Jesus’ ministry was personal and to the point. He reminded the Pharisees that their self-righteous attitudes stood in the way of a personal relationship with God. Our Lord likewise pleads with us to turn from our sin – our immorality, dishonesty, profanity, and neglect of his Word. Will we receive him or tell him to get lost?
Sermon
Jesus, Why Don’t You Get Lost?
Scripture: Luke 13:31-35
At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.”
He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ In any case, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the next day – for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Hymns
“Lamb of God Most Holy”
“The Old Rugged Cross”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “What Shall I Do With Jesus?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders January 13, 2008.
We will have hundreds of important questions to answer in our lifetime: questions regarding health issues, such as dementia and cancer. We need to be united in order to learn the answers to these perplexing problems. We face political issues. Who will we vote for? Who can best lead us? Yet none of these questions are as important as this one: What shall I do with Jesus? If we will let him into our lives, he will turn us around and affect our lives in such a way that we will find the answers to most of the other questions.
National Religious Broadcasters in Convention
National Religious Broadcasters is a non-partisan, international association of Christian communicators whose mission is to keep the doors of electronic media open for the spread of the Gospel. The following is adapted from the article, “Engaging the Quiet Revolution,” by Craig L. Parshall, Sr. VP and General Counsel, in their February 22, 2010 newsletter to Christian Crusaders and other NRB members.
“As the National Religious Broadcasters prepare for their annual convention in Nashville this week, they are readying for a kind of revolution. It is a revolution of a clash of worldviews and a media upheaval of Titanic proportions. Where this revolution will end, at least in the short-term view, is uncertain.
“First, there is the explosion of legislative and regulatory proposals coming from Capitol Hill – some already passed – which represent the most direct challenge to the Church and to Christian communicators we can remember. Second, we are witnessing a moral, cultural and spiritual revolution in America, where biblical confusion is rampant, and where there is a soul hungry for the Good News of Jesus Christ, but it is too often ensnared in vague, pagan ideas of spirituality or “politically correct” religion. Third, a technological tidal wave of change is hitting every aspect of media, and the Christian media is not exempt. Attendees will be exposed to two very different belief systems about the future of religious liberty, and what it means for you and your ministry.”
Please pray for the National Religious Broadcasters this week as they confront anew the need for a global Great Commission strategy.
On the Light Side
Fore!
The 16th tee featured a fairway that ran along a road. The first golfer in a foursome teed off and hooked the ball. It soared over the fence, bounced onto the street, and hit the tire of a moving bus, then ricocheted back onto the fairway.
As they all stood in amazement, one of the golfer’s friends asked, “How did you do that?”
The golfer shrugged. “You have to know the bus schedule.”
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Handling Temptation
Life is filled with all kinds of temptations and there is no question that the devil is alive and well. How do we handle our temptations? In this week’s sermon we will look at how this sly enemy worked unsuccessfully in the life of our Lord and how we can use the same approach against the devil in our lives.
Sermon
Handling Temptation
Scripture: Luke 4:1-13
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.
The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone.’”
The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. For it is written:
“’He will command his angels concerning you
to guard you carefully;
They will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”
Jesus answered, “It says: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.
Hymns
“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”
“Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Temptation“ delivered on Christian Crusaders March 14, 2004.
It is well for us to note that Jesus resisted each of Satan’s temptations by quoting Scripture. Satan is defeated in the presence of God’s Word. We should be so well acquainted with the Bible that, when the hour of temptation comes, we, too, can use God’s Word to defeat the enemy. Unlike our Savior, we know that, because of our sinful nature, we will sometimes fall when tempted by Satan. Then our Lord will forgive us, pick us up, strengthen us, and send us away by saying, “Go, and sin no more.”
ChristianCrusaders.org
Miss a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to http://www.christiancrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed or to relive one you particularly liked again. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD, cassette tape, or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
A minister parked his car in a no-parking zone in a large city because he was short of time and couldn’t find a space with a meter. Then he put a note under the windshield wiper that read: “I have circled the block 10 times. If I don’t park here, I’ll miss my appointment. Forgive us our trespasses.”
When he returned, he found a citation from a police officer along with this note “I’ve circled this block for 10 years. If I don’t give you a ticket I’ll lose my job. Lead us not into temptation.”
Sermon
Handling Temptation
Scripture: Luke 4:1-13
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.
The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone.’”
The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. For it is written:
“’He will command his angels concerning you
to guard you carefully;
They will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”
Jesus answered, “It says: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.
