Sermon nuggets Fri Aug 1
Theme- Triumphal Entry
Verses- John 12:16-19 At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
17 Now the crowd that was with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word. 18 Many people, because they had heard that he had given this miraculous sign, went out to meet him.
19 So the Pharisees said to one another, "See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after him!"(NIV)
The Significance of the Crowd
There will be a day when all of the world will be shouting Hosanna in the highest. The event of this experience was a foretaste of the entrance once again into Jerusalem at the second coming of Jesus.
There was not this celebration in mass when Jesus rose from the dead, but there will be one greater when He returns as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. All will know his power and ultimate victory.
The parade had more prophetic implication than what anyone would guess. The disciples think back over the event years after it happened and realized what was really happening that day. Palm Sunday is always about the Lordship of Christ. These symbols of Palm Sunday were more significant than just mere coincidence. The praise of fickle men that day was prepared by the Father to glorify the Son.
Most of the people missed what was going on and even the disciples didn't fully understand until after Jesus ascension. But Christ is still rejected today. It is not uncommon for the orthodox Jew today to see their leaders as doing the work of the Lord in establishing the strong nation of Israel. Yet today there is still a rejection of anything to do with Jesus. Not that long ago Israel's supreme court has ruled that Messianic Jews are not entitled to automatic Israeli citizenship. The ruling clarified the state's 1950 Law of Return-which grants automatic citizenship to virtually all Jews-by further defining what it means to be a Jews. They said that those who believe in Jesus are in fact, Christians and therefore as members of another faith are ineligible for automatic citizenship, regardless of their nationality or birth race.
Israel has perpetuated a long-standing rejection of Jesus by organized Judaism which accepted atheists and they make up a good share of Israeli political leadership. It was not only then, but also now that there is a cost to following Him. Palm Sunday is always an issue of the Lordship of Jesus.
The rejection is also world wide. People do not like to submit thier wills to anyone. Most in the world do so out of force and laws of the land. When Chirst now presends Himself it requires the heart to follow. Many wanted Jesus to be what they wanted him to be. Then they would follow, but if he did not fit their vision, they left. Others saw Him as Lord to be followed whether or not they understood all that was happening or was going to happen. Many folowed once they become aware of His resurrection power. Yet in this event people did not see the strength of Christ, but rather his humility. Yet in his humility was strength. It was the strength to obey in the face of opposition. His obedience was a mark of his divinity.
Those who believed then and those who believe now, see the reason for the celebration. He is Lord.
Pastor Dale
Friday, August 1, 2008
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Significance of the Colt John 12:14-15
Sermon nuggets Thur July 31, 2008
Theme Triumphal Entry
Verses John 12: 14-15 Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written, "Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt."
At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
Significance of the Colt
Jesus came riding in on a colt or a foal of an ass. That seems odd doesn't it? Jesus instructed the disciples who went into town earlier that evening exactly where this donkey was to be found and what to say to the owners. "The Lord has need of this."
The donkey in our society is a beast of burden. One would not have the same status that a horse rider would have. In fact in parades if there is a donkey or a mule usually it is a clown riding on it. When Macabee came riding in Jerusalem he rode on a Stallion, strong and mighty for battle. Yet Jesus rode on an ass.
In that culture when a King came riding on a donkey that meant they were not at war. They were not coming to fight, but they were coming in peace. The people might have asked, “Wasn't Jesus the King coming to conquer Herod, rather than peace?” Jesus was coming to bring peace with God to all who trusted in Jesus. He was to be the King of all who followed Him by faith.
The significance of a young colt not ridden before is important too, in the understanding of the times. Even the details were all part of the plan of Almighty God. He also showed that He had control over animals that have never been ridden. The Old Testament declared this would happen many years before he was born, "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, daughter of Jerusalem! See your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of an ass. "
Eileen Lageer wrote a small parable entitled Palm Monday. "The donkey awakened, his mind savoring something pleasant. He arched his neck walking with mincing steps. "That group of people by the well" he said to himself, "I'll go and show myself to them" They took no notice. "Throw your garment down." he said crossly. "Don't you know who I am?"
They stared at him in amazement. Someone threw a stone. "Miserable infidels!" he muttered as he turned away in rage. I'll go down by the market. Some good people are sure to be there and recognize me." But it was the same. "The palm branches! Where are the palm branches?" he shouted. "Have you forgotten?" Dazed. he returned to his mother.
