CURRENT WEEK - 07/21/24
The Parable of the Wedding Feast - Matthew 22:1-14
The rejection of Jesus as the Cornerstone sets the stage for Matthew 22, where Jesus reveals the invitation to enter God’s Kingdom and the required response of faithfulness and readiness. The Parable of the Wedding Feast in Matthew 22 extends the metaphor of divine invitation and human responsibility, portraying God’s gracious call to all people and highlighting the consequences of accepting or rejecting this call.
PREVIOUS WEEKS - 12/31/23 - 07/14/24
Christ the Cornerstone - Matthew 21:42-46
As Jesus transitions from this parable to His teaching in Matthew 21:42-46, He underscores the gravity of their rejection by drawing on Psalm 118:22-23. Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the cornerstone the builders rejected, a stone that will become the foundation of God’s redemptive work. This transition from the tenants’ violent rebellion to the imagery of the cornerstone sharpens the focus on the leaders’ failure to recognize and accept Jesus, highlighting both the judgment awaiting them and the pivotal role of Christ in God's salvation plan.
The Parable of the Tenants - Matthew 21:33-46
Having challenged the religious authorities’ understanding of authority and righteousness, Jesus continues His discourse, vividly illustrating the consequences of spiritual pride and the invitation to humble repentance. After exposing the hypocrisy of the religious leaders in Matthew 21:23-32, Jesus presents another parable in Matthew 21:33-46 of judgment and grace. This parable moves beyond individual repentance to confront the implications of Israel’s rejection of God’s messengers and their impending rejection of the Messiah Himself, encapsulating profound lessons about divine judgment and the unexpected inclusivity of God’s Kingdom.
Authority Questioned - Matthew 21:23-32
After miraculously causing the fig tree to wither, Jesus faced challenges to His authority from religious leaders in Jerusalem. In Matthew 21:23-32, they questioned His credentials and challenged Him on matters of spiritual authority and interpretation, highlighting the ongoing tension between Jesus and the religious establishment. Jesus’s actions inspired awe in the disciples but provoked scrutiny and resistance from traditional authority structures.
The Withered Fig Tree - Matthew 21:18-22
After cleansing the temple dramatically, Jesus left Jerusalem and spent the night in nearby Bethany. This transition period between the temple incident and the encounter with the fig tree the following day encapsulates a broader narrative of judgment and the call for genuine faith. Whereas the Temple cleansing condemned Israel’s worship, the fig tree cursing condemned Israel as a nation. In the withered fig tree of Matthew 21:18-22, Jesus illustrates the consequences of spiritual barrenness and the power of faith. Like the Temple, the fig tree is a potent symbol, demonstrating the fate of those who appear fruitful but lack true righteousness. The withered fig tree teaches the necessity of genuine faith and the impending judgment on unfruitfulness in worship and believers’ lives.
Purging Perversion - Matthew 21:12-17
The joyous triumphal entry takes a dramatic turn when Jesus, in a powerful act, cleanses the Temple in Matthew 21:12-17. This shift underscores Jesus’ mission to reveal the true nature of God’s kingdom and restore its sanctity by purging perversion. The transition from adoration to confrontation is stark, revealing Jesus as a reformer challenging corruption and upholding His divine authority.
Revealing the King - Matthew 21:1-11
The healing of the blind men in Matthew 20:29-34 showcases Jesus’ compassion and divine power and sets the stage for the revelation of His messianic identity. As the blind men acknowledge Jesus as the Son of David, their restored sight symbolizes the dawning recognition of Jesus’ true nature among the people. This acknowledgment reaches its crescendo in Matthew 21:1-11, where Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem reveals Him as King. The crowd’s cries of “Hosanna to the Son of David!” echo the blind men’s earlier plea, linking Jesus’ healing ministry with His Kingship. This passage marks a pivotal point in the Gospel narrative, where Jesus openly reveals His identity as the long-awaited King, challenging believers’ understanding of kingship, power, and God’s kingdom
The Healing of the Blind Men - Matthew 20:29-34
As Jesus concludes His teachings on leadership, emphasizing humility and sacrificial service as the defining characteristics of His kingdom, the narrative seamlessly transitions to a demonstration of these principles in action. Matthew 20:29-34 reports the healing of the blind men, exemplifying His humble and selfless ministry of healing and restoration. Once again, Jesus’ words are manifested in His actions.
Worldly Versus Godly Leadership - Matthew 20:17-28
The Parable of the Vineyard Workers - Matthew 20:1-16
In Matthew 20:17-28, the focus shifts to the nature of leadership in God’s Kingdom. As Jesus predicts His suffering and death, He contrasts the self-serving, oppressive leadership of the world with the self-sacrificial, servant-hearted leadership He models and expects from His followers. This transition underscores the call to reject exploitative leadership and embrace godly leadership defined by humility, service, and sacrificial love.
