Jesus says he will return when we least expect it. To help us wait in readiness, he tells 2 stories, one of a Master who serves, and the other of a servant who tries to play the master.
Jesus' parable of the Rich Fool confronts one of the most pervasive lies we believe - that life consists in the abundance of possessions.
In Jesus' trial Pilate condemns Jesus to death, even though he is innocent, and frees Barabbas, even though he is guilty of murder. That exchange is a window into the cosmic work that Christ does on the cross, dying for all humanity, so we might know forgiveness and freedom.
In Jesus' trial Pilate condemns Jesus to death, even though he is innocent, and frees Barabbas, even though he is guilty of murder. That exchange is a window into the cosmic work that Christ does on the cross, dying for all humanity, so we might know forgiveness and freedom.
On the cross Jesus gives us the example to follow of love, obedience, service and suffering.
So often in life we or those we love feel powerless, oppressed, held captive and enslaved. The Cross is Christ's great victory over the hostile forces arrayed against us, and through the cross we are given freedom and peace.
"God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself". How does Jesus' death accomplish the reconciliation of the world? How does this reconciliation affect our relationships and communities?
Philosopher Merold Westphal says that guilt is a mode of self-consciousness. You know you've done the wrong thing, you're ashamed and you have a sense you deserve punishment. The picture of Jesus' death as a sacrifice helps us understand how his death deals with our guilt.
In this sermon series we're looking at the meaning and accomplishment of the cross. This sermon looks at what it means that in the person of Christ we encounter God himself on the cross.
The Bible expects visitors will be present when God's people gather to worship him. If you want to experience God, come to church!