“Foolish child," she said gently. "Without Him you can do nothing.".
Certainly there is a parable for us. As we are used by Almighty God it is for his glory and our blessing. But may we be like that donkey used ages ago only to uphold Jesus so people can see Him. So people would see Jesus coming in peace not to destroy, but to love; not to condemn, but to help; not with strength of armies but with the strength of humility and service.
Pastor Dale
Theme Triumphal Entry
Verses John 12: 14-15 Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written, "Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt."
At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
Significance of the Colt
Jesus came riding in on a colt or a foal of an ass. That seems odd doesn't it? Jesus instructed the disciples who went into town earlier that evening exactly where this donkey was to be found and what to say to the owners. "The Lord has need of this."
The donkey in our society is a beast of burden. One would not have the same status that a horse rider would have. In fact in parades if there is a donkey or a mule usually it is a clown riding on it. When Macabee came riding in Jerusalem he rode on a Stallion, strong and mighty for battle. Yet Jesus rode on an ass.
In that culture when a King came riding on a donkey that meant they were not at war. They were not coming to fight, but they were coming in peace. The people might have asked, “Wasn't Jesus the King coming to conquer Herod, rather than peace?” Jesus was coming to bring peace with God to all who trusted in Jesus. He was to be the King of all who followed Him by faith.
The significance of a young colt not ridden before is important too, in the understanding of the times. Even the details were all part of the plan of Almighty God. He also showed that He had control over animals that have never been ridden. The Old Testament declared this would happen many years before he was born, "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, daughter of Jerusalem! See your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of an ass. "
Eileen Lageer wrote a small parable entitled Palm Monday. "The donkey awakened, his mind savoring something pleasant. He arched his neck walking with mincing steps. "That group of people by the well" he said to himself, "I'll go and show myself to them" They took no notice. "Throw your garment down." he said crossly. "Don't you know who I am?"
They stared at him in amazement. Someone threw a stone. "Miserable infidels!" he muttered as he turned away in rage. I'll go down by the market. Some good people are sure to be there and recognize me." But it was the same. "The palm branches! Where are the palm branches?" he shouted. "Have you forgotten?" Dazed. he returned to his mother.
“Foolish child," she said gently. "Without Him you can do nothing.".
Certainly there is a parable for us. As we are used by Almighty God it is for his glory and our blessing. But may we be like that donkey used ages ago only to uphold Jesus so people can see Him. So people would see Jesus coming in peace not to destroy, but to love; not to condemn, but to help; not with strength of armies but with the strength of humility and service.
Pastor Dale
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Significance of Shouting John 12:13
Sermon nuggets Weds July 30
Theme Triumphal Entry
Verses- 12:13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
The Significance of the Shouting
Not only are palms tradition for Palm Sunday, but the songs of Hosanna and Hosanna in the highest are song as part of the reflection of the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem to prepare for His sacrifice. It also has significance for the celebration to worship our Lord.
The word, "hosanna" means Save now. Hallelujah what a Savior. The shouts are important just to recognize the expression of Joy. Emotion is exhibited in both the non-verbal, the Waving of the branches, as well as the verbal, the shouts of victory as a conqueror comes into town.
They believed in God and so it was natural to associate Jesus with the will of God. God was using this one, called Jesus as an instrument to re-establish the Kingdom of Israel in their thinking. Here there is also a quote from the Old Testament Psalm 118:25,26 "O Lord, Save us; O Lord grant us success. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord For from the house of the Lord we bless you." This was part of the psalm known to the Jews as the Hallel. This was part of the memory work that all serious Hebrew boys had to learn and that is still true today. They sang this often at great acts of praise and thanksgiving in the Temple and regularly in the Synagogue now. This is an significant part of the Passover ritual.
According to Josephus, the Jewish historian, these very verses were sung and shouted by the crowd of Jerusalem when they welcomed back Simon Maccabaeus after he had conquered Acra, and wrestled it from Syrian dominion more than a hundred years before. There is no doubt that when the people sang this Psalm there were looking on Jesus as God's anointed. To the crowd he was like Simon Maccabaeus, and certainly to many as the anticipated Messiah as they understood him.