Matthew 19:27-30 concludes with Jesus assuring His disciples of the abundant rewards awaiting them for their sacrifices in following Him, emphasizing the inclusive nature of His kingdom and the inversion of worldly values. This theme of rewards and the contrast between earthly and Kingdom values sets the stage for the Parable of the Vineyard Workers in Matthew 20:1-16.
The Rewards of Discipleship - Matthew 19:27-30
Transitioning to Matthew 19:27-30, a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative unfolds. At its core, this passage challenges conventional notions of reward and redefines the concept through a spiritual lens. Instead of focusing solely on earthly riches or temporal gains, Jesus unveils a vision of reward that transcends material wealth, promising eternal significance and divine fulfillment to those who embrace the call to discipleship. From the disciples’ probing questions to Jesus’ illuminating responses, each element of this passage invites believers to reconsider their priorities and redefine their understanding of the rewards of discipleship.
The Idol of Wealth and True Riches (Part 2) - Matthew 19:16-26
Transitioning from the heartwarming encounter in Matthew 19:13-15 to the subsequent interaction in Matthew 19:16-26, the readers witness a significant shift in focus. The tender scene of Jesus blessing the children contrasts sharply with the following encounter. In verse sixteen, a wealthy man approaches Jesus, seeking guidance on inheriting eternal life. Unlike the children who approached Jesus with simple, humble faith, the rich young man is characterized by wealth and status. This contrast highlights the central theme of the passage: the nature of true discipleship and the radical demands of following Jesus. The narrative underscores Jesus’ teachings on the essential qualities required to enter the Kingdom of Heaven: childlike faith, humility, and a willingness to let go of everything to follow Him. Jesus’ response to the rich young man reveals the high cost of discipleship and challenges believers to consider the idol of wealth and true riches.
The Idol of Wealth and True Riches (Part 1) - Matthew 19:16-26
Transitioning from the heartwarming encounter in Matthew 19:13-15 to the subsequent interaction in Matthew 19:16-26, the readers witness a significant shift in focus. The tender scene of Jesus blessing the children contrasts sharply with the following encounter. In verse sixteen, a wealthy man approaches Jesus, seeking guidance on inheriting eternal life. Unlike the children who approached Jesus with simple, humble faith, the rich young man is characterized by wealth and status. This contrast highlights the central theme of the passage: the nature of true discipleship and the radical demands of following Jesus. The narrative underscores Jesus’ teachings on the essential qualities required to enter the Kingdom of Heaven: childlike faith, humility, and a willingness to let go of everything to follow Him. Jesus’ response to the rich young man reveals the high cost of discipleship and challenges believers to consider the idol of wealth and true riches
Embracing Childlike Faith: Lessons from Jesus' Blessing - Matthew 19:13-15
Transitioning to Matthew 19:13-15, the scene transitions to a new setting where children are brought to Jesus for His blessing. This shift in focus highlights the multifaceted nature of Jesus’ ministry, encompassing both profound theological discourse and tender acts of compassion towards the marginalized and vulnerable. It illustrates Jesus’ holistic approach to ministry, embracing the intellectual and emotional dimensions of human experience and revealing His heart of love and compassion for all people, regardless of age or social status. The theme of Matthew 19:13-15 is embracing childlike faith: lessons from Jesus' blessing.
Marriage, Divorce, and Singleness (Part 2) - Matthew 19:1-12
Shifting to Matthew 19:10-12, Jesus responds to His disciples’ astonishment at His teaching on divorce by presenting singleness as a sacred calling. He affirms that while marriage is honorable, singleness, embraced for the sake of the kingdom, can be a chosen path to wholehearted devotion to God. This juxtaposition highlights Jesus’ acknowledgment of the diverse expressions of human relationships and the significance of each individual’s unique journey in fulfilling God’s purposes.
Marriage, Divorce, and Singleness (Part 1) - Matthew 19:1-12
In Matthew 19, the Pharisees debate with Jesus about divorce and remarriage, leading the disciples to ask about singleness. Thus, in Matthew 19:1-12, Jesus addresses the topics of marriage, divorce, and singleness. Matthew 19 is not the first time Jesus addressed the issue of divorce and remarriage. During the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:31-32, Jesus corrects the misinterpretation of the Law’s allowance of divorce. Much of the modern church’s stance on divorce and remarriage originates from Catholic influences instead of Biblical truth, raising questions about biblical alignment. Correction of distortions to biblical teachings is necessary, challenging traditions that may not align with Scripture.
