Sermon

Scripture References Acts 27 2 Corinthians 11 Acts 21 Acts 23 John 19 Introduction Guest speaker Jonathan “JP” Pokluda continues Lake Pointe’s Acts series, “There Is More: Endgame,” walking through Paul’s harrowing voyage in Acts 27. From a prisoner’s chains, Paul steadies 276 frightened people, proving that God – not weather, not authorities – holds the outcome. The chapter carries three big lessons: stay calm by remembering who is in charge, realize storms reveal real faith, and do your part while trusting God for everything else. Key Points / Exposition 1. Stay Calm by Remembering Who Controls the Outcome Paul, though in chains, warns the sailors that sailing after the Day of Atonement is disastrous; they ignore him. His peace rests in God’s sovereignty: Paul cannot command weather or captains, but he can command his own obedience, speech, and attitude. Obedience is never measured by immediate results; it is measured by faithfulness to God’s leading. Illustration: an eighth-grade flight that hit severe turbulence – a Bible bouncing off the ceiling – exposed a deeper fear: being out of control. Story: a bar confrontation where the aggressor calmly phoned two massive friends; his calm came from confidence in who backed him. Believers stay calm when they know who backs them. 2. The Storm Is Where Our Faith Is Seen Hurricane-force winds batter the ship for 14 days; cargo and tackle are thrown overboard, hope is lost. An angel assures Paul that he must stand before Caesar and all aboard will survive. Paul relays the message: “Keep up your courage…for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.” Storms give Christians their greatest platform; without trouble, faith remains theoretical. Historical note: John Wesley realized he was not truly saved after watching calm Moravian missionaries sing during a life-threatening storm. 3. Do Your Part and Trust God for the Rest Sailors try to abandon ship; Paul insists, “Unless these men stay with the ship, you cannot be saved.” Soldiers cut the lifeboat away. For two weeks no one has eaten; Paul breaks bread, thanks God publicly, and everyone eats – basic self-care restored. Practical takeaway: keep doing the basics (rest, Scripture, prayer, community) even when life feels chaotic. Illustration: a daughter “driving” the grocery-cart car – Dad lets her turn the wheel but still directs the cart toward his unseen grocery list. Sometimes God lets us feel in control; other times He steers another way for a larger purpose. Major Lessons & Revelations God owns the outcome; our role is simple obedience. Storms do not create faith; they reveal the faith already present. Public courage in crisis can lead others to salvation and safety. Neglecting spiritual and physical basics during trials compounds the danger. God may calm the storm, or He may calm His child within the storm – either way, He is faithful. Practical Application Surrender your need to manage every variable; practice immediate obedience in the small things. Speak up with reasoned, Spirit-led courage even if people ignore you. Maintain basic rhythms of Scripture, prayer, community, rest, and healthy habits when life gets turbulent. View current hardship as a platform to display authentic faith to onlookers. Rehearse God’s past faithfulness to strengthen present trust. Conclusion & Call to Response The message closed with a sweeping reminder of God’s proven experience – parting seas, shutting lions’ mouths, raising Jesus from the dead. If He has conquered death, He can certainly handle our storms. “If God is for you, who can be against you?” Whether He stills the wind or steadies your heart, He has you securely in His hands. Look at the birds, look at the flowers – your Father cares far more for you. Prayer Father, calm Your people in their storms and thank You for Jesus’ death and resurrection. Give us fresh vision of eternity so present problems shrink in comparison. Bless the church and its influence, and commit every listener to Your care in Jesus’ name. References & Resources Lake Pointe sermon series: “There Is More: Endgame” Guest speaker: Jonathan “JP” Pokluda (Harris Creek Baptist Church) Insights When life shakes like turbulence, remember the cockpit is occupied; God still holds the yoke. Outcomes don’t prove obedience; your courage to speak up does, so trust beyond the results. Storms strip priorities fast, revealing what you worship; choose to anchor in eternal truth. Faith isn’t avoiding rough air; it’s opening Scripture mid-drop and finding steady ground inside. Your peace can pilot others; someone’s survival may hinge on your choice to lead while chained. If God can outrun death, He can outlast this downpour – so stop fearing the forecast.