Jesus' very name means Savior. The Hebrew name Joshua means Savior The Angels sang to the shepherds that night when Jesus came into the world that this day in the city of David a Savior is born which is Christ the Lord. A savior brought the people to shout Hosanna. They were fulfilling the prophecies. They were tools of God to not only bring praise to the only begotten son of the Father, but also to fulfilling the prophecies of old. That is why in another Gospel Jesus could say to the Pharisees who were objecting to the children shouting praises to Jesus, that if they stopped the stones themselves would cry out. The Savior is coming, the Savior Jesus son of God is coming. “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”
Do you ever get so excited about Jesus Christ you feel like shouting? We are pretty reserved people for the most part. But even the rocks will cry out when the realization of the wondrous work of God is seen in the story of our redemption. It is something worthy of praise.
Pastor Dale
Theme Triumphal Entry
Verses- 12:13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
The Significance of the Shouting
Not only are palms tradition for Palm Sunday, but the songs of Hosanna and Hosanna in the highest are song as part of the reflection of the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem to prepare for His sacrifice. It also has significance for the celebration to worship our Lord.
The word, "hosanna" means Save now. Hallelujah what a Savior. The shouts are important just to recognize the expression of Joy. Emotion is exhibited in both the non-verbal, the Waving of the branches, as well as the verbal, the shouts of victory as a conqueror comes into town.
They believed in God and so it was natural to associate Jesus with the will of God. God was using this one, called Jesus as an instrument to re-establish the Kingdom of Israel in their thinking. Here there is also a quote from the Old Testament Psalm 118:25,26 "O Lord, Save us; O Lord grant us success. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord For from the house of the Lord we bless you." This was part of the psalm known to the Jews as the Hallel. This was part of the memory work that all serious Hebrew boys had to learn and that is still true today. They sang this often at great acts of praise and thanksgiving in the Temple and regularly in the Synagogue now. This is an significant part of the Passover ritual.
According to Josephus, the Jewish historian, these very verses were sung and shouted by the crowd of Jerusalem when they welcomed back Simon Maccabaeus after he had conquered Acra, and wrestled it from Syrian dominion more than a hundred years before. There is no doubt that when the people sang this Psalm there were looking on Jesus as God's anointed. To the crowd he was like Simon Maccabaeus, and certainly to many as the anticipated Messiah as they understood him.
Jesus' very name means Savior. The Hebrew name Joshua means Savior The Angels sang to the shepherds that night when Jesus came into the world that this day in the city of David a Savior is born which is Christ the Lord. A savior brought the people to shout Hosanna. They were fulfilling the prophecies. They were tools of God to not only bring praise to the only begotten son of the Father, but also to fulfilling the prophecies of old. That is why in another Gospel Jesus could say to the Pharisees who were objecting to the children shouting praises to Jesus, that if they stopped the stones themselves would cry out. The Savior is coming, the Savior Jesus son of God is coming. “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”
Do you ever get so excited about Jesus Christ you feel like shouting? We are pretty reserved people for the most part. But even the rocks will cry out when the realization of the wondrous work of God is seen in the story of our redemption. It is something worthy of praise.
Pastor Dale
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Significance of the Palms John 12:13
Sermon Nuggets Tues July 29, 2008
Theme- Triumphal Entry
Verses- John 12:13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
The Significance of Palms.
Each Spring we celebration Palm Sunday as the beginning of Holy Week. We are reminded of this passage where many in the crowed carried palm branches and waved them and laid them on the road before Jesus as He was entering into Jerusalem.
The palm tree has a strong tall straight trunk with a crown of branches on the top that stuck out like a crown on the head of a great king of trees. Although the tree was used for poles, food, leaves for thatched roofs and making containers, people also waved the palm branches. This was part of a custom of celebration. We do the same thing, only we call them pomp-pomps. Most cheerleaders at athletic events will attract attention and excitement in their yells, and shaking of the pomp pomps. It is part of the expressing of enthusiasm. When the Twins won their world series one of the ways the people showed support and excitement was the waving of the homer hanky.
Palm branches were used in the Old Testament for rejoicing. Lev.23: 41 " On the first day you are to take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds, leafy branches and poplars, and rejoice before the Lord your God for 7 days." This was a celebration known at the time as the Feast of the tabernacles. Related of course to when God chose to dwell in their midst in the tabernacle. When a tent housed the presence of God and was referred to as the Holy of Holies.
Interestingly, at this time many of the Jews were staying in booths and tents preparing for the Passover commemorating the time when Moses led them out of Egypt. They recognized God was in their midst and they celebrated. Now, again there was God in their midst. There was prophetic Old Testament celebration of the presence and provision of God for His people.
