Why do we follow traditions? We all have traditions that we think are the right way of doing things. But sometimes traditions can have negative consequences. In this passage we see three wrongful uses of traditions. Jesus rebukes the traditions of the Pharisees because they were leading to ritualism; and empty rituals can lead people … [Read More…] When Truth Confronts Tradition
How can we be assured that our faith is genuine? In this passage, we find three evidences that the church truly knows Jesus. The church is to be united in love, to remain focused on Jesus, and to be firm in the faith. There is an assurance of God that only comes from being united … [Read More…] Where’s Your Evidence?
It’s human nature to want to be in an exclusive club. But in this passage, we find Jesus describing a new Kingdom mentality where all are welcome. He teaches that we should approach God like a child. If our church is to reflect the heart of Jesus, we need to be a place that welcomes … [Read More…] The Danger of Exclusivity
What’s the mission of your life? How should you pursue it? If the mission of the church is to be the mission of our lives, we should rejoice in our sufferings, treasure the gospel, and work to strengthen the church. Colossians 1:24-29
We tend to take on the mannerisms of the people we hang out with. Their qualities tend to become our own; for example, have you ever been told you’re becoming like your parents? Sometimes, our osmosis of others’ qualities is a good thing; in other cases, we absorb the worst of others. As we begin … [Read More…] Follower or Pharisee?
Who am I? What’s my identity? These are, perhaps, some of the most important existential questions one can ask. This passage reminds us of the eternal identity that God offers us through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus. While sin blocks us from receiving the benefit of being in God’s presence and makes us enemies … [Read More…] Reconciled to God by Christ
There are things in Christianity that seem like paradoxes. At first glance, these things don’t quite seem to make sense. In this final sermon in the series, we find Jesus celebrating Passover with the apostles. Jesus’ teaching on servanthood turns our human expectations for honor upside down. The economy of God is so very different … [Read More…] Celebrate the Passover
Why is Jesus considered the “greatest of all time”? In this passage, we find four reasons why: He is the God of all, He is Creator of all, He is Sustainer of all, and He is Lord of all. Colossians 1:15–20
Have you ever had to answer a loaded question? In this passage we find Jesus answering three questions from the Pharisees. His answers teach us three important lessons about our relationship with God. Mark 12
Why should we be all in for Jesus? When we are “all in” it means we are fully committed; there are no halfways or half measures. In this passage, we find the motivation for us to be all in for Jesus: we are rescued by the Father, resettled into the Son, and redeemed by the … [Read More…] Deliverance from Darkness
