Terrorism on SermonAudio

1. Reflect on the Context. 2. Peter, the Rock, Has Become a Rock of Offense, a Stumbling Block. 3. Remember Christ's Three Temptations. 4. Have You Ever Thought About the Terror of the Cross? 5. The Lord Jesus Christ Passes Through the Slaughtered Animals to Confirm His Covenant with Abraham. 6. That Is Why Jesus Prays, "Take This Cup from Me." 7. You Have the Power in Jesus' Name to Hit the Eject Button. 8. Satan's Strategy Is "You Don't Have to Suffer." 9. Euthanasia Is Evil and Bypasses God's Plan: Purgatory Is in This Life. 10. Because Jesus Endured the Cross, I Am Ready to Meet God.

(1) The Lord is the only true God. (2) The Lord is sovereign over every event in the universe. The question of "Why?" America's national sins (3) The Lord warns those who reject His sovereign rule. (4) The Lord sovereignly provides hope. Application 1. Note: God often uses very wicked people to punish others 2. Avoid hypocrisy 3. Repentance trumps patriotism

(AI Generated Summary) The sermon interprets Luke 21:25-26 as a prophetic description of the Day of the Lord, an eschatological event where God shakes the celestial powers to demonstrate His supremacy over all false gods and earthly authorities. By analyzing Old Testament imagery, the text reveals that these cosmic signs symbolize the destruction of idolatry and the outpouring of divine wrath upon rebellious humanity. The preacher contrasts the terror felt by those who trust in worldly power with the hope experienced by believers whose sins are washed in Christ's blood. This ultimate judgment serves as a call to live lives of holiness and godliness, recognizing the temporary nature of the current creation. The message urges listeners to prioritize their eternal relationship with Jesus over earthly pursuits, anticipating His return with eager faith.

The sermon distinguishes between two types of fear regarding God: servile fear, which is a terror of punishment, and filial fear, which is a reverent awe rooted in love and respect for God as a Father. Using Psalm 119:79 as the primary text, the message argues that believers possess a new nature characterized by this filial reverence rather than dread. This transformed perspective arises from being born again through faith in Christ, who removes the penalty of sin and invites intimacy with the Father. The preacher encourages the audience to approach God with honor and adoration, recognizing His majesty while resting in the security of His grace. Ultimately, true faith is demonstrated by turning to God's testimony with a heart that desires to please Him out of love rather than fear of judgment.

Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: "How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you. Because I have called and you refused to listen, have stretched out my hand and no one has heeded, because you have ignored all my counsel and would have none of my reproof, I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when terror strikes you, when terror strikes you like a storm and your calamity comes like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. Then they will call upon me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently but will not find me. Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices. For the simple are killed by their turning away, and the complacency of fools destroys them; but whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster."

This sermon examines the dual nature of Christ's return as depicted in 2 Thessalonians, contrasting the terror of the unbelieving world with the joy of the redeemed church. It argues that persecution serves as a crucible that refines the faith of believers, demonstrating the preserving grace of God and the certainty of His righteous judgment. The text emphasizes that while the present age is marked by moral disorder and suffering, the final day will bring complete vindication for the saints and everlasting destruction for those who reject the gospel. The preacher urges the congregation to trust in God's ultimate justice rather than seeking personal vengeance, highlighting the urgency of evangelism and the hope of glorification for those who endure in faith.

Twenty-five years ago, September 11 began for me in the middle of a military exercise. Then the first plane hit. Then the second. The Pentagon was attacked. The exercise ended, and the words came: Real world. We are under attack. Twenty-five years later, I tell the story of where I was on 9/11, what I remember, and what that day still teaches us.