The crowds saw Jesus provide food with the feeding of the 5,000. They saw a king who would heal the sick and raise the dead. They wanted a new King that would rule many years as long as he would give them what they wanted.
Other people are always setting up their own expectations for the Lord, but Jesus refuses to live up to the misguided expectations. He will not allow us to make him over, set the agenda, or determine the terms of our relationship together. He is the one who tells us, not we him.
Crowds don't change much throughout the centuries however. They were as fickle as any other crowd. They can rally to the polls to elect a official, then rally to want to kick him out of office, depending on the mood of the day. It happens to just about every president. It happens for some good and bad reasons. Crowd appeal is very shallow. Let us all be careful to get caught up in what seems to be group pressure for whatever the reason.
One day Jesus can be hailed as the Savior and the next 5 days be shouted at and spit upon and crucified.
We have a glimpse of another celebration that we find in Rev. 7:9 "After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice. Salvation belongs to our God."
Palms branches were significant of celebration of victory, and religious expression that God was with them. Indeed he was and He is.
Pastor Dale
Theme- Triumphal Entry
Verses- John 12:13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
The Significance of Palms.
Each Spring we celebration Palm Sunday as the beginning of Holy Week. We are reminded of this passage where many in the crowed carried palm branches and waved them and laid them on the road before Jesus as He was entering into Jerusalem.
The palm tree has a strong tall straight trunk with a crown of branches on the top that stuck out like a crown on the head of a great king of trees. Although the tree was used for poles, food, leaves for thatched roofs and making containers, people also waved the palm branches. This was part of a custom of celebration. We do the same thing, only we call them pomp-pomps. Most cheerleaders at athletic events will attract attention and excitement in their yells, and shaking of the pomp pomps. It is part of the expressing of enthusiasm. When the Twins won their world series one of the ways the people showed support and excitement was the waving of the homer hanky.
Palm branches were used in the Old Testament for rejoicing. Lev.23: 41 " On the first day you are to take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds, leafy branches and poplars, and rejoice before the Lord your God for 7 days." This was a celebration known at the time as the Feast of the tabernacles. Related of course to when God chose to dwell in their midst in the tabernacle. When a tent housed the presence of God and was referred to as the Holy of Holies.
Interestingly, at this time many of the Jews were staying in booths and tents preparing for the Passover commemorating the time when Moses led them out of Egypt. They recognized God was in their midst and they celebrated. Now, again there was God in their midst. There was prophetic Old Testament celebration of the presence and provision of God for His people.
The crowds saw Jesus provide food with the feeding of the 5,000. They saw a king who would heal the sick and raise the dead. They wanted a new King that would rule many years as long as he would give them what they wanted.
Other people are always setting up their own expectations for the Lord, but Jesus refuses to live up to the misguided expectations. He will not allow us to make him over, set the agenda, or determine the terms of our relationship together. He is the one who tells us, not we him.
Crowds don't change much throughout the centuries however. They were as fickle as any other crowd. They can rally to the polls to elect a official, then rally to want to kick him out of office, depending on the mood of the day. It happens to just about every president. It happens for some good and bad reasons. Crowd appeal is very shallow. Let us all be careful to get caught up in what seems to be group pressure for whatever the reason.
One day Jesus can be hailed as the Savior and the next 5 days be shouted at and spit upon and crucified.
We have a glimpse of another celebration that we find in Rev. 7:9 "After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice. Salvation belongs to our God."
Palms branches were significant of celebration of victory, and religious expression that God was with them. Indeed he was and He is.
Pastor Dale
Monday, July 28, 2008
Triumphal Entry John 12:12-16
Sermon Nuggets Mon, July 28
Theme- Triumphal Entry.
Verses John 12:12-16
12 The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.
13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written,15 "Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt."
16 At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
The Triumphal Entry
Most people like a parade. I still enjoy watching them, but one of my highlights as a child was watching the Detroit Hudson Day Thanksgiving parade. There were clowns, bands, costumes and floats but the best part of the parade was Santa Claus who came into town at the conclusion. When I was in High school our band was invited to march in it. I had different priorities then. About a mile into the parade I had broken the head to my drum, and couldn't play the music so ended up walking along with the rest of the drummers. As we turned the corner to approach the end of the parade the view of the cameras were in sight. I turned the drum over and pretended to be playing for all I was worth in front of the national T.V. while the other drummers were really making the noise. Looking good, but it was only for show.
