The Preaching of John the Baptist (Luke 3:7-14)
Introduction Jesus’ birth and childhood (12y/o remained in the temple after Passover). Ch.3 transitions to John’s ministry during a time of political corruption and religious compromise. He prepares the way of the Messiah. Read Luke 3:7-14 John directs his preaching to individuals with spiritual insight (2). He warns the whole crowd, but zeroes in on a portion of them specifically. Their questions show a level of conviction that leads them to ask, what repentance looks like in their case. Repentance…
Who Is Like the Wise (Ecclesiastes 8:1-17)
Introduction Carrie and I recently watched Murder on the Orient Express. I’m sure Agitha Christie’s novel was better, but it had a pretty unbelievable ending that perfectly wrapped up every loose end. Unfortunately, the Preacher won’t be doing that for us in Ecclesiastes… We will be left with the same challenges. But struggling teaches us to trust in God even when we don’t have the answers. The benefits of wisdom are often paradoxical (funerals > birthdays). Wisdom limited (7:27-28). Read…
Number Our Days – Pt. 2 (Psalm 90)
Introduction Never resolved: “I hope to spend less time in prayer…” Hengstenberg There are scarcely ten in ten thousand moved by these things as they ought to be. Read Psalm 90 Our Shelter (1-2) God’s eternal affection despite our fickleness. The “dwelling place” all generations. Our Judge (3-11) Our Help (12-17) Teach Us and Have Pity On Us (12-13) Satisfy Us and Gladden Us (14-15) Illuminate Us and Favor Us (16-17) Our Judge (3-11) 3-4 Spurgeon, “God resolves and man…
Number Our Days – Pt. 1 (Psalm 90)
Introduction Historically preached at end of the year. Church of England (19c) read this at funerals. Moses probably prayed this for Israel near the end of his life. He looked out across the Dead Sea at the Promised Land that would be divided among the twelve tribes. Appreciating the hills, valleys, and vegetation, he meditated upon the sovereignty and justice of God. Read Psalm 90 He likely prayed this prayer before the people, warning and encouraging the next generation to…
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…