Kingdom Impressions | Melvin Manickavasagam

Scripture Reference: Daniel 7:1-14
Christians may not be those who are uninformed about the story of Christmas but may over time become unimpressed by its significance. For those who have heard the story of Jesus’ advent, perhaps we also need to see it for what it truly is. Strange as it might seem, Daniel’s apocalyptic vision is not a bad place to do just that.

Sermon Points:

  • The “Beastly” Rule of Earthly Kingdoms (vv. 1-8)
  • The HeavenlyRule of God’s Kingdom (vv. 9-10)
  • The Warrior-King of God’s Kingdom (vv. 11-14)

The Hero & Peter | Les Newsom

Scripture Reference: Matthew 16:13-23

How is it possible that Peter can be so “right” in his confession about Jesus’ true identity as Messiah and so wrong about Jesus’ mission. The answer to that question uncovers something profound about the new identity that being a Christian brings, with Peter as the prime example.

Sermon Points:

  • Peter’s Confession
  • Peter’s Affirmation
  • Peter’s Failure

The Hero Feeds His People | Les Newsom

Scripture Reference: Matthew 14:13-21
After the death of John the Baptist, Jesus tries to withdraw to contemplate the loss of his dear friend. But quickly, he returns to ministry to feed a hapless people with a meal that they wouldn’t forget and a meal that his followers would be instructed to celebrate until he came again.

Sermon Points:

  • Jesus’ Meal Does A Lot With A Little
  • Jesus’ Meal Is For Everyone
  • Jesus’ Meal Foreshadows Better Meals

The Villain’s Decline | Les Newsom

Scripture Reference: Matthew 14:1-13a
Matthew inserts an interesting little story about the fate of John the Baptist at the hands of Herod Antipas, king of Judea in Jesus day. But the life of Herod provides an anti-example to us who, with the benefit of hindsight, can see what evil choices do to spoil a conscience.

Sermon Points:

  • Herod’s Choices
  • Herod’s Consequences
  • Herod’s (Untaken) Path Out

Listening to the Hero | Brian Sorgenfrei

Scripture Reference: Matthew 13:1-23

The worldwide hero spent a lot of time teaching and his disciples claim this hero has the words of life. Why then is it often so difficult to listen to Jesus? The parable of the sower in Matthew 13 is one of Jesus’ explanation for why He is dismissed, ignored and rejected. The problem is the condition of our hearts.

*Special thanks to Tim Keller and Ricky Jones for helpful material on this passage.*

Sermon Points:

  • The Purpose Of Parables (13:10-17)
  • The Problem (13:3-9, 18-23)
  • The Proper Response (13:11, 16)