Weekend Message | The King is Come (Palm Sunday) – Timothy Keller [Sermon]

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week we present an audio sermon by the late America pastor, preacher, theologian, and Christian apologist Timothy Keller (1950-2023). This sermon was preached by Rev. Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on March 2, 1997.

© Gospel in Life

In this sermon, Rev. Keller presents the question: "What do we learn from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem?" Jesus is incredibly humble but absolutely immodest. He orchestrates his entry to show that he is the King. His message to everyone is that they can crown him or kill him, but there is no middle way.

The same choice holds true for each and every one of us. In this sermon, we will learn about the nature of the kingship of Christ: 1) The confrontational nature; 2) The paradoxical nature; 3) The transformational nature.

This is an inspirational and thought-provoking sermon that welcomes us into Palm Sunday. I hope that it helps prepare your mind and heart for the upcoming Passion Week!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Passion Week 2025 | In Remembrance of Jesus's Sacrifice for Humanity

"He came to Save others, and not to be made a king himself in the sense in which they understood him."   - Charles Spurgeon 

Passion Week/Holy Week 2025 commences on Palm Sunday, April 13, extending through the week and concluding on Easter Sunday (Resurrection Sunday), April 20. 

The name "Passion Week" is so called because of the "passion" or suffering Jesus endured during the week leading up to his crucifixion. Upon examination of the Greek word for "passion" the reason for its designation is further clarified.

In Greek, the word (verb) "pascho" (πάσχω) means "to suffer," "to have something happen to one," or "to undergo." And is frequently used around the idea of suffering or experiencing something, either good or bad. 

It is important to note that there were several significant events that happened during the week:

• The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem riding on the back of a donkey colt, on Palm Sunday, initiates Passion Week (Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-10; Luke 19:29-44; John12:12-19). This was also prophesied in Zechariah 9:9;
• The second cleansing of the Temple by Jesus (Luke 19:45-46). The first cleansing (John 2:11-12) occurring right after Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana;
• After cleansing the temple, Jesus engaged in disagreements and criticisms with the Pharisees (Matthew 23; Mark 12:35-40; Luke 11:37-54);
• He presented His Olivet Discourse which focuses on the signs or indications of Christ's second coming among other things (Matthew 24:1 – 25:46;  Mark 13:1-37; Luke 21:5-36);
• Jesus shares a final meal (The Last Supper) with his apostles in Jerusalem before his crucifixion (Luke 22:7-38);
• He goes to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray and suffer great anguish on the night before His crucifixion. Jesus was also betrayed by Judas Iscariot and arrested there (Matthew 26:36-56, Mark 14:32-52, Luke 22:40-53 and John 18:1-11);
• Upon his arrest Jesus was taken to the house of Caiaphas, the high priest. Consequently, he was taken to the Roman Praetorium, where he was then questioned by Pontius Pilate (Luke 22:54-23:25);
• After Jesus was tried, Roman soldiers beat and flogged him, then was made to carry His own Cross through the streets of Jerusalem (John 19:17 and Luke 23:26);
• His crucifixion takes place at Golgotha on the day before the Sabbath. Jesus was buried afterward in the tomb until Sunday, the day after, and then gloriously resurrected (Matthew 27:27-56, 57-61, 61-66; 28:1-15); (Mark 15:16-45, 42-47; 16:1-8), (Luke 23: 26-52; 23:50-56a, 56b; 24:1-43). 

I have included a simple timeline of the key days of Passion Week 2025 here for your convenience:

• Palm Sunday: April 13th
• Holy Monday: April 14th
• Holy Tuesday: April 15th
• Holy Wednesday: April 16th
• Maundy Thursday: April 17th
• Good Friday: April 18th
• Holy Saturday: April 19th
• Easter Sunday: April 20th

Passion Week (Holy Week), observes the final week of Jesus' life, ending in his crucifixion. It is an occasion for Christians to think carefully and deeply about Jesus' suffering and sacrifice, and the events preceding his death and resurrection. 

Scripture: Psalm 118:26; John 12:13; Romans 5:8; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Philippians 2:8  

Prayer: "Dear God, as we journey through Passion Week, let us pause to remember the profound love and sacrifice of your Son, Jesus. May this be a time of deep reflection, renewed faith, and a closer walk with you. Amen."

Wishing you peace and grace this Passion Week,

Serenity

Video Message | Do You Practice Your Old Habits of the Flesh? | Beth Moore

It’s so easy to revert back to our pre-Christian selves. God wants to renew our minds and give us the mind of Christ, but we so often just go back into our old habits of the flesh.

This, in many ways, is because we’ve practiced so long and so hard at being our "old selves." But what if we could learn how to practice being our "new selves;" having the renewed mind of Christ that he wants to give us?

