Scripture Reference: Matthew 17:1-8

Few stories in the Gospel of Matthew are quite as strange to modern readers as the Transfiguration. But Jesus’ majesty are seen in stark relief when you see that behind this story is a Jewish backstory that shows just exactly what Jesus has come to do not just personally, but cosmically!

Sermon Points:

• The Story
  • The Countenance
  • The Company
  • The Cloud
• The Backstory

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

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

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