Hymns
“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”
“Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Temptation“ delivered on Christian Crusaders March 14, 2004.
It is well for us to note that Jesus resisted each of Satan’s temptations by quoting Scripture. Satan is defeated in the presence of God’s Word. We should be so well acquainted with the Bible that, when the hour of temptation comes, we, too, can use God’s Word to defeat the enemy. Unlike our Savior, we know that, because of our sinful nature, we will sometimes fall when tempted by Satan. Then our Lord will forgive us, pick us up, strengthen us, and send us away by saying, “Go, and sin no more.”
ChristianCrusaders.org
Miss a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to http://www.christiancrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed or to relive one you particularly liked again. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD, cassette tape, or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
A minister parked his car in a no-parking zone in a large city because he was short of time and couldn’t find a space with a meter. Then he put a note under the windshield wiper that read: “I have circled the block 10 times. If I don’t park here, I’ll miss my appointment. Forgive us our trespasses.”
When he returned, he found a citation from a police officer along with this note “I’ve circled this block for 10 years. If I don’t give you a ticket I’ll lose my job. Lead us not into temptation.”
Thursday, February 11, 2010
The Need for Affirmation
There are many times when we face the future with fear and trembling, and we do not know where to turn. Jesus faced those days and needed affirmation as well. However, God is ready to affirm and strengthen us, no matter how difficult the assignment might be.
Sermon
The Need for Affirmation
Scripture: Luke 9:28-36
About eight days after Jesus said this, he took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning. Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus. They spoke about his departure, which he was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem. Peter and his companions were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters – one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what he was saying.)
While he was speaking, a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. A voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” When the voice had spoken, they found that Jesus was alone. The disciples kept this to themselves, and told no one at that time what they had seen.
Hymns
“Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”
“Dearest Jesus, Draw Thou Near Me”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Favorite for When You’re Discouraged“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 30, 2007.
Isaiah . . . say(s), “They shall run and not grow weary, walk and never faint.” You are going to be able to keep going and face all things in Him. As the Apostle Paul says, ““I can do all things in him who strengthens me.” This passage is so much more than beautiful poetry. Isaiah is attempting to give his people an adequate theology to face their life’s situation; to restore the magnificence of God in the minds of the people; to give them a renewed perspective of that magnificence; to face discouraged moments with confidence. He is trying to give them this great picture and help them by saying, “Don’t give up. Don’t cave in. Keep your eyes on the magnificence of God.”
Christian Crusaders on Facebook
Want a regular reminder about Christian Crusaders’ upcoming sermons? By joining the ministry’s Facebook group, you’ll receive a weekly email reminder about the upcoming sermon. You can also use the group page to connect with other Christian Crusaders listeners and post messages about other events or information they might be interested in.
On the Light Side
A young woman was taking an afternoon nap. After she woke up, she told her husband, “I just dreamed that you gave me a pearl necklace for Valentine’s Day. What do you think it means?”
“You’ll know tonight,” he said.
That evening, the man came home with a small package and gave it to his wife. Delighted, she opened it – only to find a book entitled “The Meaning of Dreams.”
Sermon
The Need for Affirmation
Scripture: Luke 9:28-36
About eight days after Jesus said this, he took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning. Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus. They spoke about his departure, which he was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem. Peter and his companions were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters – one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what he was saying.)
While he was speaking, a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. A voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” When the voice had spoken, they found that Jesus was alone. The disciples kept this to themselves, and told no one at that time what they had seen.
Hymns
“Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”
“Dearest Jesus, Draw Thou Near Me”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Favorite for When You’re Discouraged“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 30, 2007.
Isaiah . . . say(s), “They shall run and not grow weary, walk and never faint.” You are going to be able to keep going and face all things in Him. As the Apostle Paul says, ““I can do all things in him who strengthens me.” This passage is so much more than beautiful poetry. Isaiah is attempting to give his people an adequate theology to face their life’s situation; to restore the magnificence of God in the minds of the people; to give them a renewed perspective of that magnificence; to face discouraged moments with confidence. He is trying to give them this great picture and help them by saying, “Don’t give up. Don’t cave in. Keep your eyes on the magnificence of God.”
Christian Crusaders on Facebook
Want a regular reminder about Christian Crusaders’ upcoming sermons? By joining the ministry’s Facebook group, you’ll receive a weekly email reminder about the upcoming sermon. You can also use the group page to connect with other Christian Crusaders listeners and post messages about other events or information they might be interested in.