The passage of Scripture that we are looking at this morning talks of a parade. It is a celebration of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem before the Passover. I read one commentary that said there were about 3 million people that were part of it. I do not know how they came up with that large of a number, but it was the Passover and all the Jews who could came into the great city to celebrate this event.
Word spread that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Many wanted to see the man who could do this. Excitement was in the air, as two towns joined together from Bethany into Jerusalem. They were waiting to witness the coming of the celebrated guest...Jesus Christ.
Palm Sunday is exciting. But why all the fuss? What were they celebrating? Most didn't know. Many wanted to join in the fun of the occasion. Some, like me in the Thanksgiving Day Parade were there for show but not making music. Most thought they were welcoming a new King, a Jewish King, who was so powerful that he was going allow Israel rule over the Romans. Others I think in the parade of Palms just curiosity seekers, others want to be healed. Others firmly believed he was the Messiah sent from God.
We have great gatherings today with special events, like Promise Keepers, Billy Graham crusade or city wide prayer gatherings. The larger churches grow into Mega-churches and now Mega-churches grow into Giga-churches. There is something about a crowd that makes excitement contagious. When there are few who gather it can diminish the spirit of a crowd as well. But what is important to Jesus is the heart behind all the excitement, whether large or small.
Pastor Dale
Theme- Triumphal Entry.
Verses John 12:12-16
12 The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.
13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written,15 "Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt."
16 At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
The Triumphal Entry
Most people like a parade. I still enjoy watching them, but one of my highlights as a child was watching the Detroit Hudson Day Thanksgiving parade. There were clowns, bands, costumes and floats but the best part of the parade was Santa Claus who came into town at the conclusion. When I was in High school our band was invited to march in it. I had different priorities then. About a mile into the parade I had broken the head to my drum, and couldn't play the music so ended up walking along with the rest of the drummers. As we turned the corner to approach the end of the parade the view of the cameras were in sight. I turned the drum over and pretended to be playing for all I was worth in front of the national T.V. while the other drummers were really making the noise. Looking good, but it was only for show.
The passage of Scripture that we are looking at this morning talks of a parade. It is a celebration of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem before the Passover. I read one commentary that said there were about 3 million people that were part of it. I do not know how they came up with that large of a number, but it was the Passover and all the Jews who could came into the great city to celebrate this event.
Word spread that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Many wanted to see the man who could do this. Excitement was in the air, as two towns joined together from Bethany into Jerusalem. They were waiting to witness the coming of the celebrated guest...Jesus Christ.
Palm Sunday is exciting. But why all the fuss? What were they celebrating? Most didn't know. Many wanted to join in the fun of the occasion. Some, like me in the Thanksgiving Day Parade were there for show but not making music. Most thought they were welcoming a new King, a Jewish King, who was so powerful that he was going allow Israel rule over the Romans. Others I think in the parade of Palms just curiosity seekers, others want to be healed. Others firmly believed he was the Messiah sent from God.
We have great gatherings today with special events, like Promise Keepers, Billy Graham crusade or city wide prayer gatherings. The larger churches grow into Mega-churches and now Mega-churches grow into Giga-churches. There is something about a crowd that makes excitement contagious. When there are few who gather it can diminish the spirit of a crowd as well. But what is important to Jesus is the heart behind all the excitement, whether large or small.
Pastor Dale
Friday, July 25, 2008
Reactions to a Resurrection John 12:9-11
Sermon nuggets Fri July 25
Theme: Responding to Jesus
Verses- John 12:9-11 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him.(NIV)
Reactions to a Resurrection
Many came to believe because they saw the work of God in Lazarus raised to life after being dead. Rumors quickly spread and people needed to see for themselves. Many did believe in Jesus because of the sight of Lazarus alive.
Now Christ will return all all in Him will rise again. But that Spirit of life is available now to all who believe. People take notice when someone demonstrates a new life in Christ by the change and excitement and repenting from sin. Some when they see life in us marvel and follow Jesus for themselves. Do people see Jesus in us? Is there life evident?
Romans 6:4 says, "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." We have been raised from the dead Ephesians also tells us, that we were dead in transgressions and sins. We followed the ways of the world, but God in His great love and mercy made us alive. "Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set you minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Ralph Neighbour, pastor of Houston's West Memorial Baptist Church tells this story. Jack had been president of a large corporation, and when he got cancer, he went through his insurance, used his life savings, and had practically nothing left. Dr. Neighbour visited him with one of his deacons who said, "Jack, you speak so openly about the brief life you have left. I wonder if you've prepared for your life after death?"