Scripture References Acts 23 Acts 9 Acts 12 Acts 13 Romans 2 1 Corinthians 4 1 Corinthians 8:7 Romans 12:2 1 Timothy 1:5 1 Timothy 4:1 Titus 1:15 Hebrews 5:14 1 Peter 3 Introduction Pastor Josh continues Lake Pointe’s Acts series, “There Is More: Endgame,” by tracing Paul’s declaration before the Sanhedrin: “I have fulfilled my duty to God with a good conscience to this day.” The weekend also celebrates the largest baptism weekend in the church’s history, with around 700 people publicly identifying with Christ. The sermon defines conscience, explains why it matters, and walks through four biblical conditions of the conscience: good, defiled, seared, and weak. The message moves from teaching to direct response, calling listeners to examine their conscience before God and obey Jesus publicly. Key Points / Exposition 1. Paul Stands Before Earthly Courts with an Inner Court at Peace Acts 23 begins the chain of events that will carry Paul toward Rome and eventual martyrdom. Paul’s courage does not come from friendly circumstances, but from a conscience aligned with God. A clear conscience lets believers stand firm when people, institutions, or pressure turn against them. 2. Conscience Is an Inner Witness, Not the Holy Spirit “Conscience” means “with knowledge.” It functions like an inner courtroom, testifying about right and wrong. The conscience is fallible; the Holy Spirit is infallible. Every person has a conscience, but only believers have the indwelling Spirit. Romans 2 shows that even people without Scripture still answer for the light of conscience they possess. 3. Rejecting Conscience Leads to Shipwreck Ignoring conscience does not create peace; it trains the heart to stop feeling warning. 1 Timothy warns that rejected conscience can lead to spiritual shipwreck. Silence after repeated compromise may not be peace from God, but the loss of sensitivity to God. 4. A Good Conscience Is Trained by God A good conscience is settled when obeying God and disturbed when sinning. Paul could face mobs and rulers because the inner court had cleared him before God. Lighthouse illustration: public pressure may command the conscience to move, but a trained conscience stands fixed like a lighthouse. 5. A Defiled Conscience Is Calibrated by the World A defiled conscience begins calling evil good and good evil. Constant exposure to celebrated sin reshapes moral instinct through media, friendships, and culture. The cure is saturation in Scripture, renewing the mind and retraining moral discernment. Parents are called to guard what shapes their children: friends, shows, social media, and cultural voices. 6. A Seared Conscience Has Been Calloused by Repeated Sin Repeated disobedience can burn the heart until sin no longer feels painful. Carpenter hands and a seared steak illustrate the same principle: what once felt tender becomes hardened. God protects believers through honest brothers and sisters who are allowed to confront sin early. 7. A Weak Conscience Condemns What God Has Not Forbidden A weak conscience is over-sensitive, often shaped by former bondage or painful history. It may condemn things Scripture does not forbid, as in 1 Corinthians 8 and meat offered to idols. Weak conscience can leak into judgmentalism when personal scruples become rules for everyone. The cure is deeper confidence in the Father’s heart and Christ’s finished work. 8. The Father Celebrates Stumbling Steps Toward Him God is not an angry judge toward His children, but a loving Father. Toddler illustration: parents rejoice over the first wobbly step, even when the child falls. The question every believer must answer is: “How does God feel about me when I sin?” In Christ, conviction draws children back to the Father; condemnation drives them away. Major Lessons & Revelations A clear conscience empowers bold, lion-hearted obedience. The Word trains the conscience; the world deforms it. Repeated compromise can deaden the warning system God gave for protection. Community is one of God’s safeguards against a seared conscience. Weak consciences need the Father’s heart, not more fear. Heaven rejoices over every imperfect step of obedience toward Jesus. Practical Application Examine which conscience most describes you: good, defiled, seared, or weak. Saturate your mind with Scripture so your conscience is calibrated by the Word instead of the world. Confess persistent sin before repeated compromise hardens into spiritual numbness. Deputize trusted believers to confront you early and honestly. Refuse to rebrand evil as fun or good as boring. If you have trusted Christ but never obeyed in baptism, respond publicly. Conclusion & Call to Response The courtroom that finally matters is the one inside, aligned with the courtroom of heaven. Paul could stand before earthly judges because his conscience was clear before God. If the Spirit is awakening your conscience, do not ignore Him; step toward Jesus in confession, obedience, and baptism. Prayer Father, train our consciences by Your Word and make us quick to respond when You convict us. Heal what is weak, cleanse what is defiled, soften what has been seared, and give us courage to walk before You with a clear conscience. Let every step toward Jesus be met with the joy of the Father and the obedience of a surrendered heart. References & Resources Lake Pointe sermon series: “There Is More: Endgame” Lake Pointe resources on Pharisees, Sadducees, and Acts 23 Baptism response weekend at Lake Pointe Church Insights Ignore God’s whisper long enough and you’ll mistake the silence for a false sense of peace. When Jesus rescues you, He instantly drafts you onto His unstoppable rescue squad. Reject your conscience today and you’ll navigate tomorrow like a plane with zero onboard warnings. Holiness isn’t stained-glass perfection; it’s daily refusing to sell your soul for cheap, comfortable convenience. The enemy’s best weapon is a believer who rebrands evil as fun and good as boring. One shaky step toward Jesus triggers all of heaven’s roar over you.

Scripture References John 6:35 Luke 9:12-17 John 3:16 Introduction Guest preacher David Nasser expresses gratitude to Lake Pointe Church and honors Pastor Josh & Jana Howerton. Announces focus on a single verse–John 6:35–calling it “fighting words” (Spurgeon) and “the Bible in a nutshell” (Billy Graham). Sets expectation to link that verse to the previous day’s event in Luke 9 (feeding of the 5,000), showing Jesus’ method before His message. Key Points / Exposition 1. “I AM the Bread of Life” – Words That Cost Blood “I AM” echoes God’s covenant name; the crowd instantly recognizes the divine claim. The definite article “the” (not “a”) proclaims exclusivity–Jesus alone satisfies. Offense is timeless: first-century Jews sought to silence Him; modern culture resists exclusive truth. Personal illustration: California festival objected to John 6:35 on the Jumbotron; Nasser refused to dilute the claim. 2. Good Gifts vs. Ultimate God Family, marriage, vocation–wonderful gifts yet inadequate as saviors. Wife of 32 years: “phenomenal wife, terrible god.” Children & grandchildren: “amazing kids, horrible gods.” Only when Jesus is on the throne and every other love is a “distant second” does life find order and meaning. 3. The Method: Feeding the Hungry (Luke 9:12-17) Crowd ~15,000 (men, women, children). One boy’s lunch highlights human insufficiency vs. Christ’s sufficiency. Jesus doesn’t preach first; He serves first–meeting a felt need to reveal the deeper need for Himself. Next morning the same crowd seeks more bread, setting the stage for John 6:35. Message (John 6:35) follows Method (Luke 9). 4. Service as Evangelistic Strategy “Win your one more” by imitating Jesus’ pattern: Notice a need. Serve sacrificially. Speak gospel truth when hearts are softened. Elevator story: students’ radical generosity toward hotel staff led to a cleaning lady saved while riding between floors. Family restaurant story: Church staff bused tables for two weeks; the father’s heart opened, permitting his son (Nasser himself) to attend church and ultimately come to Christ. Kindness is a super-power; service clears the debris blocking gospel credibility. Major Lessons & Revelations Christ’s exclusivity is non-negotiable; He alone is the Bread that satisfies eternal hunger. Meeting practical needs is not peripheral–it is Jesus’ chosen doorway to spiritual transformation. The Church must embody the gospel before it verbalizes the gospel. True worship often looks like rolled-up sleeves and unexpected acts of love. Practical Application Identify “the one” God has placed closest to you yet far from Him. Pray intentionally for eyes to see that person’s tangible need. Act: mow a lawn, prepare a meal, offer child-care, volunteer at their workplace–serve without fanfare. When gratitude or curiosity opens the door, share the reason for your hope (John 3:16). Keep Jesus on the throne: daily assess whether any good gift is crowding out the Bread of Life. Conclusion & Call to Response Congregation invited to raise hands for their specific “one more,” symbolizing commitment to serve and share. Challenge: become the Church in action before merely inviting people to a church gathering. Promise: God will use simple acts of kindness, coupled with courageous truth, to rescue modern “Davids” still waiting to hear. Prayer “Lord, give us wisdom to detect needs, courage to step in, and boldness to speak of Jesus when hearts are ready. Let acts of kindness pave highways for the gospel, and may many discover that You alone are the Bread of Life. Amen.” ...

