Gospel — Good News – Page 11

Good News of Great Joy | December 20 — “The Authority of Jesus & the Kingdom of God”

Luke 20 challenges us to consider Jesus’s authority, our response to it, and the reality of His Kingdom. As we prepare for Advent, let these truths shape our hearts:

Recognize Jesus’ Authority: The religious leaders resisted acknowledging Jesus’s authority. This Advent, reflect on areas of your life where you need to submit more fully to Christ as Lord.
Respond with Faith, Not Rejection: The parable of the wicked tenants reminds us that rejecting God’s messengers leads to judgment. Consider how you can embrace Christ’s message of salvation with gratitude and obedience.
Give to God What Is His: Jesus taught the importance of giving to God what belongs to Him. During Advent, dedicate your time, talents, and treasures to His glory.
Hope in the Resurrection: Jesus’s teaching about the resurrection assures us of eternal life. Let this hope inspire joy and anticipation as you celebrate His first coming and await His return.
Beware of Hypocrisy: Jesus rebuked the scribes for their pride and exploitation of others. Advent calls us to examine our hearts, repent of hypocrisy, and walk humbly with God.

As you prepare for Christmas, may you honor Christ as the cornerstone of your faith, submit to His authority, and eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of His kingdom.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

📖 Revelation 3:7–13We’re back!After a few months off, The King is Coming returns in 2026 with one of the most encouraging letters in Revelation — Jesus’s message to the faithful church in Philadelphia. In a world filled with opposition and weakness, Jesus opens a door no one can shut.In this episode, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison explore:✔️ Jesus’s identity as the Holy One, the True One — God Himself✔️ What the “key of David” means and how Jesus alone opens and shuts✔️ The debated phrase “I will keep you from the hour of trial” — and how to read it biblically✔️ Why “little power” doesn’t disqualify faithfulness✔️ How being kept through the trial glorifies Christ’s strength in us✔️ What it means to be a pillar in God’s presence foreverThis church had no rebuke — only encouragement. And Jesus’s call still stands today: “Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.” (Revelation 3:11, ESV)🔗 Missed earlier episodes in the series? You can click here to catch up and listen from the beginning.✍️ If you’d like to see a written version of this podcast, complete with footnotes and cross-references, you can find it here.

The Authority of Jesus Questioned (20:1-8)^[1]

One day, as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple and preaching the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes with the elders came up ²and said to him, “Tell us by what authority you do these things, or who it is that gave you this authority.” ³He answered them, “I also will ask you a question. Now tell me, ⁴was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?” ⁵And they discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ ⁶But if we say, ‘From man,’ all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.” ⁷So they answered that they did not know where it came from. ⁸And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

The Parable of the Wicked Tenants (20:9-18)^[2]

⁹And he began to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard and let it out to tenants and went into another country for a long while. ¹⁰When the time came, he sent a servant to the tenants, so that they would give him some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat him and sent him away empty-handed. ¹¹And he sent another servant. But they also beat and treated him shamefully, and sent him away empty-handed. ¹²And he sent yet a third. This one also they wounded and cast out. ¹³Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will respect him.’ ¹⁴But when the tenants saw him, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir. Let us kill him, so that the inheritance may be ours.’ ¹⁵And they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? ¹⁶He will come and destroy those tenants and give the vineyard to others.” When they heard this, they said, “Surely not!” ¹⁷But he looked directly at them and said, “What then is this that is written:

“ ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’?

¹⁸Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.”

Paying Taxes to Caesar (20:19-26)^[3]

¹⁹The scribes and the chief priests sought to lay hands on him at that very hour, for they perceived that he had told this parable against them, but they feared the people. ²⁰So they watched him and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. ²¹So they asked him, “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach rightly, and show no partiality, but truly teach the way of God. ²²Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” ²³But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, ²⁴“Show me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have?” They said, “Caesar’s.” ²⁵He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” ²⁶And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent.

The Sadducees and the Resurrection (20:27-40)^[4]

²⁷There came to him some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, ²⁸and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. ²⁹Now there were seven brothers. The first took a wife, and died without children. ³⁰And the second ³¹and the third took her, and likewise all seven left no children and died. ³²Afterward the woman also died. ³³In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had her as wife.”

³⁴And Jesus said to them, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage, ³⁵but those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, ³⁶for they cannot die anymore, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. ³⁷But that the dead are raised, even Moses showed, in the passage about the bush, where he calls the Lord the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. ³⁸Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him.” ³⁹Then some of the scribes answered, “Teacher, you have spoken well.” ⁴⁰For they no longer dared to ask him any question.

Whose Son is the Christ? (20:41-44)^[5]

⁴¹But he said to them, “How can they say that the Christ is David’s son? ⁴²For David himself says in the Book of Psalms,

“ ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, ⁴³until I make your enemies your footstool.” ’

⁴⁴David thus calls him Lord, so how is he his son?”

Beware of the Scribes (20:45-47)^[6]

⁴⁵And in the hearing of all the people he said to his disciples, ⁴⁶“Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love greetings in the marketplaces and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, ⁴⁷who devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”

[1] As Jesus taught in the temple, the religious leaders questioned His authority, asking who gave Him the right to act as He did. Jesus countered with His own question about John the Baptist’s authority—whether it was from heaven or man. Their refusal to answer exposed their unwillingness to accept the truth, and Jesus, in turn, declined to answer their question.

[2] Jesus told a parable about tenants who refused to give the vineyard owner his due, beating and killing his servants and, finally, his son. The owner ultimately destroyed the tenants and gave the vineyard to others. The parable depicted Israel’s rejection of God’s messengers and the coming judgment. Jesus referenced Psalm 118:22, declaring that the rejected stone (Himself) would become the cornerstone, bringing either salvation or judgment.

[3] The religious leaders attempted to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus’ response, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (v. 25) amazed them. He affirmed both the responsibility to earthly authorities and ultimate allegiance to God.

[4] The Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, posed a hypothetical question about marriage in the resurrection. Jesus explained that life in the resurrection is different from earthly life—there is no marriage, as people will be like angels. Citing Exodus 3:6, Jesus demonstrated that God is the God of the living, affirming the resurrection.

