The Word Became Flesh (John 1:14-18)
Introduction When decorations and trinkets trivialize the image of Jesus, it’s just as important now, as it ever was in history, that we seriously consider who this child truly was – and is. Read John 1:1-18 Dorothy Sayers We may call that doctrine exhilarating or we may call it devastating; we may call it revelation or we may call it rubbish; but if we call it dull then words have no meaning at all. Only those without a spiritual pulse…
I Must Be In My Father’s House (Luke 2:41-52)
Introduction In the temple: Transitions from events when Jesus was 40d/o to an event that took place 12yrs later. Read Luke 2:41-52 How do Jesus’ human and divine nature work? Apocryphal gospels: Jesus molds clay doves and brings them to life. Jesus zaps some kids who were tormenting him. Luke emphasizes his human nature: Jesus had to study. Develops understanding of God’s Word through interaction. Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man. Jesus…
Living For Something Better (Ecclesiastes 7:1-12)
Introduction Things that leave us feeling anxious and ashamed. These frustrations are cyclical. 6:11 What is the advantage to man? Provides the answer in chapter 7. Wisdom literature = frequently shift subjects (Funerals > Rebuke > Oppression > Nostalgia). Read Ecclesiastes 7:1-12 Road Rage: I was recently cut off on the freeway by a person entering behind me. In order to get ahead of him, I had to cut off someone else. Think about a recent experience of suffering. What…
Nunc Dimmittis (Luke 2:21-40)
Introduction The quiet manger contrasted with the glorious angelic choir in the field of the shepherds. The incarnation is awe inspiring, reveals Jesus’ humility. Read Luke 2:21-40 The way we prepare for the arrival of our children. The most important step is seeking the Lord’s blessing. Praying for health and spiritual well-being. Joseph and Mary are seeking God’s blessing. 5x’s, “according to the Law of Moses/the Lord” (vv.22, 23, 24, 27 39). Purpose = Contemplate our reaction to Christ. Mary…
I Still Can’t Get No Satisfaction (Ecclesiastes 6:1-12)
Introduction The concluding exhortation to enjoy life as a gift from God (5:18-20) is the climax of a larger argument. Problem > Solution < Problem. We will see many parallel themes and phrases. Read Ecclesiastes 6:1-12 Even though we know we should enjoy the gift of life God has granted, we are frequently prevented from doing so. Why is that the case? Why can’t we simply decide to enjoy life more? We begin noticing and counting all our frustrations. The…
Gloria In Excelsis Deo (Luke 2:8-20)
Introduction In the first 30 years of Pax Romana. Who needs God? We have a sovereign, faithful, and humble Messiah. Don’t let the wonder of our Savior’s birth fade. Read Luke 2:8-20 A series of contrasts: Darkness/Light Manger/Field Wondering/Treasuring You are not in darkness; Your world is not filled with mundane routines; Your thrilling encounters with God are not all in the past… Treasure up and ponder this scene of the glory of God in the birth of a Savior…
I Can’t Get No Satisfaction (Ecclesiastes 5:8-20)
Introduction We have seen the value of community followed by the proper way a community is to approach God, namely with reverence. Here, we add another essential ingredient to the fulfilled life—joy. Read Ecclesiastes 5:8-20 Periods of transition create anxious feelings. Mostly revolve around uncertainty about the future. I get worried when things are out of my control, almost everything is! We all have guilt and emotional baggage. We perpetuate the cycle of guilt by repeated failure. Since we’re so…
The Messiah in a Manager (Luke 2:1-7)
Introduction 400 years of silence. Where is God? 200yrs of war > 30yrs of Pax Romana. Who needs God? The mundane beginning of the most elaborate birth narrative in Scripture. Read Luke 2:1-7 We need a Sovereign Messiah who can rescue us from our bondage to sin. We need a faithful Messiah who will follow through where we (and others) have failed. We need a humble Messiah who will meet us in the depths of our brokenness and lift us…
Approaching God With Reverence (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7)
Introduction Transitions from value of community to proper way community approaches God. Read Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 1wk after wedding, Carrie and I left the church I had attended for 12yrs. It wasn’t planned, but it was quick. That Sunday, two convertible 50s Chevy Bel Airs were parked at the entrance. Ladies in poodle skirts greeted us and guys in blue jeans and leather jackets ushered us inside (Grease). A 50s themed skit opened the service > 50s themed songs. Everything served…