Packing for the Right Expedition, Part 2
When you go on a trip and begin making your packing list, most likely you begin by checking the weather in the place you will be visiting. You want to ensure that you are packing for the climate you will be entering. Jesus wanted to make sure His disciples understood the climate where they were going on their way to Jerusalem. He knew that many of His followers were expecting a hero's welcome and a coronation, but He also knew the reality would be quite different. And so, He challenged His disciples to earnestly and soberly count the cost of following Him.
Packing for the Right Expedition, Part 1
When you go on a trip and begin making your packing list, most likely you begin by checking the weather in the place you will be visiting. You want to ensure that you are packing for the climate you will be entering. Jesus wanted to make sure His disciples understood the climate where they were going on their way to Jerusalem. He knew that many of His followers were expecting a hero's welcome and a coronation, but He also knew the reality would be quite different. And so, He challenged His disciples to earnestly and soberly count the cost of following Him.
Table Talk
One Sabbath day, Jesus attended a dinner at the home of a prominent Pharisee. During the dinner, Jesus healed a man, which sparked a debate with the Pharisees over whether it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath. In response, Jesus told a parable about a great banquet. The parable serves as a warning to those who prioritize worldly concerns over spiritual matters. Jesus taught that none of those who were invited but declined to come would taste his banquet. The meaning is clear: those who reject his message will not be able to partake in the blessings of his kingdom. How will you respond to God’s invitation?
Living as if Heaven Rules
History books are filled with stories of people the world deems important. Whether they are famous, or infamous, part of society involves determining the important players in the history of the world and documenting their achievements. But in Jesus' earthly ministry, He didn't associate Himself with the powerful--the high rollers of history--but with the lowly. And that's because Jesus knew that the kings on earth had no more power than that which God allowed them. And with that perspective, we see human history--and its influential figures--in a more godly light.
5 Non-negotiable Truths about Eternal Life, Part 2
Like the :COEXIST" bumper stickers we see on cars, the worldview that many paths lead to heaven is pervasive and politically correct in our culture. But this concept, that "all roads lead to God" is not a new philosophy; in fact, Jesus confronted the same issue during His earthly ministry. The world will call it "intolerant," "judgmental," and "exclusive," but the truth remains: narrow is the path to life.
5 Non-negotiable Truths about Eternal Life, Part 1
Like the :COEXIST" bumper stickers we see on cars, the worldview that many paths lead to heaven is pervasive and politically correct in our culture. But this concept, that "all roads lead to God" is not a new philosophy; in fact, Jesus confronted the same issue during His earthly ministry. The world will call it "intolerant," "judgmental," and "exclusive," but the truth remains: narrow is the path to life.
Simple Events with Eternal Significance
Where do you look for satisfaction? Can you find it in the blessings you have received and the fellowship you have with the Lord, or do you find yourself looking longingly at the blessings and gifts of others? Jesus often contrasted satisfaction with covetousness, because He knew that covetous people can never be satisfied; they will never have enough. Let's learn from Jesus today that riches are not a guarantee of satisfaction; riches are a test to determine where true satisfaction comes from.
Lessons From Unexpected Disaster, Part 2
When tragedy strikes -- like the recent earthquake in Turkey -- we find ourselves shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of life. During the ministry of Jesus, an accident occurred and people rushed to hear His answer. To some, it was uncaring, but to those willing to listen, it reminded them -- and us -- of the brevity of life.
Lessons From Unexpected Disaster, Part 1
When tragedy strikes -- like the recent earthquake in Turkey -- we find ourselves shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of life. During the ministry of Jesus, an accident occurred and people rushed to hear His answer. To some, it was uncaring, but to those willing to listen, it reminded them -- and us -- of the brevity of life.
The Coming Storm
In this message, Stephen unpacks additional warnings from Jesus about the end times -- clearly drawing a line in the sand between those who'll accept Him as the Messiah and those who'll reject Him.