[5] Jesus questioned how the Messiah could be both David’s son and his Lord, referencing Psalm 110:1. He revealed that the Messiah is greater than David, emphasizing His divine authority.

[6] Jesus warned His disciples about the scribes, who sought honor and exploited others under a guise of piety. Their hypocrisy would bring severe judgment.

“From Sinners to the Savior: Lessons from the Lineage of Jesus” — a Refresh & Restore Bible Study

Matthew 1:1-17 —
¹The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

²Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, ³and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, ⁴and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, ⁵and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, ⁶and Jesse the father of David the king.

And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, ⁷and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph, ⁸and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, ⁹and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, ¹⁰and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah, ¹¹and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.

¹²And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, ¹³and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, ¹⁴and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, ¹⁵and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, ¹⁶and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.^[1]

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

Merry Christmas, Sojourners!

One thing that I love about Christmas is that people are abnormally willing to be open to talk about Jesus. Much of the year, people’s attitudes toward Scripture or gospel can be very Scrooge-like, very “Bah! Humbug!” But for a few weeks in one month out of the year, people’s hearts swell like the Grinch’s after encountering Cindy-Lou-Who.

Another thing I love about Christmas is the way this season produces stories. As I type, The Polar Express is on in the background, a narrative of a young boy regaining the childlike sense of wonder and hope. I will no doubt watch It’s a Wonderful Life on Christmas day, a fairly new tradition at the Harris household, and follow good old George Bailey finding that his life has more blessings than curses and realizing the value and impact a single life can have. I’ll even watch one of my favorite Christmas stories chronicling John McClain’s daring rescue during the hijacking of Nakatomi Corporation’s Christmas party. More than those fictional stories, though, I love the stories that come from real life, from real people.

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it is a time of mourning, grieving, and faking-it-till-you-make-it. As I have talked with folks about this in recent years, I find that the thing that bridges the gap between those two groups – the joyful and the weary – is their stories. Even those who are mourning have stories and memories of bygone traditions. There are funny and happy memories, and yes, sad ones, too, that come out during this season. Those memories can kind of weave together into the tapestry of who we are. They become part of our story.

Jesus’s story is not different in that aspect because part of becoming flesh and dwelling among us (John 1:14) is the sin and death we need rescuing from. His Story is of the perfect and sinless Savior deigning to live among – to live for and on behalf of – those He came to save. In order for Isaiah’s prophecy that “those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2), Jesus needed to come and shine in the darkness, and we need to be reminded that the “darkness has not overcome” Him (John 1:4)!

So today, let’s take a moment and look at Jesus’s Story, specifically the Story of the lineage God chose to make Jesus a part of. Sometimes we look at stories in the Bible and feel inadequate. Rest assured that Jesus’s lineage as seen in Matthew 1:1-17 is full of people just like us – people who needed a Savior like Him!

Once upon a time, there was a great and powerful King. He was foretold of old to be a hero who would come from His far away country to redeem and win back His lost love. His Story is one of romance as He left His palace to rescue His Bride. His lineage hailed back to other…great…well, um….

One of the things I love about God’s Word is how it does not fall into the temptation of prettying things up or rewriting them to be more acceptable to folks’ sensibilities. Yes, Jesus is the great King – the King of kings who was prophesied for centuries to come from heaven and rescue His people. Yes, Jesus’s Story is one of romance, where He left His throne on high and traded it for a lowly manger in a tumble-down stable. But His lineage? It wasn’t filled with kings and queens, although there were a few sprinkled in toward the middle. It wasn’t filled with flawless heroes – the flaws are many. No, Jesus’s family tree was filled with regular sinners with real sin and problems – people like me and you.

This Bible study will look at the women emphasized in Jesus’s family tree who point us to Him in specific ways. We won’t go into their full stories, but I will give you the cross-references so you can check them out directly from Scripture.

Tamar (v. 3)
…and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar….

The first woman mentioned is Tamar (v. 3), and her story is found in Genesis 38. Tamar was Judah’s – you know, Judah as in the lion of the tribe of – she was his daughter-in-law. Originally, she was married to Judah’s oldest son, Er, until “the Lord put him to death” because he was “wicked in the sight of the Lord” (Genesis 38:7). By levirate marriage customs, it became the responsibility of Judah’s second son, Onan, to father children on behalf of his deceased big brother. But Onan was selfish and wicked, refusing to fulfill his duty; the Lord put him to death as well (Genesis 38:10). Judah promised his youngest son, Shelah, to Tamar when he came of age but had no intention of ever fulfilling that promise. Tamar, left without hope of bearing children, took matters into her own hands. Disguised as a prostitute, she tricked Judah into sleeping with her. Her actions were scandalous – and so were Judah’s.

So, why is Tamar mentioned in Jesus’s genealogy? Her story shows us God’s providence and mercy in bringing about His purposes despite human sin. Tamar’s inclusion reminds us that God can use even the most broken situations to fulfill His promises. Judah’s declaration, “She is more righteous than I” (Genesis 38:26), points to her determination to preserve the family line, a role God used in the lineage of Jesus. Her child that would be Jesus’s earthly ancestor was marked by a scarlet string around his foot. It brings to mind the way that God used her story and the stories of people like her almost like a scarlet thread of salvation running through His Story.

Rahab (v. 5)
…and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab….

The second woman is Rahab (v. 5), whose story is found in Joshua 2:1-21, 6:17, and 6:22-25, with further mentions in Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25. Rahab wasn’t one of God’s chosen people. She was a Canaanite from Jericho, known for her sinful profession. But she had heard of the God of Israel and believed in His power. She protected His spies, siding with the Lord and marking her house with a scarlet cord as a sign of her faith and obedience. When Jericho’s mighty walls fell by the power of God and the city was taken, Rahab and her family were spared.

Why would someone like Rahab be included in Jesus’s official lineage? Her faith in God is the answer. Rahab’s faith stood out like a scarlet cord, demonstrating that salvation is not about where you come from but about the one you put your faith in – in the God you trust. Her inclusion reminds us of God’s grace and His power to redeem and use anyone for His glory. Rahab’s life became part of the story of salvation history, pointing us to the greater salvation found in Jesus, who rescues all who place their faith in Him.

