Father because of Jesus.
You have an identity that is shared with all those who are called blessed by Word and Work of Jesus.
Big Idea: Jesus has set you free from slavery to sin and death to be used as his instrument of mercy.
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, ‘You will become free’?”
Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.“ (John 8:31–38)
Big Idea: Your Unfaithfulness does not Void The Faithfulness of Jesus. Receive Him and His Good Gifts.
And Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and to send her away.” And Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
And in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. And he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. (Mark 10:2–16)
No One is Too Far Off or Too Far Gone to Receive the Salvation and Blessings of Jesus, Not Even You.
The Liturgy
Big Idea: Stand Firm in Battle, Jesus has Won the Victory For You.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
(Ephesians 6:10–20)
Three Things You Should Know About Jesus in this Text:
1) You get dragged kicking and screaming to your Saviour.
2) You do not have a menu of options when it comes to what Jesus gives to you.
3) If you have a serious question he will answer with Forgiveness and if you are looking for entertainment you will walk away disappointed.
To trust Jesus: to rest in and rely upon his work done for you. His perfect life lived for you. His sin-covering and debt-paying death died for you, to believe in and trust in that…well you are safe and saved, already raised to new life which will be shared from this day through forever with Jesus and each and every person who God has adopted through Jesus, the life-giving bread.
Christian, you are safe, saved, and raised in Jesus.
Right now this morning. When we are all drained and emptied about this morning. When we are all struggling. When we are all lonely in one way or another. When it feels like we have been shouldering all of our own burden. That is when God the Holy Spirit uses these words in front of us today and give us faith.
Big Idea: “Jesus has reaped what you sowed. And you have gained all the fruit that he planted for you.”
Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.
(Galatians 6:6–18)
Big Idea: Because of Jesus you will be grown and shaped during the trials and hardship of yourself and others.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbour. For each will have to bear his own load.
(Galatians 5:22–6:5)
Big Idea: You are set free in Christ to stop defining yourself by what you do.
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
(Galatians 5:13–26)
Big Idea: You cannot be saved by works of the law so Jesus has set you free for freedom.
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.
You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion is not from him who calls you. A little leaven leavens the whole lump. I have confidence in the Lord that you will take no other view, and the one who is troubling you will bear the penalty, whoever he is. But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offence of the cross has been removed. I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves!
(Galatians 5:1–12*)*
Big Idea: Christianity is a Rescue Story and the main characters are ordinary sinners in need of a Saviour.
[21] Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not listen to the law? [22] For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and one by a free woman. [23] But the son of the slave was born according to the flesh, while the son of the free woman was born through promise. [24] Now this may be interpreted allegorically: these women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children for slavery; she is Hagar. [25] Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia; she corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. [26] But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother. [27] For it is written,
“Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear;
break forth and cry aloud, you who are not in labor!
For the children of the desolate one will be more
than those of the one who has a husband.”
[28] Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. [29] But just as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, so also it is now. [30] But what does the Scripture say? “Cast out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman shall not inherit with the son of the free woman.” [31] So, brothers, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman.
(Galatians 4:21–31)
Big Idea: Stop Running back into the chains of slavery.
[1] I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, [2] but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. [3] In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. [4] But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. [6] And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” [7] So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.
[8] Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods. [9] But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? [10] You observe days and months and seasons and years! [11] I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain.
[12] Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are. You did me no wrong. [13] You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, [14] and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus. [15] What then has become of your blessedness? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have gouged out your eyes and given them to me. [16] Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? [17] They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. [18] It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you, [19] my little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you! [20] I wish I could be present with you now and change my tone, for I am perplexed about you.
(Galatians 4:1–20)
Big Idea: The Law does one thing and the Gospel does another.
[21] Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law. [22] But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
[23] Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed. [24] So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. [25] But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, [26] for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. [27] For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. [28] There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. [29] And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.
(Galatians 3:21–29)
Big Idea: Christianity is a Rescue Story. Rest in the Rescuer’s Promise.
[10] For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” [11] Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.” [12] But the law is not of faith, rather “The one who does them shall live by them.” [13] Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”—[14] so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.
