The call of Samuel is a beloved Old Testament story - but it served a higher purpose. Through Samuel God was once again going to shine the light of his Word upon his people.

1. You have been Raised in Christ - So Look Up!

2. You have Died in Christ - So Look Away

3. You are Hidden in Christ - So Look Forward to the Big Reveal

"Worship is a serious business", someone has said. This is certainly demonstrated in the details of 1 Samuel 2, where God judges between worthless and real worshippers.

One hallmark of humanity is an inbuilt longing for connection, with one another, with a sense of importance/higher power. Yet, our world seems to be lonelier than ever. Here we consider how Jesus provides the most important connection possible.

The Book of Samuel begins with "a certain man" (1 Sam. 1:1) - but in fact, it is through a lowly woman, Hannah, and her prayers, that God begins to work for the good of His people.

1. Hannah's Problem

2. Hannah's Prayer

3. Hannah's Praise

One hallmark of humanity is an inbuilt longing for connection, with one another, with a sense of importance/higher power. Yet, our world seems to be lonelier than ever. Here we consider how Jesus provides the most important connection possible.

To a congregation tempted to believe that they need something more/other than Christ and his gospel, Paul wonderfully reassures them: you are filled with every blessing you could possibly need in your Lord Jesus!

Peter uses the same word in 1 Peter 4:19 as Luke used in Luke 23:46. Just as Jesus 'entrusted' himself to the Father at death, so Peter says we are to 'entrust' ourselves to God each and every day.

Why? Because, like Christ:

1. We Will Suffer

2. We Have a Sovereign God

3. We Have Good Work to Do

"Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" - the final words of Jesus reflect his complete control and perfect faith.

When God ushers in a new era in salvation history, he always makes it very clear. Two wondrous signs accompany the death of Jesus and the beginning of the gospel age.