Final sermon in our "Stories Jesus Told" series, preached at RUF Large Group on Nov. 30. We look back on a semester's worth of stories, seeing that God meets us on the outside, brings us into his "home," and then sends us out as his child-ambassadors. We go to work "out there" but find our rest "in here." In and out, in and out—this is the rhythm of the Christian life.
Matthew 13:44-46: Stories About Hidden Treasure
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on Nov. 15. The kingdom of heaven [aka, kingdom of God] is our broken world made right. In these stories, Jesus reveals that the kingdom of heaven is here but hidden. It is subversive. Not only that, it is incredibly valuable. Finally, it cannot remain hidden forever. It changes you. While discovered in private, the effects of that discovery become public.
Luke 18:1-8: Story of the Widow & Unjust Judge
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on November 8 (Election Day). Hope is rooted in reality. Hope is powered by promise. And hope "has legs."
Matthew 25: The Story of the 'Least of These'
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on Nov. 1. What is the kingdom of God? What does Jesus want us to do? Who does God reward?
Matthew 25: The Story of the Talents
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on Oct. 25. God made us and saved us for work. God has equipped us for good work. And God expects a return on His investment.
Matthew 18: Story of the Unforgiving Servant
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group 10/18/16. Forgiveness costs and forgiveness changes (at least it ought to).
Luke 10: Story of the Good Samaritan
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on 10/11/16. What does love look like in action? Where will we get the strength to love like this?
Luke 18: Story of the Pharisee & Tax Collector
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on 10/4/16. Humility is the door into God's kingdom.
Luke 15: Story of Two Lost Sons & One Good Dad
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on 9/27/16. The gospel is good news for beautiful-but-broken people. It is an announcement of the good life. It's what we need most—it's the answer to our problems. In this story, Jesus reveals what we need most is not autonomy or perfection but grace.
Luke 15: Story of the Lost Sheep & Lost Coin
Sermon preached at RUF Large Group on 9/20/16. God loves outsiders and wants to bring them into his fold. Friends of God love what God loves and rejoice when the lost are found.