Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

The ministry of Jesus culminated in the crucifixion and resurrection. As we have been learning in this series, there were other sacrifices He made before the ultimate sacrifice (What He left), and other gifts He gave before giving His life (What He Gave). Now let's look at what Jesus carried with Him before He carried the cross.

As we continue to explore Christ's journey to the cross, we see something truly extraordinary if we bother to notice it. Jesus could have come and lived in any number of ways (without sinning), paid our sin debt, and left. Instead, we see a life, a ministry, wherein He served and gave in amazing ways. What a model this is for us, whom God has blessed so generously, and from whom God requires much!

As we draw closer to resurrection Sunday, let's take a fresh look at what was involved in our salvation. We know Jesus died on the Cross; was there anything else to His sacrifice? Jesus said some strong things about loving this world, leaving all, taking up our cross, etc. Let's look today at what Jesus left when He came to redeem us.

A famous "congregational prayer" used to say "Lord, keep our pastor humble; we'll keep him poor".Should those in occupational ministry even be paid for preaching the Gospel? Is this poor stewardship of offerings? After all, didn't Paul work with his hands in order to preach for free? Let's look at some of these questions and the clear answers in the Bible!

Tonight, Pastor Mike talks about how worship and gratitude are essential. Continuous rejoicing and prayer are encouraged, even during tough moments. The story of Paul and Silas illustrates the power of praise, leading to miraculous deliverance. Living with gratitude and counting blessings is vital, as God is always present and supportive. Pastor Mike concludes with a reminder of the eternal life promised to believers, urging everyone to trust in God's plan.

Some believe that the matter of Christians and money can be settled easily by simply pointing out that Jesus Himself was poor, and we are to follow His example. But was Jesus actually poor? You might be surprised by the answer!

Continuing on the topic of the presence of the Lord, one of the things that is promised there is rest...true rest. What does that look like? Why do we not experience that more easily in today's society? And how do we get there? The world tends to see rest in ways that lead to the same traps that can cause us to get our focus off of Jesus. Through the Word, we see it differently...the way God sees it.