[15] To give a human example, brothers: even with a man-made covenant, no one annuls it or adds to it once it has been ratified. [16] Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ. [17] This is what I mean: the law, which came 430 years afterward, does not annul a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to make the promise void. [18] For if the inheritance comes by the law, it no longer comes by promise; but God gave it to Abraham by a promise. (Galatians 3:10–18)
Big Idea: Your Foolishness or Jesus’ Righteousness will be counted to You.
[1] O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified. [2] Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? [3] Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? [4] Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? [5] Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith—[6] just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”?
[7] Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. [8] And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” [9] So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. (Galatians 3:1–9)
Big Idea: Jesus loves you and gave himself up for you. Going back to works of the law makes that a lie.
[17] But if, in our endeavour to be justified in Christ, we too were found to be sinners, is Christ then a servant of sin? Certainly not! [18] For if I rebuild what I tore down, I prove myself to be a transgressor. [19] For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. [20] I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. [21] I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose. (Galatians 2:17–21)
Big Idea: You too have been called by God in Christ not by the word of men.
For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone; nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.
Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!) Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they glorified God because of me. (Galatians 1:11–24)
Big Idea: Out with the Good and in with the Bad. How we turn from Jesus.
I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:6–10)
Big Idea: Paul is greeting the problems in Galatia head-on with the Good News.
Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead—and all the brothers who are with me,
To the churches of Galatia:
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (Galatians 1:1–5)
And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die. (John 12:32–33)
The greater Exodus that does not just involve one tribe leaving north Africa, but involves people from every tribe, nation, and tongue being set free from bondage.
The greater Exodus that does not just involve one tribe leaving north Africa, but involves people from every tribe, nation, and tongue being set free from bondage.
What Should We Expect from Church?
Why Are We Here Again?
The Hopelessness of Finding Hope Outside of Christ
Anchored and the Safe Anchor House
Deacons and Training
Jesus has given you true life which you should not trade for anything. Forgiveness and Salvation are Yours.
Self-worship, the oldest of false teachings, leads to death. Resting in and relying upon Jesus brings contentment because we know that we are kept safe and saved by the undisputed King, Lord, and Saviour; Jesus, who died our death and gave us his life.
Big Idea: Jesus took the form of a slave, took on your likeness, and humbled himself to a criminal’s death for you.
So we have heard that we are to consider one another as family. We should love and care for one another as one household. We should speak with care and respect and affection. As Fathers and mothers and sisters and brothers.
Big Idea: In Jesus, you are free to care for those in need because your greatest need has been provided for.
The hard part about everything that Paul is going to tell us is that there are very little specifics. What I mean is this, Paul is going to tell the church to get something done. But as you read more closely you will find that he does not tell you how to get it done. Also he does not tell you how to deal with all of in your specific church and the many cultures that make it up.
Big Idea: In Jesus, Gospel Preaching Fathers, Mothers, Sisters, and Brothers have been gifted to you.
No matter how good or how bad your family, before God sent his only Son and adopted us as his sons and daughters we were all prodigal children hoping to get away from our family or save ourselves in the midst of them.
God his Spirit into your life, through the Word about Christ so that you could experience life as inheriting children. So that you could be adopted and know that you are adopted.
His heart is the very centre very centre of his person. The place where everything that he spoke and did flowed out of and that heart is gentle and lowly.
He live a life we could not and died a death that was meant to be ours so that we could be adopted into God’s family, called his sons and daughters. We have received the Spirit of God and in that we now share in the favour, the chosen-ness that Jesus had.
Joseph is surprised. He would have to be. This is not something you expect. And that is exactly the way God works. Unexpectedly.
Big Idea: Give yourself to Jesus because he has given himself For You.
And Timothy is free to toil (work without seeing a lot of progress) and strive (keep straining forward while being pushed back) in training of Godliness because his hope is set on not on his success in this single mission but on God who is alive and well and saves.
Big Idea: Jesus builds his Church and gifts her shepherds who will guard and care for her.
[1] The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. [2] Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, [3] not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. [4] He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, [5] for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? [6] He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. [7] Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:1–7)
Big Idea: By his Death and Resurrection Jesus is Building his Church. This is How His Church Can Function.