Words of Abandonment, Fulfillment, and Reunion - Matthew 27:46; John 19:30; Luke 23:46
In John 19:30, Jesus proclaims, “It is finished!” This word of fulfillment marks the completion of Jesus’ earthly mission and the satisfaction of God’s redemptive agenda. With these words, Jesus heralds the victory of redemption over condemnation. His words echo throughout history, offering assurance to all who trust in His completed work of the cross. With a final agonizing breath, Jesus says in Luke 23:46, “Father, Into Your hands I commit My Spirit.” In this word of reunion, believers witness the culmination of Jesus’ sacrificial death, as He willingly offers His life for the sake of humanity. It is a profound moment of intimacy, where the Son shares restored fellowship with the Father in complete submission and devotion. This final word fulfills Psalm 31:5: “Into Your hand I commit my spirit.”
Words of Relationship and Distress - John 19:26-29
As the hours dragged on, Jesus directed His attention to His mother and the beloved disciple, John. In John 19:26-27, believers witness a poignant exchange, encapsulating the depth of Jesus’ love and care for those closest to Him, even amid His suffering. These words of relationship from the cross reveal Jesus’ heart and provide timeless lessons for believers about the importance of familial love, discipleship, and community in the Christian journey. Amidst the darkness and despair of Calvary, Jesus uttered words that pierced the silence and revealed the depth of His humanity. In John 19:28, believers encounter a moment of distress as Jesus speaks the distressing words, “I thirst.” These simple words convey Jesus’ physical torment and His sacrificial mission’s spiritual and emotional weight. This cry of distress from the cross invites believers to contemplate the full extent of Jesus’ suffering and reflect on His humanity’s significance in the redemptive narrative. Through His words of distress, Jesus invites believers to enter into His suffering, to empathize with His humanity, and to draw nearer to the heart of the Savior who willingly endured all for the sake of love
Words of Forgiveness and Salvation - Luke 23:33-34, 39-43
While hanging upon the cross, Jesus uttered seven words or statements. His first two words are words of forgiveness and salvation. Jesus’ word of forgiveness exemplifies radical forgiveness, extending grace even to His executioners. This word embodies Jesus’ unparalleled grace and mercy, even toward those who unjustly persecuted Him. It challenges believers to emulate His example of readiness to forgive the repentant who wronged them, regardless of the circumstances. On the cross, Jesus’ words of forgiveness epitomize His divine love and serve as a timeless reminder of grace’s transformative power. Jesus’ word of salvation reflects His boundless grace, offering immediate redemption to the contrite criminal. It illustrates the accessibility of salvation to all who turn to Jesus in faith, regardless of their past. Jesus’ word of salvation exemplifies His mercy and inclusivity, inviting all humanity into the hope of eternal life with Him. It is a testament to the transformative power of His love and the assurance of forgiveness for all who believe.
Lessons in Obedience: Surrendering to God’s Will - Matthew 17:22-27
Considering Matthew 17:22-27, believers should reflect on their struggle to surrender to God’s will. Where do they resist His guidance, holding onto their own plans and ambitions? The challenge is to let go of control and trust in God’s timing and provision. This passage offers lessons in obedience and surrendering to God’s will.
Faith that Moves Mountains - Matthew 17:14-21
Transitioning from the awe-inspiring Transfiguration scene, Matthew 17:14-21 portrays a stark shift as Jesus and His disciples descend from the mountain and encounter a distressing situation. Approaching Jesus, a desperate father falls to his knees, beseeching assistance for his demon-possessed son, who suffers from seizures. Despite the disciples’ earnest attempts to heal the boy, they cannot alleviate his affliction. This passage unveils the stark contrast between the disciples' limitations and Jesus’ unmatched authority over evil forces. It underscores faith's critical role in acknowledging Jesus’ miraculous abilities and the disciples’ capacity to trust Him. Disappointed by the disciples’ wavering faith, Jesus reproves them, illustrating the remarkable potential of even the tiniest seed of faith to conquer seemingly insurmountable challenges. In the subsequent exegesis of Matthew 17:14-21, the Apostle delves into the significance of faith within Jesus’ ministry, explores the interplay of power and authority, and unveils the profound lessons on prayer and perseverance amidst adversity, all centered around the theme of faith that moves mountains
The Transfiguration (Part 2) - Matthew 17:1-13
In Matthew 17:9-13, the narrative unfolds with a telling revelation that follows the awe-inspiring Transfiguration event. This passage delves into the disciples’ inquiries about the reappearance of Elijah and Jesus’ subsequent clarification regarding the prophesied role of John the Baptist. Embedded within this exchange are profound insights into the continuity of divine revelation, the fulfillment of Biblical prophecies, and the disciples’ evolving understanding of Jesus’ messianic mission. Through carefully examining this passage, believers understand the intricate interplay between prophecy, fulfillment, and the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Biblical Missions is Prayer-Driven - Selected Passages from Acts
Turning to the book of Acts, Luke presents a tapestry of prayer woven into the fabric of every missionary endeavor. From the Upper Room to the ends of the earth, prayer permeates the narrative, guiding, empowering, and transforming the lives of believers. In Acts 1, the disciples gathered in unity, devoting themselves to prayer as they awaited the promise of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 4, Peter and John boldly petitioned God for divine enablement in the face of persecution. In Acts 13, the Antioch church’s fasting and prayer resulted in Barnabas and Saul's commissioning for the missions. The most profound testament to the power of prayer in missions is seen in the life of the apostle Paul. A vibrant prayer life sustained Paul throughout his missionary journeys—a lifeline connecting him to God’s inexhaustible grace and strength.