Scripture References Matthew 23 Matthew 23:11-12 Galatians 5:22-23 Psalm 118:26 Introduction Pastor Chris (on staff nearly 20 years) continued the “Investigating Jesus” series. Previous week: End-Times message; this week: the question, “What about all the hypocrites?” Light-hearted open (Disney trip, humorous photo of Pastor Josh), then pivot to the seriousness of hypocrisy. Rooted Celebration Weekend: 2,500 graduates; invitation to text ROOTED to 20411 for next session. Context: Matthew 23 takes place on the Tuesday of Passion Week–Jesus’ final public confrontation with the Pharisees. Key Points / Exposition 1. “Team Jesus” vs. “Team Jesus in Name Only” Not all religious leaders actually belong to Christ (Matthew 23:1-7). Pharisees knew the Law externally, added burdens, sought status (large phylacteries, long tassels). Modern parallel: headlines of fallen pastors; discernment required. Tests for legitimacy: Follow the fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). Test teaching against Scripture. Examine private life consistency (family, humility, service). 2. The Seven Woes - Hypocrisy Exposed (Matthew 23:13-36) Shut the door of the Kingdom–block access to God. Win converts only to corrupt them–lead others away from God. Twist oaths–manipulate truth for personal gain. Strain gnats, swallow camels–majors vs. minors. Clean outside of cup–outward show, inner greed. White-washed tombs–look alive, spiritually dead. Honor murdered prophets–celebrate past truth while rejecting present Messiah. Imagery explained: gnat (smallest unclean), camel (largest); white-wash used before Passover. Jesus’ tone: protective of the people these leaders misled. 3. Seven Marks of a Devoted Faith (The Positive Inversion) Live as a visible example of Jesus–consistency in home, work, church. Commit to leading “one more” to Christ–intentional evangelism. Let God’s Word drive you to serve–greatest is servant of all (Matthew 23:11-12). Recognize God’s power to forgive every sin–no one beyond grace. Walk in humility–invite correction, resist spiritual pride. Remain spiritually alive–abundant life flows from grace, not self-righteousness. Trust Jesus as Lord–foundation for all other marks. 4. Correction Anchored in Love (Matthew 23:37-39) Tone shifts from indictment to lament: “Jerusalem, Jerusalem … how often I longed to gather you.” Jesus’ correction never detached from His desire to save. Adoption illustration: God “checked every box,” chose us despite baggage; cross covers “select all.” Major Lessons & Revelations Hypocrisy is not merely inconsistency–it actively blocks others from Christ. Outward religiosity without inward transformation angers and grieves Jesus. True greatness in the Kingdom is measured by humble service, not public platform. Christ’s love pursues even the hypocrite; His cross is sufficient for every sin. Practical Application Self-audit: ask whether your faith is displayed or devoted; confess hidden sin. Join community for growth–sign up for Rooted; text ROOTED to 20411. Serve somewhere regularly–text SERVE to 20411. Evaluate leaders you follow: fruit, family, fidelity to Scripture. Identify and pray daily for “one more” person far from God; share your story. Practice transparency at home–let children see authentic repentance and service. Conclusion & Call to Response Jesus exposes hypocrisy to invite healing. Invitation: receive salvation or return from duplicity; ministry teams available at crosses/front after service. Church encouraged to honor faithful shepherds (Pastor Josh, Pastor Steve) while each member embraces a devoted, humble walk with Christ. Prayer Thanksgiving for grace that grants repeated chances. Petition for courage to confess hidden sins and live transparently. Intercession for those ready to trust Jesus today to step forward and receive new life. References & Resources Rooted 10-week discipleship experience (text ROOTED to 20411). Lake Pointe Serve Teams (text SERVE to 20411). Insights Jesus cares more about hidden motives than polished images; when His Spirit cleans the heart, the outside naturally shines, because authentic holiness always starts on the inside. God’s fatherly love confronts our hypocrisy, not to shame us, but to gather us like cherished children, proving that correction is inseparable from His relentless grace. On the cross, Jesus checked every box of sin–anger, pride, deception–then declared you accepted, so no past can outrun the reach of His redemption. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live Monday through Sunday what we confess on weekends, inviting neighbors and children to hope, because a devoted life preaches louder than any sermon. When you place serving above status, heaven rejoices, for Jesus promised that the humble will be lifted while the self-exalting are brought low. Run to community and the Word, for God shapes messy people into living testimonies, proving daily that grace matures best in honest fellowship.