[1] First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, [2] for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. [3] This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, [4] who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. [5] For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, [6] who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. [7] For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. (1 Timothy 2:1–7)
1 Timothy 1:8-17 Big Idea: The Law can never make you righteous or save you. Only Jesus can do that.
This charge I entrust to you, Timothy, my child, in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme. (1 Timothy 1:18–20)
1 Timothy 1:8-17 Big Idea: The Law can never make you righteous or save you. Only Jesus can do that.
Last week we started this letter from the Apostle Paul to his young companion Timothy. The purpose of the letter for Timothy is to encourage him and remind him of who he is, what his mission is, and how the completion of the mission will benefit those he is sent to.
For those who Timothy is pastoring there are many goal; Holiness and understanding the work of the Spirit, Mission, Church Conduct, True and False Leaders, and Caring for and Honouring One Another.
We heard last week that one of Timothy’s tasks was to confront and correct false teachers. We have some general ideas about the false ideas being spread but we need to think specifically about what makes a teaching false…and last week we said that anything that comes between you and Jesus’ person and work for You is false.
This week we want to know how the law functions correctly and who it is for. However we also need to see that it is not the law that saves, only Jesus does that.
Big Idea: The Good News about Jesus is the centre of our faith.
Let nothing separate you from him.
[15] When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said to one another, “If Joseph is holding a grudge against us, he will certainly repay us for all the suffering we caused him.”
[16] So they sent this message to Joseph, “Before he died your father gave a command: [17] ‘Say this to Joseph: Please forgive your brothers’ transgression and their sin—the suffering they caused you.’ Therefore, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” Joseph wept when their message came to him. [18] His brothers also came to him, bowed down before him, and said, “We are your slaves!”
[19] But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? [20] You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result—the survival of many people. [21] Therefore don’t be afraid. I will take care of you and your children.” And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.
(Genesis 50.15-21)
“And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:1–2).
The book of Ecclesiastes has taught us mainly what cannot make a good life. “The Preacher” points us to our Saviour as the only Good and only source of true joy.
In an Uncertain and Complex world we can enjoy life because Jesus was sinless for us and he knows what comes next.
In a complex and unjust world let us gratefully enjoy the good gifts of God on account of Jesus.
This is what is good. Eat, drink and be merry while struggling through whatever hard work God has given to you. You days are short and there is no other way to live.
You may be able to do it alone. But you should not. You will not be able to receive the comfort and care and companionship that God’s people have to offer.
You also will not be able to show the comfort, care, and companionship that God has gifted to you to share with the cord that is Christ’s Church.
The preacher wisely taught us that whatever God does endures forever. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. And on the Cross Jesus declared that to be the final word when he said, It is Finished. Because of that day we do not have to fear the judgement day when all injustices are made right because all of your sin and junk, Jesus took that upon himself. He became your sin and your death for you.
Here the teacher is telling us that we can strive all we want but unless our striving is done under the direction of God then our striving will leave you feeling as empty as all the verses that came before this. Yet look around for the good things that God has gifted to you and enjoy them. If you cannot or will not see them as gift then they can never be enjoyed the way that God intended them to be. The teacher here even goes so far as to say that the understanding of good things being from God is a gift and those who do not understand have refused to received a gift from God.
With Ecclesiastes we are entering into a different world. A world that existed close to 3000 years ago. Though we read it in English this morning and you are following along in your heart or home language the words we read may not be as clear as we would want them to be. Along with that even though God the Holy Spirit is the true author of our texts this morning we also are dealing with a human author that has a personality, his own set of experiences, his own perspective on the world around him, and his own God given purpose for writing this text.
This Sermon was originally recorded on 18 September 2017 as a part of our series “A Letter to Handpicked Outsiders“.
Jesus is our Judge.
He is also our Saviour.
And our Doctrine Determines our Devotion. What you believe is proofed in your behaviour.
[21] And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea. [22] Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet [23] and implored him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” [24] And he went with him.
