Sermons on Hope
Happy are the Unhappy
In the beatitudes, Jesus tells us: “Blessed are those who mourn” (Matthew 5:4), a counter-cultural message then and now. Brent England digs into this verse in the context of modern life and his ministry as a prison chaplain.
A Better Covenant (Hebrews 7:20-28)
Few things better illustrate anticipation than a child on his way to Disneyland. Yet, by the end of the day, there are fewer places where you will hear more whining and complaining than Disneyland. Life is full of examples when reality does not live up to our expectations. We build up our goals and spend so much energy trying to achieve them, only to be left disappointed that the reward was not worth the effort. It is difficult to imagine…
Sure Of Better Things Hebrews 6:9-20
There is a growing body of research on the concept of hope. There is even scientific research suggesting that those who have hope are better off physically, psychologically, and socially. Researchers acknowledge that trauma can have a negative impact upon the capacity for some to experience hope. For instance, a fatal diagnosis from your doctor can deplete every ounce of will power to pursue every other goal in life. Chan Hellman, a professor at Oklahoma State University, studied the power…
Out Of Egypt I Called My Son
Last week we considered the birth of Christ from the rare perspective of Joseph (Mt 1:18-23). This morning we are looking at another passage that is rarely preached during Advent (Mt 2:13-23). The story of Christmas contains varied emotions. Each character experienced significant fears even though there is also a great deal of hope. We miss what God wants us to understand when we avoid the hardship and only reflect on the joy. Do you allow room for lament in your celebration of Christmas?…
The Triumph of the Cross (Matthew 27:45-51)
Have you ever felt alone? I don’t mean socially distant. I mean isolated from everyone. Maybe that sounds like a good thing to some of you. Maybe you are the kind of person who enjoys going to movie theaters alone. I can understand the value of getting away from the noise of this world, but we really were not created for isolation.
The Restoration of Israel (Amos 9:11-15)
We come now to Amos’ final words, and we are finally relieved to find that they are not words of judgment but of hope and promise. Nothing has changed on the part of the people. It’s not as if he saw some spark of interest in their eyes. In fact, we would not be surprised to find that many of the members of the original audience back in their homes, no longer listening to the rambling prophet. Regardless, this nation…
A Bitter Journey (Ruth 1:1-6)
Introduction We noted last week that chapter one presents the problem of death and emptiness in Naomi’s life. The solution begins to develop in chapter two, but the reader must wait until the very end of the story before seeing the full realization. Read Ruth 1:1-6 The famine that occurs in Bethlehem begins the story and explains why Elimelech is moving his family to Moab (1:1). The Lord’s provision of food ends the episode and begins the return journey of Naomi, now widowed and…
I Will Remember (Psalm 77)
Introduction Despair is a pervasive problem. And it is commonly associated with the night. Maybe you are one of the millions in despair about one or both of the presidential candidates. Or maybe it is something more personal and private. Or maybe you can’t pinpoint a cause. Regardless of what is causing your despair, Psalm 77 is sure to be a source of great comfort. Read Psalm 77 The psalmist never receives an explanation for his circumstances. He teaches us how to…