Christian Sermons from Calvary Chapel Greenmeadow, North Kingstown, RI

Our individualality may seem to set us apart but although the apostles were all different, they were all in a relationship with Jesus. This is what made them great. Still, our uniqueness is important to God. To Him we are all rare and beautiful treasures!

Becoming a servant requires us to lay something aside, but most people are selfish. In this passage, everyone saw the need, but Jesus sets the example by taking action. Humble yourself and follow His teaching. When you serve, it will lead to joy.

Jesus is the head over every power and authority, including the sabbath. Traditions about it (or anything) must never be more important than people or Jesus. God made the sabbath for man. The principle is that we set time apart for rest in Him.

Some traditions and routines are good, but we need to remain flexible. Jesus was often challenged by the Pharisees because he brought new ideas about the high priest and other sacred topics. Stagnation is a problem and we need to let God shake us up.

Following Jesus is something that is done in public even though there is a cost to doing so. Followers must deny themselves. We have as an example, Matthew, who followed immediately and enthusiastically.

Sickness did not come into the world until after the fall showing that forgiveness is more important than physical healing. We need to be persistent in praying for the salvation of specific people in our lives and diligent in praying for the sick also.

Even Jesus submitted His will to the Father. How often do we fall on our faces in humility before Him? We learn from this passage that following Him includes finding secluded places to pray regularly and being bold in sharing our testimony with others.

The reward of deep water obedience is a recognition that Jesus is in charge and is able to provide beyond our abilities. Deep waters bring greater risks and bigger rewards. What is it that you might have to let go of to follow Him?

While religious leaders at the time repeated what others had said, Jesus spoke with authority. He has power over the spiritual and physical world, so keep your eyes on Him and serve Him with thankfulness. He has power over sin, so receive His forgiveness.

As Christians, we need to trust in the power of the Holy Spirit who is the wind in our sails that pushes us towards Christ. When He shows favor to us, we should accept it, for without it we can do nothing. Do not reject Him. There is nothing better.

Jesus was tempted by our enemy just like we are. Knowing that the devil is the father of lies helps us to resist. He attacks when our flesh is vulnerable. Jesus did not debate with Satan in His flesh, but He quoted scripture and submitted to the Father.

What obstacle is standing between you and Jesus today? Just like the stone was not too heavy for Him, so nothing is too difficult for Jesus to clear the way for you. He didn’t need the stone moved away so he could get out. He moved it so we could see in.

As a man of sorrows, Jesus wept over the city because they did not recognize Him. As we spend time with Jesus, we should be grieved by what grieves Him, mostly that people do not know Christ. He chooses to need us to be a part of bringing the good news.

When Jesus revealed himself to the world, He was publicly baptized, showing that He identified with humanity. We see the trinity in this passage as Jesus prays, receives the Holy Spirit and God the Father speaks. This should remind us to be prayerful.

This passage teaches us what we must do to prepare the way for Jesus to come into our lives and how we should live to bear good fruit for Him. This includes being generous and honest. We can only do this if we are continually refilled by the Holy Spirit.

Young Jesus still has lessons for us. For example, when we lose sight of Him, we need to turn back and find where we have left Him. Jesus demonstrates submission to His Heavenly Father and His earthly parents yet Jesus must be about His Father's business.

Lessons from this passage include that we should dedicate our children to the Lord, that God's Spirit does not stop working just because we get old, and that we need to be at peace with God to be able to give ourselves to Him in death.

Jesus came to save us from our sins. His name means, “the Lord saves.” He is Christ Messiah meaning “the anointed one.” He is Lord (King and God) and we humble ourselves before him. He is the Prince of Peace who brings His peace to our hearts.

God wants something from each one of us. It takes time to figure it out, but we have to be listening and that means being quiet. In that quietness, let Him fill your heart with the song He has for you so that you may be a blessing to those in your life.

Mary accepted certain ridicule and scandal to make herself available to God. Are you willing to take the steps necessary to see God’s plans fulfilled in your life? What is your part in the plan of salvation? Who can you serve by saying 'yes' to the Lord?

No matter how old we are, our calling is to be faithful to God. No matter how old we are, we are never too old for God to bless us with something special. No matter how long we have been praying, God can still answer.

The gospel of Luke focuses on Jesus as the Son of Man who came to seek and save the lost.

God gives us what we need to do what he calls us to do. We are all called to follow and to serve him in unique ways. Train your replacement and make good use of your time before you die. Know that when you die you will be called home to heaven.

The image of God holding our hand conveys power and strength. Although we do not know what the future may bring, we know that nothing can snatch us from His hand. Even if it brings struggles, we need not despair because we can rely on His sovereignty.

Fear sometimes causes us to go places God has not called us to go. God wants to show us His will but He sometimes speaks softly to get us to be quiet and listen. We can hear Him if we are in a relationship with Him. Trials often cause us to listen better.