And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him. [25] And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, [26] and who had suffered much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. [27] She had heard the reports about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment. [28] For she said, “If I touch even his garments, I will be made well.” [29] And immediately the flow of blood dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. [30] And Jesus, perceiving in himself that power had gone out from him, immediately turned about in the crowd and said, “Who touched my garments?” [31] And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing around you, and yet you say, ‘Who touched me?’” [32] And he looked around to see who had done it. [33] But the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling and fell down before him and told him the whole truth. [34] And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.”
[35] While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” [36] But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” [37] And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. [38] They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. [39] And when he had entered, he said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping.” [40] And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside and took the child's father and mother and those who were with him and went in where the child was. [41] Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” [42] And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. [43] And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.
(Mark 5:21–43)
So this audio today will have three parts to it:
-
An Announcement to Look out for Information about our next physical gathering.
-
A reminder about what makes our church unique to our area and why it is important.
-
A short sermon mostly written by a Pastor who I deeply respect and whose wisdom and experience makes me very humble. His name is Harold Senkbeil. And the title of the sermon is "When You Are Faithless, Christ Is Your Faithfulness".
[9] Brothers and sisters, do not complain about one another, so that you will not be judged. Look, the judge stands at the door!
[10] Brothers and sisters, take the prophets who spoke in the Lord’s name as an example of suffering and patience. [11] See, we count as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and have seen the outcome that the Lord brought about—the Lord is compassionate and merciful.
[12] Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your “yes” mean “yes,” and your “no” mean “no,” so that you won’t fall under judgment.
[13] Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises. [14] Is anyone among you sick? He should call for the elders of the church, and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. [15] The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up; if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. [16] Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect. [17] Elijah was a human being as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the land. [18] Then he prayed again, and the sky gave rain and the land produced its fruit.
[19] My brothers and sisters, if any among you strays from the truth, and someone turns him back, [20] let that person know that whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.
Whether you asked for it or not, here is some wisdom, now strengthen you hearts because Jesus who redeemed you is coming again.
Jesus looks at you and me and says, “your best thinking got you into this situation of envy and fighting and selfishness and needing to sacrifice brother and sisters to work toward justifying and saving yourself. Your best thinking got you here and I am going to get you out of it.”
A Couple Source Documents:
ReachSA Public Statement
Government Statement
The College of Medicine of South Africa
[9] With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in God’s likeness. [10] Blessing and cursing come out of the same mouth. My brothers and sisters, these things should not be this way. (James 3.9-10)
James 2.14-26
[14] What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works? Can such faith save him?
[15] If a brother or sister is without clothes and lacks daily food [16] and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, stay warm, and be well fed,” but you don’t give them what the body needs, what good is it? [17] In the same way faith, if it does not have works, is dead by itself.
[18] But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without works, and I will show you faith by my works. [19] You believe that God is one. Good! Even the demons believe—and they shudder.
[20] Senseless person! Are you willing to learn that faith without works is useless? [21] Wasn’t Abraham our father justified by works in offering Isaac his son on the altar? [22] You see that faith was active together with his works, and by works, faith was made complete, [23] and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15.6), and he was called God’s friend. [24] You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. [25] In the same way, wasn’t Rahab the prostitute also justified by works in receiving the messengers and sending them out by a different route? [26] For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.
James 2:1–13
[1] My brothers and sisters, do not show favouritism as you hold on to the faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ. [2]For if someone comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and a poor person dressed in filthy clothes also comes in, [3]if you look with favour on the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Sit here in a good place,” and yet you say to the poor person, “Stand over there,” or “Sit here on the floor by my footstool,” [4]haven’t you made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
[5]Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Didn’t God choose the poor in this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him? [6] Yet you have dishonoured the poor. Don’t the rich oppress you and drag you into court? [7] Don’t they blaspheme the good name that was invoked over you?
[8] Indeed, if you fulfil the royal law prescribed in the Scripture, Love your neighbour as yourself, you are doing well. [9] If, however, you show favouritism, you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. [10] For whoever keeps the entire law, and yet stumbles at one point, is guilty of breaking it all. [11] For he who said, Do not commit adultery, also said, Do not murder. So if you do not commit adultery, but you murder, you are a lawbreaker.
