Recent Sermons

Throughout his final week of ministry, Jesus is going to emphasize the importance of prayer. He will demonstrate to his disciples that effective prayer requires trusting God. We must fully trust in his power, purpose, promises, and plans.

Things are not always as they appear. Jesus will use a fig tree to illustrate that the appearance of life does not mean that there is any real fruit. This will be an important principle as he addresses the appearance of life but the lack of spiritual fruit in the Temple.

Jesus has already challenged his disciples to live lives of service and sacrifice. He has continued to explain what that means and how it should work in day to day living. Now, as he enters the last week of his earthly ministry, he will model it for them in the greatest act of service and sacrifice.

Often our own agendas, life's pressures and problems, and unexpected circumstances cause us to be distracted and self-focused. In our distraction, we can fail to even notice those around us who are hurting and need help. In this passage, Jesus sets the example of service and sacrifice at a very difficult time in his life and ministry.

In times of political turmoil, or any difficulties in our lives, where do we turn for comfort and relief. True comfort and relief will not be found through human devices but only in God.

God hates pride. Pride is at the heart of all sin and promotes self-gratification and self-promotion. God requires, honors, and blesses humility. Jesus calls his children to lives of self-denial, service and sacrifice. These are the characteristics that mark true greatness.