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

 

Scriptural References:  Ephesians 4:22

In this short video, Beth Moore shares some thoughts on what we can do to alter this path of restrictive behavior. We have to put off the old habitual things so that we can be freed up to live in the renewed mind in the imitation of Christ!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Walking By Faith | He Is a God of Mysteries

"A 'mystery' in Scripture is a previously hidden truth now divinely revealed, but in which a supernatural element remains unknown despite the revelation."  - Billy Graham, American evangelist (1918-2018)

"God Moves in a Mysterious Way," a Christian hymn written by William Cowper in 1773, inspires us to trust in God even when His plans seem vague, promising that His reasons are ultimately good and will become clear in His own time. 

The word "mystery" is frequently used in Scripture, most commonly in reference to "mysteries of God" or "God's mysteries" (Ephesians 3:9; 1 Corinthians 4:1). They are considered unfathomable divine truths and plans, revealed only by God through His Word and Spirit.

The generalized idea of divine mysteries is based on the biblical narrative where God slowly uncovers His designs to humanity. Amos 3:7 provides a good example of this concept in the OT.

In this particular verse, the use of the Hebrew word (סוֹד, sôḏ), "secret" or "counsel," alludes to a divine secret that is recognized and perceived only if disclosed by God to His people through the prophets.

Divine secrets are also mentioned in the NT. There, the Greek word for “mystery” or (μυστήριον, mystērion) is used. It refers to a hidden or secret thing not obvious to the understanding. 

During the ancient Greek civilization, “mysteries” were traditional religious ceremonies or rituals known only to newcomers. They were often related to different mystery religions that assured religious insight and experiences.

The term is used regularly by Paul when speaking about the mysteries of God, especially in regard to the gospel and the church, as in 1 Corinthians 2:7. This too, indicating divine secrets or truths once hidden, but now divulged by God.

At this point, I’d like to speak briefly about something that could be perplexing to many. Deuteronomy 29:29 speaks of the "secret things of God." How does this differ from "mysteries of God?"

Although both indicate characteristics of God’s nature and plans that are unseen and incomprehensible, they are not necessarily alike. The difference lies in their relationship with one another.

"Secret things" are what God determines to keep hidden. In other words, it concerns certain things belonging only to God and aren’t meant to be revealed to us yet. This implies that some things are better left to His wisdom and divine plan.

In contrast, “mysteries” are truths that are acknowledged, but demand a more thorough grasp and/or interpretation. Such as the gospel, the plan of salvation, and the essence of God’s kingdom.

Finally, I’d like to leave you with a few points to consider:

• Mysteries are made manifest through the Holy Spirit. Our comprehension of them is both a privilege and responsibility.
• The focal point of these mysteries is Christ. He is the realization of God’s plan and the root of all wisdom and knowledge. 
• Despite lacking the ability to fully understand the mysteries of God, it in no way diminishes the Christian faith. Rather, it reinforces our belief.

I hope that our discussion here will inspire you to investigate this topic further. By the discernment of these mysteries, believers can better grasp the measure and width of God’s love, grace and intentions for us.

Scripture: Matthew 13:11; 1 Corinthians 4:1; Ephesians 1:9; Colossians 2:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:7

Prayer: Dear God, may I find peace and comfort in the unknown, knowing that you are with me, always. Amen.

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

Weekend Message | I Struggled Reading the Bible Until I Learned These 5 Things | Maryl De Milo

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week we present a video presentation by spiritual transformation coach Maryl De Milo who shares some insightful information on a topic that many can relate to: Reading the Bible.

Let's be honest, the Bible can be bewildering and unclear even to a mature believer; even more so for the new believer! And there certainly is no shortage of advice or methods as to how to read the Bible correctly, and/or gain the most benefit from it.

© Maryl De Milo

In this video, Maryl shares 5 ways of approaching reading Scripture that have helped her to understand and stay consistent reading it. 

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, confused, or disconnected during Bible reading, these workable solutions of coming to God's word will help you to understand Scripture and grow in the love and knowledge of God.

From a religious standpoint, God provided us with the Bible in order to reveal Himself, direct humanity, and offer a means to salvation, including history, poetry, philosophy, and personal letters. That, ultimately teach us about His plan for humanity. 

Make some time to watch and listen to this wonderfully enlightening presentation. I pray that it may enhance the enjoyment of reading and studying your Bible!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Remember God's Faithfulness in Your Life

"The glory of God's faithfulness is that no sin of ours has ever made Him unfaithful."  - Charles Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

Most of us lead very busy lives. Practically, every minute of the day is consumed with work, family, and other activities. After that, there is precious little time to spare. No one would argue that!

Still, we may be missing something. Something that has practical implications for any believer in Jesus Christ. What I'm implying is that we need to devote time to remember God's faithfulness.

