Matthew 26:31
Introduction: We are probably all familiar with Psalm 23. The calming effect and comfort that it brings is unmatched by possibly, any other passage of scripture.
The image of a shepherd is of an individual who is loving, caring, tender and mindful. Maybe for someone like me, it’s a vision of calmness, tranquility and assurance.
Question: But what happens if the shepherd is gone? This is exactly what happened to the disciples when Jesus was betrayed, crucified and buried!
Matthew 26 – The Plot to Kill Jesus; The woman who anoints Jesus with precious oil; Judas agrees to betray; Jesus celebrates Passover.
Matthew 26:26-35
Transition
:
‘When we pledge allegiance to Jesus, we pretty much mean it….if we mean it!
’
Question
: What wants to set in? Take Root?
Luke 24:13-35 – Where have you been? Have you not heard?
‘But we were hoping…’
Transition
: So, what do we do when we feel our hopes / dreams are shattered so we scatter?
John 21
John 21:1
‘After these things
Jesus showed himself again
to the disciples
at the Sea of Tiberias
, and in this way He showed Himself
:
Deuteronomy 31:1-6
Hebrews 13:5-6 –
‘
Let your
conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you
1
.”
6
So we may boldly say: “The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me
1
?”
(NKJ)
John 21:5-6
John 21:7, ‘
Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it) and plunged into the sea.’
(NKJ)
John 21:15-17
Revelation 2:1-4 – Church of Ephesus –
‘To the angel of the church of Ephesus write,`These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands:
2
“I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars;
3
“and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary.
4
“Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.
’ (NKJ)
John 21:18-19
Conclusion
: Scattering is natural when the Shepherd seems absent but remember, ‘He’s as close as the mention of His name’ and that He is in control and cares
Order and Instructions for Christian Households
Introduction: Colossians 3:18-4:1 is a perfect segue to our Father’s Day message last week. This whole section should speak to us more about order and unity than it does about the word submission which usually tends to be the focus in these verses. Transition: You have heard somewhere, maybe here at CLC that the God…
Not So Secret
Introduction: There aren’t many secrets related to what it takes to be a good/effective father. What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Father? Proverbs 22:6, ‘Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it’. (NKJ) Train up a child in the…
Colossal Truths – New Life
Colossians 3:1-17 Introduction: We left off Chapter 2 of Colossians by verse 8, Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers1 of this world, rather than from Christ; (NLT) and 2:16, So don’t let anyone condemn you for what you eat or…
More than Just One Sunday
Pentecost Sunday Introduction: Today is what is known in the Christian calendar as Pentecost Sunday. Pentecost Sunday in the Christian Church is the day on which the Spirit descended upon the apostles and their followers. It is considered the birthday of Christianity as many were baptized and became believers in Jesus Christ that day, establishing…
Living New Life
Colossians 3:1-17 Introduction: We left off Chapter 2 of Colossians by verse 8, Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers1 of this world, rather than from Christ; (NLT) and 2:16, So don’t let anyone condemn you for what you eat or…
Danger of Deception
Colossians 2:6-23 Introduction: Translations use words They are described as vain, empty, hollow, high-sounding, nonsense (NLT) Theosophy = any of a number of philosophies maintaining that a knowledge of God may be achieved through: One of the challenges being taught by legalists (Jews) was that of the role of Circumcision. 1A. Role of Circumcision Part…
Supremecy
Colossians 1:16-23 Introduction: Probably the greatest single theme of Colossians in the Supremacy of Christ! The supremacy of Christ is a doctrine surrounding the authority of Jesus and His God-nature. In the simplest of terms, to affirm the supremacy of Christ is to affirm that Jesus is God. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines supreme as “highest in…
Spiritual Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding
Colossians 1:9-14 NLT – ‘To give you complete knowledge’…. Knowledge – epignosis = precise and correct knowledge. Knowledge of things ethical and spiritual. Difference between ‘understanding’ and ‘wisdom.’ Understanding – comes from the Greek – epistemon which focuses on intellect and factual knowledge. Wisdom – Sophos – more related to the practical, real-life use of…