Ruth (vv. 5-6)
…and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab,
and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth,
and Obed the father of Jesse,
and Jesse the father of David the king.

The third woman is Ruth (v. 5), whose story is told in the book of the Bible bearing her name. Like Rahab, Ruth wasn’t one of God’s chosen people. She was a Moabite, descended from incest between Lot and his daughter (Genesis 19:30-37). When famine struck Israel, Ruth’s husband Mahlon and his family came to Moab for refuge, but tragedy followed. Ruth’s father-in-law, brother-in-law, and husband all died, leaving Ruth and her mother-in-law in dire straits. Despite her own loss, Ruth chose to return to Israel with Naomi, declaring, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). She returned with Naomi to Bethlehem – yes, the Christmas Bethlehem – and met Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer who married her and restored their family’s inheritance.

Why is Ruth mentioned in Jesus’s genealogy? Ruth’s story is one of God’s grace extending beyond Israel to include the nations. Her faith and devotion to God stand as a testament to His redeeming love. Her role as David’s great-grandmother and an ancestor of Jesus reminds us that God’s plan of salvation always included people from every nation.

The Wife of Uriah (vv. 6-7)
… and Jesse the father of David the king.
And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah….

The fourth woman is not named directly but is referred to as “the wife of Uriah” (v. 6). Her story is found in 2 Samuel 11:1-25. Her name was Bathsheba, and she was the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of David’s mighty men. King David, in a moment of temptation and sin, saw Bathsheba bathing on her roof and had her brought to him so that he could sleep with her. She became pregnant, and David attempted to cover his sin by arranging Uriah’s murder. His actions were heinous, and the wages of his sin brought tragedy to his family and others.

Why is Bathsheba included in Jesus’s genealogy? The mention of her as “the wife of Uriah” highlights David’s sin and the brokenness of humanity. Jesus being a descendent of David and rightful king as his heir is meant to be a good and special thing, but “by the wife of Uriah” highlights David’s sin. Yet God’s promises are unshaken. Through Bathsheba came Solomon, the king who would build the temple, pointing forward to the great King, Jesus – who everyone, all who sin, need as Savior. That includes kings. Bathsheba’s inclusion reminds us of God’s power to bring beauty from ashes and fulfill His covenant despite human failure.

Mary (v. 16)
…and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary,
of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.

The fifth and final woman is Mary (v. 16). Her story is found in Luke 1:26-38 and Matthew 1:18-25. Mary was a young woman of humble means, betrothed (like engaged but more intentional and binding) to Joseph. When the angel Gabriel announced to her that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit, she responded in faith and submission: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). The fact that she was a virgin fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, demonstrating that Jesus’s conception was a miraculous act of God.

Why is Mary included in Jesus’s genealogy? Well, first how can one be born without a mother? God could have chosen to come and save in any way He wanted, but to come as the baby of a mother is one of the oldest promises in the Book. Genesis 3:15 promises victory of the “seed” of woman over the serpent, over Satan. Victory over our sin comes from her seed as well. Furthermore, Mary’s role here points to God’s grace. She bore the Savior of the world, yet she also needed Him as her Savior (Luke 1:47). Her inclusion highlights the miracle of the incarnation: God becoming flesh to dwell among us (John 1:14). Mary’s life, from the miraculous conception to standing at the foot of Jesus’s cross during his crucifixion (John 19:25), consistently points us to Jesus, to the Savior, and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Wrapping Up

Why does the Bible recognize the sins and sinners in Jesus’s lineage? Simply put: because it all really happened. Sin happens. All people “have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). None of us – not a single person in the history or future of the world – deserve to be in Jesus’s family tree, not even the great King David. But faith in God, trusting in Him, His work, and His steadfast love, is woven through that lineage like a scarlet cord. Looking at the sin and faith in Jesus’s genealogy reminds us that none are worthy of saving. That’s why He came. Jesus Himself said He came to “seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10).

So, as you gather with family and friends and notice some rough-looking fruit in your family tree – or whether you notice the same by looking in your own mirror – realize that Jesus is more than the reason for the season. He’s more than a holiday. He’s the King. He’s the Savior. He’s the Christ. He is God. And He came to save sinners like me and you.

While Jesus is more than a holiday, He offers His salvation to us as a gift. There is no season like this one that highlights something important about gift giving: it’s no good if the gift is not received.

Won’t you receive Him?

The Bible tells us that “all who…receive Him,” who believe in His name, He gives “the right to become children of God” (John 1:12). The Bible also shows us what that belief looks like. In Romans 10:9, it says, “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” This goes beyond mere words or understanding the concept of who He is – it’s giving Him your life, ceding control to Him as Lord and trusting that His death on the cross paid the penalty for your sin and His resurrection gives you eternal life in Him.

That’s good news.

That’s a wonderful gift, freely given but not cheap. Won’t you receive it – receive Him? Merry Christmas, dear Sojourner, and I pray that God blesses you and yours this season — not necessarily with the traditional holiday trappings but absolutely by seeing Him for who He is in your lives.

^[1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Matthew 1:1-17.

Good News of Great Joy | December 18 — “Persistence, Humility, & Faithfulness in Following Christ

As we are getting closer to the cross in Luke’s gospel, the applications are going to get a little more, well, more. We will be getting more specific in our application. If you have been reading from Luke 1 onward, you will see a bit of repetition, but that is good and good for us.

Luke 18 emphasizes persistence in prayer, humility in seeking God, and faithfulness in following Christ—lessons especially relevant during Advent. As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s first coming and await His return, we are reminded to:

Pray Without Ceasing: Like the persistent widow, we are to bring our requests to God with confidence and faith in Him.
Humble Ourselves Before God: The tax collector’s prayer shows us that God values a repentant heart over outward religious acts.
Approach God Like a Child: Advent calls us to renew our childlike faith, trusting in God’s grace and provision.
Follow Christ Fully: The rich ruler’s reluctance warns us against clinging to earthly possessions. Let us remember that Christ is our greatest treasure.

