The lecture focuses on a critical examination of discipleship as articulated in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in the passage Luke 9:57-62. The speaker, Ian, leads the audience through three poignant interactions Jesus has with potential followers, emphasizing the serious nature of true discipleship. Each interaction serves to challenge common assumptions and encourages the audience to reflect on what it truly means to follow Jesus.

In the first interaction, Ian highlights the necessity for followers of Jesus to abandon their assumptions of comfort. He draws from historical texts and scholarly interpretations, notably citing Brian Stanley's observations on how modern Christianity can sometimes become entangled with cultural ideologies favoring individual wealth. Ian warns that if Christianity is centered on personal comfort, it deviates from the core of Jesus' teachings. By using Jesus’ blunt reply to a man eager to follow Him—remarking that “foxes have dens to live in and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head”—Ian underscores the expectation Jesus sets for His followers. Discipleship, he argues, inherently involves discomfort and challenges, contrasting the experience with the day-to-day comforts many people take for granted.

In the second interaction, the need to reorder one's values is emphasized. Ian explains that when a man seeks to follow Jesus but requests to bury his father first, Jesus responds in a way that seems harsh. By telling the man, “Let the dead bury their own dead; you must go and proclaim the kingdom of God,” Ian elucidates Jesus’ call for prioritizing the spiritual over cultural and familial obligations. This section leads Ian to urge the audience to reflect on their own values and how they might need to be reshaped to align with the teachings of Jesus. He illustrates that true benevolence, faith, and service can often conflict with personal ambitions or deeply held cultural values, a theme made vivid with testimonies of individuals who reevaluated their life goals upon embracing their faith.

The third interaction highlights the critical need for a focused commitment to Jesus. Ian emphasizes that Jesus demands unwavering dedication, cautioning against the distractions of life that can pull potential followers away from their spiritual path. By referencing the phrase “anyone who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is not fit for the kingdom of God,” Ian reiterates Jesus’ stark warning against divided loyalties. He illustrates this point by discussing common distractions in contemporary life, drawing parallels to modern issues of focus and devotion. The speaker implores the audience to reflect on their current engagements and ambitions, questioning if Jesus is the priority in their life or if they remain distracted by competing commitments.

The lecture culminates in a call for a serious response to Jesus’ invitation to discipleship. Ian articulates that following Jesus is not about the promise of comfort or ease but involves a life-altering commitment that may require sacrifice and a conscious effort to realign one's values and priorities. He encourages the audience to embrace this challenging journey, inviting them to reconsider their understanding of faith as a radical and transformative call that reshapes their lives entirely. The final reflection emphasizes that while comfort may be alluring, true discipleship brings an enriching depth to one’s spiritual journey that is ultimately more fulfilling than any temporary ease.

In this lecture, we explore the profound intersection of faith and fear through the narratives found within the Gospel of Luke, specifically examining the themes presented in chapter 8. The speaker begins by reflecting on the notion put forth by the late Lord Jonathan Sachs regarding the internal struggles faced by individuals, particularly in the context of faith. This sets the stage for an insightful discussion on the various battles we encounter, many of which are not solely external but are deeply rooted in our own fears and insecurities.

Drawing from Jesus' actions and teachings as depicted in Luke's Sermon on the Plain, the lecture highlights Jesus' holistic mission of healing and delivering those afflicted by both physical and spiritual adversities. The speaker emphasizes the significance of Jesus’ works—healing the sick, restoring the oppressed, and proclaiming the good news—as central to understanding his identity and the expectation of a Messiah. By exploring how Jesus oscillates between the roles of a rabbi, a healer, and a prophetic figure, the speaker invites us to question pre-existing notions about who Jesus is and the multifaceted nature of his ministry.

