Follow Your Leaders

Today we will resume our series in Hebrews as we consider our responsibility to our church leaders, and their responsibility to us. Our author is concerned that his readers are being led away from the unchanging gospel of Christ which has been proclaimed by their past and present leaders. He encourages them to imitate the example of their faithful leaders and to obey them.

Problems with false doctrine and church leadership were not limited to the first century. We continue to have wolves among the shepherds, and rebellious sheep. Thankfully, the Lord has revealed how undershepherds are to emulate the Chief Shepherd in caring for the flock of God. Pray for us!

A Sure Word

2 Peter 1:19-21 – So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

A Sure Witness

2 Peter 1:16-18 For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased” — and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.

Trust God, Not Money

Last week we spoke about sexual idolatry. This week our author addresses the second great idol of our culture: materialism.

Some questions to consider:

• Is money itself evil?
• Why is money-love so harmful?
• Is it wrong for a Christian to gamble?
• What are the symptoms of money-love and discontentment?
• What is the cure for money-love?

The Victory of God’s Anointed King

I will be preaching from Psalm 2, which declares the victory of God’s anointed King over those who rebel against Him.
Though the world is in turmoil because of its rebellion against God, He Who sits in heaven is not disturbed. He has established His Anointed One to rule over the earth.
Those who rebel will be crushed which is why all people should submit to God’s Anointed Son while there is time.

As you read the Psalm think of how it speaks of David, how it speaks of Jesus, and how it speaks of our situation.

Radical Grace for Rebellious People

No one likes to hear bad news, but often through it good can come. The same is true for the people of Judah. Their condition was far worse than they imagined, yet the Lord was willing to show them incredible grace. As we look at this passage tomorrow, we will be made aware of the sins that lie deep within our hearts, and be encouraged by God’s gracious work to remedy the situation through faith in Christ.

Please read Isaiah 1 before you come to service tomorrow.