Our God Reigns!
Worldly powers are hostile to the things of God. But our Sovereign Lord will bring the kingdom to its fullness in the 'Anointed' -- no matter what.
Wishing on a Star
The magi followed the star to the Christ child. True disciples know that it shone with the light - and hope - of God's new day.
Monsters, Myths, & the Messiah
The Bible often describes God's work in the language of pagan myths. True disciples know that Christ cast down the dragon at Christmas.
A History of Death
Matthew introduces the Christ child in an unexpected context of death and disappointment. True disciples know that Jesus has come to bring life.
"Joy of the Whole Earth"
The theocracy's global vision gets taken up in the Great Commission.
God at War
Israel's 'Holy Wars' illustrate God's judgement. True disciples still take those lessons to heart -- but leave their swords at home.
City of God
Old Jerusalem has a lot to say about God's person and work. True disciples know it's a picture of the new heavenly city.
God's Tabernacling Presence
Through the sanctuary, God dwelt among sinners. True disciples know that our true temple is Jesus.
Signs of the Times
Theocratic Israel was a symbol of the heavenly kingdom. The theocracy may be gone, but the king has come!
Three Levels of Unity (2)
God anoints his people with blessings from above. They point to the Messiah -- and his 'Pentecostal' ministry.
Three Levels of Unity
From the beginning God has desired 'oneness' among his people. He accomplishes it through Christ by his Spirit.
The Broad View
David fixes our hope on the Promised Land. But true disciples know that in Christ we are heirs of a heavenly country.
The Long View
World news may drive us to distraction -- or worse! But true disciples live orderly lives of confidence.
Confession Confusion: When Sinners Pray
The Christian life is X-shaped like Jesus' Cross. Repentance and faith are better than any buried treasure.
"You are gods, all of you..."
Builders & Buildings Like Us
God calls his people to wise kingdom building. Fruitfulness is a sure thing in Christ.
The ABCs of Wisdom
Our world, our homes, & our hearts require much attention. True disciples seek God's wisdom for all of life.
Psalm 29
Lament for the Common Man
Humanity is marked by sin and death. True disciples know that Christ's 'lament' gives voice to their trouble -- and redeems them from it.
King of the Mountain
David pours out his 'lament" to God. True disciples know that the King enthroned on Zion hears -- and answers.
Uncommon Communion
David trusts that God will never abandon him. True disciples know that Christ always rescues his own -- even from death.
The Secret of Contentment
David rejoices in his heritage from God. True disciples are satisfied with 'bread' from their heavenly Father.
The Company We Keep
David makes God his refuge. In times of trouble, true disciples depend on God and the resources he supplies -- including each other.
A Tale of Two Scepters
God protects his people from wickedness. True disciples rejoice that Jesus rules the city of God -- and changes their hearts.
A Tale of Two Cities
God's care for his people is like a wall of protective mountains. True disciples rejoice that they are citizens of the heavenly Jerusalem.
Finding Sanctuary in His Presence
David seeks deliverance before God's 'face' in the tabernacle. True disciples know that Christ is God's provision for people in trouble.
Keep Trusting, Keep Following
David was confident in the Lord's deliverance from his enemies. True disciples follow Christ -- all the way to the end.
Thomas, from Doubting to Determined
Drake Williams
A Table Before Me
David found satisfaction in God's overshadowing presence. True disciples make Jesus their tabernacle.
Long Live the King
Jesus' birth and death share many details. True disciples can think about death -- and resurrection! -- in a new way.
Blessed Is the King!
The long road to Jerusalem gave Jesus time to 'map out' the kingdom he came to establish. (Some things don't fit on a campaign button!)
The God Who Remembers
Israel was defined by creation and exodus. Such a loving Creator and mighty Savior never forgets.
We Are What We Worship
God is worthy of praise because of his love and greatness. True disciples know that Jesus' death on the cross illustrates both.
Lord of Hosts, Lord of History
Pagans listen for the 'divine' in nature and their own hearts. True disciples rejoice that God reveals himself savingly in history.
A King of Contrasts
Unlike earthly kings, the God of the Bible rules in righteousness forever. True disciples receive the blessings of God's kingdom in God's messianic king.
When Trouble Comes
God declares his sovereign control over creation, the nations, and worldly might. True disciples know he's trustworthy -- so they obey, even when it's hard.
In His Own Words
The universe is a 'theater' of God's revelation.
But true disciples rejoice that he speaks specifically and savingly in his Son.
"The Secret of My Strength"
David reflects on the unexpected ways of God.
True disciples boast in their weakness-made-strong in Christ Jesus.
Poetry for the Penitent
Repentance and faith are wrought in secret by our saving God. But they don't stay there: They overflow in proclamation of his wonderful works!
Sermon prepared for Advent Four 'Christmas Canticles'
Nunc Dimittis
Simeon's Christmas Canticle of Witness & Wonder