As the sermon title not-so-subtly alludes, this passage is quite political. But not in the way folks might assume. While it does discuss political policies that the Israelites have embraced, ultimately the text shows God to be critical of those policies. In many ways this passage is a polemic against domestic and foreign dealings that don’t defer to God and yield to His way. But that doesn’t mean God is apolitical. It would seem from this text and elsewhere that He is anything but!
As we look at Psalm 127, we will find that we are to live as multipliers who are content in the person and purposes of God. In that we will live a life that gives of ourselves to build into the lives of future generations.
Paul instructs Timothy to establish elders and leadership in the various Cretan churches that they had planted together. In his explanation of what the character of an elder ought to be, he demonstrates that this the life that the believer should aspire to. In many ways, there is nothing overly special about the list, but in contrast to the living of the culture, this stands out as radical or bold. Again the emphasis for living an Gospel-centered life does not come from the command itself (legalism) but from the grace of God given to us in Jesus.
We are changed to become servants that care for others.
(Romans 15:15-21/Matthew 28:19-20)(Length 27:23/Size 8.46MB)
One of the main purposes of the church that we see in the writings of Paul is that we are to be a group of people that are building each other up and growing together. This week we explore opportunities we have to grow together as a unified church body.
The Father sent Jesus to live and die and be raised from the dead to establish His church as the vehicle to rescue and restore people and ultimately all of creation. Jesus has sent us to carry on His mission by enjoying constant fellowship with the Father, Son, and Spirit, and intentionally pursuing His mission of renewal by making disciples who make disciples.
.jpg)
The second missionary journey of Paul teaches us how important it is for us to have a plan as we seek to do the work of God, and how important it is for us to allow God to change that plan without much notice!