As the discussion progresses, the focus narrows to the narrative of Jairus, a synagogue leader desperate to save his dying daughter. This account brings to light the fear of disappointment inherent in placing all hope on Jesus as a last resort. The speaker highlights Jairus’ situation—his position in the community and the potential for ridicule should he venture to seek aid from someone perceived as a less conventional figure. This encapsulates the complex emotional landscape of those who grapple with faith against a backdrop of dire circumstances, illustrating the weight of hope and the devastating potential of disappointment.

In tandem with Jairus’ story, the lecture parallels the experience of a woman suffering from a long-term illness who seeks healing from Jesus in anonymity, reflecting the fear of exposure. This woman embodies the profound isolation felt by many who struggle with issues of identity and worthiness. Despite her efforts to remain unseen, Jesus’ interactive approach and compassionate acknowledgment of her healing serve as a testament to his recognition of each individual's inherent value. Here, the speaker underscores the notion that no one is beyond the reach of Jesus' grace, and through faith, restoration can occur even amid societal ostracism.

As the narrative continues to unfold, the speaker examines the fear of ridicule that both Jairus and the anonymous woman confront in their journeys of faith. Jairus is met with the daunting news of his daughter's death, leading to a critical moment where he must choose between public opinion and his trust in Jesus’ power. The contrast between his social standing and the ridicule he risks by continuing to follow Jesus provides a compelling discussion regarding the societal pressures that accompany faith declarations.

The speaker reflects on these intertwined stories, culminating in a call for self-reflection on personal fears and hesitations that may inhibit a fuller trust in Jesus. The transformative moment when Jesus invites Jairus and the woman into deeper faith amid their fears is offered as an encouragement for listeners to examine their own challenges. This exposition leads to an intimate moment in which the congregation is invited to contemplate their faith journey, particularly in relation to their fears, and to consider how they might step out in trust despite uncertainties.

In closing, the lecture integrates a rich understanding of the complexities of faith, the nature of fear, and the invitation to community interconnectedness through prayer and support. By fostering an environment where individuals can share their burdens, the speaker highlights the importance of nurturing seeds of faith, encouraging reflective consideration of how to cultivate good soil for faith to flourish within their lives and community. The call to prayer and communion invites a collective moment for attendees to engage with their faith authentically, fostering a space for vulnerability and hope amidst life's challenges.

In this lecture, Christian shares insights drawn from personal experiences and biblical teachings, drawing a parallel between life lessons and the foundation upon which we build our spiritual lives. He begins with a heartfelt reflection on the teachings of his grandfather, whom he lovingly referred to as Poppy. Poppy's commitment to God's shalom, a term embodying peace and right relationship between God, humanity, and nature, served as a framework for many important life lessons. Christian emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s relationship with land and creation, recounting how Poppy instilled a sense of reverence for the earth by sharing knowledge about agriculture and the natural world, which serves as a metaphor for deeper spiritual truths.

Transitioning into his main topic, Christian references the parable Jesus tells about two men who build houses — one on a solid foundation and the other without any. This parable is situated within the larger context of Jesus's Sermon on the Plain, where He outlines a new way of living for those who follow Him, urging listeners to embrace radical love, forgiveness, and selflessness. Christian emphasizes that the commands from Jesus, such as loving one’s enemies and forgiving others, are revolutionary yet challenging, highlighting the necessity of divine assistance through the Holy Spirit to live out these teachings. He explains that simply hearing Jesus's words is inadequate; true wisdom lies in acting upon them, suggesting that obedience acts as the bedrock of a life built on faith.

Drawing further from scripture, Christian deepens the exploration of the concept of the "Word of God" as foundational truth. He cites various biblical passages to reinforce the idea that Jesus, the Word made flesh, reveals God’s intentions and wisdom. The importance of engaging with scripture is highlighted, noting that many in the contemporary church fall short of regularly reading the Bible, leading to a weakened foundation of faith. He points out that the statistics from recent studies reveal a concerning trend of biblical illiteracy among churchgoers, thereby questioning how individuals can build their lives firmly without a clear understanding of God’s directives.