This Advent, may we echo the blind beggar’s cry, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” and live with gratitude for the abundant blessings we have received through Him.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

The Parable of the Persistent Widow (18:1-8)^[1]

And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. ²He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. ³And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ ⁴For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, ⁵yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’ ” ⁶And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. ⁷And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? ^zWill he delay long over them? ⁸I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (18:9-14)^[2]

⁹He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: ¹⁰“Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. ¹¹The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. ¹²I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ ¹³But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ ¹⁴I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Jesus Blesses the Children (18:15-17)^[3]

¹⁵Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. ¹⁶But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. ¹⁷Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

The Rich Ruler (18:18-30)^[4]

¹⁸And a ruler asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” ¹⁹And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. ²⁰You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’ ” ²¹And he said, “All these I have kept from my youth.” ²²When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” ²³But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. ²⁴Jesus, seeing that he had become sad, said, “How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! ²⁵For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” ²⁶Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” ²⁷But he said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” ²⁸And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.” ²⁹And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, ³⁰who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life.”

Jesus Foretells His Death a Third Time (18:31-34)^[5]

³¹And taking the twelve, he said to them, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. ³²For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. ³³And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” ³⁴But they understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.

Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar (18:35-43)^[6]

³⁵As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. ³⁶And hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what this meant. ³⁷They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” ³⁸And he cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” ³⁹And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” ⁴⁰And Jesus stopped and commanded him to be brought to him. And when he came near, he asked him, ⁴¹“What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me recover my sight.” ⁴²And Jesus said to him, “Recover your sight; your faith has made you well.” ⁴³And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.

[1] Jesus told a parable to teach His disciples to pray without losing heart. He compared an unjust judge, who granted justice because of a widow’s persistence, to God, who is always just and merciful. If persistence works with a reluctant judge, how much more should we pray to our loving Father, trusting Him to bring justice swiftly? Jesus questioned whether faith would still be found when He returns, underscoring the importance of persistent, faithful prayer.

[2] Jesus told a parable contrasting a self-righteous Pharisee, who exalted himself in prayer, with a humble tax collector, who sought God’s mercy. The tax collector, aware of his sinfulness, went home justified because of his genuine and repentant faith. Jesus declared that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but the humble will be exalted, showing that God values genuine repentance over self-righteousness.

[3] When people brought children to Jesus, His disciples tried to stop them. Jesus, however, welcomed the children and taught that only those who approach God with the humility and dependence of a child will enter His Kingdom.

[4] A rich ruler asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus pointed him to the commandments and then challenged him to sell all he had, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man left sorrowful, unwilling to part with his wealth. Jesus remarked on the difficulty of the rich entering the Kingdom of God, but assured His disciples that with God, all things are possible. He promised that those who leave everything for His sake will receive abundant blessings in this life and eternal life in the age to come.

[5] Jesus reminded His disciples that He would be handed over to the Gentiles, mocked, mistreated, killed, and rise on the third day. However, the disciples did not understand what He meant, as the significance of His mission was still hidden from them.

[6] Near Jericho, a blind beggar called out to Jesus as the “Son of David,” recognizing Him as the Messiah and seeking mercy from Him (v. 38). Despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, the man persisted. Jesus stopped, healed him, and declared that his faith had made him well. The man immediately followed Jesus, glorifying God, and the people praised God for this miracle.

Good News of Great Joy | December 17 — “Faith, Forgiveness, & Readiness for the Kingdom”

Luke 17 challenges us to live with faith, humility, and readiness for Christ’s return. During Advent, as we await the celebration of Christ’s first coming and look forward to His second, we are reminded to extend forgiveness, grow in faith, and remain steadfast in our service to Him. The healing of the ten lepers encourages us to cultivate gratitude, recognizing that every blessing is a gift from God. Like the Samaritan, let us return to Christ with thankful hearts.

Finally, Jesus’ teaching on the Kingdom of God calls us to examine our priorities and live expectantly for His return. This Advent season, may we keep our eyes fixed on Christ, ready for His Kingdom, and faithful in every good work He has entrusted to us.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

Jesus Teaches on Forgiveness and Faith (17:1-10)^[1]

And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! ²It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. ³Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, ⁴and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”

⁵The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” ⁶And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.

⁷“Will any one of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come at once and recline at table’? ⁸Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink’? ⁹Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? ¹⁰So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’ ”

Jesus Heals Ten Lepers (17:11-19)^[2]

¹¹On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. ¹²And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance ¹³and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” ¹⁴When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. ¹⁵Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; ¹⁶and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. ¹⁷Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? ¹⁸Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” ¹⁹And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

The Coming of the Kingdom of God (17:20-37)^[3]

²⁰Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, ²¹nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”

²²And he said to the disciples, “The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. ²³And they will say to you, ‘Look, there!’ or ‘Look, here!’ Do not go out or follow them. ²⁴For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. ²⁵But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. ²⁶Just as it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. ²⁷They were eating and drinking and marrying and being given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. ²⁸Likewise, just as it was in the days of Lot—they were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building, ²⁹but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom, fire and sulfur rained from heaven and destroyed them all— ³⁰so will it be on the day when the Son of Man is revealed. ³¹On that day, let the one who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away, and likewise let the one who is in the field not turn back. ³²Remember Lot’s wife. ³³Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it. ³⁴I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed. One will be taken and the other left. ³⁵There will be two women grinding together. One will be taken and the other left.” ³⁷And they said to him, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.”

[1] Jesus warned His disciples about the inevitability of stumbling blocks but emphasized the seriousness of causing others to sin. He taught that forgiveness must be extended even if a person sins against you repeatedly. When the disciples asked for greater faith, Jesus explained that even faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things. Using a parable, He reminded them that obedience to God is their duty, and they should not expect rewards for doing what is required.

[2] As Jesus traveled to Jerusalem, ten lepers called out to Him for mercy. He told them to go and show themselves to the priests, and as they went, they were healed. Only one, a Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus. Jesus commended his faith and declared that it had saved him, highlighting the importance of gratitude and recognition of God’s work in our lives.

