Sermons
What is marriage for? When view through the correct theological lens it is for so much more than we tend to think. When viewed through the lens of self, it is for something much less. We must understand it through the proper lens to begin to answer what it is for.
Because Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever we, as God's people, are free in all circumstances to offer praise to God. Our praise does not depend on everything being perfect, our praise depends on the perfect One.
The fact that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever emboldens believers to move forward in their lives and into the world with courage. In Christ, the church is free to risk and sacrifice much for the glory of God's kingdom.
There is a theme that can be traced throughout scripture in which sacrifice is followed by songs of praise. Praise rises even in the midst of hardship and lack of understanding. Praise arises, not because of the circumstances, but to the one who is sovereign over the circumstances.
The fact that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever means that he is our anchor that frees us to love others and flee from self-seeking. As we rest our lives on the unchanging One we are liberated to place others above ourselves, knowing our ultimate satisfaction is in Christ.
We live in an ever-changing world, a world that seems very different from the times of which the Bible speaks; however, we worship an unchanging Savior. It is Jesus' unchanging nature that gives us surety in a changing world. Hence, Jesus has been, is, and will always be Savior.
As the people of God, believers can look back at God's faithfulness and ahead in expectation of his future mercy and grace. These future promises have significance for our every day lives. We live now in the new identity and kingdom to come.
No one can ever say that Jesus cannot understand their situation or suffering. Jesus took on flesh and came to us in order that he may be our hope in our sufferings. In condescending Jesus demonstrates his love and care for his people. He loves us in to adoption as brothers and sisters.
Jesus Christ was willing to empty himself for the advantage of hopeless sinners. In emptying himself, through faith, we can be full, which sets us on a path of unity and mission. It is that truth we celebrate at Christmas.
The Triune God is a creative, life-giving God. He created at the beginning, and brings the beginnings of a new creation at the incarnation of Christ. The Spirit points to this work and the Person of Christ, and we, who are called by the Spirit, ought to follow His leading.