On the Light Side
A young woman was taking an afternoon nap. After she woke up, she told her husband, “I just dreamed that you gave me a pearl necklace for Valentine’s Day. What do you think it means?”
“You’ll know tonight,” he said.
That evening, the man came home with a small package and gave it to his wife. Delighted, she opened it – only to find a book entitled “The Meaning of Dreams.”
Friday, February 5, 2010
Stand!
The church today is experiencing great tribulation. With scandals rocking its foundations, membership numbers shrinking, worship attendance sagging, basic doctrines being questioned, and its impact on our culture disappearing, we have to wonder what is wrong. In this week’s sermon, we will look to the Apostle Paul for encouragement and answers.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.
Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.
Hymns
“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus”
“Lead On, O King Eternal”
“Onward, Christian Soldiers”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Really Old Hymns: God Is With Us“ delivered on Christian Crusaders August 2, 2009.
Emmanuel, God with us, who has done battle with the power of sin, death and the devil, staked his claim. On the cross he experienced the exact opposite of this psalm (46) – God not with him – so that we could have a restored relationship with God and his promise. God raised him on the third day. Listen to Emmanuel’s promise: “Lo, I am with you always, till the end of time.” Why is he with us? To be our refuge as we withstand the attacks. Attacks from whom? Peter knew it: “Like a roaring lion your adversary - the devil - prowls around looking for someone to devour (I Peter 5:8).
Christian Crusaders’ Newsletter
The newest issue of Christian Crusaders' quarterly print newsletter, The Crusader, will be out soon! Its theme is on anger. This newsletter features an article by Rev. Larsen, as well as news about the ministry and thoughts on faith from other members of the staff. Call our office at 1-888-My Faith or email info@christiancrusaders.org to join the mailing list and receive this special publication.
On the Light Side
Leading Papers’ Coverage of the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Variety: “Custer Closes Out of Town”
Pravda: “Big Red Victory”
Sports Illustrated: “Indians Win Series”
Women's Wear Daily: “Feathers Make Comeback”
Reader's Digest: “Sitting Bull Reveals New Cure for Dandruff”
The Washington Post: “Custer Loses Rural Vote”
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.
Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.
Hymns
“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus”
“Lead On, O King Eternal”
“Onward, Christian Soldiers”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Really Old Hymns: God Is With Us“ delivered on Christian Crusaders August 2, 2009.
Emmanuel, God with us, who has done battle with the power of sin, death and the devil, staked his claim. On the cross he experienced the exact opposite of this psalm (46) – God not with him – so that we could have a restored relationship with God and his promise. God raised him on the third day. Listen to Emmanuel’s promise: “Lo, I am with you always, till the end of time.” Why is he with us? To be our refuge as we withstand the attacks. Attacks from whom? Peter knew it: “Like a roaring lion your adversary - the devil - prowls around looking for someone to devour (I Peter 5:8).
Christian Crusaders’ Newsletter
The newest issue of Christian Crusaders' quarterly print newsletter, The Crusader, will be out soon! Its theme is on anger. This newsletter features an article by Rev. Larsen, as well as news about the ministry and thoughts on faith from other members of the staff. Call our office at 1-888-My Faith or email info@christiancrusaders.org to join the mailing list and receive this special publication.
On the Light Side
Leading Papers’ Coverage of the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Variety: “Custer Closes Out of Town”
Pravda: “Big Red Victory”
Sports Illustrated: “Indians Win Series”
Women's Wear Daily: “Feathers Make Comeback”
Reader's Digest: “Sitting Bull Reveals New Cure for Dandruff”
The Washington Post: “Custer Loses Rural Vote”
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Power of the Pulpit
The word of God, spoken from the pulpit, has great authority. We see that in the ministries of John the Baptist, Jesus, and the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah. In this week’s sermon, we will look at ways in which we can use our “pulpit” to express our Christian convictions to change our world.
Scripture: Jeremiah 1:4-10
The word of the Lord came to me, saying,
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
“Ah, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.”
But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a child. You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “Now I have put my words in your mouth. See, today, I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”
Hymns
“We Praise You, O God”
“Children of the Heavenly Father”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Moses – God's Word Is Our Authority“ delivered on Christian Crusaders February 4, 2001.
When God’s Law has brought us to this confession, it has done its work. . . . In our helpless condition we come to the cross of Christ. There we confess our sins and place our faith in Jesus who has died to take away our sins. Through faith in Him we are forgiven and restored into fellowship with God. . . . We have become new people and live out of love for Christ who has made us His forever. That’s why Jesus could say, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31, 32). The authoritative voice of the Gospel brings us out of bondage, and the authoritative voice of God’s Law always reminds us how much we need our Savior.