Scripture References Luke 21 Matthew 24 Matthew 23 Matthew 28:19 Hosea 4:6 Hebrews 9:22 Galatians 3:28 John 16 2 Peter 3:9 1 Thessalonians 5:3 Romans 8:22 Revelation 6 Revelation 20 Ezekiel 38 Introduction Pastor celebrates Easter weekend impact: 53,000 in-person attenders and 2,772 salvations. Sets expectation: this message is heavier–extensive Scripture reading and dot-connecting. Illustration: the ever-ticking countdown clock on stage reminds him of limited time; Jesus says human history also has a countdown. Core question: “When will Christ return, and what will He do then?” Jesus’ longest answer (Luke 21 & Matthew 24) divides history into three ages; the sermon traces them and their transitions. Key Points / Exposition 1. Age #1 - Judaism Concludes (33 AD prophecy, 70 AD fulfillment) Jesus’ four predictions (Luke 21:5-24): Jerusalem besieged. Temple completely dismantled–“not one stone on another.” Severe judgment on the city. Jewish diaspora among the nations. Historical fulfillment: Titus’ Roman siege (70 AD); temple stones pried apart for melted gold–photographic evidence remains at Temple Mount’s western wall rubble. Two implications: God’s Word never fails. This destruction signaled the close of the Judaic era; Jesus left the temple (Matthew 23:38) and the shadow system (priests, sacrifices, Holy of Holies) gave way to its substance–Christ, the once-for-all Mediator and Sacrifice (Hebrews). 2. Age #2 - The Gentile Mission Jesus names it “the times of the Gentiles” (Luke 21:24 – Greek: kairoi ton ethnon). Great Commission mandate (Matthew 28:18-20): all authority, all nations (ta ethne), disciple-making until “the end of the age.” Spiritual reality: in Christ believers become “one” though not “the same” (Galatians 3:28). Illustration: pastor’s multi-ethnic family mirrors multi-ethnic church; Lake Pointe seeks to embody a movement “for all people.” What ends this age? The gospel reaching every ethnicity (Matthew 24:14). Missiological evidence: 16,173 daily conversions in Africa; each hour of delay means 673 more souls, each minute 28 more. Church response: church planting (90+ plants), 23 global partners, multi-campus strategy, sacrificial giving. 3. Age #3 - Christ’s Return and the New Creation When the Gentile mission completes, Jesus appears “in a cloud with power and great glory” (Luke 21:27). Believers’ posture: “stand up, lift your heads; your redemption is drawing near.” Four major end-of-age signs (Matthew 24): Global deception – false messiahs, Bible-quoting error; antidote: personal Scripture intake. Global chaos – wars, rumors, famines, earthquakes likened to intensifying birth pains (Romans 8; 1 Thessalonians 5). Global persecution – believers hated by all nations; growing legal/cultural hostility illustrated by Canada & U.S. examples. Global apostasy – many turn from faith, join false religion empowered by counterfeit miracles (John 16; 2 Thessalonians theme). Pastor’s speculative alignment: Islamic eschatology’s Mahdi parallels biblical Antichrist (Revelation 6; 20; Ezekiel 38 nations). Assurance: despite darkness, “greater is He that is in you”; Jesus will conquer, wipe every tear, and usher in the new earth. Major Lessons & Revelations God’s prophetic word is precise and unfailing. History is linear, purposeful, and Christ-centered–three divine epochs, not random cycles. The current epoch exists for global disciple-making; delay equals mercy. End-time phenomena are not for panic but preparation; believers must discern, endure, and advance the mission. Unity in Christ transcends ethnicity, class, and culture; gospel creates one redeemed family. Practical Application Engage the Mission Pray, give, and go with church-planting and global partners; live Great Commission intentionally. Saturate Yourself in Scripture Daily reading guards against deception; prioritize truth over trendy voices. Strengthen in Community Join “Rooted” 10-week discipleship experience to learn prayer, Bible study, freedom from sin, and evangelism. Prepare for Opposition Expect cultural resistance; anchor identity in Christ’s approval, not society’s. Vote and Influence Wisely Consider religious freedom and biblical ethics in civic engagement. Conclusion & Call to Response The prophetic timer is running; only readiness matters when the clock hits zero. Immediate step: register for the next Rooted session (scan QR code or text “ROOTED” to 20411). Final exhortation: know what time it is even if the mechanics are mysterious–be found faithful when Jesus appears. Prayer References & Resources Lake Pointe “Rooted” discipleship groups. Historical works: Josephus, Tacitus on 70 AD siege. Insights All creation is living on a divine countdown; when the final second falls, Christ will part the sky and history will bow, because His return is certain and unstoppable. The stones once thrown from Herod’s temple still testify that not one promise of God can crumble, for every word Jesus speaks stands firmer than earth itself. In this age of the Gentiles, Christ is gathering sons and daughters from every tribe, tongue and timeline, forging one family where redemption’s blood is thicker than every earthly difference. The gospel must echo through all ethne before dusk falls on this era, so we labor joyfully, knowing each soul saved is another trophy of Jesus’ patient love. Wars, quakes and counterfeit prophets may multiply like birth pains, yet believers lift their heads because our Redeemer draws near with power greater than every global chaos. Grace’s hourglass is draining; now is the season to repent, follow, and stay awake, for only those ready will rejoice when the King arrives.

