Matthew 23:11 is one of the more familiar texts in the Bible: “But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably always taken this as a simple encouragement to serve others. Something like, “If you want to be the greatest, then serve the most,” or “In the Kingdom, greatness isn’t measured by gifting or title, but by service.”

But if we reduce this rich text to mere moralism, we miss the profound covenantal message Matthew intends his readers to grasp. In this sermon, Pastor Matt unpacks the verse in its full context, emphasizing its courtroom setting, revealing its Christ-centered thrust, and shining a light on the glory of the Gospel and the establishment of God’s Kingdom on earth.

What did Jesus mean when He told His followers not to be called Rabbi, to call no one on earth Father, and not to be called leaders? Is there something inherently wrong with those titles? Not at all. Listen as Pastor Matt digs into this text to show that something much greater than a legalistic ban on the use of a few titles is at the heart of Jesus’ prohibition. In fact, the rejection of exalted titles is eternally important. It is nothing less than an indication of Kingdom Citizenship.

How much consideration do you give your spiritual growth? 

How do you best determine where you are in your Christian development? Do you take a theological or doctrinal test? 

The Bible has much to say about the importance of Christian maturity. Listen as Pastor David examines 1 John 2:12-17 to help us discover a biblical method for discerning our spiritual state. 

Zechariah’s book concludes with a prolonged revelation of the kingdom of the Messiah and the final five verses highlight the glories of that kingdom. Not only will God’s enemies be defeated, but his people will be transformed into a holy people, fit for his presence.

In this passage, Zechariah anticipates the new city that will come in the wake of the new creation narrative of v 6-9. That city will dwell in security and its enemies will be stripped of their oppositional power.

Our culture would have us believe that good order in the church is something that is relative to each congregation with minimal consequences. However, Paul writes to Timothy of the devastating consequences of having a church that is out of creational order. 

As Zechariah’s prophetic work draws to a close, he details the events surrounding the much anticipated arrival of the Messiah. In this passage he uses a creation motif to demonstrate the nature of the kingdom under the reign of the Righteous King. 

After all the warnings of judgment and final captivity for continued idolatry, in the final chapter of his prophetic work, Zechariah reveals the fate of Jerusalem and those who inhabit it physically and spiritually. 

What does a random passage in Leviticus have to do with the resurrection of Christ. More than you’ve probably realized. Find out how this passage enhances your understanding of the glories of Christ’s work of atonement.

Zechariah continues his incredible unveiling of the events of Christ’s arrival, the Jews’ rejection of him, his ultimate victory, and the aftermath of his ministry on both his enemies and his friends. Listen as Pastor Michael Carr handles the penultimate chapter of Zechariah’s prophetic masterpiece.