In a poignant moment, Christian shares personal testimony about facing the serious illness of a loved one, reflecting on the emotional turmoil and uncertainty that accompanies such events. In these challenging moments, he underscores the comfort and strength derived from his spiritual foundation. He reiterates that though life may subject us to storms and trials, a house grounded on the teachings of Christ will withstand the floods that may come. Christian encourages the audience to remain rooted in prayer and scripture, offering practical steps to deepen their faith, such as dedicating time to read and understand God’s Word.

Ultimately, Christian conveys a message of hope and resilience, asserting that while the journey of faith is fraught with challenges, embracing the foundational teachings of Jesus allows individuals to endure life’s trials. He calls on the listeners to reassess their foundations, offering them opportunities for prayer and guidance to build their lives on a rock-solid spiritual foundation, anchored in the transformative power of Christ’s teachings. The lecture concludes with a prayer, asking for strength and commitment to remain steadfast in faith, echoing the call to rely on the foundational truths of God during both good times and adversity.

This lecture focuses on two pressing issues that intersect with the mission of the community, particularly around immigration and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The speaker emphasizes the biblical mandate for Christians to approach immigrants and refugees with compassion and care. Referencing the church's longstanding commitment to hospitality and love for the foreigner, the speaker highlights recent funding cuts to refugee resettlement agencies, specifically in Baltimore. These cuts have significant implications for local support systems, particularly for the 48 refugee families currently being resettled. The speaker encourages church members to engage practically by providing financial assistance for resettlement, reiterating the church's openness to facilitating connections for those who feel led to help.

The discussion then shifts to the broader theme of DEI within the context of the multi-ethnic kingdom described in the Bible. The speaker asserts that God’s intention is for his people to foster inclusivity, asserting there's no tolerance for racism within the church community. This inclusive approach has been a foundational aspect of the church's vision since its inception. A transition into a biblical analysis occurs as the speaker introduces the teaching text from Luke 6:37-42, leading to a larger inquiry about the meaning behind Jesus' exhortation not to judge others. The speaker reflects on how this teaching resonates today, particularly in a contemporary context that often perceives the church as judgmental.

The lecture delves into cultural sentiments about judgment, recognizing the challenge posed by societal expectations while maintaining a biblical standard of truth. The speaker advocates for understanding the nuances of Jesus' words in their historical and textual context. The pursuit of love and compassion in relationships is emphasized, urging attendees to consider how reciprocal relationships differ from the unconditional love expected of a community modeled after Christ.

As the speaker articulates the principles of generosity and forgiveness, the discussion touches on the law of reciprocity, contrasting it with more selfless acts that reflect Jesus' teachings. The concept of relational triangles is introduced, using family systems theory to illustrate how relational dynamics can complicate interactions. The need for a direct approach to conflict resolution, rather than diverting anxieties into triangular relationships, is underscored, emphasizing the call for self-examination and honest engagement.

The examination of judgment culminates with a poignant exploration of Jesus' metaphor regarding the speck and the log, driving home the message that self-awareness and humility are crucial in relationships. The emphasis is placed on recognizing one’s shortcomings before addressing the faults of others, encouraging a communal spirit that embodies grace and forgiveness.

In concluding thoughts, the speaker shares a powerful story of St. Moses, who embodied compassion and grace, highlighting the importance of extending forgiveness to others based on the grace received from God. The call to action centers on approaching relationships with an understanding of divine compassion, advocating for a mindset that acknowledges human fallibility while promoting love and acceptance within the community. The emphasis throughout is on transformation through the teachings of Jesus, encouraging listeners to manifest those principles in their daily interactions and to foster an environment of grace amid contemporary challenges.

In this lecture, we explore Luke 4:14-30, where Jesus returns to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit's power and teaching in synagogues, before arriving in his boyhood home of Nazareth. Initially, he is welcomed and admired by the crowd, but a rapid shift occurs as he proclaims a powerful truth about his messianic mission, which ultimately leads to disbelief and violent rejection from those who know him best. This passage invites reflection on the complexities of Jesus’ calling and the nature of acceptance.