Jack stood up, livid with rage. "You_____ _____ Christians, All you ever think about is what's going to happen to me after I die. If your God is so great, why doesn't he do something about the real problems of life?” He went on to tell us he was leaving his wife penniless and his daughter without money for college. Then he ordered them out of his room.
The pastor and deacon made a follow-up call. "Jack, I know I offended you, I humbly apologize. But I want you to know I've been working since then. Your first problem is where your family will live after you die. A Realtor in our church has agreed to sell your house and give you wife his commission. I guarantee you that, you you'll permit us, some other men and I will make the house payment until it's sold. Then, I've contacted the owner of an apartment house down the street. He's offered your wife a three bedroom apartment plus free utilities and an $850-a month salary in return for her collecting rents and supervising plumbing and electrical repairs. The income from your house should pay for your daughter's college. I just want you to know your family will be cared for."
Jack cried like a baby. He died shortly thereafter, so wrapped in pain he never accepted Christ. But he experienced God's love even while rejecting Him and his widow, touched by the caring Christians, responded to the gospel message.
Since Lazarus was a walking miracle that put him in the place of danger because the leaders wanted to kill him too. They were willing to keep their positions by arranging two murders. When a man has to support a position by destroying evidence which threatens it, it means that he is prepared to use dishonest methods to support a lie. And he knows it. Satan wants to destroy the life. Satan wants us to be powerless, fearful, and self-seeking. He knows when the glory of the Lord is seen people will see the reality of Jesus in ways that they want.
The same miracle produced two different responses. “Lets praise Him and follow Him.” And “If we can’t ignore Him, let’s attack and destroy Him.”
I see this spirit growing as increased martyrdom is exhibited. But Christ’s people let their light and life shine.
Pastor Dale
Theme: Responding to Jesus
Verses- John 12:9-11 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him.(NIV)
Reactions to a Resurrection
Many came to believe because they saw the work of God in Lazarus raised to life after being dead. Rumors quickly spread and people needed to see for themselves. Many did believe in Jesus because of the sight of Lazarus alive.
Now Christ will return all all in Him will rise again. But that Spirit of life is available now to all who believe. People take notice when someone demonstrates a new life in Christ by the change and excitement and repenting from sin. Some when they see life in us marvel and follow Jesus for themselves. Do people see Jesus in us? Is there life evident?
Romans 6:4 says, "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." We have been raised from the dead Ephesians also tells us, that we were dead in transgressions and sins. We followed the ways of the world, but God in His great love and mercy made us alive. "Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set you minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Ralph Neighbour, pastor of Houston's West Memorial Baptist Church tells this story. Jack had been president of a large corporation, and when he got cancer, he went through his insurance, used his life savings, and had practically nothing left. Dr. Neighbour visited him with one of his deacons who said, "Jack, you speak so openly about the brief life you have left. I wonder if you've prepared for your life after death?"
Jack stood up, livid with rage. "You_____ _____ Christians, All you ever think about is what's going to happen to me after I die. If your God is so great, why doesn't he do something about the real problems of life?” He went on to tell us he was leaving his wife penniless and his daughter without money for college. Then he ordered them out of his room.
The pastor and deacon made a follow-up call. "Jack, I know I offended you, I humbly apologize. But I want you to know I've been working since then. Your first problem is where your family will live after you die. A Realtor in our church has agreed to sell your house and give you wife his commission. I guarantee you that, you you'll permit us, some other men and I will make the house payment until it's sold. Then, I've contacted the owner of an apartment house down the street. He's offered your wife a three bedroom apartment plus free utilities and an $850-a month salary in return for her collecting rents and supervising plumbing and electrical repairs. The income from your house should pay for your daughter's college. I just want you to know your family will be cared for."
Jack cried like a baby. He died shortly thereafter, so wrapped in pain he never accepted Christ. But he experienced God's love even while rejecting Him and his widow, touched by the caring Christians, responded to the gospel message.
Since Lazarus was a walking miracle that put him in the place of danger because the leaders wanted to kill him too. They were willing to keep their positions by arranging two murders. When a man has to support a position by destroying evidence which threatens it, it means that he is prepared to use dishonest methods to support a lie. And he knows it. Satan wants to destroy the life. Satan wants us to be powerless, fearful, and self-seeking. He knows when the glory of the Lord is seen people will see the reality of Jesus in ways that they want.