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Remember that if your church cancels services due to inclement winter weather, you don't have to miss out on the chance to worship. Tune into your local Christian Crusaders radio station instead, or log onto christiancrusaders.org to hear an uplifting Gospel message right from home. Tell others who might be snowbound about the opportunity to worship from home as well!
On the Light Side
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five- and six-year olds. After explaining the commandment to honor thy father and thy mother, she asked, “Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?”
Without missing a beat one little boy answered, “Thou shall not kill.”
Scripture: Jeremiah 1:4-10
The word of the Lord came to me, saying,
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
“Ah, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.”
But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a child. You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “Now I have put my words in your mouth. See, today, I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”
Hymns
“We Praise You, O God”
“Children of the Heavenly Father”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Moses – God's Word Is Our Authority“ delivered on Christian Crusaders February 4, 2001.
When God’s Law has brought us to this confession, it has done its work. . . . In our helpless condition we come to the cross of Christ. There we confess our sins and place our faith in Jesus who has died to take away our sins. Through faith in Him we are forgiven and restored into fellowship with God. . . . We have become new people and live out of love for Christ who has made us His forever. That’s why Jesus could say, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31, 32). The authoritative voice of the Gospel brings us out of bondage, and the authoritative voice of God’s Law always reminds us how much we need our Savior.
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Remember that if your church cancels services due to inclement winter weather, you don't have to miss out on the chance to worship. Tune into your local Christian Crusaders radio station instead, or log onto christiancrusaders.org to hear an uplifting Gospel message right from home. Tell others who might be snowbound about the opportunity to worship from home as well!
On the Light Side
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five- and six-year olds. After explaining the commandment to honor thy father and thy mother, she asked, “Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?”
Without missing a beat one little boy answered, “Thou shall not kill.”
Thursday, January 21, 2010
How Great Is Your Commitment?
People react differently to Jesus’ statement that he is God and the only way by we can be assured of a heavenly home. Often times it is not even the primary message being proclaimed in church. In this week’s sermon, we will evaluate the seriousness of our commitment to Jesus as our only Savior.
Scripture: Luke 4:14-30
Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside. He taught in their synagogues, and everyone praised him.
He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. And he stood up to read. The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to release the oppressed,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked.
Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’”
“I tell you the truth,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the region of Sidon. And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them were cleansed – only Naaman the Syrian.”
All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him down the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way.
Hymns
“Hail to the Brightness”
“The Church’s One Foundation”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Compelled to Act“ delivered on Christian Crusaders April 8, 2001.
Two people look at the cross. One can tell the story and have great respect for Jesus and what He did for the world. The other turns his life over to Christ. Jesus is more than a biblical character described on the pages of the Bible. His suffering, death, and resurrection is more than a dogma to which he gives lip service when confessing his faith in the words of the Apostles’ Creed. Christ is a living person who raps at my heart’s door and offers me the forgiveness of my sins. I receive Him. He is mine and I am His for all eternity. We live in a personal relationship with Him.
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Want to share a Christian Crusaders sermon? Log onto http://www.christiancrusaders. org/sermonsearch.asp and use this easy search tool to find every message going back ten years, sorted by topic, date, and Scripture passage. Then e-mail the link to a friend, neighbor, or loved one to instantly share a sermon that spoke to you. Or call 1-888-My Faith and ask us to send a copy of any sermon on CD, cassette tape, or in print to someone in your life who needs to hear the Word of God.
On the Light Side
What is a Week Without God?
Without God our week would be:
Sinday
Mournday
Tearsday
Wasteday
Thirstday
Fightday and
Shatterday
Seven days without God makes one Weak!
Scripture: Luke 4:14-30
Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside. He taught in their synagogues, and everyone praised him.
He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. And he stood up to read. The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to release the oppressed,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked.
Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’”
“I tell you the truth,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the region of Sidon. And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them were cleansed – only Naaman the Syrian.”
All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him down the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way.
Hymns
“Hail to the Brightness”
“The Church’s One Foundation”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Compelled to Act“ delivered on Christian Crusaders April 8, 2001.
Two people look at the cross. One can tell the story and have great respect for Jesus and what He did for the world. The other turns his life over to Christ. Jesus is more than a biblical character described on the pages of the Bible. His suffering, death, and resurrection is more than a dogma to which he gives lip service when confessing his faith in the words of the Apostles’ Creed. Christ is a living person who raps at my heart’s door and offers me the forgiveness of my sins. I receive Him. He is mine and I am His for all eternity. We live in a personal relationship with Him.
