Only The Word

Religion motivated by a desire for admiration of men is an abomination to God.

Jesus takes the text Isaiah 61:1-2, and preaches it's fulfillment in himself.

Satan steps out from behind the curtain to tempt Jesus to sin. We get a brief glimpse of his subtle attacks, and Jesus's rebuttal of each with the scriptures.

The Father and the Spirit bear witness to Jesus at his baptism, and Jesus's lineage fulfills all the Old Testament promises.

John the Baptist is moved by the Holy Spirit to begin his ministry. He preaches the gospel of repentance, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies, and pointing all men to Christ.

Joseph, Mary and Jesus make the trip to Jerusalem for the Passover. Jesus tarries behind at the Temple, talking with the doctors and lawyers about the scriptures.

Christ suffered the reproach, affliction and death outside the camp for our sanctification. Let us follow him without the camp, bearing Christ's reproach in this world.

The Lord entrusts parents with the natural and spiritual well-being of their children​, and we have a short time to direct them. Let us do all that we can to point them to the Lord, and trust God's providence with the rest.

Joseph and Mary take Jesus to the temple to be circumcised, and meet Simeon and Anna by the leadership of the Holy Ghost.

Greatness in this world is measured by personal accomplishments and social status. This is reversed in the kingdom of God, and the servant is the greatest.

God has prepared an eternal marriage feast for all believers in heaven. Invitations to this feast are sent out through the gospel, and all who respond to the call may attend.

God is not merely a savior from sin. He is also a loving Father to his children; watching over them, protecting them, providing for them, and lifting them up when they fall. God's mercy and grace are with us throughout this life, and will be with us in eternity.

The Old Testament law was glorious, but only diagnosed mankind's sinfulness. The glory of the New Testament gospel far exceeds the glory of the law; in that it writes the law on hearts, and transforms lives by it's power.

God calls ministers to spread knowledge of Christ Jesus, and likens it to a fragrance. The gospel fills the room like a delicious aroma, and gives hearts a desire to taste the goodness of Christ.

The greatness of the grace of God cannot be overstated. God calls man to repentance, and promises to forgive all their iniquity, even that which man would never forgive. Those foolish enough to scoff at God's mercy will face God's wrath in judgement.

The Lord tests what is in our hearts in many ways to prove whether our professions are true, or to make genuine faith grow.

Our behavior effects the opinion of those around us. The church may discredit the Gospel if their lives are not in order with the Word. 

Jesus's last discourse with the Disciples includes the exhortation to spread this Gospel to all nations, and baptize those which believe. Are we on mission today?