[3] When the Pharisees asked Jesus when the Kingdom of God would come, He explained that it is not something that can be observed externally because it is already among them. Turning to His disciples, Jesus spoke about the future return of the Son of Man, which will come unexpectedly, like the days of Noah and Lot. He warned them not to cling to worldly things but to be ready for His return. Jesus described a sudden separation that would occur at His coming, emphasizing the urgency of being prepared.

Good News of Great Joy | December 15 — “The Joy of God Over the Lost Being Found”

Luke 15 reveals the heart of God toward sinners—a heart full of compassion, mercy, and rejoicing. As we prepare for Christmas, these parables remind us of God’s relentless pursuit of the lost and His joy when they return to Him. The shepherd, the woman, and the father represent God’s care for every sinner, no matter how far they have strayed.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

The Parable of the Lost Sheep (15:1-7)^[1]

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. ²And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”

³So he told them this parable: ⁴“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? ⁵And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. ⁶And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ ⁷Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

The Parable of the Lost Coin (15:8-10)^[2]

⁸“Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? ⁹And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ ¹⁰Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

The Parable of the Prodigal Son (15:11-32)^[3]

¹¹And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. ¹²And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. ¹³Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. ¹⁴And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. ¹⁵So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. ¹⁶And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.

¹⁷“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! ¹⁸I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. ¹⁹I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.” ’ ²⁰And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. ²¹And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ ²²But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. ²³And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. ²⁴For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.

²⁵“Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. ²⁶And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. ²⁷And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ ²⁸But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, ²⁹but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. ³⁰But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ ³¹And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. ³²It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’ ”

[1] Tax collectors and sinners drew near to hear Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes grumbled because He welcomed them. In response, Jesus told three parables, starting with the lost sheep. A shepherd leaves 99 sheep to search for one that is lost, and when he finds it, he rejoices greatly. Jesus explains that there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 who think they need no repentance.

[2] A woman loses one of her ten silver coins and diligently searches for it, lighting a lamp and sweeping her house. When she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her. Jesus emphasizes that the same joy occurs among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

[3] A father has two sons. The younger demands his inheritance, leaves home, and squanders it in reckless living. Reduced to feeding pigs and longing to eat their food, he comes to his senses and decides to return to his father, confessing his sin. The father, seeing him from afar, runs to embrace him, clothes him with a robe, places a ring on his finger, and celebrates his return with a feast.

The older son, however, becomes angry, refusing to join the celebration. He protests that he has always been faithful but was never given such a feast. The father gently reminds him that all he has belongs to him, but it is right to celebrate because the lost son has been found.

Good News of Great Joy | December 14 — “Lessons on Humility, Invitation, and Discipleship”

Luke 14 reminds us of God’s gracious invitation to His Kingdom and the humility and sacrifice required to follow Christ. The parable of the banquet is a picture of the generosity of God, who welcomes the outcast and undeserving to His table. As we prepare for Christmas, may we reflect on the cost of discipleship and respond to God’s call with humble hearts, knowing that Christ humbled Himself to bring us salvation. Let us invite others to share in the joy of the Kingdom and commit ourselves fully to the One who gave everything for us!

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

Healing on the Sabbath (14:1-6)^[1]

One Sabbath, when he went to dine at the house of a ruler of the Pharisees, they were watching him carefully. ²And behold, there was a man before him who had dropsy. ³And Jesus responded to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?” ⁴But they remained silent. Then he took him and healed him and sent him away. ⁵And he said to them, “Which of you, having a son or an ox that has fallen into a well on a Sabbath day, will not immediately pull him out?” ⁶And they could not reply to these things.

Parable of the Wedding Feast (14:7-11)^[2]

⁷Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, ⁸“When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, ⁹and he who invited you both will come and say to you, ‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place. ¹⁰But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you. ¹¹For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

The Great Banquet (14:12-24)^[3]

¹²He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. ¹³But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, ¹⁴and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

¹⁵When one of those who reclined at table with him heard these things, he said to him, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” ¹⁶But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. ¹⁷And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ ¹⁸But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.’ ¹⁹And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.’ ²⁰And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ ²¹So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’ ²²And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ ²³And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. ²⁴For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’ ”

The Cost of Discipleship (14:25-33)^[4]

²⁵Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, ²⁶“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. ²⁷Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. ²⁸For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? ²⁹Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, ³⁰saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ ³¹Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? ³²And if not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. ³³So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.

Salt Without Taste (14:34-35)^[5]

³⁴“Salt is good, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? ³⁵It is of no use either for the soil or for the manure pile. It is thrown away. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

[1] Jesus is invited to dine at a Pharisee’s house on the Sabbath, where He heals a man suffering from dropsy (edema, where the body retains fluid). Anticipating objections, Jesus asks the religious leaders whether it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath. When they remain silent, He uses an example of rescuing an animal on the Sabbath to highlight their hypocrisy and to affirm the value of showing mercy.

[2] Jesus notices guests vying for prominent seats and shares a parable about choosing the lowest place at a banquet. He emphasizes humility, stating, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (v. 11).

[3] Jesus encourages His host to invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind rather than friends and wealthy neighbors, who can repay the favor. He then shares a parable about a man hosting a great banquet. When the invited guests offer excuses, the host invites the outcasts and even those in distant places to fill his house, illustrating God’s generous invitation to all, including Gentiles, to enter His Kingdom.

[4] As large crowds follow Him, Jesus challenges them with the cost of discipleship. He calls His followers to love Him more than family and even their own lives. True disciples must carry their cross and count the cost of following Him. Using parables about building a tower and going to war, Jesus warns against making half-hearted commitments.

[5] Jesus concludes with a metaphor about salt losing its taste, symbolizing disciples who fail to live up to their calling. Such salt is worthless, emphasizing the seriousness of wholehearted devotion to Him.