[12] Speak and act as those who are to be judged by the law of freedom. [13] For judgment is without mercy to the one who has not shown mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
James 1:18–27
[18] Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
[19] Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; [20] for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. [21] Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
[22] But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. [23] For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. [24] For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. [25] But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
[26] If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. [27] Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
We must simply receive, hold out the empty hands of faith, and confess along with Paul, "Thanks be to God through our Saviour Jesus Christ our Lord!"
He is the one who rescues us from this death producing body. He is the one that saves us from the long suicide called unforgiven sin.
We know who that Word is, we know who the Way, the Truth, and the Life is. We know who is the first fruits of the Resurrection. We know that in the midst of all kinds of trials there is only one person we can turn to. That person is our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in whom we know that we will one day experience the fullness and completeness of our maturity and steadfastness, lacking in nothing.
This week as you expect to read the news and find death. You expect to be welcomed by a world of finger pointing and wagging and blame shifting and scapegoating. You expect to mourn losses this world brings to us and to the ones we love.
But instead Jesus meets you at an open grave and says do not be afraid. All the sickness and death and the whole dominion of evil over the world I have reconciled all things to myself, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
Jesus looks to you, His Brothers, His Sisters, and though you may have turned against him yesterday he seeks you out draws you back to his presence and says you are Forgiven…he proves to you that he is The Resurrection and the Life.
If Jesus were walking by to day we would say, Save us, we pray O’King, for sickness and hardship and we will definitely honour you will our whole lives and selflessly serve you not matter what comes.
Even though we all know that is a lie.
Q. What is your only comfort in life and in death?
That I am not my own,
but belong—
body and soul,
in life and in death—
to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.
He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood,
and has delivered me from the tyranny of the devil.
He also watches over me in such a way
that not a hair can fall from my head
without the will of my Father in heaven
in fact, all things must work together for my salvation.
Because I belong to him,
Christ, by his Holy Spirit,
also assures me of eternal life
and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready
from now on to live for him.
Jesus says to you, “I am the LORD your God, who rescued you from slavery.” That saved your from your slavery to sin and death, hell and yourself. I have made you free. Jesus has given your contentment and he has given your rest from your striving.
In the Ten Commandments God has called us to himself, to our neighbour, and shows us our need for a redeemer.
Jesus gave his life for you and made you a part of his body and bride.
Therefore the theology of the cross is an offensive theology. The offense consists in the fact that unlike other theologies it attacks what we usually consider the best in our religion. -Gerhard O. Forde
You are an Adopted Child of God Through Christ, Your Sins Forgiven, and Righteousness Gifted to You.
God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster…and you hate him for it.
Big Idea of Jonah: Salvation Belongs to the Lord and is yours in Jesus.
What the Word of the Lord does.
God’s Two Words: Salvation and Judgement
The Disaster that is Ninevah.
Tarshish Tarshish Tarshish?
God chooses to Locate Himself.
Tribal God’s Cannot Stand
Scared and Censored Sailors
A Careless Prophet taking others down.
Casting Lots Determined by the Lord
Human Sacrifice and Appointed Fish
Big Idea of Jonah: Salvation Belongs to the Lord and is yours in Jesus.
A disobedient prophet who happens also to be a Prejudiced and Nationalistic (dare we say racist) man who is called to preach to
Murderous and merciless savages, but by savages we clearly mean urbane and civilised people.
While acting disobediently our Jonah is swallowed by a sea monster of some sort who vomits him out…
And at the end of it all Jonah preaches a withholding Gospel which seems to bring salvation to “those” people and to their cows too.
3 Things to Expect in Jonah:
You should see the actions of and hear from our compassionate God.
You should see the lostness of all people but especially “God’s People”.
Repentance (a gift from God) Pleases God and judgement is removed.
How You Should Expect to be Changed:
You should be turned from Spiritual Pride.
You should seek to show compassion to others.
You should be wanting to know more about the God who bends all of creation for your Salvation.
By your Word and Spirit imprint your truth on our hearts and in our minds. Shape our lives into faithfulness…
Lead us not into temptation, guard us from ourselves and from our sins that refuse to die and work to pull us away from you.
If we are to enter into temptation, into a time of testing, deliver us from the Evil One and from all of our spiritual enemies.