The discussion begins with a commendation of the deacon team, highlighting their tireless contributions to the community, particularly in acts of care following a recent funeral. This sets the stage for understanding the early church's role in mirroring the love and compassion of Christ—a theme echoed in Jesus’ reading from Isaiah. Through this lens, the lecture juxtaposes ancient funerary societies and cultural expectations surrounding communal care, linking it to how Jesus embodies the fulfillment of prophetic promise.

As the passage unfolds, Jesus reads from Isaiah, proclaiming good news for the poor, freedom for captives, sight for the blind, and liberation for the oppressed. His assertion that "the scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing today" initially amazes the congregants, yet their wonder quickly turns to skepticism as they recognize him as Joseph's son. This reaction opens the door to a critical examination of how familiarity breeds contempt and how the expectations of the community can dampen their receptivity to divine truth.

The lecture then transitions into a deeper analysis of the varying interpretations of Jesus’ mission. It categorizes perspectives into social, supernatural, and salvific readings, emphasizing the importance of holistic understanding in grasping the entirety of Jesus’ purpose. The social reading addresses the liberation from socio-economic oppression, while the supernatural reading emphasizes miraculous healing and deliverance from spiritual forces. Lastly, the salvific reading focuses on forgiveness and salvation from sin.

Moreover, the speaker warns against the temptation to select which aspects of Jesus' ministry to embrace, termed the "a la carte Jesus." This critique resonates with historical and contemporary issues within Christianity, where certain segments focus narrowly on either social justice or personal salvation while sidelining the other. He challenges listeners to acknowledge how often they desire specific parts of Jesus’ message while resisting complete acceptance.

As the narrative progresses, Jesus uses historical examples from the lives of the prophets Elijah and Elisha to illustrate that God’s mission often extends beyond the borders of Israel, thus provoking anger among his audience. The insistence on who is included in salvation and support reveals a broader theological tension regarding exclusivity and the radical inclusiveness of God's grace. This confrontation leads to an attempt on Jesus’ life—symbolizing a rejection not just of a man, but of the expansive and challenging nature of the Gospel.

The closing segments push audiences to ponder their own responses to Jesus’ message, highlighting the necessity of embracing his full identity as the Savior, healer, and liberator without succumbing to the temptation of selective belief. The prayerful conclusion requests courage and unity within the believer community, emphasizing interdependence in embodying the Kingdom of God.

Overall, the lecture invites listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of Jesus and to engage deeply with the fullness of his teachings, challenging them to recognize the comprehensive nature of the Kingdom that resists compartmentalization of faith.

This first episode in our winter teaching series in Luke's Gospel, explores Jesus' temptation in the wilderness in Luke 4:1-13.  

We examine questions like, What is temptation and how do we recognize seasons of temptation? What help do we have in Christ?

Preached by Ian McFadden at St Moses Church, Charles Village Campus, Baltimore City, on January 12, 2025.

This sermon to start 2025 explores Jesus' invitation to share his yoke and to take up his "light" burden. 

Preached at St Moses Church, Charles Village Campus, Baltimore City, on January 5th, 2025, by Saint Mo's elder and Navy chaplain, Doyle Dunn.

In this lecture, we explore the genealogy of Jesus as presented in Matthew 1:1-17, emphasizing its significance within the context of the Advent season and the overarching theme of God's faithfulness. The speaker, Ian, introduces the series titled "Awestruck," which aims to rekindle a sense of wonder regarding the Christmas story that many have become desensitized to due to over-familiarity. This journey starts with an often-overlooked list of names in the Bible, which opens a deeper conversation about the historical and theological implications surrounding these figures and their connection to the narrative of Christ.