Good News of Great Joy | December 13 — “Repentance, Healing, and the Kingdom”

Luke 13 reminds us of the urgency of repentance and the boundless grace of God, who gives opportunities to bear fruit and enter His kingdom. Jesus’ healing of the crippled woman and His lament over Jerusalem reveal His compassion and desire for restoration. During Advent, may we examine our hearts, turn from sin, and embrace the hope of the Kingdom, remembering that Christ’s coming brings both salvation and a call to faithful discipleship.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

A Call to Repentance (13:1-9)^[1]

¹There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. ²And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? ³No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. ⁴Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? ⁵No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”

⁶And he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. ⁷And he said to the vinedresser, ‘Look, for three years now I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I find none. Cut it down. Why should it use up the ground?’ ⁸And he answered him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure. ⁹Then if it should bear fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’ ”

Healing a Woman on the Sabbath (13:10-17)^[2]

¹⁰Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. ¹¹And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. ¹²When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your disability.” ¹³And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God. ¹⁴But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days in which work ought to be done. Come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” ¹⁵Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it away to water it? ¹⁶And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” ¹⁷As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven (13:18-21)^[3]

¹⁸He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? ¹⁹It is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.”

²⁰And again he said, “To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? ²¹It is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, until it was all leavened.”

The Narrow Door (13:22-30)^[4]

²²He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem. ²³And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, ²⁴“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. ²⁵When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’ ²⁶Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ ²⁷But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!’ ²⁸In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God but you yourselves cast out. ²⁹And people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God. ³⁰And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”

Jesus’s Lament over Jerusalem (13:31-35)^[5]

³¹At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” ³²And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. ³³Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’ ³⁴O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! ³⁵Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ”

[1] Jesus responds to questions about tragedies involving Galileans killed by Pilate and those crushed by a falling tower in Siloam. He reproves their belief that these victims were worse sinners than others, emphasizing that all need to repent. Through the parable of the barren fig tree, He illustrates God’s patience, giving people more time to bear fruit, but warns of eventual judgment for unfruitfulness.

[2] While teaching in a synagogue, Jesus heals a woman who had been crippled for eighteen years, declaring her free from Satan’s bondage. The synagogue leader objects, again citing Sabbath laws, but Jesus rebukes him for hypocrisy, pointing out that even animals are cared for on the Sabbath. His words leave His opponents ashamed and the crowd rejoicing at His works.

[3] Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows into a large tree and to leaven that works its way through a lump of dough. These parables highlight the kingdom’s small beginnings and eventual expansive impact, showing how God’s work often starts unnoticed but transforms everything it touches.

[4] As Jesus journeys toward Jerusalem, someone asks if only a few will be saved. Jesus answers with a warning to strive to enter through the narrow door, representing the difficult path of discipleship. Many will seek to enter too late, and their exclusion will bring weeping and regret. Jesus also foretells that people from all nations will enter the Kingdom, while some who thought they belonged will be left out.

[5] Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod wants to kill Him, but He remains steadfast in His mission, affirming that He is on God’s timetable rather than Herod’s. Jesus laments over Jerusalem’s history of rejecting prophets, expressing sorrow over their unwillingness to accept His care and their coming judgment. He declares they will not see Him again until they say, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord” (Psalm 118:26).

Good News of Great Joy | December 12 — “Faith, Fear, and Faithfulness”

Luke 12 reminds us to live with eternity in mind, trusting God’s care and seeking His Kingdom above all else. Jesus challenges us to examine where our treasure lies and to remain faithful, prepared for His return. This Advent, as we reflect on Christ’s first coming, may we embrace His call to fearless faith and faithful stewardship, fixing our hearts on eternal treasures and the hope of His promised return.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

Warnings Against Hypocrisy and Fear (12:1-12)^[1]

¹In the meantime, when so many thousands of the people had gathered together that they were trampling one another, he began to say to his disciples first, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. ²Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. ³Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed on the housetops.

⁴“I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. ⁵But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! ⁶Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. ⁷Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.

⁸“And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God, ⁹but the one who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. ¹⁰And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. ¹¹And when they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say, ¹²for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

The Parable of the Rich Fool (12:13-21)^[2]

¹³Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” ¹⁴But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” ¹⁵And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” ¹⁶And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, ¹⁷and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ ¹⁸And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. ¹⁹And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” ’ ²⁰But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ ²¹So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

Do Not Worry (12:22-34)^[3]

²²And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. ²³For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. ²⁴Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! ²⁵And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? ²⁶If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? ²⁷Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ²⁸But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! ²⁹And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. ³⁰For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. ³¹Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.

³²“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. ³³Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. ³⁴For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Be Ready for the Master’s Return (12:35-48)^[4]

³⁵“Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, ³⁶and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks. ³⁷Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will dress himself for service and have them recline at table, and he will come and serve them. ³⁸If he comes in the second watch, or in the third, and finds them awake, blessed are those servants! ³⁹But know this, that if the master of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. ⁴⁰You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

⁴¹Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?” ⁴²And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? ⁴³Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. ⁴⁴Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. ⁴⁵But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, ⁴⁶the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the unfaithful. ⁴⁷And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating. ⁴⁸But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

Jesus Brings Division (12:49-53)^[5]

⁴⁹“I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! ⁵⁰I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! ⁵¹Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. ⁵²For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. ⁵³They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”

Interpreting the Times (12:54-59)^[6]

⁵⁴He also said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, ‘A shower is coming.’ And so it happens. ⁵⁵And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, ‘There will be scorching heat,’ and it happens. ⁵⁶You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?

⁵⁷“And why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? ⁵⁸As you go with your accuser before the magistrate, make an effort to settle with him on the way, lest he drag you to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer put you in prison. ⁵⁹I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the very last penny.”

[1] Jesus warns His disciples to avoid the corrupting influence of hypocrisy, likening it to leaven that spreads. He reminds them that all secrets will be revealed and calls them to fear God, who holds authority over eternal judgment. At the same time, Jesus reassures them of God’s intimate care and value for each person. He encourages boldness in confessing Him and promises the Holy Spirit’s guidance during persecution.

[2] A man asks Jesus to mediate an inheritance dispute, but Jesus uses the opportunity to warn against greed. Through the parable of a wealthy man storing up goods for himself, Jesus illustrates the folly of hoarding earthly treasures without being “rich toward God” (v. 21). The man’s life ends suddenly, demonstrating the emptiness of trusting in material wealth.

[3] Jesus urges His followers not to worry about daily needs, pointing to God’s provision for birds and flowers as evidence of His care. He calls them to prioritize seeking God’s Kingdom, trusting that their needs will be met. Jesus also challenges them to store up treasures in heaven, for where their treasure is, their hearts will be also.

