After Jesus’ resurrection, he appeared to many people over 40 days. In his final time with his disciples he declared that God’s vision to bless the world was still on track and that they would be a significant part of this plan. As he did in A.D. 30, God’s Holy Spirit empowers followers today to join him in God’s vision to bring people from every language, tongue and tribe to himself through faith in Jesus for the glory of God the Father.
Sermons from April 2014
Freedom is a gift from God. One of the miracles that our living Jesus performs is liberating us when we are trapped in lies and unhealthy behaviors. On the day of His resurrection Jesus set Mary Magdalene free and He continues to liberate all who encounter Him today.
On Palm Sunday we celebrate the day when Jesus revealed to Jerusalem that He came to be her King. Yet, as we have been learning in recent weeks, the nature of His Kingdom was different than expected. Of the many qualities Jesus unveiled during His triumphant entry, we see His gentleness, grief and glory. All three of these attributes beckon a response from all who bow to King Jesus.
After Jesus’ announcement of the Kingdom, He clarifies it and demonstrates it in numerous ways, through direct teaching and parables, through demonstrations and miracles, and ultimately through His declaration of His own impending suffering and death. Unfortunately for many, it is not what they expect. Jesus disappoints, upsets, and frustrates those who are looking for their version of what the messiah should be: a Conquering King, a Righteous High Priest, and/or a Populist Governor. Jesus supersedes all those expectations, and points to Himself as the way, the truth, and the life.