Preaching at Trinity

There is a great lack of discernment in our modern ear. Things were no different in Jesus’ day, as He pointed out people's inability to recognize the Messiah. As Christians, we need to not only develop greater discernment, but also help other people grow theirs as well.

Christ calls us to be faithful. He does not demand perfection from us, but diligence as we serve Him with our hearts. Jesus describes what faithfulness looks like in this sermon and parable.

Paul continues defending his ministry by calling the Corinthians (and us) to share in the same purpose of ministry: the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul lives with a singularity to proclaim the incredible salvific work of Jesus Christ to the dying world.

As Christians, we battle the flesh and the world, and sometimes that leaves us feeling discouraged and lacking confidence. Paul reminds us in this passage of the promises God gives, which will encourage us and instill confidence to live victoriously for eternal gain.

Christ warns us against the dangers of false faith and the desire for outward show, rather than inner holiness. His words are pointed and call us to answer the same warnings He gives to the people of His day.

Christ fills His followers with power. Understanding and utilizing this power is essential for victory in this life as we face difficulty and opposition. As Christians, we do not need to lose heart in the face of struggles, but can persevere through them with honor for Christ.

A Constrast Study (In the Church)

In defense of his ministry, Paul launches into a call to be a light in the dark world. He begins by reminding us not to lose heart, and then reminds us why he ministers, challenging us to stay focused as well.

Living by faith requires a relationship with God and available to everyone.

Paul defends his life of ministry by focusing on the heart transformed by Jesus Christ. He reminds us that God calls us to surrender our spiritual striving and yield to His inner work as the driving force of ministry.