[4] Jesus teaches His disciples to stay alert and prepared for His return, likening it to servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding feast. The faithful servant will be rewarded, but the unfaithful one, who abuses his position, will face judgment. Jesus emphasizes that those who have been entrusted with much will be held to a higher standard of accountability.

[5] Jesus declares that His mission will bring fire to the earth and division, even among families. His coming forces people to make a choice about following Him, often resulting in conflict and strained relationships.

[6] Jesus criticizes the crowds for their ability to interpret weather signs while failing to recognize the significance of His ministry. He urges them to reconcile with God before it is too late, using the example of settling a legal dispute before it reaches the judge.

Good News of Great Joy | December 9 — “The Cost of Discipleship”

Luke 9 challenges us to examine the cost of following Jesus. Discipleship requires humility, dependence on God, and a willingness to sacrifice. The Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus is God, while the feeding of the five thousand shows His power to provide for every need. As we prepare our hearts during Advent, may we reflect on what it means to take up our cross daily and follow the One who is both Savior and King. Let us trust in His sufficiency and walk in faith and obedience.

Luke 9:51 is an important verse in Luke’s narrative because it shows that Jesus never wavered in His purpose for being on earth. While it seems like Jerusalem and His crucifixion are a long way off at this point in Luke, we see here that Jesus “set His face” to go there. From this point to Luke 19, the cross was set in Jesus’s gaze and was not only where He was headed but where He purposefully headed toward. As we journey there with Him over these next weeks, let us set our face toward Him.

"Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

The Sending of the Twelve (9:1-9)^[1]

¹And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, ²and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. ³And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. ⁴And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. ⁵And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” ⁶And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.

⁷Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, ⁸by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the prophets of old had risen. ⁹Herod said, “John I beheaded, but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he sought to see him.

The Feeding of the Five Thousand (9:10-17)^[2]

¹⁰On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. ¹¹When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing. ¹²Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, “Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.” ¹³But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.” ¹⁴For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” ¹⁵And they did so, and had them all sit down. ¹⁶And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. ¹⁷And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.

Peter’s Confession and Jesus’s Transfiguration (9:18-36)^[3]

¹⁸Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” ¹⁹And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” ²⁰Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”

²¹And he strictly charged and commanded them to tell this to no one, ²²saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.”

²³And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. ²⁴For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. ²⁵For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? ²⁶For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. ²⁷But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.”

²⁸Now about eight days after these sayings he took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. ²⁹And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. ³⁰And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, ³¹who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. ³²Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. ³³And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said. ³⁴As he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. ³⁵And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” ³⁶And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.

Healing the Boy with an Unclean Spirit (9:37-45)^[4]

³⁷On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. ³⁸And behold, a man from the crowd cried out, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. ³⁹And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out. It convulses him so that he foams at the mouth, and shatters him, and will hardly leave him. ⁴⁰And I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.” ⁴¹Jesus answered, “O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” ⁴²While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. ⁴³And all were astonished at the majesty of God.

But while they were all marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, ⁴⁴“Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” ⁴⁵But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, so that they might not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

Lessons on Discipleship (9:46-62)^[5]

⁴⁶An argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. ⁴⁷But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side ⁴⁸and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.”

⁴⁹John answered, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he does not follow with us.” ⁵⁰But Jesus said to him, “Do not stop him, for the one who is not against you is for you.”

⁵¹When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. ⁵²And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make preparations for him. ⁵³But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. ⁵⁴And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” ⁵⁵But he turned and rebuked them. ⁵⁶And they went on to another village. ⁵⁷As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” ⁵⁸And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” ⁵⁹To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” ⁶⁰And Jesus said to him, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” ⁶¹Yet another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” ⁶²Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”

[1] Jesus sends His twelve disciples to preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God and heal the sick. He gives them power and authority over demons and diseases and instructs them to travel lightly, relying on God’s provision. They obey His commands and go from village to village, proclaiming the good news and performing miracles, demonstrating that the power comes from Jesus alone.

[2] When the apostles return, Jesus takes them to a quiet place, but a crowd follows. Moved with compassion, Jesus teaches them and heals their sick. The disciples urge Jesus to send the crowd away for food, but He tells them, “You give them something to eat” (v. 13). With five loaves and two fish from a boy’s sack lunch, Jesus miraculously feeds the crowd of about five thousand men, producing twelve baskets of leftovers. This miracle highlights Jesus’ sufficiency and His ability to meet every need.

[3] Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is, and Peter declares, “The Christ of God” (v. 20). Jesus then predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection, emphasizing the cost of following Him: taking up one’s cross daily. Shortly after, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain, where He is transfigured. His face and clothes shine with glory as Moses and Elijah appear, discussing His upcoming departure. God’s voice affirms Jesus, saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” (v. 35). This moment strengthens the disciples’ understanding of Jesus’ divine identity and mission.

[4] Upon returning from the mountain, Jesus encounters a father pleading for help for his demon-possessed son. The disciples are unable to cast out the demon, but Jesus rebukes it and the boy is healed instantly. This event reveals the disciples’ lack of faith and their need to depend on Jesus fully. Jesus again foretells His death, but the disciples fail to grasp its significance.

[5] The disciples argue about who is the greatest, but Jesus teaches that true greatness comes through humility and service. He rebukes their need and desire to be the greatest. When a Samaritan village rejects Jesus, He discourages retaliation, calling His followers to mercy. Finally, Jesus challenges those who want to follow Him to prioritize the Kingdom of God above all else, demonstrating the sacrificial nature of discipleship.

Songs for Sunday, December 8, 2024 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming, and I’m ready. I need it.

I usually start off with “Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited”, but I’m not always excited. I don’t want to be disingenuous or depressing. The reality of that phrase “Sunday’s coming” is rooted in Jesus’s resurrection and His return. The reality of this fallen world is that there is sorrow and terror and unspeakable things; so I look to the hope that comes from Jesus’s resurrection, the expectation of peace that comes with His return, and echo my earlier sentiment: I’m ready. I need it.

This week’s Advent theme is peace.