We ask all of this in faith and confidence knowing that to you alone belongs the kingdom, the power, and the glory, both now and forever. Amen.
Jesus forgives us and expects us to extend forgiveness.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours
now and for ever.
Amen.
00:17:14 . (The Lord’s Supper)
Jesus is the Bread of Life who Daily Sustains You and Provides Good Gifts for You.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours
now and for ever.
Amen.
00:17:14 . (The Lord’s Supper)
Jesus’ Kingdom is Coming in Fullness And in it God’s Will is Done.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours
now and for ever.
Amen.
Because of Jesus' Righteousness the name of God will be Holy.
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. [10] Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us this day our daily bread, [12] and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. [13] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
God is our True Father and We are His True Children because of Jesus for You.
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. [10] Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us this day our daily bread, [12] and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. [13] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
What do you long for what do you miss. What do you have memory of and it makes you hurt.
Every Preacher Dies, Even You. One Preacher is Prophet, Priest, and King and his Death Saves.
[39] In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, [40] and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. [41] And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, [42] and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! [43] And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? [44] For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. [45] And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:39–45)
Jesus has Authority over Evil.
Jesus has Authority in Salvation.
Where is your Faith?
Keep Resting In and Relying Upon Jesus.
Mark 5:1–20
[1] They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. [2] And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. [3] He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, [4] for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. [5] Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. [6] And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. [7] And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” [8] For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” [9] And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” [10] And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. [11] Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, [12] and they begged him, saying, “Send us to the pigs; let us enter them.” [13] So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea.
[14] The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. [15] And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. [16] And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. [17] And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. [18] As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. [19] And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” [20] And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. (ESV)
The law of God, the most salutary doctrine of life, cannot advance man on his way to righteousness, but rather hinders him.
-Martin Luther
Resources:
Heidelberg Disputation
Luther’s Commentary on Galatians
Five Views on Law and Gospel
Mockingbird’s Law and Gospel
Where is your Faith?
Trials will show you that.
Keep Resting In and Relying Upon Jesus.
What is the opposite of faith?
How do you see that worked out in your life?
What is the importance of Jesus stopping the storm?
What does Jonah have to do with Jesus?
Redeemer Presbyterian (Tim Keller)
-
Parables Expose the Condition of the Heart
-
Hearing MUST become Listening
-
In spite of all their looking and listening some people will never really see or understand, if they did they would turn to God for forgiveness.
What must we do?
-Open our Eyes
-Hear with our Ears
-Understand with our Hearts
-Turn away from sin and turn toward God
Jesus’ way of life raises questions..
There is a real and literal spiritual enemy.
There is a real and literal enemy, but ultimately he is defeated.
God’s grace is bigger than the failings of his people.
Blasphemy: Making God something he isn’t.
Calling him SMALL when he is immeasurably big.
Calling him CRUEL when he is magnificently benevolent.
Calling him FOOLISH when he is incomprehensibly wise.
Calling him EVIL when he is magnanimously good.
1 – Jesus calls, Disciples Answer
2 – Jesus Communes
3 – Jesus Calls, Then Sends
4 – Jesus Calls, Then Equips
God has made a time for you to practice resting in Christ. He has not made a time for you to rest from doing good.
Big Idea: Jesus Approaches Us and His Kingdom Comes Near in Power
v.21 Jesus is the Word v.22, 27 Jesus is the Authority of God v.23-24 Jesus drives out darkness…the Dark Fears Him v.25-26 Jesus Silences the Accuser v.28 Jesus Goes Viral v.29-31 Jesus is not withholding, He Desires to Heal v.32-34 There is an authority over People that is not of God. Jesus removes and replaces that Authority.
Mark 1:16–20
[16] Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. [17] And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” [18] And immediately they left their nets and followed him. [19] And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. [20] And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him. (ESV)
God is to be Praised…
Everywhere (v.1)
Because of who he is and what he has done (v.2)
With Human Creativity (v.3-5)
By All of Creation (v.6)
For His Glory to be Known (146-150)
We live in hopeful remembrance. Remembering what he’s done for us. Embracing what he is doing in us. Being excited for what is doing and will continue to do through us.
