Bart Byl on ⁠Revelation 22:1-5,12-13,16-17,20-21⁠.

In the Bible’s final chapter, we are reminded of the ultimate end of our journey, where all our toils and sacrifices will be met with the eternal reward of Christ's presence in the New Jerusalem. Here, the curse will be broken, and we will experience the fullness of God's love and glory, with no more suffering or pain, but eternal joy and peace. As we labor and wait, we hold onto the promise of His coming, praying for the grace and strength to persevere until we are welcomed into His eternal embrace.

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Bart Byl on ⁠Luke 16:1-12⁠.

In his parable of the dishonest steward who leveraged his resources and relationships to build security for himself after he lost his job, Jesus teaches his disciples to act shrewdly with what in light of the coming kingdom. In this present age, which is rapidly passing away, we must cunningly leverage our earthly resources for heavenly impact.

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Bart Byl on 2 Timothy 4.

Series: Tenacious Witness (2 Timothy)

In his final letter to Timothy, Paul delivers a solemn charge to faithfully preach the Gospel, stressing the importance of readiness and endurance in ministry despite challenges. He reflects on his impending death with peace, confident in the reward awaiting him and urging Timothy to remain steadfast in faith. This poignant farewell highlights the enduring call to serve with grace and perseverance, even amidst adversity and personal trials.

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Bart Byl on 2 Timothy 3.

Series: Tenacious Witness (2 Timothy)

Over-realized eschatology, the belief that all future blessings are available now, is a pervasive false teaching that destroys faith by promoting a life free from suffering, contrary to the true Christian call to carry the cross and endure trials. Desperate individuals are misled into making financial sacrifices and blaming their lack of faith for their unfulfilled promises, leading to disappointment and bitterness towards God. True Christian life involves suffering and struggle, not guaranteed health and wealth.

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Bart Byl on 2 Timothy 2.

Series: Tenacious Witness (2 Timothy)

Paul urges Timothy to stay strong in the grace of Christ and to faithfully pass on the apostolic gospel to reliable people who can teach others, creating a self-sustaining chain of witnesses. Using metaphors of a soldier, athlete, and farmer, Paul emphasizes the need for dedication, endurance, and focus in ministry. We are reminded to keep Jesus Christ at the center, enduring all for the sake of the gospel, knowing that our labor is not in vain and will ultimately result in eternal glory with Christ.

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Bart Byl on 2 Timothy 1.

Series: Tenacious Witness (2 Timothy)

Paul, nearing the end of his life, writes a heartfelt letter to his spiritual son Timothy, urging him to remain steadfast in faith and to preserve the gospel message entrusted to him. He emphasizes the importance of continuing the legacy of faith handed down by Timothy's grandmother Lois and mother Eunice, and encourages Timothy to rely on the Holy Spirit's power, love, and self-discipline rather than succumbing to fear. Paul concludes by highlighting the eternal victory of Christ over death and the necessity of guarding and proclaiming this gospel until the end.

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Artwork referenced in this sermon:

• Rembrandt van Rijn, "St. Paul in Prison”
• Orthodox icon of the Harrowing of Hell

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Bart Byl on Romans 1:1-17.

What is the Gospel, according to St. Paul? In the opening verses to his great (and often misunderstood) letter to the Romans, the apostle defines and describes the gospel of God that has claimed his life.

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Bart Byl on Hebrews 9:11-14, 23-26.

When Jesus ascended into heaven, he entered the true heavenly sanctuary as both High Priest and perfect sacrifice, securing our eternal access to God's presence. This pivotal event calls us to reflect on Christ’s ongoing intercession for us and our role as a royal priesthood, joining in the heavenly worship and service to our living God.

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Bart Byl on Galatians 3:26-4:7.

In the fullness of time, God sent His Son to redeemus, so that we might receive adoption as sons. God has also sent the Spirit of His Son into the hearts of believers, enabling them to cry out to God as their Father. And so we are no longer slaves but sons and heirs of God, enjoying the privileges and security of belonging to His family forever.

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Bart Byl on ⁠Jude 1-4, 17-25⁠.

Series: Discipleship on the Edge

Jude, eager to write about salvation, instead urges believers to contend for the faith due to emerging threats from within the Christian community. He warns against ungodly individuals who distort grace into a license for immorality and encourages believers to build each other up in faith, keep themselves in God's love, and show mercy to those led astray. His closing doxology reminds the faithful of God's power to keep them from stumbling and present them blameless with great joy.

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