If there was ever a week that I longed for peace, it has been this one. It seems that there are more pieces and shambles than peace. My heart has cried out, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20), more in the past few days than in some time. I have prayed and pleaded with Him, seeking to intercede for folks I love, asking Him to pick up the broken pieces and mend mournful and sorrowful hearts giving His indescribable peace numerous times (1 Timothy 2:1, Psalm 147:3, Isaiah 61:1, Philippians 4:7, John 14:27). I pray it even now.

Peace is in short supply here on Earth, but it is in overflowing abundance in heaven where Christ is!

Look at the way Colossians 1:19-20 describes the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ:

For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of His cross.

Read that last part again: “making peace by the blood of His cross”.

Isaiah gave us a picture of this centuries before Jesus’s life, His crucifixion:

But He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5

Read the part about peace again: “upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace”.

Jesus makes peace. Jesus bears the sin, shame, and sorrows that we have a brings peace instead. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and gives peace to His people (Isaiah 9:6-7, Luke 2:14).

This is the reason I have been pleading with Him on behalf of hurting people (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Philippians 4:6-7). This is the reason I come to Him in prayer. Peace is His (John 14:27). It is in short supply in our broken, sinful, fallen world — in this world of death and destruction (Romans 8:22), but in Jesus is Light (John 8:12), in Jesus is Love (1 John 4:9-10), in Jesus is Salvation (Acts 4:12, John 14:6), in Jesus there is peace (John 16:33). He manufactures it. He holds the trademark and copyright. Peace belongs to Him. Peace comes from Him. Peace is part of who He is (Ephesians 2:14, Isaiah 9:6).

When I think about how people desire peace in the world today, I am reminded of the reason that comic books were so great a draw for me as a kid. There was nothing like seeing someone in their most desperate moment have the hero swoop down in between them and danger. Superman was always my favorite. You could have a train bearing down on you, and he could fly down, take the impact of the train, and never even slide toward you. He could catch bullets with his hands. He could do, well, whatever danger and come out unscathed and unhurt. But Superman isn’t real. Comic book rescues are make believe, barely a genre away from fairy tales and nursery stories.

There is danger in this world. There is destruction. There is death. There is no caped crusader swooping in to save the day, and even if there was, he or she can only save some. They are limited. Regardless, the fact that they are fictional limits them altogether.

Jesus, however, is real. He did not swoop in and come out unscathed. He came and lived the life we couldn’t live — remaining sinless through it all (Hebrews 4:15, 2 Corinthians 5:21). God put on flesh and lived here on the earth with us (John 1:14) and then bore our sin and shame on the cross (1 Peter 2:24, Isaiah 53:5-6), taking the full brunt of God’s wrath due our sin, and paying the ultimate price for the wages of our sin (Romans 3:23-25, 6:23). We deserve death, and Jesus did that for us (Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 3:18).

In comic books, like in soap operas, death is just a momentary hindrance. A few strokes of the pen can come up with some cavalier and clever explanation for why the hero wasn’t really dead. Not Jesus, though. He really died (John 19:30, 34; Mark 15:37). He was buried (Mark 15:46). But, praise be to God, He rose from the dead (Matthew 28:5-6, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)! We have looked at passages above that show how He made our peace and brings us peace by His chastisement and cross (Isaiah 53:5, Colossians 1:19-20, Romans 5:1), but He keeps that peace because He is alive (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25, Revelation 1:18).

One of the coolest, most awe-inspiring hero scenes in a movie comes at the end of The Passion of the Christ. This is just a movie’s representation, but it points to the awesome reality and real life event of Jesus’s resurrection. Check it out here:

Whatever troubles and sorrows plague you now have an expiration date. Jesus is alive. Jesus is coming. Jesus has made a way for us to have peace in Him and is the only One who can give it.

Won’t you look to Him in your time of need?

That’s why we are singing about how we are in awe of Him tomorrow. We don’t sing to and praise Him out of some religious obligation; no, we have just never seen anything like Him. We have never experienced anything like Him. This world has troubles and tribulations, but He has already overcome this world (John 16:33).

So, tomorrow, we at Christ Community invite you to come and seek the Prince of Peace with us. We invite you to come and read from His Word. We invite you to come and hear His Word sung — and to lift your own voice to sing as well. We invite you to sit under the preaching of His Word. We invite you, more than anything, to come to Him. His is worthy. He is willing to save. And what’s better news than that?

Here are our Scriptures and songs:

Advent Reading | Peace —

As the second candle of peace shines, consider the profound peace brought by Jesus, the Prince of Peace, mentioned in Isaiah 9:6-7 and Luke 2:14. His birth signifies reconciliation between God and humanity, offering a deep, lasting peace found only in a personal relationship with Christ. His teachings guide us towards peace with God, ourselves, and others. Let this candle inspire a desire for reconciliation and peacemaking in a divided world.

This portion of Advent also draws attention to Bethlehem. Reflecting on Bethlehem’s seemingly insignificant setting reminds us of God’s penchant for using ordinary places for extraordinary purposes. In this portion of Advent, amidst feelings of insignificance, remember that God loves you dearly. Take a moment to pause, acknowledging how God specializes in using the small and insignificant for His glory. Pray that God uses you for His purpose—to bring peace and reconciliation to those around you, to bring people to Him.

Scripture | Philippians 2:5-11 —

⁵Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, ⁶who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, ⁷but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. ⁸And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. ⁹Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, ¹⁰so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Song | O Come All Ye Faithful —
Scripture Inspiration: Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:13-14, Psalm 8:5, Hebrews 2:7-9, Matthew 26:53, Matthew 2:11, Luke 2:17, 1 Timothy 6:15, Revelation 19:16, Job 38:7, John 1:1, John 1:14

Song | Adore Him —
Scripture Inspiration: Matthew 2:1-11, Micah 5:2, Luke 2:7-17, Isaiah 9:6, Psalm 95:6, Philippians 2:10-11, Isaiah 55:8-9, 1 Corinthians 1:27-29, Isaiah 53:2-3, Luke 1:48

Scripture | Psalm 145:1-3 —

¹I will extol You, my God and King, and bless Your name forever and ever. ²Every day I will bless You and praise Your name forever and ever. ³Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable.