Show Notes — “God of the Living: When Arguments Miss the Point”

Speaker: Ps. Paul Mulroney (C3 Stand) Location: Northcliffe Passage: Luke 20:27–38

In this message, Ps. Paul unpacks a surprising encounter between Jesus and the Sadducees—religious leaders who denied the resurrection yet tried to trap Jesus with an absurd theological question. Through humour, personal stories, and clear teaching, Paul explores how Jesus refuses to be dragged into “Bible battles” and instead lifts the conversation to an eternal perspective.

We look at the contrast between Pharisees and Sadducees, the cultural background of levirate marriage, and why Jesus’ answer reveals far more than just who is “right.” This sermon challenges us to rethink how we approach conflict, absurd situations, and faith conversations in our daily lives.

Key Themes

• No one wins a Bible battle — arguments don’t transform hearts, revelation does.
• Jesus redirects disputes toward God’s bigger story and eternal truth.
• God is the God of the living, not the dead — our hope is anchored in resurrection life.
• Resurrection changes how we see conflict, relationships, and the purpose of Scripture.
• Our eternal life with God begins now and shapes how we love, forgive, and respond today.

Takeaways

• Choose relationship over argument. Wisdom is better than cleverness.
• Keep an eternal perspective. We aren’t meant to live trapped in small debates.
• Let resurrection life reshape your lens. It’s not about who’s right, but who’s being redeemed.
• Ask God where you may need to repair relationships, give up old habits, or embrace new ones.

Scripture References

• Luke 20:27–38
• Deuteronomy 25:5–6
• Exodus 3:6
• Supporting readings from the lectionary:
  • Haggai 1:15b–2:9
  • Psalm 145 / Psalm 98
  • 2 Thessalonians 2:1–5, 13–17

Stories & Illustrations

• A university “So What?” crusade at Curtin and a 4m banner hung off the library
• Bible battles and denominational disagreements
• Absurd arguments (GST on hot chickens, tomato as a fruit)
• A heartfelt parable about twins in the womb discovering “life after delivery”

Memorable Line

“Resurrection changes everything.”

Closing Blessing

A commissioning to stand firm in resurrection hope, live in God’s presence, and go in peace strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

Show Notes – 16 November Sermon

“Stand Firm, Stay Faithful” – Ps Paul Mulroney

In this message, Ps Paul shares from Luke 21:5–19, a powerful passage in the lectionary that speaks directly into the realities of faith, opposition, and perseverance. Drawing from Jesus’ teaching on the Mount of Olives, Paul explores how the early disciples grappled with fear, uncertainty, and persecution—and how Jesus prepared them not with dates and timelines, but with courage, endurance, and the promise of the Holy Spirit.

This sermon journeys through: • The contrast between earthly structures we trust and the unshakeable kingdom of God • What Jesus really meant when He warned of war, famine, deception, and persecution • Why opposition to faith shouldn’t surprise us—and how the Holy Spirit equips us to stand • The call to build a deep, resilient relationship with God now, before trials come • How spiritual habits today become spiritual strength tomorrow • What it means to “stand firm” and “stay with Jesus” in a world that often resists the gospel

Ps Paul also shares stories from recent ministry trips to Northcliffe, Cuballing, and beyond, along with reflections on everyday life, technology jokes, and the kinds of subtle “modern persecutions” believers may encounter.

The message ends with a heartfelt challenge: What are you building into your life today that will carry you through tomorrow? May this episode encourage you to press into God’s presence, deepen your devotional life, and hold firmly to Jesus—no matter the season.

Key Scriptures: Luke 21:5–19 • Matthew 24:13–14 • Acts 5:36 • John 16:13 • 1 Peter 3:15 • Colossians 4:5–6

Main takeaway: Stand firm. Stay faithful. Stay with Jesus.