Sermon Podcast - Round Rock Church of Christ

When it comes to being a disciple, it’s possible to think only think in terms of externals. BUT Jesus is concerned first about who we are; what’s on the inside. We don’t neglect the externals, but following Jesus works best from the inside out. Jesus is concerned about the WHO more than the WHAT.

What places, people, or memories stir up pain in you? What if God is calling you towards these things, and not away from them?

Much of the church suffers from a bad reputation, but for the wrong reasons. Whereas our reputation, undeserved or not, is sometimes bad because we reject sinners, Jesus reputation was bad because he welcomed sinners. Jesus leads us to have a bad reputation for a good reason.

For Jesus to go to Jerusalem was a journey to his death. He knew what awaited him, yet he resolved to go, literally he set his face toward Jerusalem. Following Jesus means we are given courage to face the tough journeys in our lives. Jesus will lead you THROUGH to TO.

This week we will take a look at what it means to be a people destined for wrestling. Take a listen if you want more out of life than the hustle to top or the emptiness of seeking value and achievement, the American Dream at the cost of everyone and everything. God wants so much more for us. God longs for us to engage in the struggle with him!

This parable and others point to the expectation that disciples are going to bear fruit. In other words, we are going to be productive in ways that have eternal significance. Following Jesus make us productive in ways that matter. He gives us a mission. What you see in Jesus is what Jesus wants to see in you.

Returning to Peter’s response to Jesus, he said that Jesus gives eternal life. This is not just a quantity of life but is a quality of life. It is how we live, not just how long. This is why the life of Jesus matters, not just the death. What you see in Jesus is what Jesus wants to see in you.

Jesus is the clearest reflection of the love God has for us. Not only does he inspire us to love God in return, he also demands that we reflect that love to others. Love moves in all directions. Jesus is the expression of God’s love for you; you are the expression of God’s love for others.

This sermon will introduce the series by helping us see how we can be distracted from Jesus, and by honestly asking why we really need him. The big picture answer to the question is because Jesus can do for you what no one else can do. The remaining lessons will help us see exactly what this means.

Transitions can be difficult, painful, and confusing. Tim Curtis shares how the Bible speaks to these life transitions.