Biblical Missions is People Supported - Selected Passages from Acts
Biblical Missions is People Supported. The purpose of missions is to preach the Gospel to people. The means of preaching the Gospel is people. Paul says in Romans 10:15, "How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?”
Biblical Missions is Multiplication Focused - Selected Passages from Acts
The church began in Jerusalem according to Acts 2 and multiplied throughout Judea. Then, in Acts 8, the Gospel spread to Samaria, and again, the church multiplied. The Gospel spreads, and churches multiply, first in Galilee and then Anticoch in Acts 11. The Holy Spirit propels the Gospel from the Antiochan Church to the regions beyond, multiplying churches throughout Asia and Europe. What began with twelve men in Jerusalem multiplied into hundreds of thousands of believers worldwide. Indeed, the Book of Acts provides a compelling blueprint for multiplication-focused missions.
Biblical Missions Is Spirit Driven - Selected Passages from Acts
The book of Acts is a testament to the Spirit’s role in Biblical missions. From the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost to the missionary journeys of Paul, the Spirit empowers believers with courage, wisdom, and supernatural abilities. The Holy Spirit emboldens believers to confront opposition, endure hardships, and persevere in facing challenges. The Holy Spirit also establishes the church’s missional program.
The Transfiguration (Part 1) - Matthew 17:1-13
The narrative progresses to Jesus highlighting future judgment, with the Son of Man coming in glory to repay each person according to their deeds. This underscores the gravity of discipleship, urging believers to take it seriously. In verse 28, Jesus prophesies that some present will witness the Son of Man coming with his kingdom. Matthew records the near fulfillment in the subsequent verses, presenting the mysterious Transfiguration of Jesus in Matthew 17:1-13. This event provides profound insights into Jesus’ nature, the continuity of divine revelation, and the disciples’ faith journey.
Embracing the Cross: A Call to Discipleship - Matthew 16:21-28
In Matthew 16:24-28, Jesus presents believers with a pivotal decision. Will they be willing to not merely see the cross as a symbol but embrace it as a transformative reality that molds their identity as disciples of Jesus? Bearing the cross represents a radical summons to discipleship. This call urges believers to relinquish their personal desires, ambitions, and self-centered ways in exchange for a life dedicated to following Jesus, even at the potential cost of their lives.
Embracing the Cross: A Call to Discipleship - Matthew 16:21-28
Jesus unveils the divine purpose underlying his earthly mission, a purpose that takes an unexpected turn toward the cross. Amid this revelation, he issues a profound call to discipleship that transcends superficial desires for earthly success and recognition. Jesus exposes the radical nature of genuine discipleship—an invitation to renounce self, shoulder the cross, and walk in His footsteps. This summons demands a surrender of personal ambitions, comfort, and self-centered ways, urging followers to embrace the cross not as a mere symbol but as a way of life. The central theme of Matthew 16:21-28 is embracing the cross: a call to discipleship. What does embracing the cross signify for believers today?
The Rock, the Revelation, and the Responsibility - Matthew 16:13-20
In Matthew 16:13-20, a crucial dialogue unfolds between Jesus and the Twelve, unveiling foundational truths that shape Christian orthodoxy regarding both Himself and the Church. In this narrative, Jesus sets forth the Rock, the revelation, and the responsibility. Beyond confirming His identity, Jesus imparts critical insights into the establishment and mission of the Church. From this passage, believers are challenged to recognize the bedrock of their faith, embrace the revelation of divine truth, and shoulder the responsibility of advancing the mission of Christ on Earth
CURRENT SERMON SERIES
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PREVIOUS SERMON SERIES
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A SERMON FOR KINGDOM SERVANTS: LIVING AS KINGDOM SERVANTS
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THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT: LIVING AS KINGDOM CITIZENS
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A BALANCED LIFE IN AN UNBALANCED WORLD - EPHESIANS 4:1-3
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JAMES: COMMANDS FOR SCATTERED AND STRUGGLING SAINTS
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BEHOLD THE LAMB
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JUDE: A CHARGE FOR SCATTERED AND SUFFERING SAINTS
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2 PETER: WARNINGS FOR SCATTERED AND SUFFERING SAINTS
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1 PETER: ENCOURAGEMENT FOR SCATTERED AND SUFFERINGS SAINTS
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