CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH MEMPHIS

Sermon Summary: The Resurrection Changes Everything 1. A Case for the Resurrection Coleton begins by challenging the assumption that belief in Jesus’ resurrection requires blind faith. Instead, he invites us to consider the evidence—to think critically and honestly about why the resurrection of Jesus has endured throughout history. He introduces a fascinating comparison: the Roman emperor Nero. Nero was powerful, widely known, and ruled the known world—yet today, almost no one has heard of any “resurrection story” about him. In contrast, Jesus was a poor, obscure Jewish carpenter with a short ministry, no political power, and no army—yet His resurrection is known worldwide. Coleton’s point is simple but profound: If false resurrection stories fade into obscurity (like Nero’s), why has Jesus’ resurrection endured and spread across the globe? This forces an honest question: Is it possible that the reason we still talk about Jesus’ resurrection… is because it actually happened? He emphasizes that Jesus does not call people to blind faith. In fact, Jesus rebukes His own disciples—not for lacking blind belief—but for refusing to believe credible eyewitness testimony. Key Scripture: “He rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.” (Mark 16:14) Jesus expected them to weigh the evidence. Coleton connects this to how faith grows: Supporting Scripture: “Consider the lilies of the field… consider the birds of the air…” (Matthew 6) Faith is not anti-thinking—it is formed through considering. Jesus invites us to look at evidence, reflect, and respond. Key Quote: “The question we should all consider is why we’ve ever heard of Jesus… Christianity rose from the dead because Christ did.” – Glen Scrivener Main takeaway: Faith in the resurrection is not a leap into the dark—it’s a step toward the light based on compelling evidence. 2. What the Resurrection Inaugurated in the World Coleton shifts from proving the resurrection to explaining its meaning. He points to a prophetic vision of the world found in Isaiah—a future where everything broken is restored: Key Scripture: “The wolf will live with the lamb… they will neither harm nor destroy… for the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord.” (Isaiah 11:6–9) This is a picture of a restored world—like Eden renewed: ● No injustice ● No violence ● No sickness ● No chaos Key Insight: The resurrection of Jesus is not just proof of life after death—it is the beginning of that restored world breaking into our current one. When Jesus speaks after His resurrection, He uses similar imagery: Key Scripture: “These signs will accompany those who believe… they will drive out demons… speak in new tongues… place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” (Mark 16:17–18) Jesus is describing a reality where: ● Evil is pushed back ● Healing happens ● Restoration begins Key Quote: “A fresh, wise, healing, restorative order had come to birth.” – N.T. Wright Coleton’s main idea here: The resurrection didn’t just promise a future heaven—it launched a new reality now. Those who follow Jesus begin to experience glimpses of that future restoration in their present lives. He points to examples: ● The early church sharing resources so no one was in need ● Social barriers breaking down (rich/poor, male/female, slave/free) ● People being healed, freed, and transformed Even today, lives are changed—addictions broken, identities restored, relationships healed. Main takeaway: The resurrection means the future kingdom of God is already breaking into the present—and believers can experience it now. 3. How We Should Respond: Expect and Pursue Restoration If the resurrection inaugurated a new reality, then our lives should reflect that. A. Pray with Expectation Jesus taught us to pray for God’s kingdom to come “on earth as it is in heaven.” That means we should: ● Pray for healing ● Pray for restoration ● Pray expecting God to move We are not working against God’s will—we are stepping into what He already started through the resurrection. B. Share the Gospel with Expectation Key Scripture: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel…” (Mark 16:15) Coleton highlights something striking: The disciples were told to share the resurrection even when they themselves struggled to believe it at first. This reminds us: ● Our job is not to convince—just to share ● Some will reject it ● But those who believe can experience transformation Main takeaway: The message of Jesus carries power—when people believe it, their lives can truly change. 4. Don’t Just Believe in Jesus—Follow Him This is one of Coleton’s most important points. Many people believe in Jesus—but don’t experience transformation. Why? Because belief without obedience does not lead to change. He describes three paths: 1. The Way of Sin → Deformation Sin slowly destroys life: ● The prodigal son loses everything ● Judas and others experience devastation 2. The Way of Jesus → Transformation Those who follow Jesus: ● Matthew leaves everything and is changed ● The blind man obeys and is healed ● Lepers follow instructions and are cleansed 3. The Middle Ground → No Transformation Some believe—but don’t follow: ● Like the rich young ruler ● Morally good, but unchanged Key Insight: You can believe in Jesus—and still miss the life He offers if you refuse to follow Him. Coleton challenges: ● Following your own way in relationships, money, forgiveness, or lifestyle will limit transformation ● Jesus’ power is experienced when His words are acted on Key Quote: “The horizon of possibility completely opened… all because they said yes to following Jesus.” – Jon Tyson Main takeaway: Transformation happens when belief turns into obedience. 5. Final Call: Step Into What the Resurrection Offers Coleton closes with two invitations: 1. Consider the Evidence and Believe ● Jesus is alive ● He can be known personally ● He can change your life 2. Follow Him Fully ● Not just belief—but surrender ● Not just salvation—but transformation ● Not just future hope—but present experience Big Idea: The resurrection didn’t just secure your eternity—it opened the door to a transformed life right now. Discipleship Group Questions 1. What evidence for the resurrection stood out most to you, and why does it matter for your faith? 2. Where in your life have you seen “glimpses” of God’s restored world breaking in? Where do you want to see more? 3. What is one area where you believe in Jesus—but struggle to fully follow Him? 4. How does understanding the resurrection as a present reality (not just a future hope) change how you live daily? 5. Who in your life needs to hear the gospel, and how can you begin sharing it with expectation this week? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn’t know Because Jesus rose from the dead, hope isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a reality breaking into our world right now, offering healing, purpose, and new life to anyone who’s willing to step into it.