Scripture References Ephesians 1:4 Genesis 12 – 50 Exodus 1 – 32 Psalm 106:21 Exodus 25:8-9 Exodus 20:1-17 Romans 3:20-24 Hebrews 10:1, 10 John 3:16 Introduction Pastor Mike Breaux welcomes in-person and online attenders and reminds them Easter is next weekend – “Who are you inviting?” Sets up the theme: as Easter approaches, move from “investigating where Jesus went” to “who He is and what He’s done.” Uses everyday “shadows” (sunsets, dark alleyways, Groundhog Day) to introduce the biblical idea of Old-Testament shadows pointing forward to Christ. Key Points / Exposition 1. The Grand Storyline Summarized Bible arc: God longs for relationship with people like us. People like us broke that relationship. God moves through history to restore it. Ephesians 1:4 (Message paraphrase) underlines God’s pre-creation love and purpose. 2. Patriarchal Shadow: Promise to Abraham Genesis narrative: barren Abraham & Sarah laugh; Isaac (“laughter”) born. Promise: through their offspring “all nations” will be blessed – shadow of Christ. 3. Exodus Shadow: Deliverance from Slavery Israel enslaved 400+ years under a Pharaoh “who knew not Joseph.” God calls 80-year-old Moses; emphasis on God’s power, not Moses'. Ten plagues directly confront Egypt’s gods; final plague/Passover lamb – blood on doorposts causes death to “pass over.” Red Sea crossing prefigures Christian baptism – past buried in water, people walk free. 4. Wilderness Shadows: Daily Provision & Presence Manna (“What is it?”) = daily dependence (“Give us this day our daily bread”). Quail, water from rock, pillar of cloud/fire all foreshadow God’s Spirit guiding believers. Portable Tabernacle: God insists His dwelling be “in the middle of the camp,” symbolizing His desire to be at the hub of our lives. Furnishings (altar, lampstand, curtain, Most Holy Place, Ark of the Covenant) each carry Christ-fulfilled symbolism. 5. Ark of the Covenant: Covenant Shadow Box Contents: jar of manna, Aaron’s budding staff, Ten Commandments – tokens of provision, resurrection power, moral blueprint. God invites Moses up Sinai; gives Ten Commandments as relational guidelines. 6. Israel’s Immediate Failure: The Golden Calf While Moses receives tablets, people grow impatient; Aaron fashions golden calf from plundered jewelry. Psalm 106:21 – “They forgot God.” Moses smashes tablets (only person to break all Ten Commandments simultaneously). Commandments re-issued; illustrate human inability to stay faithful. 7. The Straight-Edge of the Law Audience self-assessment through the Ten Commandments proves universal guilt. Romans 3:20 – Law shows “how crooked we really are,” not a ladder for self-improvement. Primary purpose: drive us to a Savior. 8. Fulfillment in Christ Romans 3:21-24 – righteousness available “by faith in Jesus Christ… for everyone who believes.” Hebrews 10:1, 10 – Old sacrifices were “only a shadow,” Christ’s one sacrifice makes us holy “once for all.” Jesus is the true Passover Lamb; His cross = doorpost splashed with saving blood. 9. Imaginative Upper-Room Reflections Pastor envisions disciples and others (James/John, healed blind man, Nicodemus, widow with two mites, Zacchaeus, Peter, adulterous woman, Barabbas) rehearsing how Jesus fulfilled every shadow in their lives. Culminates with John’s declaration: “For God so loved the world…” – recognizing Jesus as ultimate fulfillment. Major Lessons & Revelations Every Old-Testament event, object, and ordinance previews Jesus. The Law exposes sin; grace in Christ removes it. God’s heart is always to dwell “in the middle” of His people, now inside believing hearts by the Spirit. Salvation is substitutionary – Jesus dies in the place of Barabbas, in the place of us. Practical Application Examine life for modern “golden calves” – anything we elevate above God. Use the Ten Commandments this week as a mirror, then run to grace rather than self-defense. Live a “daily manna” rhythm – trust God one day at a time. Re-center: invite God to the hub, not the periphery, of your calendar, finances, relationships. Invite someone far from Christ to Easter; share the shadow-to-substance story. Participate in Communion thoughtfully, expressing personal gratitude and faith. Conclusion & Call to Response The shadows have given way to substance: Jesus, the Passover Lamb, shed His blood so death might pass over us. The cross stands as the doorway back to relationship with God. Listeners are urged to: ...