The same miracle produced two different responses. “Lets praise Him and follow Him.” And “If we can’t ignore Him, let’s attack and destroy Him.”
I see this spirit growing as increased martyrdom is exhibited. But Christ’s people let their light and life shine.
Pastor Dale
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Responding in Worship John 112:7-8
Sermon nuggets Thurs July 24
Theme Responding to Jesus
Verses- John 12:7-8 "Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.
You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me." (NIV)
Responding in Worship
I thought about the preachers comments. “We were made to worship. That is the greatest thing we can do both on the earth and in heaven.”
Is worshipping the Lord more important than feeding the hungry?
Many will criticize money used for a sanctuary while others desire the money to go toward the homeless. It seems Jesus is relating a truth that we find in Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven”
We respond to Jesus by both worshipping and giving a cup of cold water in Jesus name. We respond to His love by adoring Him with all we have and serving others that they might know the love and kindness of Christ. Worship is more than what is done in church, it is ascribing worth and honor and praise in being the provider of beauty as well as food, of salvation as well as meeting our temporary needs.
Jesus was to go to the cross. He used this time of anointing to remind His disciples of His coming burial. John and the others realized the significance of this statement after the resurrection. Jesus knew why He was to be in Jerusalem during the Passover. He knew His Father’s plans. Such ointment was used for burial purposes. She was honoring Him in a way that even she had no knowledge. She worshipped. God confirmed this as a holy act.
Jesus knew the hearts of the disciples. The value of the ointment was of greater concern that the witness of worship.
When I think of the extravagant cathedrals of Europe my admiration goes out to those who planned it and constructed it as a means of their faith expression to the grandeur and exaltation of Jesus. As I toured some of these magnificent structures in Europe it struck me that the faith of the fathers certainly did not carry over to the generations that followed. Faith today seemed dead. It was materialistic. It was ritualistic. Worship for the most part was not out of a heart filled with love and devotion to our Lord, but out of duty, obligation and tradition. Even the alms collected for the poor showed limited compassion.
The worship of the Lord that is out of love was used of God to point to the redemption of Jesus by His death. But worship is also assisting those in need as that delights our Lord.
Mary chose the best part. He was used of God for prophetic purposes. It was designed to prepare his body for burial in the best way possible. It was done in worship.
Pastor Dale
Theme Responding to Jesus
Verses- John 12:7-8 "Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.
You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me." (NIV)
Responding in Worship
I thought about the preachers comments. “We were made to worship. That is the greatest thing we can do both on the earth and in heaven.”
Is worshipping the Lord more important than feeding the hungry?
Many will criticize money used for a sanctuary while others desire the money to go toward the homeless. It seems Jesus is relating a truth that we find in Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven”
We respond to Jesus by both worshipping and giving a cup of cold water in Jesus name. We respond to His love by adoring Him with all we have and serving others that they might know the love and kindness of Christ. Worship is more than what is done in church, it is ascribing worth and honor and praise in being the provider of beauty as well as food, of salvation as well as meeting our temporary needs.
Jesus was to go to the cross. He used this time of anointing to remind His disciples of His coming burial. John and the others realized the significance of this statement after the resurrection. Jesus knew why He was to be in Jerusalem during the Passover. He knew His Father’s plans. Such ointment was used for burial purposes. She was honoring Him in a way that even she had no knowledge. She worshipped. God confirmed this as a holy act.
Jesus knew the hearts of the disciples. The value of the ointment was of greater concern that the witness of worship.
When I think of the extravagant cathedrals of Europe my admiration goes out to those who planned it and constructed it as a means of their faith expression to the grandeur and exaltation of Jesus. As I toured some of these magnificent structures in Europe it struck me that the faith of the fathers certainly did not carry over to the generations that followed. Faith today seemed dead. It was materialistic. It was ritualistic. Worship for the most part was not out of a heart filled with love and devotion to our Lord, but out of duty, obligation and tradition. Even the alms collected for the poor showed limited compassion.
The worship of the Lord that is out of love was used of God to point to the redemption of Jesus by His death. But worship is also assisting those in need as that delights our Lord.
Mary chose the best part. He was used of God for prophetic purposes. It was designed to prepare his body for burial in the best way possible. It was done in worship.
Pastor Dale
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