The Death of Jesus Coleton begins by grounding this moment in something deeply human: watching someone die changes you. He shares the memory of watching his grandfather pass away—the sights, the sounds, the emotions—and how it stayed with him. That kind of moment doesn’t fade; it marks you. That’s exactly what happens to the Roman centurion in this passage. He watches Jesus die, and it changes everything. For the first time in the Gospel account, a human being—an unlikely one at that—declares: “Surely this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39) Up to this point, only God Himself has called Jesus His Son. Now a hardened Roman soldier sees it—and worships. Coleton’s main idea: we are meant to be marked by the death of Jesus in the same way. And to help us see that, he draws out three realities revealed in Jesus’ death. 1. God is Demonstrating His Love for Us What We See in the Text Coleton points to verses 16–32, where Jesus is: Mocked Beaten Spit on Lied about Crucified Insulted even while dying And who is doing this? Religious leaders (hypocrites) Soldiers (abusers) Criminals (rebels) Bystanders (mockers) His own executioners These are the people Jesus is dying for. “Christ died for the ungodly… While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:6–8) “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13) Coleton’s Main Point This is not just Jesus being loving—this is God demonstrating His love. God is showing, in the clearest possible way, what He feels about sinners—not after they clean themselves up, but while they are still broken, rebellious, and undeserving. Application You do not have to earn God’s love. His love is not based on your behavior—it cannot be, or the cross makes no sense. He already loves you at your worst. Coleton presses into a common lie: We often believe God doesn’t really love us. He traces this lie through Scripture: Genesis – The serpent convinces Adam and Eve that God is holding out on them. Numbers – Israel believes God is trying to harm them, not bless them. The Rich Young Ruler – He walks away from Jesus, not trusting His love. In every case, distrusting God’s love leads to missing life. Key Insight The cross is meant to be a permanent marker in your life: God loves you this much. So when God leads, commands, or corrects—it is always coming from love, not control or cruelty. 2. God is Being Incredibly Merciful to Us What We See in the Text (vv. 33–37) Darkness covers the land Jesus cries out: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Jesus breathes His last These are not random მოვლენ—they are loaded with meaning. Coleton Connects This to the Bigger Story Exile from God’s Presence In Genesis, sin leads to exile. Here, Jesus experiences that exile: “Why have you forsaken me?” Judgment Through Darkness In Exodus, darkness was a plague of judgment. Now darkness falls again—this time as Jesus bears judgment. The Bronze Serpent (Numbers 21:6–9) People sinned → were bitten → dying God said: Look at the symbol of judgment lifted up, and live Jesus connects this to Himself: “Just as Moses lifted up the snake… so the Son of Man must be lifted up…” (John 3:14–18) Coleton’s Main Point Jesus is taking the full judgment and punishment for sin. Not part of it. Not most of it. All of it. Application Most Christians say: “Jesus died for my sins.” But Coleton challenges: we don’t live like we believe that. We still think: “God is punishing me for that mistake.” “This bad thing happened because I sinned.” “I’m not sure God will forgive me this time.” But Coleton makes it clear: God already punished sin—fully—in Jesus. There is nothing left for you to pay. Quotes to Drive This Home “He lives for this… When you come to Christ for mercy… you are going with the flow of His deepest wishes.” — Dane Ortlund “I am a sinner… but my Savior has died for all my sins… His blood is sufficient.” — (Martin Luther, paraphrased) Key Insight Jesus is not reluctant to forgive you. He is eager. He went to the cross for this exact purpose. Coming to Him for forgiveness isn’t bothering Him—it’s receiving what He paid for. 3. God is Inviting Us Back Into His Presence What We See in the Text (vv. 37–38) “The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” What This Means That curtain represented separation: In Genesis, humanity is shut out of Eden In the Temple, God’s presence is restricted behind a veil Only the high priest could enter—once a year But now? God tears the curtain Himself. “This was God’s way of saying… the way is now open to approach Me.” — Timothy Keller Coleton’s Main Point Through Jesus’ death, God is inviting us back into His presence. The barrier is gone. The separation is over. The relationship is restored. Why This Matters Coleton explains: what we’re really looking for in life is God Himself. He uses Blaise Pascal’s insight: “All men seek happiness… but the infinite abyss can only be filled by God Himself.” We chase: Success Relationships Comfort Pleasure But none of it satisfies—because we were made for God’s presence. Key Insight The torn curtain is God saying: “Everything you’ve been searching for is found in Me.” Conclusion: What Will You Do With This? Coleton brings it home with three diagnostic questions: Do you struggle to believe God truly loves you? Do you doubt that He could fully forgive you? Are you still trying to find life apart from Him? The cross answers all three: You are deeply loved You are fully forgiven You are invited in Now the question is: Will you receive it? Discipleship Group Questions Why do you think it’s so hard for people (including yourself) to truly believe that God loves them? In what ways do you still act like you have to “pay” for your sin instead of trusting that Jesus already did? Which of the three truths (God’s love, God’s mercy, God’s invitation) do you struggle to live in the most—and why? How does the image of the curtain being torn change the way you think about approaching God? What would it practically look like this week to “live marked” by the death of Jesus? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn’t know Jesus At the cross, Jesus willingly took the punishment we deserve and offered us the love we’ve been searching for our whole lives—proving that God isn’t against us, but closer than we ever imagined.  

