Luke 19:45-48

Luke 19:45-48

English Standard Version 

  There's only 1,000 different conclusions as to what it means for Jesus to drive the traders out of the temple.  The temple economy and the trading that took place was important to the activity of the temple, but things clearly weren't serving the purpose that the temple was built for -- it wasn't serving as a meeting place for the people and God.  Something was getting in the way, so Jesus clears it out, and then he remains, teaching daily.  He is filling the space with his Word, so that the people can hear the teachings of God.  

  There's things in all of our lives that interfere with our connection with God.  Are we willing to be honest and admit the places where we fall short, and find a way to let God's Word fill that space in our lives?

Luke 19:41–44

Luke 19:41-44 

English Standard Version 

  Jesus has foreknowledge of the destruction that is coming to Jerusalem in 70 AD. Roman forces will besiege and destroy much of the city, and Jesus has heartbreak for the devastation that will occur.  

  It's an important aspect of our faith to hold onto -- God weeps when destruction is visited upon God's people.  God made the world and all that is in it, and it is all precious to God.  In an age where we are bombarded by bad news from all over the world, it's easy to become numb to it.  But God still feels pain for the tragic loss that occurs around the world.  May we remember that and let it soften our hearts as we seek to follow Christ and love the world the way God loves it.

Sermon for Sept 27 on Philippians 2

Political Ads and the Gospel