Scripture References Luke 16:19-31 Luke 1:1 John 14:6 Genesis 3:4 2 Thessalonians 1:9 Ezekiel 18:23 John 3:16-17 Revelation 19 Introduction Series: “Investigating Jesus” (goal: move from crowd to true discipleship). Luke, a physician, writes to his lost friend Theophilus, carefully compiling controversial teachings–including Jesus’ words on hell. Preacher acknowledges cultural pressure to avoid topics of politics, money, and hell; chooses to confront hell head-on because Jesus taught it plainly. Satan’s first lie (Genesis 3:4) denies judgment; he still uses three goals: Let unbelievers reject Christ without fear. Sap believers’ urgency to evangelize. Diminish God’s glory in redeemed lives. Key Points / Exposition 1. Six Popular but Unbiblical Views of Hell Naturalism: no soul, no judgment, life ends in oblivion. Universalism: everyone (or nearly everyone) ends in heaven; “all paths equal.” Reincarnationism: repeated earthly lives paying karmic debt. Annihilationism: the lost eventually cease to exist or suffer briefly. Catholicism (Purgatory): believers suffer temporarily to finish purification. Jesusism: the only authoritative view–Jesus’ explicit teaching in Scripture. 2. Jesus’ Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) Characters: unnamed rich man (luxury, purple linen) vs. beggar Lazarus (“God helps,” covered in sores). Earthly perceptions reversed in eternity: rich man in Hades/torment, Lazarus in Abraham’s side (comfort). Descriptors of hell: agony, fire, thirst, conscious awareness, permanent chasm–no post-mortem second chances. Rich man pleads for loved ones to be warned; Abraham points to Moses & the Prophets (Scripture) and foretells unbelief even after resurrection. 3. Gehenna: Jesus’ Primary Word for Hell Geographic reference: Valley of Hinnom (SW of Jerusalem). OT history: child sacrifice to Molech; later defiled by King Josiah; became garbage dump where fires burned continually. Jesus (11 of 12 NT uses) adopts “Gehenna” to picture never-ending, cursed separation, stench, fire, uncleanness. 4. Core Truths Jesus Declares Hell exists–atheism and naturalism lie. Torment is conscious and eternal–annihilationism lies. Destiny irreversible after death–no purgatory or post-mortem salvation. Only one escape: Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Awareness of wrath fuels amazement at mercy; worship springs from knowing what we’re saved from. 5. God’s Heart Versus Human Choice God “wants everyone to repent” (2 Th 1:9; Ezek 18:23). Christ’s cross stands at hell’s entrance–people must “step over His dead body” to go there. Hell ultimately is people’s chosen separation from God; heaven would feel like hell to those who hate God’s presence. Major Lessons & Revelations Misbelief about judgment is Satan’s oldest tactic. Cultural comfort in judging God turns hypocritical when confronted with God judging us. Hell is the only place everything is perfectly fair; heaven is gloriously unfair, dispensing grace. Evangelistic urgency: real people face real eternity–fire is hot, eternity is long. Jesus spoke of hell more often than anyone else; love demands we speak likewise. Practical Application Examine personal belief–discard cultural lies, align with Jesus’ words. Christian urgency: Pray daily for eyes to see every person’s eternal destiny. Share the gospel boldly; use upcoming Easter services/outreach. Volunteer at least one week (kids, guest services, etc.) to facilitate others hearing the message. Worship deeper–meditate on the wrath you escaped to appreciate mercy. For seekers: respond now; this life is the only window to repent. Conclusion & Call to Response Pastor warns passionately–like shouting “fire” in a burning building. Decision moment: trust in Jesus’ finished work or remain separated forever. Many raise hands, confess sin, believe in Christ’s death and resurrection, receive forgiveness and adoption. Church challenged to walk across offices and yards rather than let neighbors walk into hell. Prayer Confession of sin and misplaced priorities. Thanksgiving for Jesus’ complete “It is finished” sacrifice. Intercession for lost family, friends, and Easter guests. Petition for servant hearts and holy urgency in the church. References & Resources “Investigating Jesus” sermon series Luke 16:19-31 (primary text) Insights A bleeding Jesus stands at the gates of hell, crying that anyone who enters must step over His sacrifice; He alone is the way that turns judgment into mercy and welcomes us home. A real hell and a real heaven stretch before every soul; the Spirit stirs us to cross the street, the office, the ocean with Christ’s rescue in our mouths because eternity matters. When I grasp the fire I deserved, worship erupts like a fountain; God’s wrath understood makes His mercy astounding, propelling my heart to praise the Lamb who paid it all. Fairness would give me hell; grace gives me sonship. In heaven everything is gloriously “unfair” because Jesus finished the work and freely credits His victory to helpless sinners, inviting us to rest, not earn. The Father delays Christ’s return because His heart aches for every prodigal; today is mercy’s open door–repent, believe, and step into the eternal embrace prepared for you before the door closes. Disciple, your schedule is a missionary field; if hell is real, then loving Jesus means loving people enough to serve, speak, and sacrifice so they can meet Him–urgency is holy obedience.

