Power

What makes a person truly generous? Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus, a man who’d devoted much of his life to accumulating wealth, status, and power, reveals the heart of generosity. Through experiencing Jesus’ surprising and costly generosity, Zacchaeus was freed to become a radically generous person himself.

Jesus’ healing of a disabled man is a key to any exploration of faith: it shows us how the Son of God’s proximity, power, and passion can change even the most helpless situation.

While many think of Jesus as a great teacher, moral example, or inspiring historical figure, Scripture presents a far richer and more astonishing portrait. Isaiah declares that he is “Mighty God.” What does this title mean, and what difference can it make in a person’s life today?

Moving into our new facility is a unique chance to relaunch. This sermon begins a season of pre-launch preparation for us. By looking at the first generation of the church, we’re affirming that the path to our future runs through this ancient past. In this episode, the mission of the church is set before us in a way that both challenges and empowers us to embrace the opportunity ahead.

How do we deal with the things in life that shake us to the core? How do discover who we really are so we live lives of lasting purpose? These are just a few of the large questions addressed in this extraordinary segment in the fascinating story of Esther.

Power can corrupt or cleanse. It can induce fear or freedom. It always, however, reveals. In this fascinating case study of contrasting figures of power, we’ll see these dynamics at work and learn invaluable lessons for our lives today.