The Visible Gospel Text: Mark 15:1–15 1. The Great Exchange: Jesus Takes the Place of the Guilty Coleton begins by grounding the message in a simple but powerful idea: the gospel is not abstract—it’s visible in this moment. Through the story of Jesus and Barabbas, we see something unforgettable: the innocent is condemned so the guilty can go free. Coleton illustrates this with a personal story (Sandra and Sam at Memphis Pizza), showing how this truth isn’t just theological—it’s deeply personal. At the core of his faith is this belief: “I believe that Jesus was condemned so that guilty sinners like me could be set free.” He then walks us through the scene: Jesus is falsely accused of being an insurrectionist. Barabbas is actually guilty of that exact crime. Yet Jesus takes Barabbas’ place. Even more striking: Barabbas’ name means “son of the father.” Jesus is the true Son of God the Father. So what we see is this: The true Son of the Father takes the place of a guilty “son of the father.” This is not just history—it’s a picture of what Jesus wants to do for us. Scripture Mark 15:1–15 Key Idea The innocent was condemned so that the guilty could go free. 2. For Those Who Know They Are Guilty and Struggle with Sin Coleton turns to those who feel stuck—people who are painfully aware of their sin and can’t seem to break free from it. He describes the internal cycle: You keep falling into the same sin. You feel guilt and frustration. You begin to wonder: “Will God really forgive me again?” He points us to Barabbas. Barabbas deserved: punishment condemnation judgment But he received none of it—because of Jesus. And that’s the truth for us: Because of Jesus, we will never be treated as our sins deserve. Coleton addresses a subtle but common lie: We believe God forgives… until we sin again. Then we start to feel like: “This time He’s done with me.” “His grace has limits.” But Coleton reminds us: “Where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more.” Jesus was treated as our sin deserves—so we never have to be. Quote “He will always side with you against your sin, not against you because of your sin.” — Dane Ortlund Key Idea Jesus will never turn against you because of your sin—He always moves toward you with mercy. 3. For Those Living in the Wreckage of Their Sin Next, Coleton speaks to those whose lives bear the consequences of their choices. This is deeper than guilt—it’s damage: broken relationships lost opportunities shattered trust emotional and spiritual fallout He describes the honest realization: “I did this. My sin caused this.” Barabbas knew that reality too. His life was wrecked by his own decisions—and it landed him in prison. But then something unexpected happens: Jesus brings life where only death was ahead. Coleton shares a powerful insight from a friend who had experienced this personally: “People may still see Barabbas as a criminal… but he is still walking in a new life and identity because of what Jesus did.” This is crucial: Jesus doesn’t always erase consequences. But He does bring new life in the middle of them. Coleton connects this to the story of the Prodigal Son: The son wrecks his life. He returns expecting rejection. Instead, the father restores him fully. God’s heart is not to leave you in the mess—He meets you in it and brings life. Key Idea Jesus doesn’t abandon you to your past—He brings life even in the places you’ve ruined. 4. For Those Questioning Jesus and Christianity Coleton then turns outward—to skeptics and seekers. He makes this clear: The story of Barabbas is not just about forgiveness—it’s about transformation. Jesus doesn’t just: remove guilt He also: change lives Coleton shares a historical challenge from Hugh Price Hughes to atheist Charles Bradlaugh: Bring even one life changed for the better by atheism, and I’ll debate you. Hughes would bring 100 lives transformed by Jesus. Bradlaugh declined. The point is simple: The gospel doesn’t just make claims—it changes people. Coleton then shares the story of actor Pietro Sarubbi (who played Barabbas in The Passion of the Christ). During filming, Sarubbi locked eyes with the actor portraying Jesus—and something unexpected happened: “When looking at me, his eyes had no hate… only mercy and love.” That moment led to his conversion. Coleton uses this to show: An encounter with Jesus changes everything. Scripture John 1:12 — “To all who did receive him… he gave the right to become children of God.” John 5 — “They have crossed over from death to life.” Key Idea Jesus offers both forgiveness and a completely new life—and all we must do is receive it. 5. The Invitation: Receive What Jesus Has Done Coleton closes by returning to Barabbas. Barabbas did nothing to earn his freedom. He didn’t: clean up his life prove himself repay Jesus He simply walked out of the prison. All he had to do was receive it. And Coleton makes it personal: To the struggling: Confess and trust His mercy. To the broken: Bring Him your wreckage. To the skeptic: Open the door and receive Him. Jesus stands ready—not to condemn—but to free, restore, and transform. Discipleship Group Questions Where do you most feel the tension of ongoing sin in your life, and how does this passage challenge your view of God’s patience and grace toward you? In what ways are you currently experiencing the “wreckage” of past decisions? What would it look like to invite Jesus into those specific areas? Why do you think it’s hard for people to believe that God won’t treat them as their sins deserve? How does the story of Barabbas reshape your understanding of what Jesus actually accomplished on the cross? Who in your life is questioning or skeptical about Jesus? How could this message help you have a meaningful conversation with them? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn’t know Jesus Jesus doesn’t ask you to fix yourself before coming to Him—He steps into your place, takes your guilt, and offers you a completely new life you could never earn.  