The genealogy serves not only as a record of ancestry but as a profound statement regarding the faithfulness of God throughout tumultuous periods in history. As Ian states, genealogies in ancient texts were a way to convey condensed historical narratives that would draw readers into the greater story of redemptive history. He draws parallels to the different starting points seen in the writings of John and Matthew, each endeavoring to assert the significance of Jesus while echoing key themes from earlier biblical texts, particularly from Genesis. This framing invites listeners to consider questions of divine fidelity amid chaos and decline, exemplified through names that contribute to a rich tapestry of Israel's history—such as the wicked kings who led their people astray.

Ian highlights several kings from the genealogy, detailing their missteps and failures, which collectively raise the question of God's presence in difficult times. He examines figures like Rehoboam, who mismanaged the kingdom leading to its division, and Ahaz, who mounted a vassal state to Assyria, resisting the prophetic guidance offered to him. Each account serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Jewish people and ignites the question: where is God amidst such disarray? Through his analysis, Ian asserts that these names signify God's ongoing work, even when it seems least evident.

The lecture further emphasizes that the genealogy includes women, a narrative choice that diverges from typical ancient practices and speaks volumes about God’s inclusive grace. Women like Rahab, Ruth, Tamar, and Bathsheba are not merely footnotes; they represent narratives that topic of redemption and highlight God’s commitment to weaving diverse stories into the overarching narrative of salvation. Ian elaborates on how these women faced societal marginalization yet found favor in God's plan, reaffirming that no one is beyond the reach of grace regardless of their background or the moral complexities of their stories.

As the lecture progresses, Ian connects the genealogy’s themes with the universal nature of Jesus' kingship, emphasizing that Jesus is a savior for all peoples. He shares a contemporary narrative about a church leader contemplating God's sovereignty amidst societal unrest, reflecting on the importance of claiming God's ongoing work throughout history. This leads to a call for listeners to let go of doubts and anxieties, trusting in God's promises and the truth that all backgrounds, including those of the disenfranchised, find a place in God's family.

The lecture culminates in a call to action, encouraging attendees to consider those in their lives who may not yet know this King or to introspectively examine their own lives for areas that may not yet reflect God's sovereignty. Participants are invited to engage in prayer and reflection, fostering an opportunity to acknowledge both their personal journey and the broader implications of Christ’s coming as an invitation to all humanity. Through this rich exploration of genealogies, biblical history, and personal application, Ian challenges us to rediscover the awe-inspiring truth of the Christmas narrative and God's unyielding faithfulness.

This lecture focuses on the profound themes of light, life, and the transformative nature of belief through the lens of the Gospel of John, particularly the opening verses illustrating the concept of "the Word". The speaker begins by emphasizing the inseparable connection between Jesus and God, establishing that Jesus was present at the dawn of creation and played an active role in it. The discussion of the Word setting the stage serves as a prelude to exploring the significance of the Christmas story and its relevance in contemporary life.

As the lecture progresses, the speaker contextualizes the season of Advent, noting the often overwhelming nature of holiday preparations that can lead to fatigue rather than awe. By sharing a personal anecdote about post-Christmas preparation experiences, the speaker highlights the joy of family traditions while reminding the audience to embrace the deeper meaning and wonder behind the season. Moving beyond surface-level celebration, the speaker urges listeners not to become complacent with nostalgic feelings but to actively seek a greater understanding of the spiritual significance of Christmas.

The transition into John's narrative emphasizes the intention behind the Gospel's writing. The speaker notes John's unique approach, starting from a grand cosmological perspective rather than focusing immediately on the nativity story. By drawing comparisons to familiar literary phrases, the speaker invites the audience to engage with the text on a personal level, challenging them to recognize the enormity of the message encapsulated in the opening lines. The idea of "the Word" is explored in depth, revealing its philosophical roots while affirming that it personalizes the abstract notions of creator and light.