Scripture References Luke 9:51 Isaiah 50:6-7 Matthew 21:1-11 Mark 11:1-11 Luke 19:28-44 John 12:12-19, 16 Zechariah 9:9 Psalm 118:25-26 Deuteronomy 8:3 Deuteronomy 6:13 Psalm 91 Proverbs 29:25 John 12:42-43 Introduction The preacher invites the church to journey with Jesus along His final, “dark and scary road” toward Easter. Luke 9:51 marks the hinge of the gospel narrative: Jesus “set His face” toward Jerusalem–language of iron-willed resolve and fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. Historical backdrop: Passover week swells Jerusalem to ~2 million pilgrims; Rome dispatches extra troops; political tension is electric. Two contrasting parades will converge: Pilate from the west with war-horses; Jesus from the east on a donkey portraying humility and true power. Key Points / Exposition 1. The Road from Jericho 19-mile desert road known for robbers (Good Samaritan setting). Jesus travels it at the start of Passover week, fulfilling prophetic timing for the Lamb of God. 2. Prophecy in Motion–The Donkey Jesus instructs two disciples to secure a donkey and her colt; owners release them at “The Lord needs it.” Fulfills Zechariah 9:9: Messiah enters “righteous, victorious, yet humble, riding on a donkey.” Kings rode horses for war, donkeys for peace–Jesus signals a Kingdom of peace, not revolt. 3. The Triumphal Entry & Misunderstood Hosannas Crowds carpet the road with garments and palm branches–a nationalistic symbol stamped on Jewish coins. “Hosanna” originally means “Save us, we pray,” now chanted as political slogan. They expect economic/political deliverance, not a cross-shaped salvation. Messianic prophecies (>300) statistically verified in Christ–illustrated with odds comparisons. 4. Tears Amid Applause Luke records Jesus weeping as He beholds Jerusalem–foreseeing AD 70 destruction and the crowd’s coming rejection. Same voices will shout “Crucify!” when He fails to meet their nationalistic agenda. 5. The Wilderness Temptations Revisited Preacher parallels Palm Sunday acclaim with Satan’s three temptations (Deut 8:3; Deut 6:13; Ps 91): Bread–economic savior. Kingdoms–shortcut to power. Temple-dive–spectacular celebrity. Jesus refused each shortcut then, and refuses crowd manipulation now; He lives for the Father’s approval alone. 6. The Trap of Human Applause Proverbs 29:25: fear of human opinion disables. Illustrations: Speaker’s limousine ego-check ending in a flaming tire and hitch-hike. Daughter Jody’s testimony–deliverance from crowd-pleasing, expressed in her spoken-word piece “I Have Wanted to Be In.” Warning: chasing likes, retweets, popularity derails discipleship and identity. Major Lessons & Revelations Jesus’ Kingdom contrasts worldly power: humility over intimidation, sacrifice over force, eternal authority over temporary control. Prophecy validates Christ’s identity; our faith rests on historical reliability, not wishful thinking. God-pleasing resolve (“face set like flint”) overcomes both temptation and public pressure. Human praise is fleeting; living for the Father’s “Well done” secures identity and freedom. Practical Application Examine motives: Am I seeking God’s approval or the crowd’s? Set spiritual “guardrails” (Scripture memorization, fasting, solitude) that anchor identity when applause or criticism comes. During Easter season, invite friends to experience the true King–not a political mascot but the Savior of sin and death. Practice humble service–choose the donkey over the war-horse in daily interactions (peace-making, generosity, listening). Parents & mentors: pray persistently for children caught in crowd-pressure; model audience-of-One living. Conclusion & Call to Response The King who could have seized a throne chose a cross. He saw our faces, wept for our lostness, and kept riding. Today He invites each heart to cry the truest Hosanna: “Save me.” Accept His forgiveness, relinquish the need for human approval, and follow the King whose Kingdom will never fall. ...

Scripture References Exodus 20:8-11 Genesis 2:1-3 Exodus 16:21-30 Luke 6:1-5 Mark 2:27-28 Romans 14:5 Hebrews 11:6 Introduction Pastor opens with lighthearted “hurry-sickness” quiz to show how frantic modern life has become. Confesses the sermon first confronted him personally: “Physician, heal thyself.” Sets context: part of the “Investigating Jesus” series, examining what put Jesus at odds with religious leaders. Announces the focus–God’s gift of Sabbath rest–and promises rapid-fire Bible exposition. Key Points / Exposition 1. The Sabbath Is a Command Fourth of the Ten Commandments (Ex 20). Word “holy” (Hebrew kavod) means “cut apart/separate”; Sabbath should be distinct from the other six days. Carries equal weight with prohibitions against murder, adultery, stealing, etc. Christians rarely justify breaking other commandments, yet casually violate this one. Illustration: people feel awkward asking a pastor to commit adultery but think nothing of asking him to break his Sabbath. 2. The Sabbath Is a Law of Creation Instituted before Sinai: God Himself rested (Gen 2:1-3). If the Creator pauses, creatures must as well. Attempts to override the seven-day rhythm (e.g., French Revolution’s ten-day week) produced economic collapse and mental-health crises. Modern studies: productivity plunges after 50-hour weeks; six-days-on/one-day-off maximizes output. Seventh-day Adventist longevity study: approx. 5-6 extra years correspond to the cumulative Sabbaths they actually keep. Calculator demonstration shows God “gives the days back.” 3. The Sabbath Teaches Us (and Our Children) to Walk by Faith First biblical mention tied to manna (Ex 16): gather double on day six, trust God on day seven. Refusal to rest = disbelief that God will provide. Principle: “If you work on the Sabbath, God stops helping; if you rest, God works for you.” Chick-fil-A case study: closed Sundays yet second-largest, most profitable U.S. chain–proof that six days with God beat seven without Him. Memorable maxim: “A Sabbath is to your schedule what a tithe is to your budget.” 4. The Sabbath Is a Blessing, Not a Burden Jesus corrects legalists (Luke 6; Mark 2): “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Pharisees multiplied 1 rule to 39 micro-rules to 615 sub-rules (Mishnah), turning gift into slavery (e.g., Shabbat elevators, bottles of water under car seats). Jesus, “Lord of the Sabbath,” restores it as delight. Major Lessons & Revelations God embeds rest into creation for human flourishing. True Sabbath combines ceasing from labor and enjoying God’s presence; it is worship, not mere leisure. Obedience releases tangible blessings–health, creativity, provision, witness to unbelievers. Trust, not toil, is the foundation of productivity and spiritual vitality. Practical Application Choose a day (needn’t be Sunday, cf. Rom 14:5) and protect it. Prepare in advance–hard, focused work during the other six days enables real rest. “No work” rule: anything that feels like vocation or burdensome obligation pauses. Power down digital distractions; devices often kill both work and rest. Sabbath dinner tradition: gather fun Christian friends/families, share testimonies of what God is doing, let children witness adults praising Jesus. Engage in life-giving, refreshing activities (example: “boats, fishing, naps–imitate Jesus”). Worship–scripture reading, gathered church, prayer. A day off without God is a “bastard Sabbath” (Eugene Peterson). Conclusion & Call to Response The Father offers His children a weekly gift; refusing it slowly kills body and soul. Challenge: take your first genuine Sabbath this week–trust God for ONE day. Expect renewal, deeper faith, and a testimony of God’s provision. Prayer “Father, bend our wills to Yours. Teach us to trust You for a day, to cease striving, and to welcome Your presence. May the blessing of Sabbath transform our families, our work, and our witness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” ...

