All I Want for Christmas
Christmas is a time when many of us begin to write down what we hope to acquire. Sometimes we write down simple lists of gift ideas, but other times we begin to write more serious lists of personal needs or world hopes. In the church year, Advent is a time of anticipation and expectation leading up to the Messiah’s arrival that focuses some of our strongest hopes and desires through the word of the prophets. So, what are you waiting for?
All I Want for Christmas is Someone to Believe In
David wants to build a house for the Lord, but God promises that David’s descendants will sit on his throne forever (2 Samuel 7:1-16). What does this mean? How does this tap into our longing for a just, righteous ruler as revealed in Jesus? (2 SAMUEL 7:1-16) Sermon Outline “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.” (2 Samuel 7:16) David: a Picture of the One Worth Believing In Anointed by Samuel…
All I Want for Christmas is a New Beginning
The Prophet Isaiah speaks of a time of restoration that will come, both of the return from exile and the ultimate restoration through the Messiah yet to come (Isaiah 61:1-11). Jesus picks up these words and uses them as the outline of His ministry in Luke’s gospel. (Isaiah 61:1-11; Luke 4:16-21) Sermon Outline “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news.” (Isaiah 61:1) The Chosen One Bringing New Beginnings…
All I Want for Christmas is Some Good News
The Prophet Isaiah speaks comfort from God to his people who are broken and in exile (Isaiah 40:1-11). These are some of the most beautiful words that we encounter in Scripture about true comfort and light breaking into a dark world. (ISAIAH 40:1-11) Sermon Outline “You who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid.” (Isaiah 40:9) The Good News of God’s Comfort in Our Suffering (Isaiah 40:1-2)) The…
All I Want for Christmas is for God to Show Up
The Prophet Isaiah steps forward in longing and pleading for God to show up and bring ultimate healing and deliverance for a people stranded in the midst of terrorizing enemies (Isaiah 64:1-9). This message is relevant for our community today, especially in the season of Advent. (ISAIAH 64:1-9) Sermon Outline “I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others.” (Genesis 12:2) This Christmas Season, We…