Remembering God's faithfulness means recognizing and thinking about past instances where God has revealed his love, grace, and provision, developing trust and hope for the future, despite hardships and obstacles.

In fact, the concept of remembering God's faithfulness is deeply embedded as an essential part of Scripture. It serves to reaffirm our faith in God's unchanging (immutable) nature, promises, and acts of deliverance and provision. 

This alone would probably be sufficient, but remembering His faithfulness is more than just food for talk. Recalling God's faithfulness is spiritual training that builds faith and instills discipline.

As this is a consistent theme throughout the Bible, we should examine a few examples of some practical uses there. For instance, in the OT, the Israelites are implored time and time again to remember God's faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9).

The Passover itself is another important event that stands as a tribute to God's faithfulness. It honors God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, bringing to the forefront His faithfulness in delivering on His promises (Exodus 12:14).

Proceeding to the NT, we see God's faithfulness manifested in the person and work of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 1:9 points out the faithfulness of God inviting believers together with Christ, thereby assuring their salvation and being made holy.

Remembering God's faithfulness can be extremely helpful, especially to us in this "always-on world" in which we live. For believers, many benefits can be derived from this, including: 

• providing the capability to confidently face trials head-on;
• the assurance that the same God who has been trustworthy in the past, will faithfully be available in any future events (Philippians 1:6).

Lastly, the biblical appeal to recall God's faithfulness is a key feature of the Christian faith. It provides believers with a solid foundation for trust, praise, and discipline. 

Scripturally, God continuously reminds us that His faithfulness is steadfast and true, inspiring us to live joyfully by His promises and previous actions of deliverance. I encourage you to pause and remember God's faithfulness in your life! 

Scripture: Psalm 33:4; Lamentations 3:23; Romans 3:3; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Hebrews 10:23

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your steady faithfulness. Help me always remember your love and goodness, even in difficult times, and to have faith in your promises. May I always remember your faithfulness. Amen.

Yours in Christ,

Ashleigh

We Must Acknowledge Our Need for God

"A truly humble man is sensible of his natural distance from God; of his dependence on Him; of the insufficiency of his own power and wisdom; and that it is by God’s power that he is upheld and provided for, and that he needs God’s wisdom to lead and guide..."  - Jonathan Edwards, American revivalist preacher and philosopher (1703-1758)

It is widely acknowledged that food, water, air, and shelter are needed in order to survive. The lack or removal of any of these critical "needs" greatly diminishes our chances of living on.  

However, there is another "need" which is equally as important, but doesn't attract as much attention. And it is the concept of this "need" that will be the topic of discussion here: the acknowledgment of our need for God. 

This concept of acknowledging one's "need", or dependence on God, is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. It underscores the significance of acknowledging our inherent need for His guidance, strength, and provision in all aspects of life.

Thus, we can subsequently understand that we are unable to solve everything on our own and require divine guidance and support. To get a better idea of how this looks, it might be beneficial to check out some examples. 

The acknowledgement of "need" in the OT is frequently connected to the Israelite's relationship with God. A prime example is the narrative of the Exodus where the enslaved Israelites cried out to God for liberation from the Egyptians (Exodus 2:23-25).

As noted in the passage above, God recognized their distress and recalled His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The acknowledgment of their desperate situation and plea for help was decisive in God's freeing them from bondage.

Prophetic insights were also important as they invoked the people of Israel to recognize their spiritual needs. Isaiah 55:1-3 highlights the need to acknowledge our spiritual hunger and thirst to acquire God's plentiful resources.

A quick look at Matthew 5:3 in the NT, demonstrates how Jesus personified the ultimate provision for fulfilling the spiritual longings and needs of humanity. This principle is further illustrated in Luke 18:9-14.

The Apostle Paul regularly dealt with the theme of human need and the adequacy and fullness of God (2 Corinthians 12:9). Unlikely strength can be found through acknowledging our weaknesses and relying on God's grace, as indicated in this passage.

Finally, real-world effects can be gained by the acknowledgment that our needs are not simply due to thoughtful and rational recognition, acknowledgment, and understanding. They also require us to seek God in prayer and faith (James 4:10).

The biblical impulse to acknowledge our "need" signifies a deep understanding of our limitations and the adequacy of God's grace. It is an inducement to experience the richness of life that comes from an interdependent relationship with Him.

Scripture: Psalm 14:2; Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 10:10; Hebrews 2:10; 1 John 4:15

Prayer: Dear God, I stand before you today, acknowledging your presence and your greatness. Thank you for your unshakable love, your limitless grace, and the infinite blessings you have given me. I humbly seek your guidance and wisdom in every way. Help me live a life that honors you and reflects your love. Amen."

May God richly bless you always,

Leia