Throughout the lecture, the significance of belief and acceptance is underscored. The speaker articulates that despite the darkness and chaos of the world, belief in Jesus allows for a rebirth and transformation into children of God. The conversation shifts to practicality, encouraging listeners to remain attentive to spiritual nudges and the call to embody community values. The lecture interweaves personal narratives and collective stories from the community, illustrating how members actively participate in moving to love their neighbors, reflecting the light of Christ in their actions.

The speaker invites reflection on both personal spiritual journeys and their responsibilities toward others, reiterating that God desires engagement, not just passive acknowledgment of faith. In drawing parallels to modern experiences of alienation and chaos, the speaker highlights the importance of making space for awe and wonder in everyday life, nudging the audience to consider the significance of their actions and connections.

In closing, the lecture emphasizes the importance of being attuned to the Holy Spirit’s invitation for renewal and action in both personal and communal dimensions. By engaging with questions of how to cultivate a responsive spirit towards God’s calling, the speaker leaves the audience inspired to actively seek ways to illuminate their neighborhoods with love and grace, embodying the teachings of Jesus in heartfelt service to others.

This lecture explores a profound analysis of the Christmas story through the lens of humility, vulnerability, and the concept of self-emptying as exemplified by Jesus Christ. Beginning with an intriguing juxtaposition, the speaker presents two distinct images: one being a contemporary artwork created out of reverence for Jesus, while the second is an ancient piece of graffiti mocking a follower of Jesus, Alexamenos. This graffiti, dating back to the early second century, illustrates the shameful and scandalous perception of the Christmas story in its original context. The speaker emphasizes the importance of feeling the weight of such interpretations as a way to reconnect with the true significance of Christmas.

As the lecture unfolds, it shifts focus from the familiar narratives of Matthew and Luke to lesser-known accounts found in other New Testament texts, referred to as the “B-sides” of the Christmas story. The speaker seeks to awaken the audience's sense of wonder regarding this era, highlighting the cosmic battle waged not through might but through humility and self-giving. Drawing from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, specifically Chapter 2, a central theme emerges: the call to Christian unity through emulating the mindset of Christ.

The examination of the text reveals Paul's expression of joy and affection for the newly established church in Philippi, which struggles with discord. He urges them to love and serve each other selflessly, pointing to Jesus as the ultimate example. The speaker underscores that Paul's subsequent hymn within the text depicts Jesus’ nature as both divine and human, stating that he “emptied himself” and took on the role of a servant. The speaker notes that this ancient hymn is both a theological and a cultural counter-narrative, challenging the audience to rethink their understanding of power, status, and servanthood.

Delving into the meaning of "self-emptying," the speaker draws parallels to Old Testament sacrificial practices, particularly the drink offering, suggesting that Jesus' self-emptying signifies total devotion to humanity—an all-in commitment to service. This sacrificial aspect reveals a profound love that contrasts sharply with the usual exercise of power and authority. Furthermore, the lecture reflects on how the Jesus narrative flips traditional notions of greatness, presenting a model of leadership grounded in humility.

The speaker emphasizes that the essence of the Christmas story illustrates not just a humble birth but the profound reality of Christ's vulnerability, which culminates in his willingness to suffer and die. Through historical references, including comparisons to Herod’s self-serving actions, the distinction between divine humility and human ambition becomes crystal clear. Jesus models how true power is exercised through love and service rather than domination or control.

Throughout the lecture, the speaker poses reflective questions on how individuals regard themselves and their relationships with others, challenging the audience to consider their own practices around power and vulnerability. The call to embody Christ-like humility is rooted in the understanding that service and selflessness lead to stronger communal bonds, especially in a world characterized by division and hostility.

As the lecture concludes, an invitation is extended for the audience to engage with their own experiences of vulnerability and love during the holiday season. The speaker encourages an inward look at personal relationships and the potential for renewed commitment to serving others, aligned with the spirit of the Christmas message. The reflection is punctuated with a powerful visualization of belief, as participants are urged to connect not only with the divine narrative but also with actions that reflect self-emptying love in their own lives.