“When I am in the cellar of affliction, I look for the Lord’s choicest wines.”
-Samuel Rutherford
1) God’s Word is Meaningless without the Holy Spirit’s Guidance
2) God’s Word is a Miracle
3) God’s Word is the Truth
4) God’s Word brings us Together
5) God’s Word brings Peace
6) God’s Word Sends Us
The Psalter (Book of Praises) is not just a box that someone randomly tossed their entire record collection into and we get to pull out at will. It is an organized book that helps us understand who we are as people by helping us to see who God is.
The Psalms guides our hearts, minds, affections, emotions, and loves. This is God’s inspired songbook and we should allow God the Holy Spirit to change us through these songs.
The Psalter (Book of Praises) is not just a box that someone randomly tossed their entire record collection into and we get to pull out at will. It is an organized book that helps us understand who we are as people by helping us to see who God is.
The Psalms guides our hearts, minds, affections, emotions, and loves. This is God’s inspired songbook and we should allow God the Holy Spirit to change us through these songs.
The Psalter (Book of Praises) is not just a box that someone randomly tossed their entire record collection into and we get to pull out at will. It is an organized book that helps us understand who we are as people by helping us to see who God is.
The Psalms guides our hearts, minds, affections, emotions, and loves. This is God’s inspired songbook and we should allow God the Holy Spirit to change us through these songs.
Isiphambano
Everyday Justice
This is the fourth of four primary sessions for our 2018 Everyday Justice conference.
Isiphambano
Everyday Justice
This is the third of four primary sessions for our 2018 Everyday Justice conference.
Isiphambano
Everyday Justice
This is the second of four primary sessions for our 2018 Everyday Justice conference.
Isiphambano
Everyday Justice
(Due to the Question and Answer format portions of the audio are skipped over but the content of responses should be fairly easily followed.)
In this first week of our Winter in the Psalms we will look at Psalm 1.
The Psalter (Book of Praises) is not just a box that someone randomly tossed their entire record collection into and we get to pull out at will. It is an organized book that helps us understand who we are as people by helping us to see who God is.
The Psalms guides our hearts, minds, affections, emotions, and loves. This is God’s inspired songbook and we should allow God the Holy Spirit to change us through these songs.
Every time we read the Bible and discover a Jesus encounter, we should be in awe.
There is admiration and amazement in how he intentionally and compassionately met people where they were. They, like us, were worried, wanted answers to life’s most puzzling problems and were often in dire straights. Each encounter was incredible, intimate, and instructive.
Each recorded face-to-face encounter with Jesus revealed the love of God. Each account is a lesson for us, as modern day followers of Jesus, to learn, listen and love Him even more. Do you need a fresh encounter with Jesus?
Every time we read the Bible and discover a Jesus encounter, we should be in awe.
There is admiration and amazement in how he intentionally and compassionately met people where they were. They, like us, were worried, wanted answers to life’s most puzzling problems and were often in dire straights. Each encounter was incredible, intimate, and instructive.
Each recorded face-to-face encounter with Jesus revealed the love of God. Each account is a lesson for us, as modern day followers of Jesus, to learn, listen and love Him even more. Do you need a fresh encounter with Jesus?
Every time we read the Bible and discover a Jesus encounter, we should be in awe.
There is admiration and amazement in how he intentionally and compassionately met people where they were. They, like us, were worried, wanted answers to life’s most puzzling problems and were often in dire straights. Each encounter was incredible, intimate, and instructive.
Each recorded face-to-face encounter with Jesus revealed the love of God. Each account is a lesson for us, as modern day followers of Jesus, to learn, listen and love Him even more. Do you need a fresh encounter with Jesus?
Every time we read the Bible and discover a Jesus encounter, we should be in awe.
There is admiration and amazement in how he intentionally and compassionately met people where they were. They, like us, were worried, wanted answers to life’s most puzzling problems and were often in dire straights. Each encounter was incredible, intimate, and instructive.
Each recorded face-to-face encounter with Jesus revealed the love of God. Each account is a lesson for us, as modern day followers of Jesus, to learn, listen and love Him even more. Do you need a fresh encounter with Jesus?