The Dangers of Sin Mark 14:53–54; 66–72 Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn’t know Jesus Every person is chasing something they believe will give them life—peace, approval, success, love—but many of the paths we take slowly lead us somewhere we never intended to go. Jesus offers a different way: a life where our deepest thirst is actually satisfied instead of slowly destroying us. Introduction: The Danger We Often Don’t Notice In this passage, we see one of the most heartbreaking moments in the life of Peter. Just hours earlier, Peter had passionately promised Jesus he would never deny Him—even if it meant death. Mark 14:30–31 “Today—before the rooster crows twice—you will disown me three times.” But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” Peter truly believed those words. He loved Jesus and meant what he said. Yet only a short time later, he denies even knowing Him. Coleton explains that this story reveals two serious dangers about sin that every follower of Jesus must understand. These dangers are not just about Peter’s failure—they reveal how sin works in all of our lives. 1. Sin Is Deceptive The first thing we see in this passage is that sin rarely announces itself loudly. Instead, it sneaks in quietly and gradually. Peter does not wake up that morning planning to deny Jesus. In fact, he has the exact opposite intention. He is trying to stay close to Jesus. Mark even tells us he followed Him into the courtyard of the high priest. Mark 14:54 “Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. There he sat with the guards and warmed himself at the fire.” Peter wants to stay nearby in case there is a moment when he can help Jesus. But in the process, something subtle begins to happen. The First Denial A servant girl recognizes him. Mark 14:67–68 “You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said. But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about.” Notice what happens here. Peter doesn’t panic or collapse emotionally. It barely registers with him that he has just done the very thing he promised he would never do. Sin often works exactly like this—it slips under the radar. The Second Denial When the accusation comes again, Peter denies it again. Still, he does not seem to recognize what is happening. In his mind, he may be rationalizing it: I’m not denying Jesus to the authorities. I’m just saying I don’t know what this girl is talking about. But compromise has already begun. The Third Denial The third denial is stronger and more aggressive. Mark 14:71–72 “He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, ‘I don’t know this man you’re talking about.’ Immediately the rooster crowed… Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken… and he broke down and wept.” In that moment, Peter wakes up to what he has done. He likely thinks: How did I get here? How did I become the person who did this? Coleton explains that this is exactly how sin works. It rarely pulls people into massive, dramatic failure immediately. Instead, it leads people there through small compromises that seem harmless. C.S. Lewis famously described this strategy: “The safest road to Hell is the gradual one—the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts.” —C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters Sin doesn’t start with catastrophic decisions. It begins with small steps: Not an affair, but hiding a texting conversation. Not addiction, but scrolling endlessly for comfort. Not hating your spouse, but constantly focusing on their flaws. Not deep bitterness, but refusing to forgive a small offense. These small compromises slowly move our hearts away from God. Peter later warns the church about this very danger: 1 Peter 5:8 “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” Peter writes those words as someone who has experienced exactly how deception works. 2. Sin Cannot Give Us What We Actually Desire The second danger is that sin promises fulfillment but never delivers it. Peter is trying to protect his ability to stay near Jesus. His lies are meant to help him remain close and ready to act if the moment comes. But sin does not work that way. Instead of helping Peter accomplish his goal, sin leads him somewhere far worse—publicly denying the person he loves most. Coleton illustrates this with a powerful story about Olympic runner and World War II veteran Louis Zamperini, who survived a plane crash and drifted in the Pacific Ocean for 47 days. He was surrounded by water, desperately thirsty. But he could not drink the saltwater. Drinking it would only make things worse—causing dehydration, sickness, and eventually death. Steve Hoppe describes this reality: “Louie was dying of thirst, yet surrounded by water. The saltwater looked refreshing. It looked like the very thing that would satisfy him, but if he drank the saltwater it would leave him thirstier than before… Sin works like that. It looks refreshing. It looks just like what you need. But the more you press in, the more it hurts you.” —Steve Hoppe, Sipping Saltwater Sin always works this way. It looks like the solution to our problems: Lying looks like it will bring peace Overspending looks like it will bring happiness Social media approval looks like it will bring worth Holding a grudge looks like justice But instead of bringing life, it produces something worse. Scripture consistently tells us this truth: Sin promises fulfillment—but pays us in death. Coleton shares a tragic example of a girl whose mother constantly shamed her about her weight in order to “help” her succeed in acting and pageants. The pressure worked in one sense—she became extremely thin. But it nearly killed her. She dropped from 103 pounds to 61 pounds and had to spend years recovering from the damage. What looked like success actually became destruction. Sin often appears to produce results—but those results ultimately destroy us. How Should We Respond? Recognizing these dangers should change how we live. 1. Believe That Sin’s Dangers Are Real God is not withholding joy from us when He warns us about sin. He is protecting us. His commands are not cruelty—they are kindness. They keep us away from roads that lead to destruction. 2. Be Watchful and Resist the Enemy Peter eventually echoes Jesus’ warning: 1 Peter 5:8–9 “Be sober-minded and watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion… Resist him, standing firm in your faith.” Practical ways to do this include: Pray for God to Search Your Heart Psalm 139:23–24 “Search me, God, and know my heart… See if there is any offensive way in me.” Prayer invites God to reveal areas where sin is quietly gaining ground. Respond Quickly to Conviction The Holy Spirit convicts us not to shame us but to rescue us. Conviction is a gift—like pain in the body warning us that something is wrong. Dietrich Bonhoeffer captured this idea well: “Nothing can be more cruel than the leniency which abandons others to their sin. Nothing can be more compassionate than the severe reprimand which calls another back from the path of sin.” Don’t Isolate Yourself Peter was alone when he failed. Spiritual isolation makes people vulnerable. Trusted Christian community helps us see things we might miss. Give Sin No Ground The apostle Paul warns believers not to give the devil a “foothold.” The Greek word refers to giving territory or land. Just as Israel was commanded not to leave enemy nations in the land, believers must not allow sin even small spaces in their lives. Small compromises are the beginning of the most dangerous roads. The Hope of the Gospel: Jesus Can Change a Life Peter’s story does not end in failure. Jesus later forgives and restores him. And the next time Peter stands before the same kind of religious authorities, everything is different. Acts 4:8–12 “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them… ‘It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead… Salvation is found in no one else.’” The man who once denied being with Jesus is now recognized for being with Him. Acts 4:13 “They took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Jesus transformed Peter into the person he always wanted to be. And that same transformation is available to anyone who turns to Christ. Peter himself says it clearly: “Salvation is found in no one else.” Jesus is the only one who can rescue us from sin’s deception and finally satisfy the thirst of our souls. Discipleship Group Questions Why do you think Peter did not initially realize he was denying Jesus? What does this teach us about how sin works in our own lives? What are some “small compromises” that can slowly lead people away from God? The sermon compares sin to drinking saltwater. What are some examples where something promised fulfillment but actually made life worse? Peter later warns believers to be watchful because the devil seeks to devour people. What practical habits help us stay spiritually alert? Peter’s life was radically changed after Jesus restored him. How does his story encourage you about the possibility of transformation in your own life?

This week Coleton and Rainey offered some response to questions from our church community. Questions engaged the differences between the God of the Old Testament and the loving, forgiving God of the New Testament, to questions about end times theology, and women in ministry. We'd love for you to listen to the rest on the podcast.  Every question we weren't able to get to in our service will be answered separately on our podcast. Stay tuned!

