Scripture Reference: Acts 9:1-19

Much has been said, that doesn’t bear repeating, on the consistent anti-institutional bent of the present age. Talk of “the church” seems quaint to those who long for authenticity. But we believe in “the holy catholic church” which means that believing people find their primary identity in the collection of others who are so united to Christ.

Sermon Points:

• The Reality of the Church
• The Meaning of the Church
• The Challenge of the Church

Scripture Reference: John 14:15-26

Some mystery surrounds the person and work of the Holy Spirit, for sure, but that doesn’t mean that He is due any less adoration and worship from God’s people than any other member of the Trinity. Today, we look at the doctrine of the Holy Spirit as THE active agent, the “mover shaker” of the Godhead.

Sermon Points:

• The Importance of the Spirit
• The Action of the Spirit
• The Focus of the Spirit

Scripture Reference: Romans 2:3-11

Tim Keller once said, “You’ve accepted Jesus as your savior, but have you accepted him as your judge?” The idea that Jesus will return and execute justice is very much a controversial, and complicated prospect for Christians to think about. But there’s good news in his returning to judge that we’ll look at in the Apostles Creed.

Sermon Points:

• Necessary Justice
• Complicated Justice
• Gracious Justice

Scripture Reference: Matthew 28:16-20

By its nature, good news HAS to be told. We aren’t really enjoying the thing until we spread the news about it. Jesus’ death and resurrection are followed by a powerful commission from him to bring his Lordship to bear on every area of life, and he empowers us to do so by his nearness.

Sermon Points:

• Empowering the Mission
• Directing the Mission
  • Accommodating Our Doubts
  • Clarifying Our Mission
  • Promising Our Success

Scripture Reference: Matthew 27:62-28:15

Progressive commentators have said that it is unimportant whether or not Jesus actually rose from the dead. Nothing could be further from the truth. The facts surrounding the mountain of hard evidence for Jesus’ bodily resurrection not only establish its importance, but rescues human hope as well.

Sermon Points:

• The Evidence
• The Verdict