God saves his people through Judgement.
The Nations Saved. A New Exodus and A New David.
God Creating at New People to put in a New Place made just for them and Under His Authority and Blessing.
I. Why the Church? A. It is a group of people that have been set aside by God and called together under Christ. B. It is the place where under biblically de ned leadership the grace of God is shown and received in ways that have been determined by him and are set out for us in scripture. (G&S Letter B) C. It is the primary place where God’s people are called together (gathered) in order to be sent back out (scattered). Said another way this is where the blessings of God are most clearly seen and shared so that those blessings can go out.
1 Peter 5
[1] So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: [2] shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; [3] not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. [4] And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. [5] Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
[6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, [7] casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. [8] Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. [9] Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. [10] And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. [11] To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
[12] By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. [13] She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. [14] Greet one another with the kiss of love.
Peace to all of you who are in Christ. (ESV)
1 Peter 4:12–19
[12] Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. [13] But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. [14] If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. [15] But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. [16] Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. [17] For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? [18] And
“If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
[19] Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
Grab your go-bags, a bakkie load of water and canned goods, and head to the mountains because the end of all things near...or maybe not.
We are however waiting on only one thing...the return of Jesus and the completion of God's plan of redemption that has remained unchanged throughout history.
Only a couple of weeks left in 1 Peter and as we draw to a close loose ends are getting tied and Peter is making sure he has been understood through his encouragement to the Christians in modern day Turkey.
1 Peter 3:18–22
[18] For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, [19] in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, [20] because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. [21] Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, [22] who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.
1 Peter 3:8–12
[8] Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. [9] Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. [10] For
“Whoever desires to love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit;
[11] let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
[12] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
We anticipate Christmas morning to fully celebrate Jesus’ birth and our redemption. Do you anticipate Jesus coming again? You should, even more than you anticipate Christmas.
This is the second of four sermons shepherding us to Christmas day. Light is our focus in this episode and Truth and Grace are to follow. Stay tuned throughout this time of Anticipation.
This is the first of four sermons shepherding us to Christmas day. Glory. Light. Truth. Grace. Then Christ. Stay tuned throughout this time of Anticipation.
[7] Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.
1 Peter 3:1–6
[1] Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, [2] when they see your respectful and pure conduct. [3] Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—[4] but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious. [5] For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, [6] as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening. (ESV)
If you are showing Jesus to the world around you through hard work and enduring through hardship, you are doing good and this is a special grace in your life. That is to say that if you are going through this suffering the way God wants you to…you are “more fully glorifying” God than you would be without suffering. You are experiencing something of the life of Christ that makes you more complete than those who suffer nothing.
1 Peter 2:13-17
[13] Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, [14] or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. [15] For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. [16] Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. [17] Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. (ESV)
1 Peter 2:9-12
[9] But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. [10] Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
[11] Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. [12] Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. (ESV)
1 Peter 2:4-8
[4] As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, [5] you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. [6] For it stands in Scripture: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” [7] So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” [8] and “A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.
As people that have been handpicked by God to be Outsiders we are to love one another without the manipulative pattern of the world around us. Are are to love because it is an act of obedience as well as a part of our identity.
We learn to do this by experiencing God. We experience God through his Word.
Jesus is our Saviour and he is also our Judge. Your doctrine determines your devotion. What you believe is shown in your behaviour.
1 Peter 1:10-13
[10] Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, [11] inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. [12] It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.
[13] Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (ESV)
As with the original readers we should be growing in faith and in faithfulness all of the time but especially when they are suffering.
This week we examine verses 1-5 in order to ground ourselves squarely in the text and in the historical context of Peter's writing.
This series through 1 Peter will take through the Advent Season.
Throughout the Book of Ruth we have seen many characters portrayed to us as Redeemers but this week we understand better who each of these individuals were pointing us toward.
The Book of Ruth is a perfect example of God’s Redeeming Love and points to our true and perfect Redeemer, Jesus.
The Book of Ruth is a perfect example of God's Redeeming Love and points to our true and perfect Redeemer, Jesus.
The midway point of our doctrine series and the most wonderful weekend of the year. Easter. When we celebrate the power of Christ's work on the cross on our behalf.