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Want to share a Christian Crusaders sermon? Log onto http://www.christiancrusaders. org/sermonsearch.asp and use this easy search tool to find every message going back ten years, sorted by topic, date, and Scripture passage. Then e-mail the link to a friend, neighbor, or loved one to instantly share a sermon that spoke to you. Or call 1-888-My Faith and ask us to send a copy of any sermon on CD, cassette tape, or in print to someone in your life who needs to hear the Word of God.
On the Light Side
What is a Week Without God?
Without God our week would be:
Sinday
Mournday
Tearsday
Wasteday
Thirstday
Fightday and
Shatterday
Seven days without God makes one Weak!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
On the Way to Calvary
How is Jesus working in your life? In this week’s sermon, we hear about Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding feast in Cana. This story illustrates a truth much deeper than turning water into wine. When we consider its implications, we can live our life with new meaning and purpose.
Scripture: John 2:1-11
On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”
“Dear woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.”
His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons.
Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”
This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.
Hymns
“Holy God, We Praise Thy Name”
“O How Shall I Receive Thee?”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Are We Ready to Move on With Christ?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders April 29, 2001.
Many Christians trust Christ for their salvation, but are not disciples in the Biblical sense of the word. That’s why we talk about “making disciples” which means taking the next step toward becoming a mature witness for Christ. Christ calls for disciples in the great commission, “Go and make disciples.” He is asking for people who will carry the faith and not count the cost of doing it. Therefore, He is continually asking the Christian, “Isn’t it time to move onto a deeper relationship with Him? Isn’t it time to not only enjoy all the blessings we receive from Him, but to become a blessing to others who do not know Christ by sharing Him with them?”
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Missed a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to ChristianCrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed, or to relive one you particularly liked. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD, cassette tape, or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
Differences Between a Man and a Woman
1. A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he wants. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn’t want.
2. A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
3. A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
4. To be happy with a man you must understand him a lot and love him a little. To be happy with a woman you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all.
5. Any married man should forget his mistakes – there’s no use in two people remembering the same thing.
6. Men wake up as good looking as they went to bed. Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
7. A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn’t. A man marries a woman expecting that she won’t change and she does.
8. A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
9. There are two times when a man doesn’t understand a woman: before marriage and after marriage.
Let's hear from you!
Has your life been changed signifcantly since you came to know Jesus Christ? Share your faith story with us by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program, "On the Way to Calvary" will air Sunday, January 17, 2010. Visit www.ChristianCrusaders.org for radio station locations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 2:1-11
On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”
“Dear woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.”
His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons.
Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”
This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.
Hymns
“Holy God, We Praise Thy Name”
“O How Shall I Receive Thee?”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Are We Ready to Move on With Christ?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders April 29, 2001.
Many Christians trust Christ for their salvation, but are not disciples in the Biblical sense of the word. That’s why we talk about “making disciples” which means taking the next step toward becoming a mature witness for Christ. Christ calls for disciples in the great commission, “Go and make disciples.” He is asking for people who will carry the faith and not count the cost of doing it. Therefore, He is continually asking the Christian, “Isn’t it time to move onto a deeper relationship with Him? Isn’t it time to not only enjoy all the blessings we receive from Him, but to become a blessing to others who do not know Christ by sharing Him with them?”
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Missed a week on Christian Crusaders? You don’t have to miss a sermon! Log on to ChristianCrusaders.org/sermonsearch.asp and find sermons going back ten years. This easy sermon search tool can be used to find a sermon you missed, or to relive one you particularly liked. Or, call 1-888-My Faith and request a copy of any sermon on CD, cassette tape, or in print to be mailed to you.
On the Light Side
Differences Between a Man and a Woman
1. A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he wants. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn’t want.
2. A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
3. A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
4. To be happy with a man you must understand him a lot and love him a little. To be happy with a woman you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all.
5. Any married man should forget his mistakes – there’s no use in two people remembering the same thing.
6. Men wake up as good looking as they went to bed. Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
7. A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn’t. A man marries a woman expecting that she won’t change and she does.
8. A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
9. There are two times when a man doesn’t understand a woman: before marriage and after marriage.
Let's hear from you!
Has your life been changed signifcantly since you came to know Jesus Christ? Share your faith story with us by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program, "On the Way to Calvary" will air Sunday, January 17, 2010. Visit www.ChristianCrusaders.org for radio station locations and times, or to listen online.
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