In this sermon, Pastor Kasey explains how Jesus teaches us in Matthew 5 that persecution is a blessing. He points to the to the eternal reward of suffering for righteousness, the real and present reality of persecution, and the call for believers to respond with faithful endurance and Christlike hope.

Survey N. T. Wright’s reinterpretation of Paul, justification, and covenant membership, and its impact on understanding sin and righteousness.

In Matthew 16:21–27, Jesus reveals the paradox that true life is found not in self-preservation but in surrender—calling us to lose our lives for His sake, only to discover in Him a deeper, eternal life.

Examining Calvin's understanding of the law in relationship to sanctification and union with Christ.

About this Series

Life From Death: Living the Paradoxes of the Resurrection explores seven gospel paradoxes during the Easter season—truths that appear contradictory yet find their meaning in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This series highlights how the resurrection is not merely a past event but a present reality that believers are called to live in daily. Rather than simply examining these paradoxes, the goal is to understand them deeply and embody their transformative power through the hope and truth of the gospel.

Consider aspects of Luther’s response that left questions.

See how Luther challenged the system of merit, emphasizing God’s law, human sin, and justification by faith alone.

Pastor Brandon teaches about the feast we each at the Lord's table, looking back on the first communion at the Last Supper, and looking toward the future when we experience the wedding feast of the lamb.

Examine the roots of merit theology and its distortion of the Gospel.