The Trial of Jesus Coleton’s sermon walked through Gospel of Mark 14:53–65 — Jesus before the high priest and the Sanhedrin — and focused on three major truths: The Lack of Evidence, The Injustice, and The Answer Jesus Gives. 1. The Lack of Evidence The passage says: “The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any… Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.” This was not a fair trial. It was rigged from the beginning. ● It was held at night. ● It was held in the high priest’s house. ● Witnesses were prepped to testify falsely. ● The entire purpose was to find a reason to kill Him. And yet — they could not find solid evidence. Even the eyewitnesses who had seen Him and heard Him could not produce consistent testimony proving He deserved death. That’s staggering. The point made was simple but powerful: If the people who lived at the same time as Jesus — who hated Him and wanted Him dead — could not produce credible evidence to disprove His claims, then what evidence do we have 2,000 years later to dismiss Him? The question was posed directly: “If you don’t believe Jesus is who He says He is — what evidence do you point to? Because the people who lived in His time, who hated Him and wanted Him dead, couldn’t find any.” The sermon argued that we actually have more evidence to consider the truthfulness of Jesus’ claims today — not more evidence to disprove Him. To emphasize Jesus’ global impact, the quote from Dr. James Allan Francis was read, describing Jesus as an obscure carpenter who never held office, never wrote a book, never traveled far — and yet: “All the armies that ever marched… all the kings that ever reigned… have not affected the life of mankind upon the earth as powerfully as this one solitary life.” History has been shaped not by Caesar, but by a carpenter from Nazareth. That demands explanation. 2. The Injustice The second focus was the staggering injustice of the trial. Multiple Jewish legal procedures were broken: ● Arrest without formal charges ● Trial during Passover ● Night trial outside the temple courts ● No agreeing witnesses in a capital case ● No 24-hour waiting period before sentencing Jesus was arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced within hours. And yet — none of this hindered God’s plan. The sermon pointed to Book of Isaiah 53, written centuries before, which describes the Messiah: “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth… From arrest and judgment he was taken away… though he had done no violence.” Their injustice did not derail God’s plan — it fulfilled it. A quote from James Stewart captured it beautifully: “They gave Him a cross, not guessing that He would make it a throne… He did not conquer in spite of the evil. He conquered by using it.” That line shaped the heart of this section: God doesn’t merely overcome evil — He uses it. This doesn’t mean what they did was good. It means nothing can stop what God has determined to accomplish. The application became deeply personal. We often think: ● That relationship ruined God’s plan. ● That job loss ruined God’s plan. ● My upbringing ruined God’s plan. ● Time is running out. But the cross shows otherwise. If God has determined to bless you, no one can stop Him. Their curses can become stepping stones. The example of David was used: Saul tried repeatedly to kill him, but every attempt only moved David closer to the throne. The preacher shared personally about the pain of his parents’ divorce — and how God used that painful disruption to bring him to Memphis, where he met his wife. What felt like loss became a pathway to blessing. The message was clear: “What He has decided to do, no one and nothing can stop Him.” 3. The Answer Jesus Gives Up to this point, Jesus had remained silent. If He stays silent, it becomes very difficult to condemn Him. But then the high priest asks directly: “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” And Jesus answers: “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” This is the turning point. Jesus gives them exactly what they need to condemn Him. He ensures His own death. He is not trapped. He is choosing. The sermon made this stunning reversal clear: ● He was declared guilty though innocent… ● So that we who are guilty could be declared innocent. Quoting Book of Isaiah again: “It was the Lord’s will to crush him… he will bear their iniquities… he poured out his life unto death and was numbered with the transgressors.” Jesus chose condemnation so we could receive justification. A quote from Greg Boyd reinforced the heart of it: “Despite our sin our creator thinks that we are worth experiencing a hellish death for… the cross reveals our unsurpassable worth and significance to God.” At the core of our fears is the suspicion that we are not truly loved — that we are on our own. But the cross answers that fear. You are not the only one fighting for your life. He is fighting for you. He is not against you. He is for you. And He proves it here. He chose death so that you could experience life. The sermon closed with a call to respond: Give Him more of your allegiance. Give Him more of your life. Trust Him more deeply. Because the cross shows: Nothing can stop His plan. Nothing can disprove His claim. And nothing can separate you from His love.

Praying in the Garden “They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” Mark 14:32 Gethsemane is an olive garden, but its name means olive press. That matters. Because on this night, Jesus is being pressed—pressed by sorrow, dread, betrayal, and the weight of what’s coming. Mark tells us He is “overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.” This is not stoic Jesus. This is anguished Jesus. And what does He do when the pressure becomes unbearable? He prays. Jesus does not numb Himself, distract Himself, or power through. He withdraws. He falls to the ground. He calls God Abba—Father. Prayer, for Jesus, is not a performance or a duty. It is refuge. When everything feels like too much, He runs toward His Father, not away. Gethsemane shows us that prayer is not something strong people do; it’s where desperate people hide. It’s the place we go when words fail, when explanations run dry, when all we can offer is our presence and our pain. And Jesus doesn’t pray safely. He prays honestly. “Take this cup from me.” He asks for what He wants. He names His desire without fear, without editing, without pretending. This is stunning. If that prayer were answered, salvation would never come. Yet Jesus still prays it. Why? Because He trusts His Father completely. He knows God will never give Him something that isn’t ultimately good—even if it’s something He deeply wants in the moment. That means prayer is not just refuge; it’s freedom. Freedom to ask. Freedom to risk honesty. Freedom from the fear that God might mishandle our requests. Jesus shows us we don’t have to tiptoe around God with cautious, half-formed prayers. We can say what we actually want, while still surrendering to the Father we trust. “Not my will, but yours” is not fear—it’s confidence in God’s goodness. Then Jesus returns to His friends and finds them asleep. Three times. And He says something revealing: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” Prayer, Jesus insists, changes things. Not by giving us control, but by shifting where our strength comes from. The disciples skip prayer and later reach for a sword. The result? Chaos, fear, failure. Human strength cannot produce kingdom change. Prayer can. Because prayer moves us from self-reliance to God-dependence. It is the place where weak people receive power they do not possess on their own. Gethsemane invites us into a different vision of prayer. Not a burden, but a refuge. Not a risk, but a freedom. Not a formality, but a means of real change. So go to your place. Say what you’re actually feeling. Ask for what you actually want. And trust the Father who meets you there.

In this sermon, Tommy walks the congregation through Ecclesiastes 12, using King Solomon’s final reflections to confront the reality of aging, mortality, and meaning. Written near the end of Solomon’s life, Ecclesiastes reflects a man who has experienced wealth, wisdom, pleasure, and power—yet concludes that life lived merely “under the sun” is ultimately meaningless apart from God. The sermon opens by framing Ecclesiastes as deeply honest and intentionally sobering. Solomon repeatedly uses the word “meaningless” to describe life when it is viewed only from an earthly perspective. This is not nihilism, but realism—designed to awaken people, especially the young, before time, strength, and opportunity slip away. Tommy explains that Ecclesiastes 12 is written as an allegory of aging, describing the gradual decline of the human body and mind. Solomon urges readers to “remember your Creator in the days of your youth,” because aging brings psychological, physiological, and eventually physical decline. The mind grows weary, joy becomes harder to find, and life can feel increasingly dark and repetitive. This is the psychological toll of aging when hope is rooted only in earthly things. Physiologically, Solomon’s imagery vividly portrays the body breaking down: trembling hands, weakened legs, failing eyesight, loss of hearing, disrupted sleep, and diminished desire. Rather than being crude, the allegory preserves dignity while making the point unmistakable—human strength is temporary, and decline is inevitable. Finally, the physical conclusion is unavoidable: death. The “silver cord” is severed, the “golden bowl” is broken, and the spirit returns to God. Tommy emphasizes that Scripture is clear—death is certain, and judgment follows. Ignoring this reality does not delay it. Yet the sermon does not end in despair. Solomon closes with clarity and hope: “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of mankind.” Life gains meaning when lived with God at the center. Obedience, reverence, and eternal perspective anchor life with purpose that aging and death cannot erase. Tommy’s central message is clear: wisdom is not found in denying mortality, but in preparing for it. The best time to orient life around God is not later—but now. Discussion Questions What does it mean to live life “under the sun,” and where do you see that mindset influencing your daily decisions? Why do you think Solomon specifically urges people to remember God while they are young? How does facing the reality of aging and death change the way you prioritize your time, energy, and relationships? In what ways can fearing God and keeping His commandments bring meaning to ordinary, everyday life? What is one practical step you can take this week to live with a more eternal perspective? If you’d like, I can also: Condense this into a small-group handout Rewrite it in a more devotional tone Create a teaching outline or sermon recap slide

The New Exodus 22 Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.” 23 Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.” –Mark 14:22-24 ______________________________________ Jesus did not stumble into the Passover meal. He orchestrated it. Every detail was arranged—where to go, who to follow, which room to use—because something deeply important was about to be said. This was not just another meal. This was His meal. A moment where Jesus would say, without speeches or arguments, what His heart most wanted His followers to understand. At that table, Jesus made something unmistakably clear: He chose to suffer for us. He spoke openly about betrayal. Not vaguely, not hypothetically—but personally. One of the Twelve. One dipping bread into the same bowl. Jesus knew exactly what was coming. He could have stopped it. He could have exposed Judas, avoided the cross, escaped the pain. And yet, He did none of that. Why? Because He was not a victim of suffering; He was a volunteer. He chose the path of suffering so that blessing could come to us. This is where Jesus stands apart from every other way of life. Most paths tell us, “You do it. You pay the price. You fix yourself.” Jesus says, “I’ll do it. I’ll pay it. I’ll suffer in your place to bring you to God.” Like a father who works himself to exhaustion so his children can experience joy they could never earn on their own, Jesus bears the weight we could not carry. Then, in the breaking of bread and the sharing of the cup, Jesus redefines the ancient Passover story. What once remembered freedom from slavery in Egypt now points to a greater rescue. “This is my body.” “This is my blood.” He takes the symbols of deliverance and makes them about Himself. He is saying, Just as God once rescued His people from Pharaoh, I am rescuing My people from sin. The word Jesus uses for forgiveness means release. Freedom. Liberation from bondage. He does not look at us primarily as rebels to be crushed, but as slaves who need to be set free. Slaves to fear. To habits we hate. To patterns we swore we’d never repeat. To decisions we don’t even want to make—but keep making anyway. We see it in the disciples. They meant what they said. Peter truly believed he would stand strong. The others truly believed they would stay faithful. And yet, they all fell away. Not because they wanted to—but because something else was calling the shots. Sin does that. It promises life and delivers the opposite. Jesus sees that. And He says, I came to rescue you from that.  I chose to suffer to set you free.  I bled so you could be released. The invitation of this meal still stands. Come. Trust Him. Let Him free you. Whether it’s the first surrender of your life or the bringing of hidden chains you’re tired of carrying—Jesus is gentle, determined, and faithful to finish the work He began.

Case for Christ - Lee Strobel https://a.co/d/h3plGNK Also, check this article out. It gives an image showing copies and dating for ancient documents including the New Testament. Reliability of the Bible Article with Image

How to Hear God - Pete Greig https://www.amazon.com/How-Hear-God-Simple-Normal/dp/0310114608

The Power of Worship Mark 14:1-11 Worship is never neutral. It either loosens our grip on lesser loves or tightens their chains around our soul. In Bethany, while death plotted in the shadows and religion calculated its risks, a woman stepped into the light of wholehearted devotion. She broke what could not be repaired, poured out what could not be recovered, and loved Jesus without reserve. And Jesus called it beautiful. Mary’s act was not impulsive sentimentality; it was the overflow of a heart already shaped. She did not wake that morning intending to make history. She simply brought to Jesus what she treasured most. Worship is always like this—it reveals what already reigns within us. Judas stood in the same room, heard the same words, saw the same Jesus. Yet one broke a jar in love, and the other sold the Lord for silver. Experience with Jesus does not transform us; worship of Jesus does. What we revere, we resemble. Mary worshiped Jesus and became free—free from calculation, free from fear of opinion, free from the tyranny of possessions. Judas worshiped money and became enslaved—restless, defensive, deceptive, willing to trade relationship for reward. Worship is never merely about what we do on occasion; it is about who or what commands our deepest allegiance. And that allegiance quietly but relentlessly forms us. Notice that Mary did not understand the full meaning of her act. Jesus tells us she was preparing Him for burial, though she likely had no such awareness. This is the hidden power of worship: God uses surrendered love to accomplish purposes far beyond our understanding. We imagine worship as expressive; God reveals it to be effective. He has chosen praise, sacrifice, obedience, and devotion as instruments through which He works His will in the world. Yet worship will always invite resistance. Mary’s devotion was criticized by the religious, rebuked by friends, labeled wasteful and impractical. True worship often looks foolish to those who measure life by utility rather than love. But Jesus stands between the worshiper and the accuser and says, “Leave her alone.” Heaven’s approval outweighs every earthly objection. The question is not whether we worship, but whom. Our lives testify to our altar. Look not merely at your words, but at your formation. Are you becoming more loving or more guarded? More generous or more anxious? More gentle or more defensive? These are not accidental outcomes; they are the fruit of devotion. Mary did what she could—and that was enough. She did not calculate future security or public opinion. She responded to Jesus with affection and action. Worship that costs us nothing shapes us into nothing. But worship that breaks us open becomes a fragrance God uses to fill the room—and sometimes, to give hope to others standing knee-deep in the mud. Pour it out. Worship anyway. God is at work.

The Destruction of the Temple (Mark 13) Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn’t know Jesus Jesus didn’t predict the end of the world to scare people—He predicted the collapse of a broken religious system to invite the world into something better. When everything people trusted fell apart, Jesus was revealed as trustworthy, alive, and open to all who would follow Him. Big Idea of the Message Coleton’s central aim is clarity: Jesus is not predicting the end of the world in Mark 13, but the end of Jerusalem’s temple-centered way of life. When people misunderstand passages like this, they tend to get fearful, obsessive, or strange. Jesus’ goal, however, is not panic—but faithfulness. Introduction: Why End-Times Passages Make People Weird Coleton begins by showing how historically, Christians (and quasi-Christians) have often reacted badly to apocalyptic passages: Historical Examples of people acting weird about end time’s theology: Münster, Germany (1534) – Anabaptists declared the city the New Jerusalem, enforced polygamy, abolished private property, and executed dissenters. Skoptsy (18th–19th century Russia) – Believed sexual desire was tied to the Antichrist; practiced self-mutilation. Heaven’s Gate (1997) – 39 people committed suicide believing a UFO would usher them into salvation. Harold Camping (1994, 2011) – Predicted rapture dates; people sold homes, quit jobs, stopped medical care. Coleton’s Point: “Passages like the one we just read lead people—especially Christians—to get weird and do weird stuff.” What’s striking is that the disciples didn’t react this way. Jesus’ original audience didn’t panic, speculate, or obsess. That tells us we’re probably misunderstanding something when we do. What Is Jesus Actually Doing? (Mark 13:1–2) Jesus Predicts the Destruction of the Temple Mark 13:2 – “Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” Coleton explains that Jesus is not talking about the end of the universe, but the coming destruction of the Jerusalem Temple. Why the Temple Matters The Temple was meant to lead people to God Jesus cleansed it and called it back to its purpose The leaders rejected Jesus—and therefore rejected God Himself Conclusion:  Because the Temple no longer served its God-given purpose, it would be judged and removed. When Will This Happen? – Part 1 (Mark 13:4–13) What Happens Before the Destruction The disciples ask when this will happen. Jesus responds with signs—not of immediacy, but of delay. Mark 13:7 – “Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” Key Points Coleton Highlights This will not happen immediately Followers of Jesus will face persecution The gospel must be preached to all nations Important Clarification:  “All nations” does not mean every modern country—it refers to the Roman world. This was fulfilled when Paul brought the gospel to Rome (AD 60–61). Application Jesus Gives: “Stand firm. Be patient.” When Will This Happen? – Part 2 (Mark 13:14–23) The Abomination That Causes Desolation Mark 13:14 – “When you see the abomination that causes desolation… then flee.” Coleton explains this phrase using Daniel 11–12 and historical context. Scholarly Insight “The ‘desolating abomination’ refers to pagan powers invading Jerusalem, stopping Temple worship, and committing sacrilege.”  — N.T. Wright Historical Fulfillment (AD 66–70) Zealots occupied the Temple Murder occurred inside the Holy of Holies A clownish figure, Phanni, was installed as High Priest William Lane:  “These acts of sacrilege likely signaled to Jewish Christians that Jesus’ warning had come true—and they fled.” Meanwhile, false messiahs arose promising miraculous deliverance. Some stayed and believed them. That decision proved fatal. N.T. Wright:  “More Jews were killed by other Jews than by the Romans.” Outcome #1: The End of Their World (Mark 13:24–25) “The sun will be darkened… the stars will fall…” Coleton emphasizes this is Old Testament judgment language, not cosmic destruction. Biblical Background Isaiah 13; 34 – Used similar imagery to describe the fall of nations, not the universe Mark Strauss & N.T. Wright:  “This is not the end of the world—but the end of their world.” What Ended? Temple sacrifices Priesthood Festivals and pilgrimages The entire religious system Israel had known for 2,000 years Coleton compares it to losing power permanently—not a temporary outage, but a total restructuring of life. Outcome #2: Jesus Is Vindicated (Mark 13:26) “They will see the Son of Man coming in clouds…” This comes from Daniel 7, and Coleton stresses: This is not Jesus’ second coming to earth  It is Jesus being vindicated—proved right and enthroned by God N.T. Wright:  “This is about Jesus’ triumph after suffering—not His return.” The Temple fell.  Jesus rose.  The rejected stone became the cornerstone. Outcome #3: God’s People Expand to the Nations (Mark 13:27) The Temple excluded Gentiles. Jesus includes them. Inscription on the Temple wall:  “Any foreigner who enters… will have himself to blame for his death.” But now: Ephesians 2:14–21 –  “Jesus has destroyed the dividing wall… creating one new humanity.” What the Temple couldn’t do, Jesus did.  God’s presence is no longer confined to a building—but embodied in His people. Final Teaching: What Do We Do Now? (Mark 13:28–37) “Keep watch. Stay alert.” Jesus tells them: It will happen in this generation (fulfilled in AD 70) No one knows the exact day Don’t speculate—be faithful Final Applications from Coleton 1. Don’t Be Weird About the End Times The disciples didn’t: Predict dates Panic at disasters Follow false prophets Obsess over signs Because Jesus told them not to. 2. Be Bold in Sharing Jesus Knowing judgment was coming didn’t lead the early church to despair—it led them to mission. 3. Stay Faithful They lived visibly transformed lives. Alan Kreider:  “Christianity’s truth was visible because it was embodied.” People weren’t drawn by fear—but by love. Final Summary Jesus predicted the fall of a broken system that rejected Him—and history proved Him right. The Temple fell, Jesus was vindicated, and God’s family expanded to the world. So don’t panic, don’t speculate, and don’t get weird—stay faithful, love boldly, and trust Jesus.