Scripture References Genesis 2-3 Deuteronomy 24 Malachi 2 Matthew 19:3-9 Ephesians 5:21 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 Revelation 19:6-9 Introduction Marriage Weekend launched with light-hearted giveaways, prayer for couples, and a clear warning that the message would be candid about marital intimacy. Sets stage for new series “Investigating Jesus,” beginning with society’s top question: What did Jesus teach about gender, marriage, divorce, and sexuality? Pastor frames marriage as a primary spiritual battleground – strong families produce generational disciples. Key Points / Exposition 1. Marriage: From Garden to Glory Bible opens with a wedding (Adam & Eve, Genesis 2) and closes with a wedding (Lamb & Church, Revelation 19). Satan appears immediately after the first wedding (Genesis 3), signaling that he targets marriages to thwart godly offspring (Malachi 2). Application: Your spouse is not your enemy; you have a common enemy who wants to turn “husband and wife” into “husband versus wife.” 2. The Authority Question: “Have You Not Read?” Jesus answers Pharisees’ divorce test by appealing to Scripture, not culture (Matthew 19:4). Contrast: God’s plan (Word) blesses; Satan’s plan (world) curses. Modern statistics confirm biblical wisdom: church-attending, Bible-believing couples show far lower adultery and divorce rates and report the most satisfying intimacy. 3. God’s Design for Marriage Creator “made them male and female … a man shall leave … be united … and the two shall become one flesh” (Matthew 19:4-6). Design features: One biological man + one biological woman. Leave parents, cleave to spouse, become one. Covenant, not contract – what God joined, humans must not sever. Practical “oneness” arenas: shared home, bed, last name, bank account, values, mission. 4. Three Easy Ways to Kill Your Marriage Prioritize career (often men) or children (often women) above spouse. Elevate parents or in-laws over spouse – failure to “leave” prevents “cleave.” Live as takers, not servants – marriages become battles (two takers) or abuse (one giver, one taker) instead of blessings (two servants, Ephesians 5:21). 5. Understanding Divorce & Remarriage Jesus’ “exception clause” – sexual immorality may permit (not command) divorce (Matthew 19:9). Paul’s abandonment clause – if an unbelieving spouse deserts, the believer “is not bound” (1 Corinthians 7:15). Abuse: persistent, tangible harm requires immediate safety; separation (and often civil/legal action) is warranted. Remarriage: where God permits divorce, He permits remarriage; otherwise repent, seek forgiveness, honor current covenant. Church posture: hate divorce, love divorced people; offer mercy and restoration. 6. Legacy Matters Max Jukes vs. Jonathan Edwards family trees illustrate how one marriage decision influences generations – brokenness or blessing. Major Lessons & Revelations Scripture, not societal opinion, is the reliable blueprint for flourishing marriages. Oneness is holistic – spiritual, emotional, physical, financial, relational. Servanthood is the oxygen of a thriving marriage; selfishness suffocates it. God’s grace can resurrect dead marriages just as surely as He raised Christ. Your marital choices today shape descendants you may never meet. Practical Application Daily choose Scripture over social media for marital counsel. Schedule a weekly “oneness check-in”: ask “How can I serve you this week? I love you because…”. Re-order priorities: God to Spouse to Children to Vocation/Ministry to Extended Family. If cohabiting or in sexual sin, text “MARRIAGE” to 20411; church will help legalize covenant this week. Attend Next Steps class (text “NEXT” to 20411) to grow as disciples. Seek counseling or safe separation immediately if abuse is present – church will assist with authorities and care. Conclusion & Call to Response Invitation to high faith: sitting under God’s Word sets miracles in motion. Couples urged to repent, forgive, and speak fresh “I’m sorry / I forgive you.” Individuals undecided about Christ challenged to trust, not test, Jesus. Commitment: “We have decided to be one; by God’s grace nothing will separate us.” Prayer “Father, renew minds and marriages; restore what Satan has broken; give open hearts that hear and obey. Make every couple a testimony of Your redeeming power for their lives, lineage, and legacy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” References & Resources Marital-intimacy Q&A podcast (link provided via “MARRIAGE” text). Rooted discipleship groups (testimony of Coleman & Kayleen). Harvard Human Flourishing study; Institute for Family Studies data on divorce & church attendance. Insights Strong families start when a husband and wife cling to Christ and to each other, because the moment they say ‘I do,’ hell trembles at their unity and heaven releases generational blessing. Every marriage faces two blueprints – the world’s shaky opinions or God’s solid Word; when couples choose Scripture as their compass, the Spirit builds a house no storm can collapse. Because Jesus rose, no relationship is beyond resurrection; two sinners can become new creations, forgiving and forgiven, so that a dead marriage walks out of the tomb alive with hope. God’s design is simple: leave, cleave, become one; when spouses prize each other above careers, kids and culture, the unity they guard becomes a living sermon their children cannot ignore. Satan whispers, ‘be normal,’ yet normal is broken; Jesus calls us higher, and when we obey His counter-cultural commands, peace replaces chaos like light flooding a once-dark room. When couples join hands and pray, surrendering their story to the Father, they set a miracle in motion that ripples through grandchildren they have not yet met.