Practice the Way of Jesus Jesus does not flatter us with comforting abstractions. He speaks with piercing clarity. “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice…”—and there He draws the line that divides all humanity. Not between the moral and immoral, the religious and irreligious, the fortunate and the afflicted—but between the practiced and the merely informed. The striking truth of Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 is that everything else is the same. The storm does not discriminate. Rain falls on obedience and disobedience alike. Winds beat against every house. The difference is not the weather of life but the weight-bearing obedience beneath it. One hears and does. The other hears and delays. And delay, in the kingdom of God, is already a decision. Throughout Scripture this pattern is relentless. God speaks; people respond—or refuse. Noah builds while the sky is blue and finds salvation when it turns black. Abraham keeps obeying long after obedience feels unreasonable and discovers that God keeps promises beyond biology. Moses lifts a staff, Israel walks, Naaman washes, blind eyes open, empty nets break with abundance. God’s power is never detached from trust expressed through action. Equally clear is the sobering witness of those who heard and did nothing. They were invited. They were informed. They were near the truth. Yet they watched storms without experiencing salvation, commands without deliverance, Christ without transformation. It was not ignorance that robbed them—it was unpracticed truth. Jesus never asked for admirers. He commanded apprentices. “Teach them to obey,” He said—not merely to agree. Christianity left at the level of belief alone becomes weightless. It can grow numerically, organize efficiently, and yet remain untouched by the living power of God. But obedience—real, embodied obedience—becomes the narrow gate through which life flows. This is why practicing the way of Jesus feels so often unreasonable. Forgive when wounded. Give when anxious. Pray when exhausted. Speak when silence feels safer. These instructions offend our instincts because God has chosen the foolish-looking things to train our trust. We do not drift into this kind of life. We must aim. Jesus Himself told us it would be harder. Easier roads are always available—but ease is often destructive. What is easiest rarely fuels what is eternal. The narrow way is demanding, but it is alive. As Chesterton observed, Christianity is not tried and found wanting; it is found difficult and left untried. Yet hear the mercy in all this: Jesus never commands without empowering. He died not only to forgive sin, but to place His Spirit within us—to make obedience possible from the inside out. “It is God who works in you to will and to act…” Our responsibility is not self-powered righteousness, but surrendered cooperation. So where is the storm pressing hardest right now? Where do you long to see God’s power break through? Do not ask first for relief—ask what obedience looks like there. Search the Scriptures. Seek counsel. Then act. Build there. Practice there. And you will find that the life you most truly crave is not found in hearing more—but in practicing what you already have heard.

Larry’s sermon centers on the idea that God desires to guide His people from places of brokenness, scarcity, and stagnation into lives marked by abundance, wisdom, and flourishing. He illustrates this through a story about a close friend who mentors a young woman whose life has been shaped by harmful decisions and discouragement. Larry’s friend pleads with her, saying that if she would simply watch, listen, and follow her, she could be led “from where you are…to better places” — from a life she hates into one she would love. When Larry hears this, he senses God revealing that this is not just what He desires for one person, but for all of us: God places wise and godly people in our lives as living examples to help guide us from unwise patterns toward wholeness and life. A major theme of the message is humility. Larry emphasizes that transformation requires the courage to admit, “I don’t know how to live well — but you do,” and to submit ourselves to guidance and imitation. This posture stands in contrast to the modern tendency to seek advice from distant voices — online personalities, influencers, or strangers — whose own lives may not reflect the fruit or outcomes we desire. Larry challenges the congregation to recognize how irrational it is to entrust our deepest life decisions to people we do not know and whose wisdom we cannot verify. Instead, Scripture presents a God who promises to guide His people daily and who often does so through trustworthy, faithful examples in the community of believers. The sermon also connects this calling to the life of Jesus. Even though Jesus was equal with God, He chose to humble Himself, refusing to act independently; instead, He imitated and followed the will of the Father in everything He did. His life becomes both the model and the means of our transformation — He humbled Himself to the point of death so that we might be set free and learn how to live in alignment with God’s purposes. Larry frames this life of imitation and discipleship as a movement from “limited vision and prison space” into abundance. God is deeply committed to our good — so committed, in fact, that Christ gave His life to lead us out of captivity and into fullness of life. Communion becomes a tangible reminder of that commitment and an invitation to trust God’s shepherding presence even when the path forward feels uncertain. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embrace a posture of teachability, to seek guidance from godly men and women whose lives demonstrate the fruit of wisdom, and to follow Jesus’ example of humility and obedience. Through this way of life — watching, listening, imitating, and surrendering — God leads His people from places of pain and confusion into places of abundance, freedom, and joy. Discussion & Application Questions Humility & Teachability: Where in your life do you resist guidance because it requires humility? What might it look like to ask someone you trust to “teach you how to live” in that area? Models Worth Imitating: Who in your life demonstrates the kind of spiritual maturity or fruit you hope to grow into? What practical steps could you take to intentionally learn from them? Sources of Influence: In what ways do you tend to seek direction from distant or impersonal voices (social media, influencers, etc.)? How can you shift toward embodied, relational guidance? Following Jesus’ Example: How does Jesus’ humility before the Father challenge your approach to decision-making, independence, or control? From Scarcity to Abundance: Where do you feel “stuck” or limited right now? What might trusting God’s guidance — through Scripture, prayer, and community — look like in that specific area?