Sermons and Podcasts https://www.southernhillslife.org no en-us ℗ & © 2024 Southern Hills Baptist Church - Round Rock, Texas Sermons from Southern Hills Baptist Church - Round Rock, Texas Southern Hills Baptist Church - Round Rock, Texas 234507 234507 Matthew Breeden matthew@southernhillslife.org Remembering and Responding - Hebrews 10:19-25 Remembering and Responding - Hebrews 10:19-25 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-03-26/remembering-and-responding-hebrews-1019-25 Remembering and Responding - Hebrews 10:19-25 Remembering and Responding - Hebrews 10:19-25 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-03-26/615/remembering-and-responding-hebrews-1019-25 Sun, 26 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Standing for Truth: The Unashamed Workman - 2 Timothy 2:14-19 Standing for Truth: The Unashamed Workman - 2 Timothy 2:14-19 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-03-19/standing-for-truth-the-unashamed-workman-2-timothy-214-19 As Christians we believe that God has entrusted us with something precious. God has given us His Word and the Gospel and we have been called to steward the truth that has been given to us. This means that we should be committed to knowing the truth and protecting it from those who would try to distort it. As Paul gives Timothy some final instructions, this is a theme that comes up over and over: The importance to stewarding and standing for the truth. Paul goes to great lengths to remind Timothy of his responsibility to know the truth and guard it from those who would seek to twist or pervert it. As Christians we believe that God has entrusted us with something precious. God has given us His Word and the Gospel and we have been called to steward the truth that has been given to us. This means that we should be committed to knowing the truth and protecting it from those who would try to distort it. As Paul gives Timothy some final instructions, this is a theme that comes up over and over: The importance to stewarding and standing for the truth. Paul goes to great lengths to remind Timothy of his responsibility to know the truth and guard it from those who would seek to twist or pervert it. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-03-19/614/standing-for-truth-the-unashamed-workman-2-timothy-214-19 Sun, 19 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Foundations for Endurance in Gospel Ministry - 2 Timothy 2:8-13 Foundations for Endurance in Gospel Ministry - 2 Timothy 2:8-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-03-05/foundations-for-endurance-in-gospel-ministry-2-timothy-28-13 Extreme labor, frequent imprisonments, countless beatings and often close to death. This is the way Paul begins a description of his experience as a minister of the Gospel. He goes on to speak of being whipped, being beaten with rods, being stoned, being shipwrecked, being threatened, being hungry and without food. And that’s to say nothing of the emotional burdens. This description from 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 should add weight to Paul’s appeal to Timothy to share in his sufferings. As Paul calls Timothy to greater Gospel faithfulness, he repeatedly reminds him of the necessity of suffering. Why was Paul willing to suffer so much? Why would he call Timothy to this kind of suffering? In 2 Timothy 2:8-13 we get a look at what motivated Paul. Here he calls on Timothy to remember various aspects of Gospel and why it is worth suffering for. Extreme labor, frequent imprisonments, countless beatings and often close to death. This is the way Paul begins a description of his experience as a minister of the Gospel. He goes on to speak of being whipped, being beaten with rods, being stoned, being shipwrecked, being threatened, being hungry and without food. And that’s to say nothing of the emotional burdens. This description from 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 should add weight to Paul’s appeal to Timothy to share in his sufferings. As Paul calls Timothy to greater Gospel faithfulness, he repeatedly reminds him of the necessity of suffering. Why was Paul willing to suffer so much? Why would he call Timothy to this kind of suffering? In 2 Timothy 2:8-13 we get a look at what motivated Paul. Here he calls on Timothy to remember various aspects of Gospel and why it is worth suffering for. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-03-05/613/foundations-for-endurance-in-gospel-ministry-2-timothy-28-13 Sun, 5 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0600 Instructions for a Faithful Gospel Ministry - 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Instructions for a Faithful Gospel Ministry - 2 Timothy 2:1-7 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-26/instructions-for-a-faithful-gospel-ministry-2-timothy-21-7 The Apostle Paul was called by God and he gave his life fully for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His aim was to know Christ and to make Him known. And for the sake of Christ and His Gospel Paul endured suffering, imprisonment and eventually death. But through it all he maintained joy and hope and he believed that greater joy awaited him beyond this life. Near the end of his life, from a Roman prison, Paul wrote a letter to his faithful partner in the Gospel, Timothy. In this letter he is calling on Timothy to take up the mantle and continue the work of Gospel ministry. As we read this letter it serves as a good reminder to us that we too are called to this work. In chapter 1 Paul makes his initial appeal, calling Timothy to be unashamed and to commit himself to guarding, stewarding and proclaiming the Gospel. Now, as we come to chapter 2, it seems Paul is moving more into instruction. He’s giving Timothy instruction about the specifics of the ministry – what he should do and what he should expect. He is helping Timothy see what faithful Gospel ministry looks like. The Apostle Paul was called by God and he gave his life fully for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His aim was to know Christ and to make Him known. And for the sake of Christ and His Gospel Paul endured suffering, imprisonment and eventually death. But through it all he maintained joy and hope and he believed that greater joy awaited him beyond this life. Near the end of his life, from a Roman prison, Paul wrote a letter to his faithful partner in the Gospel, Timothy. In this letter he is calling on Timothy to take up the mantle and continue the work of Gospel ministry. As we read this letter it serves as a good reminder to us that we too are called to this work. In chapter 1 Paul makes his initial appeal, calling Timothy to be unashamed and to commit himself to guarding, stewarding and proclaiming the Gospel. Now, as we come to chapter 2, it seems Paul is moving more into instruction. He’s giving Timothy instruction about the specifics of the ministry – what he should do and what he should expect. He is helping Timothy see what faithful Gospel ministry looks like. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-26/612/instructions-for-a-faithful-gospel-ministry-2-timothy-21-7 Sun, 26 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0600 God Plans to Pour Out His Wrath But Show His Mercy - Genesis 6 God Plans to Pour Out His Wrath But Show His Mercy - Genesis 6 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-19/god-plans-to-pour-out-his-wrath-but-show-his-mercy-genesis-6 God Plans to Pour Out His Wrath But Show His Mercy - Genesis 6 God Plans to Pour Out His Wrath But Show His Mercy - Genesis 6 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-19/611/god-plans-to-pour-out-his-wrath-but-show-his-mercy-genesis-6 Sun, 19 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0600 The Ashamed and the Unashamed - 2 Timothy 1:15-18 The Ashamed and the Unashamed - 2 Timothy 1:15-18 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-12/the-ashamed-and-the-unashamed-2-timothy-115-18 We probably all know what it is like to be in a situation where we are hesitant or slow to stand up for the truth of the Gospel. We are a people who are prone to struggling with fear and pride and timidity. For us, the first chapter of 2 Timothy is an important reminder. In 2 Timothy 1 Paul is exhorting Timothy to be bold and courageous and to stand firm for the sake of the truth. He’s calling on Timothy to be unashamed, willing to suffer, and to be a faithful guardian of the truth of the Gospel. As Christians it is a message that we need to hear and take to heart. While the heart of Paul’s charge is in 2 Timothy 1:8-14, in verses 15-18 he provides some examples for Timothy to consider. The first is a negative example of many people who were ashamed of the Gospel and who failed to be faithful. The second is a positive example of one man who was unashamed and who remained faithful to the Gospel even when it was inconvenient and dangerous. We probably all know what it is like to be in a situation where we are hesitant or slow to stand up for the truth of the Gospel. We are a people who are prone to struggling with fear and pride and timidity. For us, the first chapter of 2 Timothy is an important reminder. In 2 Timothy 1 Paul is exhorting Timothy to be bold and courageous and to stand firm for the sake of the truth. He’s calling on Timothy to be unashamed, willing to suffer, and to be a faithful guardian of the truth of the Gospel. As Christians it is a message that we need to hear and take to heart. While the heart of Paul’s charge is in 2 Timothy 1:8-14, in verses 15-18 he provides some examples for Timothy to consider. The first is a negative example of many people who were ashamed of the Gospel and who failed to be faithful. The second is a positive example of one man who was unashamed and who remained faithful to the Gospel even when it was inconvenient and dangerous. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-12/610/the-ashamed-and-the-unashamed-2-timothy-115-18 Sun, 12 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0600 Our Only Hope: God Sent a Redeemer - Isaiah 59 Our Only Hope: God Sent a Redeemer - Isaiah 59 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-05/our-only-hope-god-sent-a-redeemer-isaiah-59 In Isaiah 58:3 we hear a complaint from the people of God. Even though they were fasting and doing all of the outwardly religious things that they believed would please God, He seemed distant. They prayed, but it seemed like He wasn’t hearing their prayers. As we keep reading, we hear God’s response. The reason God felt distant, is because the people weren’t worshipping Him with pure hearts. They had an outward religion, but their hearts were wicked. As we come to Isaiah 59, we hear a lot more about the sinfulness of these people. In verses 1-15a Isaiah makes it clear that their sin has kept them separated from God and far from salvation. But then something unexpected happens. God sees their wickedness and responds, not with judgement on them, but by sending someone who will defeat sin and deliver His people. The Big Idea: In Isaiah 59 we are reminded of our sinfulness and of our inability to save ourselves. But we are also reminded that God has sent someone who can set us free from our sin – Christ our Redeemer. In Isaiah 58:3 we hear a complaint from the people of God. Even though they were fasting and doing all of the outwardly religious things that they believed would please God, He seemed distant. They prayed, but it seemed like He wasn’t hearing their prayers. As we keep reading, we hear God’s response. The reason God felt distant, is because the people weren’t worshipping Him with pure hearts. They had an outward religion, but their hearts were wicked. As we come to Isaiah 59, we hear a lot more about the sinfulness of these people. In verses 1-15a Isaiah makes it clear that their sin has kept them separated from God and far from salvation. But then something unexpected happens. God sees their wickedness and responds, not with judgement on them, but by sending someone who will defeat sin and deliver His people. The Big Idea: In Isaiah 59 we are reminded of our sinfulness and of our inability to save ourselves. But we are also reminded that God has sent someone who can set us free from our sin – Christ our Redeemer. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-02-05/609/our-only-hope-god-sent-a-redeemer-isaiah-59 Sun, 5 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0600 Not Ashamed – Guarding the Good Deposit - 2 Timothy 1:8-14, Pt. 2 Not Ashamed – Guarding the Good Deposit - 2 Timothy 1:8-14, Pt. 2 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-29/not-ashamed-guarding-the-good-deposit-2-timothy-18-14-pt-2 There is something that is true in every generation. In every generation there are threats to the message of the Gospel. In every generation there are those who distort the Gospel and others who hope to discredit or even destroy the Gospel. Of course, as Christians we know that God will always preserve His Word and the Gospel will go forward, but it’s also important to remember that the primary way that He chooses to guard, protect and preserve His message of salvation is through us, His people. As Paul writes this letter to Timothy, he is writing in part to call Timothy to be a good and faithful steward of the Gospel. Paul knows that there will be false teachers and there will be enemies of the Gospel. So, Paul is calling on Timothy to be bold and courageous and to stand firm for the sake of the truth. He’s calling on Timothy to be a faithful teacher and a steadfast guardian of the truth. There is something that is true in every generation. In every generation there are threats to the message of the Gospel. In every generation there are those who distort the Gospel and others who hope to discredit or even destroy the Gospel. Of course, as Christians we know that God will always preserve His Word and the Gospel will go forward, but it’s also important to remember that the primary way that He chooses to guard, protect and preserve His message of salvation is through us, His people. As Paul writes this letter to Timothy, he is writing in part to call Timothy to be a good and faithful steward of the Gospel. Paul knows that there will be false teachers and there will be enemies of the Gospel. So, Paul is calling on Timothy to be bold and courageous and to stand firm for the sake of the truth. He’s calling on Timothy to be a faithful teacher and a steadfast guardian of the truth. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-29/608/not-ashamed-guarding-the-good-deposit-2-timothy-18-14-pt-2 Sun, 29 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0600 Not Ashamed – A Gospel Worthy of Suffering - 2 Timothy 1:8-14, Pt. 1 Not Ashamed – A Gospel Worthy of Suffering - 2 Timothy 1:8-14, Pt. 1 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-22/not-ashamed-a-gospel-worthy-of-suffering-2-timothy-18-14-pt-1 There is nothing of greater value than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is a truth that faithful Christians believe, but it’s also a truth that can be hard to live out consistently. We are prone to fear and may at times be timid in the way we live out and express our faith in Christ. As Paul writes to Timothy, his son in the faith and his partner in the ministry, he is writing to encourage him to Gospel faithfulness. Knowing that Timothy may be fearful or lack boldness, Paul exhorts him to not be ashamed and to be willing even to suffer for the sake of the Gospel. In 2 Timothy 1:8-14 the Paul is calling Timothy to be steadfast and faithful with the Gospel. While much of this passage is exhortation, in verses 9 and 10 Paul spends some time simply rehearsing the realities of salvation and the grace of God that has made salvation possible in Christ. As we spend time considering what Paul says about our salvation it should remind us of the beauty and value of the Gospel. It should also encourage and compel us to live faithfully and courageously for the sake of the Gospel. It should serve as a reminder of why the Gospel is worthy of our sacrifice and even our lives. There is nothing of greater value than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is a truth that faithful Christians believe, but it’s also a truth that can be hard to live out consistently. We are prone to fear and may at times be timid in the way we live out and express our faith in Christ. As Paul writes to Timothy, his son in the faith and his partner in the ministry, he is writing to encourage him to Gospel faithfulness. Knowing that Timothy may be fearful or lack boldness, Paul exhorts him to not be ashamed and to be willing even to suffer for the sake of the Gospel. In 2 Timothy 1:8-14 the Paul is calling Timothy to be steadfast and faithful with the Gospel. While much of this passage is exhortation, in verses 9 and 10 Paul spends some time simply rehearsing the realities of salvation and the grace of God that has made salvation possible in Christ. As we spend time considering what Paul says about our salvation it should remind us of the beauty and value of the Gospel. It should also encourage and compel us to live faithfully and courageously for the sake of the Gospel. It should serve as a reminder of why the Gospel is worthy of our sacrifice and even our lives. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-22/607/not-ashamed-a-gospel-worthy-of-suffering-2-timothy-18-14-pt-1 Sun, 22 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0600 Let the Fire of the Gospel Burn Bright - 2 Timothy 1:1-7 Let the Fire of the Gospel Burn Bright - 2 Timothy 1:1-7 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-15/let-the-fire-of-the-gospel-burn-bright-2-timothy-11-7 Near the end of his life Paul was imprisoned in Rome for preaching the Gospel. From that prison, knowing that he would soon be killed for his allegiance to Christ, Paul wrote a letter to his friend and son in the faith, Timothy. As Paul writes this uniquely personal letter he is aware of his impending death, but that’s not his focus. His focus is on encouraging Timothy to remain faithful. He writes to call on Timothy to press on and to keep doing the work in spite of the difficulties. He tells his friend and partner in the Gospel not to be ashamed of the testimony about the Lord, to guard the good deposit that has been entrusted to him, and to be a worker who has no need to be ashamed. He calls on him to guard the Gospel, to suffer for the Gospel to continue in the Gospel and to preach the Gospel. While this is a letter from Paul to Timothy, it is also an important letter for us. As God’s people we need to remember that we are called to faithfulness. As much as ever the Gospel needs to be guarded, preserved, proclaimed and passed on. We have a call to stand in the Gospel and for the Gospel and to be faithful to share this message of salvation with every person, no matter what difficulties may come. 2 Timothy is a good help for us as we consider our calling both individually and as a church, and what it means to be faithful. Near the end of his life Paul was imprisoned in Rome for preaching the Gospel. From that prison, knowing that he would soon be killed for his allegiance to Christ, Paul wrote a letter to his friend and son in the faith, Timothy. As Paul writes this uniquely personal letter he is aware of his impending death, but that’s not his focus. His focus is on encouraging Timothy to remain faithful. He writes to call on Timothy to press on and to keep doing the work in spite of the difficulties. He tells his friend and partner in the Gospel not to be ashamed of the testimony about the Lord, to guard the good deposit that has been entrusted to him, and to be a worker who has no need to be ashamed. He calls on him to guard the Gospel, to suffer for the Gospel to continue in the Gospel and to preach the Gospel. While this is a letter from Paul to Timothy, it is also an important letter for us. As God’s people we need to remember that we are called to faithfulness. As much as ever the Gospel needs to be guarded, preserved, proclaimed and passed on. We have a call to stand in the Gospel and for the Gospel and to be faithful to share this message of salvation with every person, no matter what difficulties may come. 2 Timothy is a good help for us as we consider our calling both individually and as a church, and what it means to be faithful. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-15/605/let-the-fire-of-the-gospel-burn-bright-2-timothy-11-7 Sun, 15 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0600 The Call to Care for the Church - Nehemiah 1:1-11 The Call to Care for the Church - Nehemiah 1:1-11 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-01/the-call-to-care-for-the-church-nehemiah-11-11 The Call to Care for the Church - Nehemiah 1:1-11 The Call to Care for the Church - Nehemiah 1:1-11 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2023-01-01/604/the-call-to-care-for-the-church-nehemiah-11-11 Sun, 1 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0600 Rejoicing in the Incarnation - Christmas Day 2022 Rejoicing in the Incarnation - Christmas Day 2022 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-25/rejoicing-in-the-incarnation-christmas-day-2022 Rejoicing in the Incarnation - Christmas Day 2022 Rejoicing in the Incarnation - Christmas Day 2022 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-25/603/rejoicing-in-the-incarnation-christmas-day-2022 Sun, 25 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0600 The Christmas Story - Eve of the Eve Christmas Gathering The Christmas Story - Eve of the Eve Christmas Gathering https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-23/the-christmas-story-eve-of-the-eve-christmas-gathering The Christmas Story - Eve of the Eve Christmas Gathering The Christmas Story - Eve of the Eve Christmas Gathering https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-23/602/the-christmas-story-eve-of-the-eve-christmas-gathering Fri, 23 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0600 The Unchanging God - Malachi 2:10-3:12 The Unchanging God - Malachi 2:10-3:12 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-18/the-unchanging-god-malachi-210-312 Malachi: God’s Faithfulness to an Unfaithful People - The Unchanging God Malachi: God’s Faithfulness to an Unfaithful People - The Unchanging God https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-18/601/the-unchanging-god-malachi-210-312 Sun, 18 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0600 A Call to True and Pure Worship - Malachi 1:6-2:9 A Call to True and Pure Worship - Malachi 1:6-2:9 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-04/a-call-to-true-and-pure-worship-malachi-16-29 A Call to True and Pure Worship - Malachi 1:6-2:9 A Call to True and Pure Worship - Malachi 1:6-2:9 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-12-04/600/a-call-to-true-and-pure-worship-malachi-16-29 Sun, 4 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0600 God’s Covenant Love for His People - Malachi 1:1-5 God’s Covenant Love for His People - Malachi 1:1-5 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-27/god-s-covenant-love-for-his-people-malachi-11-5 Malachi: God’s Faithfulness to an Unfaithful People - Malachi 1:1-5 Malachi: God’s Faithfulness to an Unfaithful People - Malachi 1:1-5 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-27/599/god-s-covenant-love-for-his-people-malachi-11-5 Sun, 27 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Praise the Lord! The One Who Can Be Trusted - Psalm 146 Praise the Lord! The One Who Can Be Trusted - Psalm 146 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-20/praise-the-lord-the-one-who-can-be-trusted-psalm-146 In Matthew 6 Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray by giving them a model prayer. When we pray that prayer that Jesus gave us, we begin by addressing God as our Father who is in Heaven. This is a way of addressing God that is packed full of theological truth and that should help us recognize the incredible privilege we have of coming to God in prayer. When we pray to God as our Father, we are acknowledging that through Christ we have been brought into the family of God. That through the sacrifice of Christ God has become our Father and we have been adopted as His children. But, with that said, He’s unlike any Father we have ever known, because He is our Father who is in Heaven. When we pray to our Father in Heaven we are acknowledging that He is the sovereign ruler over all things. When we bring all of this together, we should recognize the privilege of prayer. When we pray, we bring our requests to a Father who loves us and who is also fully capable as the God of the universe to answer our prayers. As we come to Psalm 146, we are being called to praise God. To praise Him because He is trustworthy. And His trustworthiness is proven in that He is both sovereign and compassionate. He is the creator God and He cares for the weak, the lowly, and the defenseless. In Matthew 6 Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray by giving them a model prayer. When we pray that prayer that Jesus gave us, we begin by addressing God as our Father who is in Heaven. This is a way of addressing God that is packed full of theological truth and that should help us recognize the incredible privilege we have of coming to God in prayer. When we pray to God as our Father, we are acknowledging that through Christ we have been brought into the family of God. That through the sacrifice of Christ God has become our Father and we have been adopted as His children. But, with that said, He’s unlike any Father we have ever known, because He is our Father who is in Heaven. When we pray to our Father in Heaven we are acknowledging that He is the sovereign ruler over all things. When we bring all of this together, we should recognize the privilege of prayer. When we pray, we bring our requests to a Father who loves us and who is also fully capable as the God of the universe to answer our prayers. As we come to Psalm 146, we are being called to praise God. To praise Him because He is trustworthy. And His trustworthiness is proven in that He is both sovereign and compassionate. He is the creator God and He cares for the weak, the lowly, and the defenseless. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-20/598/praise-the-lord-the-one-who-can-be-trusted-psalm-146 Sun, 20 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0600 A Prayer for Protection from Sin and Sinners - Psalm 141 A Prayer for Protection from Sin and Sinners - Psalm 141 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-13/a-prayer-for-protection-from-sin-and-sinners-psalm-141 In Matthew 6 Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray by giving them a model prayer. In that prayer Jesus helps us see the kinds of things we should be praying for. That model prayer ends with this request: And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. When Jesus taught His disciples (and us) how to pray he included this request in which we ask for God’s help in our fight against sin. Psalm 141 is, in many respects, an expanded and more detailed version of that final request of the Lord’s Prayer. In this psalm we have David asking God to keep him from sin and to protect him from those who sin against him. What’s evident from this psalm is that David recognizes the seriousness of sin and he knows that he needs God’s help in order to put sin to death. As David prays for protection, both from sin and from other sinners, we have an example of how we should pray. This psalm should give us words that we can use in our own prayers as we strive to put off sin and honor God. In Matthew 6 Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray by giving them a model prayer. In that prayer Jesus helps us see the kinds of things we should be praying for. That model prayer ends with this request: And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. When Jesus taught His disciples (and us) how to pray he included this request in which we ask for God’s help in our fight against sin. Psalm 141 is, in many respects, an expanded and more detailed version of that final request of the Lord’s Prayer. In this psalm we have David asking God to keep him from sin and to protect him from those who sin against him. What’s evident from this psalm is that David recognizes the seriousness of sin and he knows that he needs God’s help in order to put sin to death. As David prays for protection, both from sin and from other sinners, we have an example of how we should pray. This psalm should give us words that we can use in our own prayers as we strive to put off sin and honor God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-13/597/a-prayer-for-protection-from-sin-and-sinners-psalm-141 Sun, 13 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Living Before the All-Knowing, Ever-Present God - Psalm 139 Living Before the All-Knowing, Ever-Present God - Psalm 139 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-06/living-before-the-all-knowing-ever-present-god-psalm-139 Psalm 139 is a psalm that’s known for what it teaches us about God. In this psalm David provides one of the clearest teachings in the Scriptures on the omniscience and omnipresence of God. Omniscience is the reality that God knows all things and omnipresence speaks to the fact that God is always present, everywhere. In this psalm David describes the full knowledge and presence of God and provides illustrations that add color and depth. But while this psalm is a go-to for understanding the nature of God, we miss the point of the psalm if we use it merely as a statement of theology. At the heart of the psalm is how David responds to these truths about God. As we see God for who He is it should impact the way we think and live. It should change the way we handle temptation and deal with loss. It should guard us from worry, keep us from fear and motivate our obedience. Psalm 139 is a psalm that’s known for what it teaches us about God. In this psalm David provides one of the clearest teachings in the Scriptures on the omniscience and omnipresence of God. Omniscience is the reality that God knows all things and omnipresence speaks to the fact that God is always present, everywhere. In this psalm David describes the full knowledge and presence of God and provides illustrations that add color and depth. But while this psalm is a go-to for understanding the nature of God, we miss the point of the psalm if we use it merely as a statement of theology. At the heart of the psalm is how David responds to these truths about God. As we see God for who He is it should impact the way we think and live. It should change the way we handle temptation and deal with loss. It should guard us from worry, keep us from fear and motivate our obedience. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-11-06/596/living-before-the-all-knowing-ever-present-god-psalm-139 Sun, 6 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Our Refuge and Our Joy, Now and Forever - Psalm 16 Our Refuge and Our Joy, Now and Forever - Psalm 16 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-30/our-refuge-and-our-joy-now-and-forever-psalm-16 It’s no secret that all of us are joy-seekers. We want to be content, to be satisfied, to feel secure, to feel protected - and under all of this is our desire for joy. As we come to Psalm 16 David is asking God to be his protector as he takes refuge in Him. But while David begins with this request the rest of the Psalm is made up of David expressing why he trusts God as his refuge. It’s no secret that all of us are joy-seekers. We want to be content, to be satisfied, to feel secure, to feel protected - and under all of this is our desire for joy. As we come to Psalm 16 David is asking God to be his protector as he takes refuge in Him. But while David begins with this request the rest of the Psalm is made up of David expressing why he trusts God as his refuge. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-30/595/our-refuge-and-our-joy-now-and-forever-psalm-16 Sun, 30 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Song of Praise, Hope and Confidence - Psalm 138 A Song of Praise, Hope and Confidence - Psalm 138 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-23/a-song-of-praise-hope-and-confidence-psalm-138 When God gave us the psalms, He gave us a good gift. In the psalms we get to hear the greatest songs of all time. Songs written by real people living real lives and at the same time songs inspired by God. Songs that help us understand the character of God and how who He is connects to who we are and how we face life in this world. The psalms are a good gift, and in Psalm 138 David provides us with a song praise, hope and confidence in God. It’s a song about answered prayers and the faithfulness of God. A song of surety that God will finish what He has started in His people and in the world. It’s a psalm that should lead us to gratitude, renewed hope and strength for the difficult days of life. When God gave us the psalms, He gave us a good gift. In the psalms we get to hear the greatest songs of all time. Songs written by real people living real lives and at the same time songs inspired by God. Songs that help us understand the character of God and how who He is connects to who we are and how we face life in this world. The psalms are a good gift, and in Psalm 138 David provides us with a song praise, hope and confidence in God. It’s a song about answered prayers and the faithfulness of God. A song of surety that God will finish what He has started in His people and in the world. It’s a psalm that should lead us to gratitude, renewed hope and strength for the difficult days of life. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-23/594/a-song-of-praise-hope-and-confidence-psalm-138 Sun, 23 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Reflections from the Other Side of Exile - Psalm 137 Reflections from the Other Side of Exile - Psalm 137 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-16/reflections-from-the-other-side-of-exile-psalm-137 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). This is what we believe about Scripture, that it is the Word of God and that it is profitable – every part of it. And yet there are parts of the Bible that we may be tempted to move past quickly. There are some parts that are hard to understand. And there are other parts that make us uncomfortable. There are still other parts that seem unrelated to our daily lives. For many, Psalm 137 may fall into all three of these categories. And yet, Psalm 137 is a passage of Scripture that tells us much about God and about ourselves. It’s a psalm that exposes us to the seriousness of sin, calls us to a deeper devotion to God and reminds us of the reality of the judgment and justice of God. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). This is what we believe about Scripture, that it is the Word of God and that it is profitable – every part of it. And yet there are parts of the Bible that we may be tempted to move past quickly. There are some parts that are hard to understand. And there are other parts that make us uncomfortable. There are still other parts that seem unrelated to our daily lives. For many, Psalm 137 may fall into all three of these categories. And yet, Psalm 137 is a passage of Scripture that tells us much about God and about ourselves. It’s a psalm that exposes us to the seriousness of sin, calls us to a deeper devotion to God and reminds us of the reality of the judgment and justice of God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-16/593/reflections-from-the-other-side-of-exile-psalm-137 Sun, 16 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Rejoicing in our Justification - Romans 5:1-11 (Baptism Sunday) Rejoicing in our Justification - Romans 5:1-11 (Baptism Sunday) https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-09/rejoicing-in-our-justification-romans-51-11-baptism-sunday Rejoicing in our Justification - Romans 5:1-11 (Baptism Sunday) Rejoicing in our Justification - Romans 5:1-11 (Baptism Sunday) https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-09/592/rejoicing-in-our-justification-romans-51-11-baptism-sunday Sun, 9 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Praise the Lord! - Psalm 135 Praise the Lord! - Psalm 135 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-02/praise-the-lord-psalm-135 The aim and focus of Psalm 135 is pretty straightforward, it’s a call for the people of God to give praise to God. And yet most of us know that this is a call we all need to hear. Apart from Sunday mornings it can be easy to neglect our praise of God; and even on the Lord’s Day we can gather with hearts that are complacent or cool toward the greatness of God and the praise that He deserves. Thankfully, God has given us passages of Scripture like Psalm 135 to remind us of who He is, to awaken our hearts to see Him rightly and to encourage us to praise Him. For those who are familiar with the Scriptures, Psalm 135 may sound familiar. That’s because much of this psalm is made up of verses and phrases that are also found in other psalms or songs of praise in the Old Testament. It seems that the writer of this psalm compiled some of the great truths about God that had already been written, or that were well known among the people of God, and brought them together to spur the people of God on to the praise of God. The aim and focus of Psalm 135 is pretty straightforward, it’s a call for the people of God to give praise to God. And yet most of us know that this is a call we all need to hear. Apart from Sunday mornings it can be easy to neglect our praise of God; and even on the Lord’s Day we can gather with hearts that are complacent or cool toward the greatness of God and the praise that He deserves. Thankfully, God has given us passages of Scripture like Psalm 135 to remind us of who He is, to awaken our hearts to see Him rightly and to encourage us to praise Him. For those who are familiar with the Scriptures, Psalm 135 may sound familiar. That’s because much of this psalm is made up of verses and phrases that are also found in other psalms or songs of praise in the Old Testament. It seems that the writer of this psalm compiled some of the great truths about God that had already been written, or that were well known among the people of God, and brought them together to spur the people of God on to the praise of God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-10-02/591/praise-the-lord-psalm-135 Sun, 2 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Two Foundations: A Call to Faith and Obedience - Matthew 7:24-29 Two Foundations: A Call to Faith and Obedience - Matthew 7:24-29 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-25/two-foundations-a-call-to-faith-and-obedience-matthew-724-29 As we come to Matthew 7:24-29 we come to the final section of the Sermon on the Mount – this great sermon from our Lord. And this is a conclusion that we must not ignore. It’s a conclusion in which Jesus warns us of judgment and calls each of us to consider whether or not we are truly His. But this final paragraph doesn’t stand on its own, it’s a continuation of a four-part conclusion – and each part reveals a contrast. First, He speaks of two different paths (7:13-14) and then two different kinds of fruit (7:15-20). Third, He addresses two different professions of faith (7:21-23). Now, we read of two different kinds of builders who build on different foundations (7:24-27). As we consider this final contrast and this vivid illustration, we are being called to examine our lives. Are we among the wise who hear the words of Christ and obey or are we among the foolish who hear the words of Christ and ignore or reject them? Jesus helps us see that we all fall into one of these two categories and the end of each group is very different. As we come to Matthew 7:24-29 we come to the final section of the Sermon on the Mount – this great sermon from our Lord. And this is a conclusion that we must not ignore. It’s a conclusion in which Jesus warns us of judgment and calls each of us to consider whether or not we are truly His. But this final paragraph doesn’t stand on its own, it’s a continuation of a four-part conclusion – and each part reveals a contrast. First, He speaks of two different paths (7:13-14) and then two different kinds of fruit (7:15-20). Third, He addresses two different professions of faith (7:21-23). Now, we read of two different kinds of builders who build on different foundations (7:24-27). As we consider this final contrast and this vivid illustration, we are being called to examine our lives. Are we among the wise who hear the words of Christ and obey or are we among the foolish who hear the words of Christ and ignore or reject them? Jesus helps us see that we all fall into one of these two categories and the end of each group is very different. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-25/590/two-foundations-a-call-to-faith-and-obedience-matthew-724-29 Sun, 25 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Two Professions: The Danger of Self-Deception - Matthew 7:21-23 Two Professions: The Danger of Self-Deception - Matthew 7:21-23 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-18/two-professions-the-danger-of-self-deception-matthew-721-23 As we come to the end of this sermon from Jesus, He telling us about entrance into the Kingdom of God. And as He brings the sermon to a close, He has some hard things to say – things that may make us uncomfortable. In Matthew 7:21-23 Jesus tells us that on the day of judgment there will be some who are surprised to find that they are outside of the Kingdom of God. There will be some, who believed true things about Jesus, and who did good things in the name of Jesus, and yet they never truly became His disciples. The reality that Jesus describes is hard to consider – and yet we should be thankful for this warning. In these verses we learn more clearly what it does and does not mean to be a part of the Kingdom of God. Many have deceived themselves into believing they belong to God when they are actually far from Him. With that in mind, this warning is a kindness from Jesus that could save us from the danger of self-deception. As we come to the end of this sermon from Jesus, He telling us about entrance into the Kingdom of God. And as He brings the sermon to a close, He has some hard things to say – things that may make us uncomfortable. In Matthew 7:21-23 Jesus tells us that on the day of judgment there will be some who are surprised to find that they are outside of the Kingdom of God. There will be some, who believed true things about Jesus, and who did good things in the name of Jesus, and yet they never truly became His disciples. The reality that Jesus describes is hard to consider – and yet we should be thankful for this warning. In these verses we learn more clearly what it does and does not mean to be a part of the Kingdom of God. Many have deceived themselves into believing they belong to God when they are actually far from Him. With that in mind, this warning is a kindness from Jesus that could save us from the danger of self-deception. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-18/589/two-professions-the-danger-of-self-deception-matthew-721-23 Sun, 18 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Sheep, Wolves, Trees and Fruit: A Warning about False Teachers - Matthew 7:15-20 Sheep, Wolves, Trees and Fruit: A Warning about False Teachers - Matthew 7:15-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-11/sheep-wolves-trees-and-fruit-a-warning-about-false-teachers-matthew-715-20 In Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus tells us about two paths and He calls us to enter the path with the narrow gate. This path is narrow and hard, but it’s the path that leads to life. In verse 15 Jesus issues a warning, but it’s a warning that is connected to the teaching of the two paths. Jesus wants us to know that there will be many who will come along and teach things that aren’t true. While there is only one path that leads to life – there will be those who suggest otherwise. In Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus calls on His people, those who are on the narrow way, to watch out for those who would teach things contrary to the truth. This is a call and a responsibility that must be heard and obeyed for the sake of those who would be led astray. In Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus tells us about two paths and He calls us to enter the path with the narrow gate. This path is narrow and hard, but it’s the path that leads to life. In verse 15 Jesus issues a warning, but it’s a warning that is connected to the teaching of the two paths. Jesus wants us to know that there will be many who will come along and teach things that aren’t true. While there is only one path that leads to life – there will be those who suggest otherwise. In Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus calls on His people, those who are on the narrow way, to watch out for those who would teach things contrary to the truth. This is a call and a responsibility that must be heard and obeyed for the sake of those who would be led astray. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-11/588/sheep-wolves-trees-and-fruit-a-warning-about-false-teachers-matthew-715-20 Sun, 11 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Two Paths: Enter By The Narrow Gate - Matthew 7:13-14 Two Paths: Enter By The Narrow Gate - Matthew 7:13-14 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-04/two-paths-enter-by-the-narrow-gate-matthew-713-14 Most people are good people and good people go to Heaven. This is a common belief of many, if not most, in our society. Even those who have a general understanding of the work of Christ and of the Gospel can be guilty of slipping into this way of thinking. Talk of judgment and exclusivity can be uncomfortable, which leads many people to simply believe that only the worst of the worst will be judged after death. While this way of thinking is popular, it’s not consistent with the teaching of Christ. In Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus teaches that there are in fact two paths with two different destinations – one leading to eternal life and the other to eternal judgment. But contrary to popular belief, Jesus says that the path to destruction is wide, easy and well-travelled while the path to life is narrow, hard and less travelled. Most people are good people and good people go to Heaven. This is a common belief of many, if not most, in our society. Even those who have a general understanding of the work of Christ and of the Gospel can be guilty of slipping into this way of thinking. Talk of judgment and exclusivity can be uncomfortable, which leads many people to simply believe that only the worst of the worst will be judged after death. While this way of thinking is popular, it’s not consistent with the teaching of Christ. In Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus teaches that there are in fact two paths with two different destinations – one leading to eternal life and the other to eternal judgment. But contrary to popular belief, Jesus says that the path to destruction is wide, easy and well-travelled while the path to life is narrow, hard and less travelled. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-09-04/587/two-paths-enter-by-the-narrow-gate-matthew-713-14 Sun, 4 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Ask, Seek, Knock – Bringing our Requests to the Father - Matthew 7:7-12 Ask, Seek, Knock – Bringing our Requests to the Father - Matthew 7:7-12 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-28/ask-seek-knock-bringing-our-requests-to-the-father-matthew-77-12 In Luke 18 Jesus tells a story of a woman who was seeking justice but the judge who had the power to grant justice was wicked and coldhearted. However, Jesus says this woman was undeterred by the judge’s refusal to rule and continued to go and plead her case. She kept going and kept asking. She went and asked so much that the eventually the judge decided to rule in her favor. It’s a story that Jesus used to teach about the faithfulness of God to grant justice to His people when they ask; because surely, He is greater and will do more than this wicked judge. This story is recorded in Luke 18:1-8 and Luke introduces it this way: [Jesus] told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. And this is a theme that we have reiterated throughout the New Testament. We have this call over and over: To pray constantly, continually and unceasingly. And this is a call that we have included in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 7:7-12 Jesus encourages us to be persistent in our prayers and to pray expectantly – believing that God hears and answers our prayers. In Luke 18 Jesus tells a story of a woman who was seeking justice but the judge who had the power to grant justice was wicked and coldhearted. However, Jesus says this woman was undeterred by the judge’s refusal to rule and continued to go and plead her case. She kept going and kept asking. She went and asked so much that the eventually the judge decided to rule in her favor. It’s a story that Jesus used to teach about the faithfulness of God to grant justice to His people when they ask; because surely, He is greater and will do more than this wicked judge. This story is recorded in Luke 18:1-8 and Luke introduces it this way: [Jesus] told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. And this is a theme that we have reiterated throughout the New Testament. We have this call over and over: To pray constantly, continually and unceasingly. And this is a call that we have included in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 7:7-12 Jesus encourages us to be persistent in our prayers and to pray expectantly – believing that God hears and answers our prayers. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-28/586/ask-seek-knock-bringing-our-requests-to-the-father-matthew-77-12 Sun, 28 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Don’t Judge – The Hypocrisy of Judgmentalism - Matthew 7:1-6, Part 2 Don’t Judge – The Hypocrisy of Judgmentalism - Matthew 7:1-6, Part 2 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-21/don-t-judge-the-hypocrisy-of-judgmentalism-matthew-71-6-part-2 As Christians God has called us to live our lives alongside one another. We are instructed to serve one another, pray for one another, encourage one another and work together for the sake of the Gospel. But of course, we are sinners and so this life together is not always easy. One of the sins that often creeps in and divides us is the sin of judgmentalism. We are prone to self-righteousness and pride and we are often tempted to be critical, condemning and harsh toward one another. To further complicate matters, often we excuse our behaviors under the guise of helping a brother or sister who is in sin. Thankfully, Jesus has gone to great lengths to help us see our sin and teach us how to rightly serve one another. As we continue our look at Matthew 7:1-6 Jesus warns us against hypocrisy. He shows us the difference between self-righteous judgmentalism and God-honoring accountability. He shows us the difference between sinfully judging and lovingly confronting or correcting a brother or sister. He calls us to love and to avoid the pain that comes when we fail to walk in love (Galatians 5:13-15). As Christians God has called us to live our lives alongside one another. We are instructed to serve one another, pray for one another, encourage one another and work together for the sake of the Gospel. But of course, we are sinners and so this life together is not always easy. One of the sins that often creeps in and divides us is the sin of judgmentalism. We are prone to self-righteousness and pride and we are often tempted to be critical, condemning and harsh toward one another. To further complicate matters, often we excuse our behaviors under the guise of helping a brother or sister who is in sin. Thankfully, Jesus has gone to great lengths to help us see our sin and teach us how to rightly serve one another. As we continue our look at Matthew 7:1-6 Jesus warns us against hypocrisy. He shows us the difference between self-righteous judgmentalism and God-honoring accountability. He shows us the difference between sinfully judging and lovingly confronting or correcting a brother or sister. He calls us to love and to avoid the pain that comes when we fail to walk in love (Galatians 5:13-15). https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-21/585/don-t-judge-the-hypocrisy-of-judgmentalism-matthew-71-6-part-2 Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Don’t Judge – The Danger of Judgmentalism - Matthew 7:1-6, Part 1 Don’t Judge – The Danger of Judgmentalism - Matthew 7:1-6, Part 1 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-14/don-t-judge-the-danger-of-judgmentalism-matthew-71-6-part-1 Matthew 7:1 may be the most often quoted verse in the Bible. It may also be the most misunderstood. In a society that calls for tolerance and acceptance and inclusion of all, Matthew 7:1 has become the quick reply to anyone who would suggest moral boundaries. We are told, judge not that you be not judged. Of course, close companions to Matthew 7:1 are John 8:7, let him who is without sin cast the first stone; and the second greatest commandment, you shall love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39). Each of these are wielded to silence anyone who would violate societies standards of tolerance on Biblical grounds. That said, as we come to Matthew 7:1, it’s important that we see how it’s been misused and abused – but that’s not the most important thing. The most important thing is that we hear what Jesus is saying, understand it rightly and commit ourselves to obeying His command. Matthew 7:1 may be the most often quoted verse in the Bible. It may also be the most misunderstood. In a society that calls for tolerance and acceptance and inclusion of all, Matthew 7:1 has become the quick reply to anyone who would suggest moral boundaries. We are told, judge not that you be not judged. Of course, close companions to Matthew 7:1 are John 8:7, let him who is without sin cast the first stone; and the second greatest commandment, you shall love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39). Each of these are wielded to silence anyone who would violate societies standards of tolerance on Biblical grounds. That said, as we come to Matthew 7:1, it’s important that we see how it’s been misused and abused – but that’s not the most important thing. The most important thing is that we hear what Jesus is saying, understand it rightly and commit ourselves to obeying His command. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-14/584/don-t-judge-the-danger-of-judgmentalism-matthew-71-6-part-1 Sun, 14 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Godward Focus – The Cure for Anxiety - Matthew 6:25-34 A Godward Focus – The Cure for Anxiety - Matthew 6:25-34 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-07/a-godward-focus-the-cure-for-anxiety-matthew-625-34 Worry. It’s a temptation that is common to us all. We all have things we fear may happen, or things that we fear may not happen. We don’t know the future and there are things that are out of our control, and so we worry. We are tempted to worry about big things and small things – things that matter a lot and things that really don’t matter all that much. But in Matthew 6 Jesus calls on the people of God to stop worrying. In fact, He says it three time in ten verses – Do not be anxious. And His repeated command should get our attention. Jesus is showing us that our worry reveals something significant about our hearts and about our trust in God. Thankfully Jesus doesn’t simply tell us to stop worrying. He doesn’t simply acknowledge anxiety as a problem, but He goes on to help us see the solution or the answer for our anxiety. Jesus turns our attention to God and helps us recognize that as those who are in the care of the Father, we have no need to worry. We can replace our anxiety with a deep and steadfast confidence in God. Worry. It’s a temptation that is common to us all. We all have things we fear may happen, or things that we fear may not happen. We don’t know the future and there are things that are out of our control, and so we worry. We are tempted to worry about big things and small things – things that matter a lot and things that really don’t matter all that much. But in Matthew 6 Jesus calls on the people of God to stop worrying. In fact, He says it three time in ten verses – Do not be anxious. And His repeated command should get our attention. Jesus is showing us that our worry reveals something significant about our hearts and about our trust in God. Thankfully Jesus doesn’t simply tell us to stop worrying. He doesn’t simply acknowledge anxiety as a problem, but He goes on to help us see the solution or the answer for our anxiety. Jesus turns our attention to God and helps us recognize that as those who are in the care of the Father, we have no need to worry. We can replace our anxiety with a deep and steadfast confidence in God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-08-07/583/a-godward-focus-the-cure-for-anxiety-matthew-625-34 Sun, 7 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Kingdom-Hearted Devotion - Matthew 6:19-24 A Kingdom-Hearted Devotion - Matthew 6:19-24 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-31/a-kingdom-hearted-devotion-matthew-619-24 Throughout the Scriptures we read of men and women who lived their lives with remarkable faith in God and with the belief that there are things worth living for beyond what we can see. In Hebrews 11 we have a reminder of some of these men and women who did things that from an earthly standpoint don’t make sense. But they were living by a different standard, they were living for a greater reward than the things of this life. As we read the Sermon on the Mount, we recognize that Jesus is helping us see what it looks like live this kind of life. He is telling us what it looks like to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God. It’s a call to live counter-culturally. To love the things that God loves and value the things that God values. To live for heavenly things rather than earthy things. In Matthew 6:19-24 Jesus uses three different ways to identify who or what we are living for. As we consider our treasures, our vision and our master Jesus is calling us to evaluate our hearts. Are we living for God and things of God or for ourselves and the things of the world? Throughout the Scriptures we read of men and women who lived their lives with remarkable faith in God and with the belief that there are things worth living for beyond what we can see. In Hebrews 11 we have a reminder of some of these men and women who did things that from an earthly standpoint don’t make sense. But they were living by a different standard, they were living for a greater reward than the things of this life. As we read the Sermon on the Mount, we recognize that Jesus is helping us see what it looks like live this kind of life. He is telling us what it looks like to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God. It’s a call to live counter-culturally. To love the things that God loves and value the things that God values. To live for heavenly things rather than earthy things. In Matthew 6:19-24 Jesus uses three different ways to identify who or what we are living for. As we consider our treasures, our vision and our master Jesus is calling us to evaluate our hearts. Are we living for God and things of God or for ourselves and the things of the world? https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-31/582/a-kingdom-hearted-devotion-matthew-619-24 Sun, 31 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0500 What Matters to God - Matthew 16:13-20 What Matters to God - Matthew 16:13-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-24/what-matters-to-god-matthew-1613-20 What Matters to God - Matthew 16:13-20 What Matters to God - Matthew 16:13-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-24/581/what-matters-to-god-matthew-1613-20 Sun, 24 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Living for the Praise of God - Pure-Hearted Fasting - Matthew 6:16-18 Living for the Praise of God - Pure-Hearted Fasting - Matthew 6:16-18 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-17/living-for-the-praise-of-god-pure-hearted-fasting-matthew-616-18 In Matthew 6:1 we get a warning from Jesus. This verse serves as the heading for the entire section (6:1-18). What’s clear is that Jesus knows our weaknesses and that we will be tempted to live for our own praise and to long for the approval of men rather the approval of God. In 6:1-18 Jesus deals with three areas of righteous living that He saw being used for the praise of men rather than for the praise of God. Giving to the poor, praying and fasting are all things that God calls His people to do, but they are also things that can easily be used for selfish gain. Using these three acts of piety as examples, Jesus calls us to avoid hypocrisy. He calls us to live for the praise of our heavenly Father instead of living for the praise of people. He wants us to recognize how subtle sin is and that we can take good things and use them in sinful and selfish ways. In Matthew 6:1 we get a warning from Jesus. This verse serves as the heading for the entire section (6:1-18). What’s clear is that Jesus knows our weaknesses and that we will be tempted to live for our own praise and to long for the approval of men rather the approval of God. In 6:1-18 Jesus deals with three areas of righteous living that He saw being used for the praise of men rather than for the praise of God. Giving to the poor, praying and fasting are all things that God calls His people to do, but they are also things that can easily be used for selfish gain. Using these three acts of piety as examples, Jesus calls us to avoid hypocrisy. He calls us to live for the praise of our heavenly Father instead of living for the praise of people. He wants us to recognize how subtle sin is and that we can take good things and use them in sinful and selfish ways. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-17/580/living-for-the-praise-of-god-pure-hearted-fasting-matthew-616-18 Sun, 17 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Living for the Praise of God - Pure-Hearted Giving - Matthew 6:1-4 Living for the Praise of God - Pure-Hearted Giving - Matthew 6:1-4 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-10/living-for-the-praise-of-god-pure-hearted-giving-matthew-61-4 To be seen, or not to be seen? That is the question. Early on in the Sermon on the Mount Jesus tells the people of God that we should live as lights so that others may see our good works and give glory to our Father who is in heaven. But now, just a little further into the sermon, Jesus warns us against practicing our righteousness of the sake of being seen by others. At first glance it may seem like these verses are at odds with one another, but Jesus is not contradicting Himself. Rather, in both cases Jesus is calling His people to pursue the praise and glory of God. As we live God’s way we should want people to see Him through us. And, at the same time, we must be careful that we don’t desire to be seen in order to be praised by others. To be seen, or not to be seen? That is the question. Early on in the Sermon on the Mount Jesus tells the people of God that we should live as lights so that others may see our good works and give glory to our Father who is in heaven. But now, just a little further into the sermon, Jesus warns us against practicing our righteousness of the sake of being seen by others. At first glance it may seem like these verses are at odds with one another, but Jesus is not contradicting Himself. Rather, in both cases Jesus is calling His people to pursue the praise and glory of God. As we live God’s way we should want people to see Him through us. And, at the same time, we must be careful that we don’t desire to be seen in order to be praised by others. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-10/579/living-for-the-praise-of-god-pure-hearted-giving-matthew-61-4 Sun, 10 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Love Like the Father’s – Loving our Enemies - Matthew 5:43-48 A Love Like the Father’s – Loving our Enemies - Matthew 5:43-48 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-03/a-love-like-the-father-s-loving-our-enemies-matthew-543-48 We live in a time and in a culture where we are encouraged, if not expected to have enemies. And not only to have enemies, but live with a sense of enmity towards other people. It’s not enough to have disagreements, we are expected to hate those with whom we disagree – and unfortunately, this attitude comes far more naturally than most of us would care to admit. But as we come to Matthew 5:43-48 we hear Jesus calling the people of God to a different standard. While the world says hate your enemy, Jesus says we are to love our enemies. We live in a time and in a culture where we are encouraged, if not expected to have enemies. And not only to have enemies, but live with a sense of enmity towards other people. It’s not enough to have disagreements, we are expected to hate those with whom we disagree – and unfortunately, this attitude comes far more naturally than most of us would care to admit. But as we come to Matthew 5:43-48 we hear Jesus calling the people of God to a different standard. While the world says hate your enemy, Jesus says we are to love our enemies. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-07-03/578/a-love-like-the-father-s-loving-our-enemies-matthew-543-48 Sun, 3 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Retaliation and Responding as the People of God - Matthew 5:38-42 Retaliation and Responding as the People of God - Matthew 5:38-42 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-26/retaliation-and-responding-as-the-people-of-god-matthew-538-42 Retaliation and Responding as the People of God - Matthew 5:38-42 Retaliation and Responding as the People of God - Matthew 5:38-42 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-26/577/retaliation-and-responding-as-the-people-of-god-matthew-538-42 Sun, 26 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Use of Oaths and a Call to the Truth - Matthew 5:33-37 The Use of Oaths and a Call to the Truth - Matthew 5:33-37 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-19/the-use-of-oaths-and-a-call-to-the-truth-matthew-533-37 Here’s the truth: By nature, we are not honest people. Sometimes we add something to the story to make ourselves look better and other times we hold back details that would paint us in a poor light. In our flesh we are prone to exaggerations and half-truths and even blatant lies. But as we come to Matthew 5:33-37 we hear Jesus calling the people of God to be people of the truth. While the scribes and Pharisees had developed a system of oaths that allowed them to shade or sidestep the truth, Jesus wants us to know that God calls His people to a greater level of honesty. It’s a passage about oaths and the misuse of oaths, but beyond that it’s a passage about telling the truth. Here’s the truth: By nature, we are not honest people. Sometimes we add something to the story to make ourselves look better and other times we hold back details that would paint us in a poor light. In our flesh we are prone to exaggerations and half-truths and even blatant lies. But as we come to Matthew 5:33-37 we hear Jesus calling the people of God to be people of the truth. While the scribes and Pharisees had developed a system of oaths that allowed them to shade or sidestep the truth, Jesus wants us to know that God calls His people to a greater level of honesty. It’s a passage about oaths and the misuse of oaths, but beyond that it’s a passage about telling the truth. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-19/576/the-use-of-oaths-and-a-call-to-the-truth-matthew-533-37 Sun, 19 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Divorce and the Sanctity of Marriage - Matthew 5:31-32 Divorce and the Sanctity of Marriage - Matthew 5:31-32 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-12/divorce-and-the-sanctity-of-marriage-matthew-531-32 What does the Bible say about marriage, divorce and remarriage? In a world where marriage is often avoided or minimized and divorce is often normalized and even praised it is important that we consider how God would have us think about these significant matters. As we come to this passage, we must acknowledge that for many people this topic is very personal. Almost everyone has been impacted in some way, directly or indirectly by divorce. For some the topic elicits reminders of the some of the hardest moments of life. Thankfully, as Christians we know that Jesus came to bring grace and forgiveness for all who have sinned and hope and restoration for all who have been sinned against. What does the Bible say about marriage, divorce and remarriage? In a world where marriage is often avoided or minimized and divorce is often normalized and even praised it is important that we consider how God would have us think about these significant matters. As we come to this passage, we must acknowledge that for many people this topic is very personal. Almost everyone has been impacted in some way, directly or indirectly by divorce. For some the topic elicits reminders of the some of the hardest moments of life. Thankfully, as Christians we know that Jesus came to bring grace and forgiveness for all who have sinned and hope and restoration for all who have been sinned against. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-12/575/divorce-and-the-sanctity-of-marriage-matthew-531-32 Sun, 12 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Righteousness of the Heart - Putting off Lust and Pursuing Purity - Matthew 5:27-30 A Righteousness of the Heart - Putting off Lust and Pursuing Purity - Matthew 5:27-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-05/a-righteousness-of-the-heart-putting-off-lust-and-pursuing-purity-matthew-527-30 In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus is teaching what it looks like to live as the people of God. What becomes abundantly clear is that God’s standard is much different than the standard of the scribes and Pharisees. In fact, Jesus says that the true people of God will have a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees. In Matthew 5:21-48 Jesus offers six examples contrasting the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees and the true law of God. What’s clear is that the righteousness of God is a righteousness of the heart and it goes far beyond the lines and parameters of the religious leaders. Further, we can never live up to God’s standard – but instead He gives those who are His new hearts – hearts that hunger and thirst for true righteousness. In 5:27-30 Jesus gives the second of His six examples – this time contrasting the scribes and the Pharisees’ understanding and application of the seventh commandment with God’s true heart behind the command. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus is teaching what it looks like to live as the people of God. What becomes abundantly clear is that God’s standard is much different than the standard of the scribes and Pharisees. In fact, Jesus says that the true people of God will have a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees. In Matthew 5:21-48 Jesus offers six examples contrasting the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees and the true law of God. What’s clear is that the righteousness of God is a righteousness of the heart and it goes far beyond the lines and parameters of the religious leaders. Further, we can never live up to God’s standard – but instead He gives those who are His new hearts – hearts that hunger and thirst for true righteousness. In 5:27-30 Jesus gives the second of His six examples – this time contrasting the scribes and the Pharisees’ understanding and application of the seventh commandment with God’s true heart behind the command. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-06-05/574/a-righteousness-of-the-heart-putting-off-lust-and-pursuing-purity-matthew-527-30 Sun, 5 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Righteousness of the Heart - Putting off Anger and Pursuing Reconciliation - Matthew 5:21-26 A Righteousness of the Heart - Putting off Anger and Pursuing Reconciliation - Matthew 5:21-26 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-29/a-righteousness-of-the-heart-putting-off-anger-and-pursuing-reconciliation-matthew-521-26 It’s natural, we all like know where the lines are. We like to know how far we can go without crossing the line. And this is the way many people think about the law of God and being in right standing before God. They believe that there are certain lines that shouldn’t be crossed and as long as we don’t cross those lines we will be in good standing with God. This a simplified version of the false teaching of the scribes and Pharisees during the time of Jesus. They had taken the law of God and created lines and parameters. They had a system by which they believed they could determine who was right with God and who wasn’t. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus is teaching what it looks like to live as the people of God. What becomes abundantly clear is that God’s standard is much different than the standard of the scribes and Pharisees. In fact, Jesus says that the true people of God will have a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees. In Matthew 5:21-48 Jesus offers six examples contrasting the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees and the true law of God. What’s clear is that the righteousness of God is a righteousness of the heart and it goes far beyond the lines and parameters of the religious leaders. Further, we can never live up to God’s standard – but instead He gives those who are His new hearts – hearts that hunger and thirst for true righteousness. It’s natural, we all like know where the lines are. We like to know how far we can go without crossing the line. And this is the way many people think about the law of God and being in right standing before God. They believe that there are certain lines that shouldn’t be crossed and as long as we don’t cross those lines we will be in good standing with God. This a simplified version of the false teaching of the scribes and Pharisees during the time of Jesus. They had taken the law of God and created lines and parameters. They had a system by which they believed they could determine who was right with God and who wasn’t. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus is teaching what it looks like to live as the people of God. What becomes abundantly clear is that God’s standard is much different than the standard of the scribes and Pharisees. In fact, Jesus says that the true people of God will have a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees. In Matthew 5:21-48 Jesus offers six examples contrasting the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees and the true law of God. What’s clear is that the righteousness of God is a righteousness of the heart and it goes far beyond the lines and parameters of the religious leaders. Further, we can never live up to God’s standard – but instead He gives those who are His new hearts – hearts that hunger and thirst for true righteousness. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-29/573/a-righteousness-of-the-heart-putting-off-anger-and-pursuing-reconciliation-matthew-521-26 Sun, 29 May 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Righteousness of the Heart - Matthew 5:21-48 A Righteousness of the Heart - Matthew 5:21-48 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-22/a-righteousness-of-the-heart-matthew-521-48 In Matthew 5:17-20 Jesus makes clear that the people of God’s kingdom are to be a people who live in righteousness. But Jesus knew that the people of His day had a very confused understanding of what it means to live in righteousness. The religious leaders of Jesus’s day (the scribes and the Pharisees) claimed to be teachers of the law of God, but what they taught wasn’t the true law of God. In Matthew 5:21-48 Jesus begins to show the contrast between the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees and the true law of God. Jesus is teaching that the law of the scribes and Pharisees wasn’t a pure teaching of the law of God, and in order to make His point Jesus uses six illustrations. The great preacher, Martin Lloyd Jones , said it this way: Our Lord knew the importance of illustrating a principle, so here He gives six illustrations of the one truth . . . Our Lord’s chief desire was to show the true meaning and intent of the law, and to correct the erroneous conclusions which had been drawn from it by the Pharisees and scribes and all the false notions which they had founded upon it. In Matthew 5:17-20 Jesus makes clear that the people of God’s kingdom are to be a people who live in righteousness. But Jesus knew that the people of His day had a very confused understanding of what it means to live in righteousness. The religious leaders of Jesus’s day (the scribes and the Pharisees) claimed to be teachers of the law of God, but what they taught wasn’t the true law of God. In Matthew 5:21-48 Jesus begins to show the contrast between the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees and the true law of God. Jesus is teaching that the law of the scribes and Pharisees wasn’t a pure teaching of the law of God, and in order to make His point Jesus uses six illustrations. The great preacher, Martin Lloyd Jones , said it this way: Our Lord knew the importance of illustrating a principle, so here He gives six illustrations of the one truth . . . Our Lord’s chief desire was to show the true meaning and intent of the law, and to correct the erroneous conclusions which had been drawn from it by the Pharisees and scribes and all the false notions which they had founded upon it. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-22/572/a-righteousness-of-the-heart-matthew-521-48 Sun, 22 May 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Christian, the Law and our Need for Righteousness - Matthew 5:19-20 The Christian, the Law and our Need for Righteousness - Matthew 5:19-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-15/the-christian-the-law-and-our-need-for-righteousness-matthew-519-20 As Jesus began His ministry, He began proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. He was calling people to repentance and to following Him. But as His influence grew so did the questions about His teaching. In the day of Jesus our Old Testament was their Scriptures. As the ministry of Jesus grew and people became familiar with His teaching questions began to arise about His views of the Old Testament Scriptures. Does He believe in the Scriptures? Is He teaching a Gospel apart from the Old Testament Law? Is He trying to abolish the Law or replace it? In the last sermon we considered the relationship between Jesus and the Old Testament (Matthew 5:17-18), but that question lays the foundation for the next: What do we do with commands of God? What’s our relationship with the Law, and how do we obtain righteousness? As Jesus began His ministry, He began proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. He was calling people to repentance and to following Him. But as His influence grew so did the questions about His teaching. In the day of Jesus our Old Testament was their Scriptures. As the ministry of Jesus grew and people became familiar with His teaching questions began to arise about His views of the Old Testament Scriptures. Does He believe in the Scriptures? Is He teaching a Gospel apart from the Old Testament Law? Is He trying to abolish the Law or replace it? In the last sermon we considered the relationship between Jesus and the Old Testament (Matthew 5:17-18), but that question lays the foundation for the next: What do we do with commands of God? What’s our relationship with the Law, and how do we obtain righteousness? https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-15/571/the-christian-the-law-and-our-need-for-righteousness-matthew-519-20 Sun, 15 May 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Relationship of Jesus to the Old Testament - Matthew 5:17-18 The Relationship of Jesus to the Old Testament - Matthew 5:17-18 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-08/the-relationship-of-jesus-to-the-old-testament-matthew-517-18 As Jesus began His ministry, He began proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. He was calling people to repentance and to following Him. But as His influence grew so did the questions about His teaching. In the day of Jesus our Old Testament was their Scriptures. As the ministry of Jesus grew and people became familiar with His teaching questions began to arise about His views of the Old Testament Scriptures. Does He believe in the Scriptures? Is He teaching a Gospel apart from the Old Testament Law? Is He trying to abolish the Law or replace it? It seems these were common questions during the days of Jesus’ ministry, and they are questions that are still common today. What is the relationship between Jesus and the Old Testament? If we have the New Testament is there any need for the Old Testament? How much, if any of it is needful for today? As Jesus began His ministry, He began proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. He was calling people to repentance and to following Him. But as His influence grew so did the questions about His teaching. In the day of Jesus our Old Testament was their Scriptures. As the ministry of Jesus grew and people became familiar with His teaching questions began to arise about His views of the Old Testament Scriptures. Does He believe in the Scriptures? Is He teaching a Gospel apart from the Old Testament Law? Is He trying to abolish the Law or replace it? It seems these were common questions during the days of Jesus’ ministry, and they are questions that are still common today. What is the relationship between Jesus and the Old Testament? If we have the New Testament is there any need for the Old Testament? How much, if any of it is needful for today? https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-08/570/the-relationship-of-jesus-to-the-old-testament-matthew-517-18 Sun, 8 May 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Witness of Counter-Cultural Living - Matthew 5:13-16 The Witness of Counter-Cultural Living - Matthew 5:13-16 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-01/the-witness-of-counter-cultural-living-matthew-513-16 Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a list of attributes that are found in those who are part of the kingdom of God along with related blessings. What’s clear from that list is that those who live as citizens of God’s kingdom live counter-cultural lives – lives that are very different from the world around them. Following ‘the Beatitudes’ Jesus continues to drive home the point that the people of God will stand out in the world – but this is part of His plan. We are in the world, and our presence is meant to impact the world. Using two metaphors Jesus teaches us how our lives in the world serve to restrain evil and provide a witness to the goodness and glory of God. Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a list of attributes that are found in those who are part of the kingdom of God along with related blessings. What’s clear from that list is that those who live as citizens of God’s kingdom live counter-cultural lives – lives that are very different from the world around them. Following ‘the Beatitudes’ Jesus continues to drive home the point that the people of God will stand out in the world – but this is part of His plan. We are in the world, and our presence is meant to impact the world. Using two metaphors Jesus teaches us how our lives in the world serve to restrain evil and provide a witness to the goodness and glory of God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-05-01/569/the-witness-of-counter-cultural-living-matthew-513-16 Sun, 1 May 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Life in the Kingdom of God - Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount - Matthew 5-7 Life in the Kingdom of God - Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount - Matthew 5-7 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-24/life-in-the-kingdom-of-god-introduction-to-the-sermon-on-the-mount-matthew-5-7 The Gospel of Matthew tells us that early in the ministry of Jesus there was a time when Jesus went up on a mountain with His disciples and He taught them. From that time of teaching, we have one of the longest recorded discourses of Jesus. It’s a teaching that the church has come to refer to as The Sermon on the Mount. The Gospel of Matthew tells us that early in the ministry of Jesus there was a time when Jesus went up on a mountain with His disciples and He taught them. From that time of teaching, we have one of the longest recorded discourses of Jesus. It’s a teaching that the church has come to refer to as The Sermon on the Mount. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-24/568/life-in-the-kingdom-of-god-introduction-to-the-sermon-on-the-mount-matthew-5-7 Sun, 24 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0500 What Jesus Revealed on Easter - Luke 24:36-49 What Jesus Revealed on Easter - Luke 24:36-49 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-17/what-jesus-revealed-on-easter-luke-2436-49 Jesus rose from the dead on a Sunday morning. That evening He made His first appearance to His disciples and Luke records what He said to them. These are men who had been with Jesus for years, but they were slow to truly understand the nature of why Jesus came. But now they are face to face with risen Lord and He explains it all again. He came to die and rise from the dead, and it’s part of the plan that God has had all along. Through His resurrection Jesus fulfilled the Scriptures, accomplished salvation for all who will believe and now He’s commissioning His disciples to go as His witnesses to the world. As we consider this evening that Jesus had with His disciples, we should be reminded of the significance of what Jesus accomplished and of the calling we have to take the news of His salvation to the world. Jesus rose from the dead on a Sunday morning. That evening He made His first appearance to His disciples and Luke records what He said to them. These are men who had been with Jesus for years, but they were slow to truly understand the nature of why Jesus came. But now they are face to face with risen Lord and He explains it all again. He came to die and rise from the dead, and it’s part of the plan that God has had all along. Through His resurrection Jesus fulfilled the Scriptures, accomplished salvation for all who will believe and now He’s commissioning His disciples to go as His witnesses to the world. As we consider this evening that Jesus had with His disciples, we should be reminded of the significance of what Jesus accomplished and of the calling we have to take the news of His salvation to the world. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-17/567/what-jesus-revealed-on-easter-luke-2436-49 Sun, 17 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Trusting the Promises of God - Psalm 132 Trusting the Promises of God - Psalm 132 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-10/trusting-the-promises-of-god-psalm-132 We can often be tempted to doubt God because our perspectives are too limited. If we only look at our own lives or the lives of those closest to us, we may be tempted to wonder if God will be faithful – if God will keep His promises. But when we turn the Scriptures, we have centuries and centuries of proof – God is always faithful to His word. In 2 Samuel 7 we read some of the most incredible promises that God ever made. God promised David that from His line would come a king who would sit on an eternal throne in an eternal kingdom. However, within a few generations the people of God began to wonder if God would be faithful to David. As kings failed and the nation faltered many wondered if God would keep His promises. Psalm 132 is a psalm that recalls the faithfulness of God. In the first half of the psalm, we hear the people of God asking God to remember His servant David. In the second half of the psalm, we get the assurance that God will in fact fulfill all that He has promised. We can often be tempted to doubt God because our perspectives are too limited. If we only look at our own lives or the lives of those closest to us, we may be tempted to wonder if God will be faithful – if God will keep His promises. But when we turn the Scriptures, we have centuries and centuries of proof – God is always faithful to His word. In 2 Samuel 7 we read some of the most incredible promises that God ever made. God promised David that from His line would come a king who would sit on an eternal throne in an eternal kingdom. However, within a few generations the people of God began to wonder if God would be faithful to David. As kings failed and the nation faltered many wondered if God would keep His promises. Psalm 132 is a psalm that recalls the faithfulness of God. In the first half of the psalm, we hear the people of God asking God to remember His servant David. In the second half of the psalm, we get the assurance that God will in fact fulfill all that He has promised. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-10/566/trusting-the-promises-of-god-psalm-132 Sun, 10 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Like Mount Zion: Assurances for Those Who Trust in the Lord - Psalm 125 Like Mount Zion: Assurances for Those Who Trust in the Lord - Psalm 125 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-03/like-mount-zion-assurances-for-those-who-trust-in-the-lord-psalm-125 We live in a world that in large measure disregards the things of God. So much of what God has given us in the Scriptures is regarded by many as outdated or irrelevant for life in today’s world. And so, for those who are committed to trusting God and taking Him at His word, there can be a sense in which we feel like outsiders in this world. On some issues the church is being told we are on the wrong side of history, and if we aren’t careful we can start to doubt the things we’ve believed to be true. Of course, we aren’t the first generation of God-followers to find ourselves living in a time and place where the ways of God are disregarded. In fact, this is the story of most of history – and it is for people in this kind of situation that Psalm 125 is written. Psalm 125 is a psalm that is written for a people who are living under wicked rule – but here’s the encouragement: God will protect, keep and care for those who trust in Him. Psalm 125 is a psalm of assurance for those who trust in the Lord as well as an encouragement to persevere. We live in a world that in large measure disregards the things of God. So much of what God has given us in the Scriptures is regarded by many as outdated or irrelevant for life in today’s world. And so, for those who are committed to trusting God and taking Him at His word, there can be a sense in which we feel like outsiders in this world. On some issues the church is being told we are on the wrong side of history, and if we aren’t careful we can start to doubt the things we’ve believed to be true. Of course, we aren’t the first generation of God-followers to find ourselves living in a time and place where the ways of God are disregarded. In fact, this is the story of most of history – and it is for people in this kind of situation that Psalm 125 is written. Psalm 125 is a psalm that is written for a people who are living under wicked rule – but here’s the encouragement: God will protect, keep and care for those who trust in Him. Psalm 125 is a psalm of assurance for those who trust in the Lord as well as an encouragement to persevere. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-04-03/565/like-mount-zion-assurances-for-those-who-trust-in-the-lord-psalm-125 Sun, 3 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0500 What If? And the Blessing of What Is - Psalm 124 What If? And the Blessing of What Is - Psalm 124 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-27/what-if-and-the-blessing-of-what-is-psalm-124 What if? This is one of those questions that can lead us on a long and winding path. It’s a question that comes to mind as we think back over our lives – What if this had happened or that? What if I had left or stayed longer? What if that person had done this or that? As Christians we know that behind all of the what if questions is a sovereign God who has never stopped working out His perfect plan for us. We know that nothing in our lives is an accident; and that in good and bad times God is always in control. This should give us peace and hope. But there are good and helpful ways to use the what if questions. They can be used to remind us of God’s care for us. In Psalm 124 the psalmist considers what would have been if God had not rescued His people. There’s a sense in which the psalm starts with the what if question – but behind the question is a declaration of faith and trust in God. The psalm is a call to praise and trust the God who has saved His people and who continues to be their help. What if? This is one of those questions that can lead us on a long and winding path. It’s a question that comes to mind as we think back over our lives – What if this had happened or that? What if I had left or stayed longer? What if that person had done this or that? As Christians we know that behind all of the what if questions is a sovereign God who has never stopped working out His perfect plan for us. We know that nothing in our lives is an accident; and that in good and bad times God is always in control. This should give us peace and hope. But there are good and helpful ways to use the what if questions. They can be used to remind us of God’s care for us. In Psalm 124 the psalmist considers what would have been if God had not rescued His people. There’s a sense in which the psalm starts with the what if question – but behind the question is a declaration of faith and trust in God. The psalm is a call to praise and trust the God who has saved His people and who continues to be their help. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-27/564/what-if-and-the-blessing-of-what-is-psalm-124 Sun, 27 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0500 A Joyful Longing and Love for the City of God - Psalm 122 A Joyful Longing and Love for the City of God - Psalm 122 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-20/a-joyful-longing-and-love-for-the-city-of-god-psalm-122 In Psalm 121 we have the song of a traveler who is on his way to Jerusalem - the city of God. It’s a trip that has dangers and difficulties, but the traveler is confident in the help and keeping power of God. While Psalm 122 wasn’t written as a follow up to Psalm 121, their arrangement in the Scriptures is telling a story. While Psalm 121 is about a traveler on his way to Jerusalem, Psalm 122 is about a person’s arrival in the city – a joyful arrival. This Psalm is a song about the traveler’s joy and love for the city, but it’s about more than the city. The city represents the place where God is and where God is worshipped. The psalmist’s joy in coming to the city is coupled with his longing for the good of the city. Again, not necessarily because of the city itself, but because of who the city represents. In Psalm 121 we have the song of a traveler who is on his way to Jerusalem - the city of God. It’s a trip that has dangers and difficulties, but the traveler is confident in the help and keeping power of God. While Psalm 122 wasn’t written as a follow up to Psalm 121, their arrangement in the Scriptures is telling a story. While Psalm 121 is about a traveler on his way to Jerusalem, Psalm 122 is about a person’s arrival in the city – a joyful arrival. This Psalm is a song about the traveler’s joy and love for the city, but it’s about more than the city. The city represents the place where God is and where God is worshipped. The psalmist’s joy in coming to the city is coupled with his longing for the good of the city. Again, not necessarily because of the city itself, but because of who the city represents. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-20/563/a-joyful-longing-and-love-for-the-city-of-god-psalm-122 Sun, 20 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Protector of Pilgrims - Psalm 121 The Protector of Pilgrims - Psalm 121 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-13/the-protector-of-pilgrims-psalm-121 Under the Old Covenant faithful Jews made regular trips to Jerusalem. There were three annual feasts or festivals and so three times a year Jews from all around would make the pilgrimage to Jerusalem to celebrate the feasts in the city of God. As they would travel, they would often sing; and over time there came to be a set of fifteen songs that provided the soundtrack for the trip. These fifteen songs, were actually psalms and they have been grouped together in our Bibles. Psalms 120-134 are known as Songs of Ascents because they were sung as pilgrims ascended the hills to Jerusalem. While not all of the songs were written with this trip in mind, some of them were – and Psalm121 is one those psalms. It’s written about the journey to Jerusalem, the difficulty of the trip and the need for help; but it’s actually a song of encouragement: Those who travel to the city of God can know that God is their help and their protector for the journey. Under the Old Covenant faithful Jews made regular trips to Jerusalem. There were three annual feasts or festivals and so three times a year Jews from all around would make the pilgrimage to Jerusalem to celebrate the feasts in the city of God. As they would travel, they would often sing; and over time there came to be a set of fifteen songs that provided the soundtrack for the trip. These fifteen songs, were actually psalms and they have been grouped together in our Bibles. Psalms 120-134 are known as Songs of Ascents because they were sung as pilgrims ascended the hills to Jerusalem. While not all of the songs were written with this trip in mind, some of them were – and Psalm121 is one those psalms. It’s written about the journey to Jerusalem, the difficulty of the trip and the need for help; but it’s actually a song of encouragement: Those who travel to the city of God can know that God is their help and their protector for the journey. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-13/562/the-protector-of-pilgrims-psalm-121 Sun, 13 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0600 A Testimony of Answered Prayer (The God Who Hears and Saves) - Psalm 116 A Testimony of Answered Prayer (The God Who Hears and Saves) - Psalm 116 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-06/a-testimony-of-answered-prayer-the-god-who-hears-and-saves-psalm-116 In Psalm 116 we have the testimony of a man who was at his lowest point. He feared his life was over – but then he cried out to God. This psalm is the testimony of how God saved him. It’s a testimony to the character of God, of His love for His people and how we should respond to a God who has gone to great lengths to save His people. In Psalm 116 we have the testimony of a man who was at his lowest point. He feared his life was over – but then he cried out to God. This psalm is the testimony of how God saved him. It’s a testimony to the character of God, of His love for His people and how we should respond to a God who has gone to great lengths to save His people. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-03-06/561/a-testimony-of-answered-prayer-the-god-who-hears-and-saves-psalm-116 Sun, 6 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0600 The Resurrection of Christ - The Ending that Secures Our Hope - Mark 16:1-8 The Resurrection of Christ - The Ending that Secures Our Hope - Mark 16:1-8 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-27/the-resurrection-of-christ-the-ending-that-secures-our-hope-mark-161-8 If the Gospel of Mark ended with chapter 15 and the sealed tomb was the end of the story, Jesus could be classified as a religious teacher who gathered crowds, unsettled the religious establishment and was killed by the Romans. However, the Gospel of Mark doesn’t end with chapter 15. The story isn’t over, and what happens next confirms the claims of Jesus and secures the hope of all who trust in Him (1 Corinthians 15:17-19). Mark began the Gospel by setting out the aim of the book. He was writing to show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. If the Gospel ended with chapter 15, it could be argued that the book didn’t accomplish its’ purpose; but the when Jesus rose from the dead all is confirmed: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. If the Gospel of Mark ended with chapter 15 and the sealed tomb was the end of the story, Jesus could be classified as a religious teacher who gathered crowds, unsettled the religious establishment and was killed by the Romans. However, the Gospel of Mark doesn’t end with chapter 15. The story isn’t over, and what happens next confirms the claims of Jesus and secures the hope of all who trust in Him (1 Corinthians 15:17-19). Mark began the Gospel by setting out the aim of the book. He was writing to show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. If the Gospel ended with chapter 15, it could be argued that the book didn’t accomplish its’ purpose; but the when Jesus rose from the dead all is confirmed: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-27/560/the-resurrection-of-christ-the-ending-that-secures-our-hope-mark-161-8 Sun, 27 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0600 The Burial of Christ - The Honoring of Jesus by an Unlikely Disciple - Mark 15:42-47 The Burial of Christ - The Honoring of Jesus by an Unlikely Disciple - Mark 15:42-47 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-20/the-burial-of-christ-the-honoring-of-jesus-by-an-unlikely-disciple-mark-1542-47 We tend to spend a lot of time talking about the cross of Christ and of His resurrection – and we should! The death of Jesus and His victory over the grave are at the core of our faith and our hope. But there’s something that happens in between the death of Christ and His resurrection that all four Gospels make careful note of – His burial. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 as Paul summarizes the primary tenets of the Gospel, he includes this threefold summary: He died, He was buried, and He was raised from the dead. It’s clear that God wants to emphasize the burial of Jesus. But Mark’s aim isn’t to tell us the significance of the burial; instead, he focuses on how Jesus was buried – and more specifically on the person who buried Him. In this sermon we are going to see how Christ was honored and God’s plan was fulfilled through the faith and courage of an unlikely disciple. We tend to spend a lot of time talking about the cross of Christ and of His resurrection – and we should! The death of Jesus and His victory over the grave are at the core of our faith and our hope. But there’s something that happens in between the death of Christ and His resurrection that all four Gospels make careful note of – His burial. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 as Paul summarizes the primary tenets of the Gospel, he includes this threefold summary: He died, He was buried, and He was raised from the dead. It’s clear that God wants to emphasize the burial of Jesus. But Mark’s aim isn’t to tell us the significance of the burial; instead, he focuses on how Jesus was buried – and more specifically on the person who buried Him. In this sermon we are going to see how Christ was honored and God’s plan was fulfilled through the faith and courage of an unlikely disciple. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-20/559/the-burial-of-christ-the-honoring-of-jesus-by-an-unlikely-disciple-mark-1542-47 Sun, 20 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0600 An Unwasted Ministry - 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 An Unwasted Ministry - 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-13/an-unwasted-ministry-1-thessalonians-21-12 In the Scriptures God has a lot to say about stewardship. Jesus spoke regularly about stewarding our time and our resources. In His grace God has have given us the privilege to live and minister together as the church and we should desire to be good stewards of this gift. We should desire to use what He has given us in a way that honors Him and impacts our world. In 1 Thessalonians 2 Paul reflects on his time with the Thessalonian church and he says that this ministry was “not in vain.” In this message we will consider Paul’s ministry to the Thessalonians and answer the questions: What does it look like to have an unwasted ministry? What part should each of us play in helping the church accomplish the mission of God in the world? In the Scriptures God has a lot to say about stewardship. Jesus spoke regularly about stewarding our time and our resources. In His grace God has have given us the privilege to live and minister together as the church and we should desire to be good stewards of this gift. We should desire to use what He has given us in a way that honors Him and impacts our world. In 1 Thessalonians 2 Paul reflects on his time with the Thessalonian church and he says that this ministry was “not in vain.” In this message we will consider Paul’s ministry to the Thessalonians and answer the questions: What does it look like to have an unwasted ministry? What part should each of us play in helping the church accomplish the mission of God in the world? https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-13/558/an-unwasted-ministry-1-thessalonians-21-12 Sun, 13 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Preaching the Death of Jesus to Yourself - Mark 15:33-41 Preaching the Death of Jesus to Yourself - Mark 15:33-41 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-06/preaching-the-death-of-jesus-to-yourself-mark-1533-41 In Mark’s account of the death of Christ we are reminded of the seriousness of sin, how Jesus died as a substitute for our sin, and how Christ’s death brings us into fellowship with God. The goal of this sermon is to help you prepare your own sermons; sermons that you can preach to yourself, so that you can be strengthened and equipped to live for Christ. In Mark’s account of the death of Christ we are reminded of the seriousness of sin, how Jesus died as a substitute for our sin, and how Christ’s death brings us into fellowship with God. The goal of this sermon is to help you prepare your own sermons; sermons that you can preach to yourself, so that you can be strengthened and equipped to live for Christ. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-02-06/557/preaching-the-death-of-jesus-to-yourself-mark-1533-41 Sun, 6 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0600 His Suffering for Our Salvation - Mark 15:21-32 His Suffering for Our Salvation - Mark 15:21-32 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-30/his-suffering-for-our-salvation-mark-1521-32 Even among those who have been Christians the longest and who know the Scriptures the best, there is this temptation: The temptation to underestimate the fullness of God’s forgiveness and the extent to which He can offer freedom from the power of sin. Now, these may not be things we would admit out loud, and perhaps we would never even think it in such direct ways. But as we live with guilt and shame and as we find ourselves ceasing our fight against sin, this is the lie that resides under the surface: Maybe I’ve sinned beyond what God will forgive, or maybe His power isn’t sufficient to help me overcome this sin. These are in fact lies. And the way we can fight these lies is by returning to the cross and considering all that Jesus did to secure our forgiveness and freedom from sin. Even among those who have been Christians the longest and who know the Scriptures the best, there is this temptation: The temptation to underestimate the fullness of God’s forgiveness and the extent to which He can offer freedom from the power of sin. Now, these may not be things we would admit out loud, and perhaps we would never even think it in such direct ways. But as we live with guilt and shame and as we find ourselves ceasing our fight against sin, this is the lie that resides under the surface: Maybe I’ve sinned beyond what God will forgive, or maybe His power isn’t sufficient to help me overcome this sin. These are in fact lies. And the way we can fight these lies is by returning to the cross and considering all that Jesus did to secure our forgiveness and freedom from sin. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-30/556/his-suffering-for-our-salvation-mark-1521-32 Sun, 30 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Mocking the King - Mark 15:16-20 Mocking the King - Mark 15:16-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-23/mocking-the-king-mark-1516-20 In Mark 15 we read of a group of Roman soldiers who come together and treat Jesus like nothing more than a punch line. He was charged for claiming to be a king – and this provided the Roman soldiers more than enough motivation and material for mockery. As we read about how was Jesus mocked and tortured it should grieve us. It’s grievous to consider the Son of God being mocked, beaten and spit upon. But at the same time, we shouldn’t read this passage without considering our own hearts. How each of us, in our own ways, have failed to see Jesus as the true King and have mocked His authority in our lives. And yet, there’s still more here. Because not only do we see how the Romans mock Jesus, we see that Jesus allows it to go on. He allows these men to treat Him in shameful ways – because this is God’s plan. This is the means through which He is able to rescue us from our shame and save us from the consequences of our sin. In Mark 15 we read of a group of Roman soldiers who come together and treat Jesus like nothing more than a punch line. He was charged for claiming to be a king – and this provided the Roman soldiers more than enough motivation and material for mockery. As we read about how was Jesus mocked and tortured it should grieve us. It’s grievous to consider the Son of God being mocked, beaten and spit upon. But at the same time, we shouldn’t read this passage without considering our own hearts. How each of us, in our own ways, have failed to see Jesus as the true King and have mocked His authority in our lives. And yet, there’s still more here. Because not only do we see how the Romans mock Jesus, we see that Jesus allows it to go on. He allows these men to treat Him in shameful ways – because this is God’s plan. This is the means through which He is able to rescue us from our shame and save us from the consequences of our sin. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-23/555/mocking-the-king-mark-1516-20 Sun, 23 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Making a Judgment About Jesus - Mark 15:1-15 Making a Judgment About Jesus - Mark 15:1-15 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-16/making-a-judgment-about-jesus-mark-151-15 Making a Judgment About Jesus - Mark 15:1-15 Making a Judgment About Jesus - Mark 15:1-15 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-16/554/making-a-judgment-about-jesus-mark-151-15 Sun, 16 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0600 An Introduction to the Lord's Prayer - Matthew 6:5-13 An Introduction to the Lord's Prayer - Matthew 6:5-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-09/an-introduction-to-the-lords-prayer-matthew-65-13 An Introduction to the Lord's Prayer - Matthew 6:5-13 An Introduction to the Lord's Prayer - Matthew 6:5-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-09/553/an-introduction-to-the-lords-prayer-matthew-65-13 Sun, 9 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Ka Waiola (The Empowering of the Holy Spirit) - John 7:37-39 Ka Waiola (The Empowering of the Holy Spirit) - John 7:37-39 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-02/ka-waiola-the-empowering-of-the-holy-spirit-john-737-39 Ka Waiola (The Empowering of the Holy Spirit) - John 7:37-39 - A Sermon by Southern Hills Member Brian Chock Ka Waiola (The Empowering of the Holy Spirit) - John 7:37-39 - A Sermon by Southern Hills Member Brian Chock https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2022-01-02/552/ka-waiola-the-empowering-of-the-holy-spirit-john-737-39 Sun, 2 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0600 Advent - What Jesus Comes to Bring - Isaiah 61:1-3 Advent - What Jesus Comes to Bring - Isaiah 61:1-3 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-12-19/advent-what-jesus-comes-to-bring-isaiah-611-3 One day near the start of Jesus’s ministry He was given the opportunity to read and teach the Scriptures in the Synagogue in His hometown of Nazareth. On that day Jesus stood in front of a group of Jewish people – people who had spent their lives hearing and clinging to God’s promises to send the Messiah. On that day Jesus read from Isaiah 61 and said something no one would have expected – He said that He is the fulfillment of this Old Testament announcement. With one sentence Jesus preached the greatest sermon on Isaiah 61 of all time. One day near the start of Jesus’s ministry He was given the opportunity to read and teach the Scriptures in the Synagogue in His hometown of Nazareth. On that day Jesus stood in front of a group of Jewish people – people who had spent their lives hearing and clinging to God’s promises to send the Messiah. On that day Jesus read from Isaiah 61 and said something no one would have expected – He said that He is the fulfillment of this Old Testament announcement. With one sentence Jesus preached the greatest sermon on Isaiah 61 of all time. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-12-19/551/advent-what-jesus-comes-to-bring-isaiah-611-3 Sun, 19 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Advent - A Message for the World - Isaiah 49:1-13 Advent - A Message for the World - Isaiah 49:1-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-12-12/advent-a-message-for-the-world-isaiah-491-13 In Isaiah 49 we have something incredible – a message from Christ Himself. Through the prophet Isaiah we hear the words of Christ as He makes an announcement to the world. His announcement is a message about who He is and about the mission that God is sending Him into the world to accomplish. It’s a message that should lead us to joy and comfort and also to tell others of their need to trust in the work of Christ for salvation. In Isaiah 49 we have something incredible – a message from Christ Himself. Through the prophet Isaiah we hear the words of Christ as He makes an announcement to the world. His announcement is a message about who He is and about the mission that God is sending Him into the world to accomplish. It’s a message that should lead us to joy and comfort and also to tell others of their need to trust in the work of Christ for salvation. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-12-12/550/advent-a-message-for-the-world-isaiah-491-13 Sun, 12 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Advent - The One Who We Can Trust - Isaiah 42:1-9 Advent - The One Who We Can Trust - Isaiah 42:1-9 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-12-05/advent-the-one-who-we-can-trust-isaiah-421-9 According to the dictionary ‘Advent’ is defined as an arrival. It’s the coming or arriving of someone or something. For the church, the four weeks leading up to Christmas are referred to as Advent and it’s a time set aside for us to think about the meaning of the coming of Christ. He came first to accomplish salvation and He’s coming again to bring the final results of salvation. Just as generations and generations of the people of God waited for His first arrival, we now wait for Him to come again. As we wait, we are often tempted to fear and doubt. We may fear the direction that the world is headed and wonder if God is really able to make all things right. At the same time, we often face another temptation: the temptation to trust the ways and hopes of the world instead of God – that their ways of finding hope are more certain. Isaiah 41 and 42 serve as a reminder that God is in fact sovereign and that He is the One whom we can trust. He has a plan for salvation and He is working out His plan. We don’t have to fear and we don’t have to find another source of hope. According to the dictionary ‘Advent’ is defined as an arrival. It’s the coming or arriving of someone or something. For the church, the four weeks leading up to Christmas are referred to as Advent and it’s a time set aside for us to think about the meaning of the coming of Christ. He came first to accomplish salvation and He’s coming again to bring the final results of salvation. Just as generations and generations of the people of God waited for His first arrival, we now wait for Him to come again. As we wait, we are often tempted to fear and doubt. We may fear the direction that the world is headed and wonder if God is really able to make all things right. At the same time, we often face another temptation: the temptation to trust the ways and hopes of the world instead of God – that their ways of finding hope are more certain. Isaiah 41 and 42 serve as a reminder that God is in fact sovereign and that He is the One whom we can trust. He has a plan for salvation and He is working out His plan. We don’t have to fear and we don’t have to find another source of hope. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-12-05/549/advent-the-one-who-we-can-trust-isaiah-421-9 Sun, 5 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Advent - Comfort for the People of God - Isaiah 40:1-11 Advent - Comfort for the People of God - Isaiah 40:1-11 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-11-28/advent-comfort-for-the-people-of-god-isaiah-401-11 According to the dictionary ‘Advent’ is defined as an arrival. It’s the coming or arriving of someone or something. For the church, the four weeks leading up to Christmas are referred to as Advent and it’s a time set aside for us to think about the meaning of the coming of Christ. He came first to accomplish salvation and He’s coming again to bring the final results of salvation. Just as generations and generations of the people of God waited for His first arrival, we now wait for Him to come again. This season should serve as a time of comfort and hope. We all know the impact of sin in our lives and we see the results of the fall all around us. Advent is a time for us to eagerly anticipate the day when Christ will return and make all things new. He has come, He is coming, so take heart. According to the dictionary ‘Advent’ is defined as an arrival. It’s the coming or arriving of someone or something. For the church, the four weeks leading up to Christmas are referred to as Advent and it’s a time set aside for us to think about the meaning of the coming of Christ. He came first to accomplish salvation and He’s coming again to bring the final results of salvation. Just as generations and generations of the people of God waited for His first arrival, we now wait for Him to come again. This season should serve as a time of comfort and hope. We all know the impact of sin in our lives and we see the results of the fall all around us. Advent is a time for us to eagerly anticipate the day when Christ will return and make all things new. He has come, He is coming, so take heart. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-11-28/548/advent-comfort-for-the-people-of-god-isaiah-401-11 Sun, 28 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Two Invitations for Thanksgiving - Psalm 95 Two Invitations for Thanksgiving - Psalm 95 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-11-21/two-invitations-for-thanksgiving-psalm-95 Two Invitations for Thanksgiving - Psalm 95 Two Invitations for Thanksgiving - Psalm 95 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-11-21/547/two-invitations-for-thanksgiving-psalm-95 Sun, 21 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0600 A Night of Weak Faith and Great Shame - Mark 14:66-72 A Night of Weak Faith and Great Shame - Mark 14:66-72 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-11-07/a-night-of-weak-faith-and-great-shame-mark-1466-72 A Night of Weak Faith and Great Shame - Mark 14:66-72 A Night of Weak Faith and Great Shame - Mark 14:66-72 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-11-07/546/a-night-of-weak-faith-and-great-shame-mark-1466-72 Sun, 7 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0500 On Trial: The Son of God - Mark 14:53-65 On Trial: The Son of God - Mark 14:53-65 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-31/on-trial-the-son-of-god-mark-1453-65 On Trial: The Son of God - Mark 14:53-65 On Trial: The Son of God - Mark 14:53-65 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-31/545/on-trial-the-son-of-god-mark-1453-65 Sun, 31 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Steadfastness of Christ – Part Two - Mark 14:43-52 The Steadfastness of Christ – Part Two - Mark 14:43-52 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-24/the-steadfastness-of-christ-part-two-mark-1443-52 The Steadfastness of Christ – Part Two - Mark 14:43-52 The Steadfastness of Christ – Part Two - Mark 14:43-52 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-24/544/the-steadfastness-of-christ-part-two-mark-1443-52 Sun, 24 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Steadfastness of Christ - Mark 14:26-42 The Steadfastness of Christ - Mark 14:26-42 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-17/the-steadfastness-of-christ-mark-1426-42 The Steadfastness of Christ - Mark 14:26-42 The Steadfastness of Christ - Mark 14:26-42 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-17/543/the-steadfastness-of-christ-mark-1426-42 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Passover Meal Hosted by the Lamb - Mark 14:12-26 The Passover Meal Hosted by the Lamb - Mark 14:12-26 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-10/the-passover-meal-hosted-by-the-lamb-mark-1412-26 In Exodus we have the account of God delivering His people from slavery in Egypt. As an act of judgment God announced that the firstborn son of every family and flock in Egypt would be killed – but He made a way of safety for His people. He instructed them to kill a lamb and put the lamb’s blood on the doorpost of their home. Every home that was covered with the blood of a lamb would be passed over. While God’s act of salvation was extraordinary, He knew the people would still be quick to forget. For this reason, He commanded them to keep an annual feast. This feast, which involved sacrificing a lamb, would be a means of remembering God’s salvation in the past and anticipating His future salvation. And it’s a feast that was still held every year during the time of Jesus. Each year His parents would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover (Luke 2:41). It’s of no small significance that on the night before His death Jesus celebrates a Passover meal with His disciples. During that meal Jesus demonstrates His sovereignty, announces His death, institutes a new meal for people of God and promises a future meal that’s still to come. In Exodus we have the account of God delivering His people from slavery in Egypt. As an act of judgment God announced that the firstborn son of every family and flock in Egypt would be killed – but He made a way of safety for His people. He instructed them to kill a lamb and put the lamb’s blood on the doorpost of their home. Every home that was covered with the blood of a lamb would be passed over. While God’s act of salvation was extraordinary, He knew the people would still be quick to forget. For this reason, He commanded them to keep an annual feast. This feast, which involved sacrificing a lamb, would be a means of remembering God’s salvation in the past and anticipating His future salvation. And it’s a feast that was still held every year during the time of Jesus. Each year His parents would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover (Luke 2:41). It’s of no small significance that on the night before His death Jesus celebrates a Passover meal with His disciples. During that meal Jesus demonstrates His sovereignty, announces His death, institutes a new meal for people of God and promises a future meal that’s still to come. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-10/542/the-passover-meal-hosted-by-the-lamb-mark-1412-26 Sun, 10 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Recognizing and Responding to the Worth of Jesus - Mark 14:1-11 Recognizing and Responding to the Worth of Jesus - Mark 14:1-11 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-03/recognizing-and-responding-to-the-worth-of-jesus-mark-141-11 As we read the Gospels it’s clear that there are varied opinions of Jesus. There are some who are curious or intrigued by Jesus and others who are hostile toward Him. And then there are some who are willing to lay down everything for the sake of His Name. The reality is, each one of us live somewhere on the same spectrum. Every one of us is making a choice, day in and day out, about the place we’re going to allow Him to have in our lives. And the question that drives the choice is this: What do I believe about the worth of Jesus? Is He worthy of my time? Worthy of my obedience? Worthy of my worship? Worthy of my resources? This is what it comes down to – what do we believe about the worth of Jesus? As we read the Gospels it’s clear that there are varied opinions of Jesus. There are some who are curious or intrigued by Jesus and others who are hostile toward Him. And then there are some who are willing to lay down everything for the sake of His Name. The reality is, each one of us live somewhere on the same spectrum. Every one of us is making a choice, day in and day out, about the place we’re going to allow Him to have in our lives. And the question that drives the choice is this: What do I believe about the worth of Jesus? Is He worthy of my time? Worthy of my obedience? Worthy of my worship? Worthy of my resources? This is what it comes down to – what do we believe about the worth of Jesus? https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-10-03/541/recognizing-and-responding-to-the-worth-of-jesus-mark-141-11 Sun, 3 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Saved by Grace: From Death to Life - Ephesians 2:1-10 Saved by Grace: From Death to Life - Ephesians 2:1-10 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-26/saved-by-grace-from-death-to-life-ephesians-21-10 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-26/540/saved-by-grace-from-death-to-life-ephesians-21-10 Sun, 26 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Psalm 115: A Proper Response When Questions Come Psalm 115: A Proper Response When Questions Come https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-19/psalm-115-a-proper-response-when-questions-come Psalm 115: A Proper Response When Questions Come Psalm 115: A Proper Response When Questions Come https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-19/539/psalm-115-a-proper-response-when-questions-come Sun, 19 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Psalm 112: The Blessedness of a Godly Life Psalm 112: The Blessedness of a Godly Life https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-12/psalm-112-the-blessedness-of-a-godly-life Psalm 112: The Blessedness of a Godly Life Psalm 112: The Blessedness of a Godly Life https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-12/538/psalm-112-the-blessedness-of-a-godly-life Sun, 12 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Psalm 111: A Psalm of Whole-Hearted Praise Psalm 111: A Psalm of Whole-Hearted Praise https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-05/psalm-111-a-psalm-of-whole-hearted-praise Psalm 111: A Psalm of Whole-Hearted Praise Psalm 111: A Psalm of Whole-Hearted Praise https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-09-05/537/psalm-111-a-psalm-of-whole-hearted-praise Sun, 5 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Psalm 107: Giving Praise to the God of Salvation Psalm 107: Giving Praise to the God of Salvation https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-29/psalm-107-giving-praise-to-the-god-of-salvation Psalm 107: Giving Praise to the God of Salvation Psalm 107: Giving Praise to the God of Salvation https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-29/536/psalm-107-giving-praise-to-the-god-of-salvation Sun, 29 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Way We Wait: A Call to Waiting with Vigilance - Mark 13:32-37 The Way We Wait: A Call to Waiting with Vigilance - Mark 13:32-37 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-22/the-way-we-wait-a-call-to-waiting-with-vigilance-mark-1332-37 There are few topics that elicit as much interest, discussion and debate in Christians circles as the study of the end times. There are some who are very zealous about understanding and sharing their views on what the Bible says about the end of the age. At the same time there are many good and faithful Christians who aren’t as passionate about trying to understand all the ins and outs of end time theology. As we come to the conclusion of Mark 13 – a passage in which Jesus has a lot to say about things to come – there’s a question that should be asked and that’s relevant both for those who enjoy the study of things to come and for those who shy away from it. For all of us, we should want to know: How does God want us to respond to what He’s told us about things to come? What’s most important to Christ when it comes to our understanding of the end times? In Mark 13 we’ve seen that Jesus isn’t simply speaking prophetically, He’s also speaking pastorally. His primary aim is that His followers would be encouraged and equipped to live well as we wait for His return. There are few topics that elicit as much interest, discussion and debate in Christians circles as the study of the end times. There are some who are very zealous about understanding and sharing their views on what the Bible says about the end of the age. At the same time there are many good and faithful Christians who aren’t as passionate about trying to understand all the ins and outs of end time theology. As we come to the conclusion of Mark 13 – a passage in which Jesus has a lot to say about things to come – there’s a question that should be asked and that’s relevant both for those who enjoy the study of things to come and for those who shy away from it. For all of us, we should want to know: How does God want us to respond to what He’s told us about things to come? What’s most important to Christ when it comes to our understanding of the end times? In Mark 13 we’ve seen that Jesus isn’t simply speaking prophetically, He’s also speaking pastorally. His primary aim is that His followers would be encouraged and equipped to live well as we wait for His return. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-22/535/the-way-we-wait-a-call-to-waiting-with-vigilance-mark-1332-37 Sun, 22 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Coming of the Son of Man - Mark 13:24-31 The Coming of the Son of Man - Mark 13:24-31 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-15/the-coming-of-the-son-of-man-mark-1324-31 The Coming of the Son of Man - Mark 13:24-31 The Coming of the Son of Man - Mark 13:24-31 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-15/534/the-coming-of-the-son-of-man-mark-1324-31 Sun, 15 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Preparing for Things to Come, Part 2 - Mark 13:14-23 Preparing for Things to Come, Part 2 - Mark 13:14-23 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-08/preparing-for-things-to-come-part-2-mark-1314-23 Preparing for Things to Come, Part 2 - Mark 13:14-23 Preparing for Things to Come, Part 2 - Mark 13:14-23 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-08/533/preparing-for-things-to-come-part-2-mark-1314-23 Sun, 8 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Preparing for Things to Come - Mark 13:1-13 Preparing for Things to Come - Mark 13:1-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-01/preparing-for-things-to-come-mark-131-13 Preparing for Things to Come - Mark 13:1-13 Preparing for Things to Come - Mark 13:1-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-08-01/532/preparing-for-things-to-come-mark-131-13 Sun, 1 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Condemnation and Commendation: The Pride of Religion and a Call for Humble Service - Mark 12:38-44 Condemnation and Commendation: The Pride of Religion and a Call for Humble Service - Mark 12:38-44 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-25/condemnation-and-commendation-the-pride-of-religion-and-a-call-for-humble-service-mark-1238-44 Condemnation and Commendation: The Pride of Religion and a Call for Humble Service - Mark 12:38-44 Condemnation and Commendation: The Pride of Religion and a Call for Humble Service - Mark 12:38-44 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-25/531/condemnation-and-commendation-the-pride-of-religion-and-a-call-for-humble-service-mark-1238-44 Sun, 25 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0500 What it Love? What it Love? https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-18/what-it-love https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-18/530/what-it-love Sun, 18 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0500 That Christ May Be Known and Not Just Named - Revelation 2:1-7 That Christ May Be Known and Not Just Named - Revelation 2:1-7 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-11/that-christ-may-be-known-and-not-just-named-revelation-21-7 That Christ May Be Known and Not Just Named - Revelation 2:1-7 That Christ May Be Known and Not Just Named - Revelation 2:1-7 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-11/529/that-christ-may-be-known-and-not-just-named-revelation-21-7 Sun, 11 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Our Great Hope and Assurance: Christ our King and Priest - Psalm 110 Our Great Hope and Assurance: Christ our King and Priest - Psalm 110 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-04/our-great-hope-and-assurance-christ-our-king-and-priest-psalm-110 As Jesus taught in the Temple court just days before His crucifixion, He makes a subtle and yet undeniable announcement. With a crowd gathered round Jesus asks a question about Psalm 110 and before the discussion is over this is clear: Jesus is claiming Psalm 110 is about Him. Psalm 110 is a Psalm of David that describes a coming and victorious king. A king who will be exalted to a place of honor, who will be given sovereign authority and who will defeat all His enemies. And that’s not all: The Psalm also describes this king as a priest unlike any other. In Psalm 110 we learn of a great King-Priest and we know from the testimony of Jesus that it speaks of Him. As we consider the Psalm we should grow in hope and assurance. Hope because the King is on His throne and He will come in victory. And assurance because we have a priest through whom we can draw near to God As Jesus taught in the Temple court just days before His crucifixion, He makes a subtle and yet undeniable announcement. With a crowd gathered round Jesus asks a question about Psalm 110 and before the discussion is over this is clear: Jesus is claiming Psalm 110 is about Him. Psalm 110 is a Psalm of David that describes a coming and victorious king. A king who will be exalted to a place of honor, who will be given sovereign authority and who will defeat all His enemies. And that’s not all: The Psalm also describes this king as a priest unlike any other. In Psalm 110 we learn of a great King-Priest and we know from the testimony of Jesus that it speaks of Him. As we consider the Psalm we should grow in hope and assurance. Hope because the King is on His throne and He will come in victory. And assurance because we have a priest through whom we can draw near to God https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-07-04/528/our-great-hope-and-assurance-christ-our-king-and-priest-psalm-110 Sun, 4 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0500 A Question of Identity: Son of David or Lord of All? - Mark 12:35-37 A Question of Identity: Son of David or Lord of All? - Mark 12:35-37 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-27/a-question-of-identity-son-of-david-or-lord-of-all-mark-1235-37 As Jesus spent time in the Temple court just days before His death, He was repeatedly confronted by antagonistic religious leaders. Their questions were attempts to trap Him in His words, but one after another He turned the questions back on them. After their questions had run out Jesus took an opportunity to ask a question of His own. And while He could have used this chance to shame or embarrass them, instead He asks a question that points them to toward the truth. Their questions came from wicked hearts with wicked intentions, but His’ offered them the chance to see clearly. As we hear Jesus answer their questions we have the benefit of hearing and learning from His answers. Now as He asks a question we are wise to understand not only the question, but what He hoped to accomplish in asking the question. Jesus offers the religious leaders an opportunity to see Him rightly and to trust Him. Now we have the same opportunity As Jesus spent time in the Temple court just days before His death, He was repeatedly confronted by antagonistic religious leaders. Their questions were attempts to trap Him in His words, but one after another He turned the questions back on them. After their questions had run out Jesus took an opportunity to ask a question of His own. And while He could have used this chance to shame or embarrass them, instead He asks a question that points them to toward the truth. Their questions came from wicked hearts with wicked intentions, but His’ offered them the chance to see clearly. As we hear Jesus answer their questions we have the benefit of hearing and learning from His answers. Now as He asks a question we are wise to understand not only the question, but what He hoped to accomplish in asking the question. Jesus offers the religious leaders an opportunity to see Him rightly and to trust Him. Now we have the same opportunity https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-27/527/a-question-of-identity-son-of-david-or-lord-of-all-mark-1235-37 Sun, 27 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Great Commandment - Mark 12:28-34 The Great Commandment - Mark 12:28-34 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-20/the-great-commandment-mark-1228-34 If you could ask one question of God and receive an answer, what would you ask? Of course we all have things we want to know, things we’re curious about, but if you could only ask one question, what would it be? As we have worked our way through the last few sections of Mark we have heard Jesus being asked all sorts of questions. And while most of them aren’t honest questions asked out of sincere hearts, we have the benefit of hearing how Jesus answers them. And in Mark 12:28-34 a really significant question is asked and answered: Of all the commandments of the Law of God, which one is the greatest? While this conversation between Jesus and a scribe is one that most of us have been familiar with for a long time, we shouldn’t rush past it or take it for granted. As Jesus tells us what is most important we should be quick to listen and careful to live out what He says. If you could ask one question of God and receive an answer, what would you ask? Of course we all have things we want to know, things we’re curious about, but if you could only ask one question, what would it be? As we have worked our way through the last few sections of Mark we have heard Jesus being asked all sorts of questions. And while most of them aren’t honest questions asked out of sincere hearts, we have the benefit of hearing how Jesus answers them. And in Mark 12:28-34 a really significant question is asked and answered: Of all the commandments of the Law of God, which one is the greatest? While this conversation between Jesus and a scribe is one that most of us have been familiar with for a long time, we shouldn’t rush past it or take it for granted. As Jesus tells us what is most important we should be quick to listen and careful to live out what He says. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-20/526/the-great-commandment-mark-1228-34 Sun, 20 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0500 A Series of Errors: A Rejection of Resurrection and the Root of the Problem - Mark 12:18-27 A Series of Errors: A Rejection of Resurrection and the Root of the Problem - Mark 12:18-27 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-13/a-series-of-errors-a-rejection-of-resurrection-and-the-root-of-the-problem-mark-1218-27 Our belief in a future resurrection of the dead is a central and vital part of our faith. It’s a belief that we affirm and one that cannot be left behind without completely changing the nature of what we believe (1 Cor. 15). R.C. Sproul describes it this way: The doctrine of the resurrection states that the souls of men live on after death, and that when God brings history to a close, He will raise the bodies of all human beings from the grave and reunite them to their souls, with the righteous then being welcomed to eternal life with God and the unrighteous being sent away into eternal torment. While this is a central tenet of our faith, there have been those throughout history who have believed in God and yet rejected the doctrine of a future resurrection. One such group was the Sadducees, who were prominent in the time of Jesus. In Mark 12:18-27 Jesus is confronted by the Sadducees as they try to trap Him and give the crowds reason to turn against Him. In this conversation Jesus both proves the resurrection and points out the underlying errors that led the Sadducees to this most significant error. Our belief in a future resurrection of the dead is a central and vital part of our faith. It’s a belief that we affirm and one that cannot be left behind without completely changing the nature of what we believe (1 Cor. 15). R.C. Sproul describes it this way: The doctrine of the resurrection states that the souls of men live on after death, and that when God brings history to a close, He will raise the bodies of all human beings from the grave and reunite them to their souls, with the righteous then being welcomed to eternal life with God and the unrighteous being sent away into eternal torment. While this is a central tenet of our faith, there have been those throughout history who have believed in God and yet rejected the doctrine of a future resurrection. One such group was the Sadducees, who were prominent in the time of Jesus. In Mark 12:18-27 Jesus is confronted by the Sadducees as they try to trap Him and give the crowds reason to turn against Him. In this conversation Jesus both proves the resurrection and points out the underlying errors that led the Sadducees to this most significant error. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-13/525/a-series-of-errors-a-rejection-of-resurrection-and-the-root-of-the-problem-mark-1218-27 Sun, 13 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Living as Dual Citizens - To Whom Do We Submit? Mark 12:13-17 Living as Dual Citizens - To Whom Do We Submit? Mark 12:13-17 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-06/living-as-dual-citizens-to-whom-do-we-submit-mark-1213-17 How do we live as the people of God in a world that doesn’t honor Him? This is a question that has been asked by every generation of God’s people throughout history. As citizens of the kingdom of God who also live as citizens of this world there is often a tension as the priorities and agendas of the world push against the priorities and the agenda of God. As Christians living in the United States we have been fortunate. In large part it has been relatively easy to live both as faithful citizens of God’s kingdom and as faithful citizens of our community and country. But, of course we know that our culture is changing. What’s culturally acceptable and unacceptable is changing. Increasingly, our calling is more difficult. In Mark 12:13-17 Jesus is confronted by religious and political leaders who are seeking to get rid of Him. As He answers their questions we get an important teaching on how we should relate to the world around us. How do we live as the people of God in a world that doesn’t honor Him? This is a question that has been asked by every generation of God’s people throughout history. As citizens of the kingdom of God who also live as citizens of this world there is often a tension as the priorities and agendas of the world push against the priorities and the agenda of God. As Christians living in the United States we have been fortunate. In large part it has been relatively easy to live both as faithful citizens of God’s kingdom and as faithful citizens of our community and country. But, of course we know that our culture is changing. What’s culturally acceptable and unacceptable is changing. Increasingly, our calling is more difficult. In Mark 12:13-17 Jesus is confronted by religious and political leaders who are seeking to get rid of Him. As He answers their questions we get an important teaching on how we should relate to the world around us. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-06-06/524/living-as-dual-citizens-to-whom-do-we-submit-mark-1213-17 Sun, 6 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Standing in Awe of the God of the Vineyard - Mark 12:1-12 Standing in Awe of the God of the Vineyard - Mark 12:1-12 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-05-30/standing-in-awe-of-the-god-of-the-vineyard-mark-121-12 With just a few days remaining before He would give His life on the cross, Jesus is in the Temple surrounded by Jewish leaders. These are men who are opposed to Jesus and who want to see Him silenced. They confront Jesus and try to trap Him with their questions, but He turns the tables on them. In Mark 11:27-33 Jesus puts those who oppose Him on their heels, and then He speaks prophetically. In 12:1-12 Jesus offers a parable that speaks both of the past and of the future. The parable recounts the history of the nation of Israel and then prophesies of the judgment that is coming against them. While the main point of this parable is to announce judgment and foretell the work of Christ, it’s also a great reminder of the character of God. As Jesus recounts the ways God has dealt with Israel in the past and the way He will act in the future we get a clear view of God’s patience, love, justice and grace. With just a few days remaining before He would give His life on the cross, Jesus is in the Temple surrounded by Jewish leaders. These are men who are opposed to Jesus and who want to see Him silenced. They confront Jesus and try to trap Him with their questions, but He turns the tables on them. In Mark 11:27-33 Jesus puts those who oppose Him on their heels, and then He speaks prophetically. In 12:1-12 Jesus offers a parable that speaks both of the past and of the future. The parable recounts the history of the nation of Israel and then prophesies of the judgment that is coming against them. While the main point of this parable is to announce judgment and foretell the work of Christ, it’s also a great reminder of the character of God. As Jesus recounts the ways God has dealt with Israel in the past and the way He will act in the future we get a clear view of God’s patience, love, justice and grace. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-05-30/523/standing-in-awe-of-the-god-of-the-vineyard-mark-121-12 Sun, 30 May 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Authority of Jesus - Mark 11:27-33 The Authority of Jesus - Mark 11:27-33 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-05-09/the-authority-of-jesus-mark-1127-33 As we’ve worked through the Gospel of Mark there is a theme that has shown up over and over. From the very beginning of the ministry of Jesus there have been two groups of people: Those who recognize Jesus as One with authority and who submit to Him and those who reject His authority and seek to silence Him. Of course the question of the authority of Jesus is a question that each of us must consider. Is Jesus who He claimed to be and should we submit to Him? In Mark 11:27-33 Jesus is confronted by a group of men who have rejected Him and His authority and who come in an attempt to discredit Him. While on the surface their questions may seem genuine, their motives aren’t pure. Of course Jesus knows their hearts and in the end He proves His own authority and exposes their inconsistencies and lack of sincerity. As we consider this interaction between Jesus and the Jewish leaders we shouldn’t miss the opportunity to consider our own hearts toward the authority of Jesus. How willingly and how fully do we submit to Him? Are there ways in which we try and ignore His authority or attempt to rationalize why we shouldn’t have to submit to Him? If we truly believe that Jesus is who He says He is then there shouldn’t be any part of our lives that we withhold As we’ve worked through the Gospel of Mark there is a theme that has shown up over and over. From the very beginning of the ministry of Jesus there have been two groups of people: Those who recognize Jesus as One with authority and who submit to Him and those who reject His authority and seek to silence Him. Of course the question of the authority of Jesus is a question that each of us must consider. Is Jesus who He claimed to be and should we submit to Him? In Mark 11:27-33 Jesus is confronted by a group of men who have rejected Him and His authority and who come in an attempt to discredit Him. While on the surface their questions may seem genuine, their motives aren’t pure. Of course Jesus knows their hearts and in the end He proves His own authority and exposes their inconsistencies and lack of sincerity. As we consider this interaction between Jesus and the Jewish leaders we shouldn’t miss the opportunity to consider our own hearts toward the authority of Jesus. How willingly and how fully do we submit to Him? Are there ways in which we try and ignore His authority or attempt to rationalize why we shouldn’t have to submit to Him? If we truly believe that Jesus is who He says He is then there shouldn’t be any part of our lives that we withhold https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-05-09/522/the-authority-of-jesus-mark-1127-33 Sun, 9 May 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Have Faith in God - Mark 11:22-25 Have Faith in God - Mark 11:22-25 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-05-02/have-faith-in-god-mark-1122-25 As followers of Jesus, and as a church we share common goals. We desire to live lives that are pleasing to God. We desire to have marriages and families that reflect Christ. As a church we want to see God work in and through us. We long to see people saved and to see the church strengthened. And yet there is a question we must consider: Who, or what are we trusting in for these things? The truth is that while we desire good things, we may be guilty of misplaced trust. While we confess that only God can do these things in and through us, we are often guilty of relying on our own power and ability. Or perhaps, we recognize our need for help, and yet we doubt whether or not God is able to bring about the changes that are needed in our situations. And our doubt is shown in our slowness to go to Him in prayer. Or perhaps we go to Him, all the while unconvinced that He will respond. In Mark 11:22-25 Jesus teaches His disciples what is necessary in order to experience the power of God. The call of Jesus is simple: Have faith in God. Believe that He can do the impossible and go to Him in faith. As followers of Jesus, and as a church we share common goals. We desire to live lives that are pleasing to God. We desire to have marriages and families that reflect Christ. As a church we want to see God work in and through us. We long to see people saved and to see the church strengthened. And yet there is a question we must consider: Who, or what are we trusting in for these things? The truth is that while we desire good things, we may be guilty of misplaced trust. While we confess that only God can do these things in and through us, we are often guilty of relying on our own power and ability. Or perhaps, we recognize our need for help, and yet we doubt whether or not God is able to bring about the changes that are needed in our situations. And our doubt is shown in our slowness to go to Him in prayer. Or perhaps we go to Him, all the while unconvinced that He will respond. In Mark 11:22-25 Jesus teaches His disciples what is necessary in order to experience the power of God. The call of Jesus is simple: Have faith in God. Believe that He can do the impossible and go to Him in faith. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-05-02/521/have-faith-in-god-mark-1122-25 Sun, 2 May 2021 11:30:00 -0500 A Fruitless Tree and Misused Temple - Mark 11:12-21 A Fruitless Tree and Misused Temple - Mark 11:12-21 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-25/a-fruitless-tree-and-misused-temple-mark-1112-21 On a Sunday Jesus arrived in Jerusalem to a warm welcome. It’s fair to assume His disciples went to bed that night excited by the events of the day. But Monday would be different. On Monday Jesus enters Jerusalem, and returns to the Temple with words and actions of warning. The reality is that many people, even some Christians, struggle to understand the account of Jesus entering the Temple and driving people out. Did He let His temper get the best of Him? How do we reconcile the compassionate teacher who welcomed children in Mark 10 with the table flipping and curse-pronouncing figure of Mark 11? The reality is that there is no tension between the two and we should be thankful for what is revealed in each. This account is a reminder of God’s hatred of hypocrisy and also of the blessed hope that we aren’t saved based on our outward appearance of religion. Jesus came to open the door for all people, Jew and Gentile, to be saved through Him and Him alone. On a Sunday Jesus arrived in Jerusalem to a warm welcome. It’s fair to assume His disciples went to bed that night excited by the events of the day. But Monday would be different. On Monday Jesus enters Jerusalem, and returns to the Temple with words and actions of warning. The reality is that many people, even some Christians, struggle to understand the account of Jesus entering the Temple and driving people out. Did He let His temper get the best of Him? How do we reconcile the compassionate teacher who welcomed children in Mark 10 with the table flipping and curse-pronouncing figure of Mark 11? The reality is that there is no tension between the two and we should be thankful for what is revealed in each. This account is a reminder of God’s hatred of hypocrisy and also of the blessed hope that we aren’t saved based on our outward appearance of religion. Jesus came to open the door for all people, Jew and Gentile, to be saved through Him and Him alone. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-25/520/a-fruitless-tree-and-misused-temple-mark-1112-21 Sun, 25 Apr 2021 11:30:00 -0500 A Day of Shadows and Glimpses - Mark 11:1-11 A Day of Shadows and Glimpses - Mark 11:1-11 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-18/a-day-of-shadows-and-glimpses-mark-111-11 On the Sunday before the Friday when Jesus would be crucified He entered Jerusalem on a donkey with crowds gathered to welcome Him. On that day there are shadows and glimpses of who Jesus truly is and many seem to see Him as worthy of honor. But while they may have recognized Jesus as a reason for hope, or perhaps even as the Promised One of God, we can say with certainty that they underestimated His greatness. These are a people who have been waiting and watching for generations for the King who God had promised On the Sunday before the Friday when Jesus would be crucified He entered Jerusalem on a donkey with crowds gathered to welcome Him. On that day there are shadows and glimpses of who Jesus truly is and many seem to see Him as worthy of honor. But while they may have recognized Jesus as a reason for hope, or perhaps even as the Promised One of God, we can say with certainty that they underestimated His greatness. These are a people who have been waiting and watching for generations for the King who God had promised https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-18/519/a-day-of-shadows-and-glimpses-mark-111-11 Sun, 18 Apr 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Heart of Jesus Toward Those of Humble Faith - Mark 10:46-52 The Heart of Jesus Toward Those of Humble Faith - Mark 10:46-52 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-11/the-heart-of-jesus-toward-those-of-humble-faith-mark-1046-52 The celebration of Easter is often a peak for us as followers of Jesus. We come together to remember and celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf and to confess our trust in His finished work. But now, a week later, the reality is that many of us have been reminded of the temptations and difficulties of everyday life, and if we aren’t careful we can all to quickly forget the power, love and mercy of Christ that is available to us. This morning as we return to the Gospel of Mark we come to a reminder of the heart of Christ toward all those who come to Him in humble faith. In Mark 10:46-52 we see the power of Jesus and also His compassion toward those who are poor and hurting. This is our hope: that we have a God who cares about the difficulties of our lives and who responds to all those who come to Him in faith. The celebration of Easter is often a peak for us as followers of Jesus. We come together to remember and celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf and to confess our trust in His finished work. But now, a week later, the reality is that many of us have been reminded of the temptations and difficulties of everyday life, and if we aren’t careful we can all to quickly forget the power, love and mercy of Christ that is available to us. This morning as we return to the Gospel of Mark we come to a reminder of the heart of Christ toward all those who come to Him in humble faith. In Mark 10:46-52 we see the power of Jesus and also His compassion toward those who are poor and hurting. This is our hope: that we have a God who cares about the difficulties of our lives and who responds to all those who come to Him in faith. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-11/518/the-heart-of-jesus-toward-those-of-humble-faith-mark-1046-52 Sun, 11 Apr 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Hope of the Resurrection - Easter 2021 The Hope of the Resurrection - Easter 2021 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-04/the-hope-of-the-resurrection-easter-2021 Easter Sunday 2021 - The Hope of the Resurrection Easter Sunday 2021 - The Hope of the Resurrection https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-04-04/517/the-hope-of-the-resurrection-easter-2021 Sun, 4 Apr 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Another Message on the Greatness of Humility - Mark 10:35-45 Another Message on the Greatness of Humility - Mark 10:35-45 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-28/another-message-on-the-greatness-of-humility-mark-1035-45 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-28/516/another-message-on-the-greatness-of-humility-mark-1035-45 Sun, 28 Mar 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Way of Suffering, The Way of Hope - Mark 10:32-34 The Way of Suffering, The Way of Hope - Mark 10:32-34 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-21/the-way-of-suffering-the-way-of-hope-mark-10:32-34 In Hebrews 12:1 the writer of Hebrews describes the Christian life as a race. We are in a race and in order to run well we must lay aside anything and everything that could weigh us down. It’s a call to consider the things that could distract us or pull us off course in the race toward holiness. After the command of verse 1 we have this encouragement: We are to set our sights, to fix our eyes on the One who has gone before us and the One who makes our faith possible, our Lord Jesus Christ. The two parts of Hebrews 12:1-2 mirror well the themes of Mark 8-10. In these chapters Jesus is regularly reminding His disciples of the cost of discipleship; it’s a call to sacrifice and suffering. And yet in these chapters Jesus also takes three opportunities to announce or prophesy of His own suffering and death (Mark 8:31; 9:30-32; 10:32-34). As we come to this third ‘prediction passage’ we have the reminder that Jesus has not called us to anything He has not already done Himself. He came and gave Himself for us, even to the point of death. Now the call is for us to follow His example: to give ourselves to Him, no matter the cost. In Hebrews 12:1 the writer of Hebrews describes the Christian life as a race. We are in a race and in order to run well we must lay aside anything and everything that could weigh us down. It’s a call to consider the things that could distract us or pull us off course in the race toward holiness. After the command of verse 1 we have this encouragement: We are to set our sights, to fix our eyes on the One who has gone before us and the One who makes our faith possible, our Lord Jesus Christ. The two parts of Hebrews 12:1-2 mirror well the themes of Mark 8-10. In these chapters Jesus is regularly reminding His disciples of the cost of discipleship; it’s a call to sacrifice and suffering. And yet in these chapters Jesus also takes three opportunities to announce or prophesy of His own suffering and death (Mark 8:31; 9:30-32; 10:32-34). As we come to this third ‘prediction passage’ we have the reminder that Jesus has not called us to anything He has not already done Himself. He came and gave Himself for us, even to the point of death. Now the call is for us to follow His example: to give ourselves to Him, no matter the cost. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-21/515/the-way-of-suffering-the-way-of-hope-mark-10:32-34 Sun, 21 Mar 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Gain of Giving Up Everything - Mark 10:28-31 The Gain of Giving Up Everything - Mark 10:28-31 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-14/the-gain-of-giving-up-everything-mark-10:28-31 In Mark 10:17-27 we have the story of a man who walked away from Jesus because the cost of following Him seemed too high. The call of Jesus is the same for every person: we are called to give our lives to Him fully and completely. For this man, however, the cost seemed too high and he walked away. The reality is that call of Jesus is a high calling and for many the choice to follow will require sacrifice. The disciples had given up much to follow Jesus. And yet after the rich young ruler walks away Jesus assures them that all who suffer loss in following Him will receive back far more than they lose. In Mark 10:17-27 we have the story of a man who walked away from Jesus because the cost of following Him seemed too high. The call of Jesus is the same for every person: we are called to give our lives to Him fully and completely. For this man, however, the cost seemed too high and he walked away. The reality is that call of Jesus is a high calling and for many the choice to follow will require sacrifice. The disciples had given up much to follow Jesus. And yet after the rich young ruler walks away Jesus assures them that all who suffer loss in following Him will receive back far more than they lose. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-14/514/the-gain-of-giving-up-everything-mark-10:28-31 Sun, 14 Mar 2021 11:30:00 -0600 The Right Question, The Wrong Response - Mark 10:17-27 The Right Question, The Wrong Response - Mark 10:17-27 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-07/the-right-question-the-wrong-response-mark-10:17-27 Have you ever been frustrated by something you read in the Bible? Maybe you’ve had this experience, where what you read in the Bible stands over against what you want to be true. This is far too common. We can be tempted to come to the Bible in order to find affirmation for our way of living or our way of thinking. And then if the two don’t match up we realize we have a decision to make: Will we believe and submit to the Word of God? Or will we reject it and choose to live by our own standards? In Mark 10 we have a story of a man who has to make this kind of decision. He asks a question of Jesus and he receives an answer He doesn’t like, and he has to make a choice. He asks the right question, but sadly He chooses the wrong response to the answer he receives. Have you ever been frustrated by something you read in the Bible? Maybe you’ve had this experience, where what you read in the Bible stands over against what you want to be true. This is far too common. We can be tempted to come to the Bible in order to find affirmation for our way of living or our way of thinking. And then if the two don’t match up we realize we have a decision to make: Will we believe and submit to the Word of God? Or will we reject it and choose to live by our own standards? In Mark 10 we have a story of a man who has to make this kind of decision. He asks a question of Jesus and he receives an answer He doesn’t like, and he has to make a choice. He asks the right question, but sadly He chooses the wrong response to the answer he receives. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-03-07/513/the-right-question-the-wrong-response-mark-10:17-27 Sun, 7 Mar 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Those Whom Jesus Welcomes - Mark 10:13-16 Those Whom Jesus Welcomes - Mark 10:13-16 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-28/those-whom-jesus-welcomes-mark-10:13-16 Matthew, Mark and Luke each share this simple story of Jesus welcoming and blessing children after the disciples had tried to send them away. Mark’s account is the longest, four verses in total. It’s a simple story but it conveys at least two messages that are vitally important. As Jesus welcomes the children He offers an important example for a culture that didn’t place much value on children. And then He uses the opportunity to convey a significant truth about the way of salvation. Matthew, Mark and Luke each share this simple story of Jesus welcoming and blessing children after the disciples had tried to send them away. Mark’s account is the longest, four verses in total. It’s a simple story but it conveys at least two messages that are vitally important. As Jesus welcomes the children He offers an important example for a culture that didn’t place much value on children. And then He uses the opportunity to convey a significant truth about the way of salvation. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-28/512/those-whom-jesus-welcomes-mark-10:13-16 Sun, 28 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Jesus on Divorce and God's Plan for Marriage - Mark 10:1-12 Jesus on Divorce and God's Plan for Marriage - Mark 10:1-12 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-21/jesus-on-divorce-and-gods-plan-for-marriage-mark-10:1-12 What does the Bible say about marriage, divorce and remarriage? In a world where marriage is often avoided or minimized and divorce is often normalized and even praised it is important that we consider how God would have us think about these significant matters. In Mark 10 we come to a passage where Jesus speaks both to the issue of divorce and also of God’s good design and plan for marriage. As we come to this passage we must acknowledge that for many people this topic is very personal. Almost everyone has been impacted in some way, directly or indirectly by divorce. For some the topic elicits reminders of the some of the hardest moments of life. Thankfully, as Christians we know that Jesus came to bring grace and forgiveness for all who have sinned and hope and restoration for all who have been sinned against. What does the Bible say about marriage, divorce and remarriage? In a world where marriage is often avoided or minimized and divorce is often normalized and even praised it is important that we consider how God would have us think about these significant matters. In Mark 10 we come to a passage where Jesus speaks both to the issue of divorce and also of God’s good design and plan for marriage. As we come to this passage we must acknowledge that for many people this topic is very personal. Almost everyone has been impacted in some way, directly or indirectly by divorce. For some the topic elicits reminders of the some of the hardest moments of life. Thankfully, as Christians we know that Jesus came to bring grace and forgiveness for all who have sinned and hope and restoration for all who have been sinned against. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-21/511/jesus-on-divorce-and-gods-plan-for-marriage-mark-10:1-12 Sun, 21 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0600 The Great Love of God - Romans 5:5-8 The Great Love of God - Romans 5:5-8 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-14/the-great-love-of-god-romans-5:5-8 If you grew up in a Christian home then one of the first songs you ever learned was probably Jesus Loves Me. The love of God is something that is referenced a lot. We sing about it. We read about it in the Scriptures. But even though we refer to the love of God a lot, it’s still something that many Christians misunderstand, or even doubt. For some, there is a struggle to believe that God does in fact really love them personally. Sure, God is love, but we know our weaknesses and deep down there may be doubts about the fullness of God’s love for us. It’s from this that we can be tempted to try and earn God’s love or to think that we may somehow lose it. On the other hand there are those who herald God’s love all the while believing that somehow they’ve earned it. That God continues to love us because of our faithfulness or good works. Both of these errors lead to the belief that the love of God isn’t certain If you grew up in a Christian home then one of the first songs you ever learned was probably Jesus Loves Me. The love of God is something that is referenced a lot. We sing about it. We read about it in the Scriptures. But even though we refer to the love of God a lot, it’s still something that many Christians misunderstand, or even doubt. For some, there is a struggle to believe that God does in fact really love them personally. Sure, God is love, but we know our weaknesses and deep down there may be doubts about the fullness of God’s love for us. It’s from this that we can be tempted to try and earn God’s love or to think that we may somehow lose it. On the other hand there are those who herald God’s love all the while believing that somehow they’ve earned it. That God continues to love us because of our faithfulness or good works. Both of these errors lead to the belief that the love of God isn’t certain https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-14/510/the-great-love-of-god-romans-5:5-8 Sun, 14 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Why the Lord's Supper? - 1 Corinthians 10:14-17, 11:23-30 Why the Lord's Supper? - 1 Corinthians 10:14-17, 11:23-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-07/why-the-lords-supper-1-corinthians-10:14-17-11:23-30 Once a month we take time as a church to share of the Lord’s Supper. We pray, we read Scripture, we eat of the bread and we drink of the cup. This is an important practice, and we believe that our regular sharing of the Table honors God. But we must also be on guard. Anytime we do something over and over there is the potential of simply following a routine and forgetting the significance of what we are doing. Perhaps this temptation to go through the motions is something you are unfamiliar with (praise God!), but even still it’s important for us to take time periodically to consider the reason for this gift. What does God want for us as we share the Lord’s Supper? What should we be thinking about and what benefits should we expect to receive? In 1 Corinthians 10 and 11 Paul devotes time to helping the Corinthian church think righty about the Lord’s Supper. While there is much to be learned from these chapters, this sermon will focus in on five things that we should keep in mind as we observe the Lord’s Supper. Once a month we take time as a church to share of the Lord’s Supper. We pray, we read Scripture, we eat of the bread and we drink of the cup. This is an important practice, and we believe that our regular sharing of the Table honors God. But we must also be on guard. Anytime we do something over and over there is the potential of simply following a routine and forgetting the significance of what we are doing. Perhaps this temptation to go through the motions is something you are unfamiliar with (praise God!), but even still it’s important for us to take time periodically to consider the reason for this gift. What does God want for us as we share the Lord’s Supper? What should we be thinking about and what benefits should we expect to receive? In 1 Corinthians 10 and 11 Paul devotes time to helping the Corinthian church think righty about the Lord’s Supper. While there is much to be learned from these chapters, this sermon will focus in on five things that we should keep in mind as we observe the Lord’s Supper. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-02-07/509/why-the-lords-supper-1-corinthians-10:14-17-11:23-30 Sun, 7 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0600 Warning: The Stakes Are High - Mark 9:42-45 Warning: The Stakes Are High - Mark 9:42-45 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-31/warning:-the-stakes-are-high-mark-9:42-45 As the time of His crucifixion draws closer Jesus invests more and more time in helping His disciples know what it means to be true followers of His. In particular He helps them to understand the high cost and call of discipleship. In the preceding paragraphs we have seen once again the shortcomings of the disciples, especially their pride. And while they are slow to learn Jesus continues to teach them. As we come to Mark 9:42-50 we come to a section marked by warning. Jesus is offering warnings that drive home what is really at stake when it comes to sin and the consequences of sin. To follow Jesus is a high calling and a costly calling, but for those who reject Him and remain in their sin the cost is much higher. As the time of His crucifixion draws closer Jesus invests more and more time in helping His disciples know what it means to be true followers of His. In particular He helps them to understand the high cost and call of discipleship. In the preceding paragraphs we have seen once again the shortcomings of the disciples, especially their pride. And while they are slow to learn Jesus continues to teach them. As we come to Mark 9:42-50 we come to a section marked by warning. Jesus is offering warnings that drive home what is really at stake when it comes to sin and the consequences of sin. To follow Jesus is a high calling and a costly calling, but for those who reject Him and remain in their sin the cost is much higher. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-31/508/warning:-the-stakes-are-high-mark-9:42-45 Sun, 31 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0600 A Call to Humility and Christian Unity - Mark 9:38-41 A Call to Humility and Christian Unity - Mark 9:38-41 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-24/a-call-to-humility-and-christian-unity-mark-9:38-41 In the church it’s not uncommon to find two kinds of people: those who are passionate about unity and those who are passionate about truth. To be clear, these do not have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, the call of the Scriptures is to love and pursue both unity and the truth. But often we tend to be pulled to one side or the other. We may love and value unity and pursue it as the highest good. Or we may love and value truth in a way that impacts our ability to live in unity with other followers of Jesus. As we come to Mark 9:38-41 we find Jesus helping His disciples recognize the danger of exclusivity over unity. No doubt driven in part by pride, the disciples are quick to protect the name of Jesus and to stand against anyone who they perceive as an unqualified disciple. Yet in their zeal they admonish man who is a sincere believer in Jesus and who is doing good works in His name. In this passage we find a warning for those are zealous about truth and yet whose zeal may lead to unnecessary separation. In the church it’s not uncommon to find two kinds of people: those who are passionate about unity and those who are passionate about truth. To be clear, these do not have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, the call of the Scriptures is to love and pursue both unity and the truth. But often we tend to be pulled to one side or the other. We may love and value unity and pursue it as the highest good. Or we may love and value truth in a way that impacts our ability to live in unity with other followers of Jesus. As we come to Mark 9:38-41 we find Jesus helping His disciples recognize the danger of exclusivity over unity. No doubt driven in part by pride, the disciples are quick to protect the name of Jesus and to stand against anyone who they perceive as an unqualified disciple. Yet in their zeal they admonish man who is a sincere believer in Jesus and who is doing good works in His name. In this passage we find a warning for those are zealous about truth and yet whose zeal may lead to unnecessary separation. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-24/507/a-call-to-humility-and-christian-unity-mark-9:38-41 Sun, 24 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0600 The Greatness of Humility - Mark 9:30-37 The Greatness of Humility - Mark 9:30-37 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-17/the-greatness-of-humility-mark-9:30-37 It has been said that Jesus came proclaiming an upside-down kingdom. It’s a catchy way of saying that so much of what Jesus said and taught turns our way of thinking on its’ head. He said things like, if you want to live, you must die; and if you want to save your life, you must lose it. Our natural way of thinking is to hate our enemies and to look for opportunities for revenge, but Jesus said Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. The ways of Jesus are counter-intuitive and counter-cultural. As we come to Mark 9 we find Jesus expressing yet another paradoxical way of thinking. He says that the way to greatness is the way of service. And if we want to be great, we need to be the greatest servants. And of course this isn’t simply something Jesus says, this is the way He lived. The life and the death of Jesus are the ultimate demonstrations of the greatness of humility. It has been said that Jesus came proclaiming an upside-down kingdom. It’s a catchy way of saying that so much of what Jesus said and taught turns our way of thinking on its’ head. He said things like, if you want to live, you must die; and if you want to save your life, you must lose it. Our natural way of thinking is to hate our enemies and to look for opportunities for revenge, but Jesus said Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. The ways of Jesus are counter-intuitive and counter-cultural. As we come to Mark 9 we find Jesus expressing yet another paradoxical way of thinking. He says that the way to greatness is the way of service. And if we want to be great, we need to be the greatest servants. And of course this isn’t simply something Jesus says, this is the way He lived. The life and the death of Jesus are the ultimate demonstrations of the greatness of humility. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-17/506/the-greatness-of-humility-mark-9:30-37 Sun, 17 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0600 I Believe, Help My Unbelief - Mark 9:14-29 I Believe, Help My Unbelief - Mark 9:14-29 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-10/i-believe-help-my-unbelief-mark-9:14-29 We probably all know what it feels like to experience a time of spiritual renewal. There are times and seasons when we seem to see God more clearly and sense His presence more fully. While those times and seasons are sweet, it’s also true that there are times for most of us when we struggle to take God at His Word and to trust His plan for our lives. As we return to Mark 9 we see two passages that seem to mirror these divergent experiences. In vv. 2-13 Jesus and three of His disciples are on a mountain where Jesus is transfigured and God speaks from Heaven. It’s an incredible scene that reminds us of who Jesus is and that He can be trusted. But as we pick up in verse 14 the setting changes and we are reminded of how fragile our faith can be. As Jesus, Peter, James and John return to the rest of the disciples they come face to face with the realities of life in a fallen world and with the often-imperfect faith of followers of Jesus. As we consider this account of a demon possessed boy, a desperate father and imperfect disciples we are reminded of four important truths about the life of faith. We probably all know what it feels like to experience a time of spiritual renewal. There are times and seasons when we seem to see God more clearly and sense His presence more fully. While those times and seasons are sweet, it’s also true that there are times for most of us when we struggle to take God at His Word and to trust His plan for our lives. As we return to Mark 9 we see two passages that seem to mirror these divergent experiences. In vv. 2-13 Jesus and three of His disciples are on a mountain where Jesus is transfigured and God speaks from Heaven. It’s an incredible scene that reminds us of who Jesus is and that He can be trusted. But as we pick up in verse 14 the setting changes and we are reminded of how fragile our faith can be. As Jesus, Peter, James and John return to the rest of the disciples they come face to face with the realities of life in a fallen world and with the often-imperfect faith of followers of Jesus. As we consider this account of a demon possessed boy, a desperate father and imperfect disciples we are reminded of four important truths about the life of faith. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-10/505/i-believe-help-my-unbelief-mark-9:14-29 Sun, 10 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0600 The Transfiguration of Christ - Seeing Jesus For Who He Is - Mark 9:2-13 The Transfiguration of Christ - Seeing Jesus For Who He Is - Mark 9:2-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-03/the-transfiguration-of-christ-seeing-jesus-for-who-he-is-mark-9:2-13 As we’ve worked our way through the Gospel of Mark we have followed a group of men who are followers of Jesus, but who often struggle with doubts and fears and questions. The disciples were the closest people on earth to Jesus and yet their story is often one of clumsy faith. As followers of Jesus ourselves many of us can relate to the disciples’ struggles. We are often forgetful of who Jesus really is and of how much we can trust Him. One of the benefits of studying the Gospel of Mark is having the chance to see how Jesus continues to reveal Himself to the disciples and to learn about Him in the process. In Mark 9 we are have the privilege of looking and listening in as Jesus reveals Himself to three of His disciples in magnificent way. As we’ve worked our way through the Gospel of Mark we have followed a group of men who are followers of Jesus, but who often struggle with doubts and fears and questions. The disciples were the closest people on earth to Jesus and yet their story is often one of clumsy faith. As followers of Jesus ourselves many of us can relate to the disciples’ struggles. We are often forgetful of who Jesus really is and of how much we can trust Him. One of the benefits of studying the Gospel of Mark is having the chance to see how Jesus continues to reveal Himself to the disciples and to learn about Him in the process. In Mark 9 we are have the privilege of looking and listening in as Jesus reveals Himself to three of His disciples in magnificent way. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2021-01-03/504/the-transfiguration-of-christ-seeing-jesus-for-who-he-is-mark-9:2-13 Sun, 3 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0600 A Prayer for the New Year - To the God Who is Able - Ephesians 3:14-21 A Prayer for the New Year - To the God Who is Able - Ephesians 3:14-21 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-27/a-prayer-for-the-new-year-to-the-god-who-is-able-ephesians-3:14-21 As we close out 2020 and look toward the coming year we should be more aware than ever that we don’t know what the future holds. We didn’t know all that we would experience this year and we don’t know what lies ahead. With that in mind, how should we pray for the year to come? While there are many good things we can pray for, there is one prayer that is always appropriate and always needful As we close out 2020 and look toward the coming year we should be more aware than ever that we don’t know what the future holds. We didn’t know all that we would experience this year and we don’t know what lies ahead. With that in mind, how should we pray for the year to come? While there are many good things we can pray for, there is one prayer that is always appropriate and always needful https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-27/503/a-prayer-for-the-new-year-to-the-god-who-is-able-ephesians-3:14-21 Sun, 27 Dec 2020 11:30:00 -0600 The Christmas Story - Eve of the Eve Service The Christmas Story - Eve of the Eve Service https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-23/the-christmas-story-eve-of-the-eve-service A recitation of the story of Christmas. Includes Luke 1:26-56; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-38; Matthew 2:1-12; Hebrews 1:1-3; Colossians 1:19; Philippians 2:6-7; Hebrews 2:17; John 1:14-18; John 3:16-17; 1 John 4:9-10; 1 Corinthians 8:9; Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 A recitation of the story of Christmas. Includes Luke 1:26-56; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-38; Matthew 2:1-12; Hebrews 1:1-3; Colossians 1:19; Philippians 2:6-7; Hebrews 2:17; John 1:14-18; John 3:16-17; 1 John 4:9-10; 1 Corinthians 8:9; Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-23/502/the-christmas-story-eve-of-the-eve-service Wed, 23 Dec 2020 11:30:00 -0600 Beholding Christ - The Birth of a King Beholding Christ - The Birth of a King https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-20/beholding-christ-the-birth-of-a-king In many ways Christmas is about looking back. We look back to Mary and Joseph, to Bethlehem and to the manger. But it’s also important for us to remember that what happened in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago is the reason we can have hope for today and for the days ahead. This is a truth that stands out as we consider that the baby who was born in the manger was in fact a promised King, a King who is coming again to rule and to reign. In many ways Christmas is about looking back. We look back to Mary and Joseph, to Bethlehem and to the manger. But it’s also important for us to remember that what happened in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago is the reason we can have hope for today and for the days ahead. This is a truth that stands out as we consider that the baby who was born in the manger was in fact a promised King, a King who is coming again to rule and to reign. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-20/501/beholding-christ-the-birth-of-a-king Sun, 20 Dec 2020 11:30:00 -0600 Beholding Christ - The Glory of God in Flesh Beholding Christ - The Glory of God in Flesh https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-13/beholding-christ-the-glory-of-god-in-flesh In a year when we are well acquainted with uncertainty we should be zealous for the opportunity to dwell on things that are certain. And in a year when things have often been bleak, we should be eager to dwell on what is beautiful. Each year as we move toward Christmas we set aside time to focus very specifically and very purposefully on the coming of Christ into the world. Our goal this year is the same. We desire to behold Christ and to allow our beholding of Him to remind us of our hope. In the three weeks leading up to Christmas we are ‘Beholding Christ’ by considering three different aspects of who He is. In a year when we are well acquainted with uncertainty we should be zealous for the opportunity to dwell on things that are certain. And in a year when things have often been bleak, we should be eager to dwell on what is beautiful. Each year as we move toward Christmas we set aside time to focus very specifically and very purposefully on the coming of Christ into the world. Our goal this year is the same. We desire to behold Christ and to allow our beholding of Him to remind us of our hope. In the three weeks leading up to Christmas we are ‘Beholding Christ’ by considering three different aspects of who He is. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-13/500/beholding-christ-the-glory-of-god-in-flesh Sun, 13 Dec 2020 11:30:00 -0600 Beholding Christ - The Revelation of the Glory of God Beholding Christ - The Revelation of the Glory of God https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-06/beholding-christ-the-revelation-of-the-glory-of-god In a year when we are well acquainted with uncertainty we should be zealous for the opportunity to dwell on things that are certain. And in a year when things have often been bleak, we should be eager to dwell on what is beautiful. Each year as we move toward Christmas we set aside time to focus very specifically and very purposefully on the coming of Christ into the world. Our goal this year is the same. We desire to behold Christ and to allow our beholding of Him to remind us of our hope. In the three weeks leading up to Christmas we will ‘Behold Christ’ by considering three different aspects of who He is. In a year when we are well acquainted with uncertainty we should be zealous for the opportunity to dwell on things that are certain. And in a year when things have often been bleak, we should be eager to dwell on what is beautiful. Each year as we move toward Christmas we set aside time to focus very specifically and very purposefully on the coming of Christ into the world. Our goal this year is the same. We desire to behold Christ and to allow our beholding of Him to remind us of our hope. In the three weeks leading up to Christmas we will ‘Behold Christ’ by considering three different aspects of who He is. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-12-06/499/beholding-christ-the-revelation-of-the-glory-of-god Sun, 6 Dec 2020 11:30:00 -0600 The Cost of Discipleship - Mark 8:34-9:1 The Cost of Discipleship - Mark 8:34-9:1 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-29/the-cost-of-discipleship-mark-8:34-9:1 What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? What should we expect as those who commit our lives to being His disciples? These are important questions, and we live in a time when there are many answers being offered. There are many who draw large crowds by promising that those who come to Jesus will find success and prosperity and even physical health. There are others who promise that if you come to Jesus you can find purpose and meaning and finally learn to love yourself. It is true that the Christian life is a life of meaning and purpose. And it’s also true that those who follow Christ and trust in Him are blessed What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? What should we expect as those who commit our lives to being His disciples? These are important questions, and we live in a time when there are many answers being offered. There are many who draw large crowds by promising that those who come to Jesus will find success and prosperity and even physical health. There are others who promise that if you come to Jesus you can find purpose and meaning and finally learn to love yourself. It is true that the Christian life is a life of meaning and purpose. And it’s also true that those who follow Christ and trust in Him are blessed https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-29/498/the-cost-of-discipleship-mark-8:34-9:1 Sun, 29 Nov 2020 11:30:00 -0600 A Suffering Messiah: When God’s Plan Doesn’t Make Sense - Mark 8:31-33 A Suffering Messiah: When God’s Plan Doesn’t Make Sense - Mark 8:31-33 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-22/a-suffering-messiah:-when-god-s-plan-doesn-t-make-sense-mark-8:31-33 In his commentary on the Gospels John Calvin wrote: Pride is so deeply rooted in the hearts of men that we often think wrong is done to us, and complain, if God does not comply with everything we consider to be right. This statement strikes at the heart of a common sinful temptation: we are so prone to believing that we know better than God. And while we may never say it out loud, our complaints, fears and anxieties reveal our hearts. We are prone to believing that God should operate on our terms. And when His plan doesn’t align with ours, we question His intentions. While this is a temptation that many struggle with today, we are not the first to be tempted in this way. We aren’t the first to question God’s ways and His plans. In Mark 8:31-33 we see this same lack of trust in the disciples In his commentary on the Gospels John Calvin wrote: Pride is so deeply rooted in the hearts of men that we often think wrong is done to us, and complain, if God does not comply with everything we consider to be right. This statement strikes at the heart of a common sinful temptation: we are so prone to believing that we know better than God. And while we may never say it out loud, our complaints, fears and anxieties reveal our hearts. We are prone to believing that God should operate on our terms. And when His plan doesn’t align with ours, we question His intentions. While this is a temptation that many struggle with today, we are not the first to be tempted in this way. We aren’t the first to question God’s ways and His plans. In Mark 8:31-33 we see this same lack of trust in the disciples https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-22/497/a-suffering-messiah:-when-god-s-plan-doesn-t-make-sense-mark-8:31-33 Sun, 22 Nov 2020 11:30:00 -0600 Who Do You Say That I Am? - Mark 8:27-30 Who Do You Say That I Am? - Mark 8:27-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-15/who-do-you-say-that-i-am-mark-8:27-30 So much of the Christian life is devoted, not to learning new things, but to remembering things that we’ve already come to know and believe. And as we come together week after week, much of our time is given to reminding one another what is true and encouraging one another to keep believing. Mark begins his Gospel by announcing that he is writing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In the very first verse He makes some bold claims: That Jesus is the promised, anointed One of God and that Jesus is in fact, God in flesh. Mark makes this declaration and then he writes the Gospel to show the evidence of this claim. It’s true: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Through the first eight chapters of the Gospel, Mark records miracle after miracle and proof after proof that Jesus is no ordinary man, but that He is in fact the Son of God. And while many come to Jesus and even say positive things about Him, no one up to this point has confessed Jesus as the Christ. In Mark 8:27-30 we come to a significant transition as Peter makes this great confession of faith: You are the Christ. So much of the Christian life is devoted, not to learning new things, but to remembering things that we’ve already come to know and believe. And as we come together week after week, much of our time is given to reminding one another what is true and encouraging one another to keep believing. Mark begins his Gospel by announcing that he is writing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In the very first verse He makes some bold claims: That Jesus is the promised, anointed One of God and that Jesus is in fact, God in flesh. Mark makes this declaration and then he writes the Gospel to show the evidence of this claim. It’s true: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Through the first eight chapters of the Gospel, Mark records miracle after miracle and proof after proof that Jesus is no ordinary man, but that He is in fact the Son of God. And while many come to Jesus and even say positive things about Him, no one up to this point has confessed Jesus as the Christ. In Mark 8:27-30 we come to a significant transition as Peter makes this great confession of faith: You are the Christ. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-15/496/who-do-you-say-that-i-am-mark-8:27-30 Sun, 15 Nov 2020 11:30:00 -0600 The Opening of Blind Eyes - Mark 8:22-26 The Opening of Blind Eyes - Mark 8:22-26 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-08/the-opening-of-blind-eyes-mark-8:22-26 The Bible often uses the imagery of blindness to describe our spiritual state before salvation. In one of His rebukes of the Pharisees Jesus describes them as blind. And when He questions His disciples’ true understanding of who He is He asks: having eyes do you not see? In Mark 8:22-26 Jesus performs an incredible miracle The Bible often uses the imagery of blindness to describe our spiritual state before salvation. In one of His rebukes of the Pharisees Jesus describes them as blind. And when He questions His disciples’ true understanding of who He is He asks: having eyes do you not see? In Mark 8:22-26 Jesus performs an incredible miracle https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-08/495/the-opening-of-blind-eyes-mark-8:22-26 Sun, 8 Nov 2020 11:30:00 -0600 Do You Not Yet Understand? - Mark 8:1-21 Do You Not Yet Understand? - Mark 8:1-21 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-01/do-you-not-yet-understand-mark-8:1-21 Throughout the Scriptures there is a sad and persistent theme: over and over we see the people of God forgetting Him or not believing that He can be trusted. It’s the story of the people of Israel, a stubborn and forgetful people. And it’s a theme that continues with the closest followers of Jesus, His twelve disciples. Throughout the Gospel of Mark we continue to see the disciples’ dullness of faith and their slowness to truly believe. After all that the disciples had seen and heard during their time with Jesus it can be easy to throw stones. We can shake our heads at their hardheartedness and unbelief in the power and care of Jesus. Yet for all we’ve learned of God from the Scriptures and for all we have seen Him do in history and in our lives, many of us still struggle to trust Him. We too, often fail to see Jesus for who He really is and to trust Him fully. In Mark 8:1-21 we see the disciples’ pattern of unbelief continue. As Jesus confronts them, their slowness to understand persists and draws a stern rebuke from Jesus. Jesus warns them of the danger of their unbelief, but we should also consider the mercy and longsuffering that is shown as Jesus allows them to continue with Him. We are so slow to trust Him, and yet He is kind and merciful to us in our weakness Throughout the Scriptures there is a sad and persistent theme: over and over we see the people of God forgetting Him or not believing that He can be trusted. It’s the story of the people of Israel, a stubborn and forgetful people. And it’s a theme that continues with the closest followers of Jesus, His twelve disciples. Throughout the Gospel of Mark we continue to see the disciples’ dullness of faith and their slowness to truly believe. After all that the disciples had seen and heard during their time with Jesus it can be easy to throw stones. We can shake our heads at their hardheartedness and unbelief in the power and care of Jesus. Yet for all we’ve learned of God from the Scriptures and for all we have seen Him do in history and in our lives, many of us still struggle to trust Him. We too, often fail to see Jesus for who He really is and to trust Him fully. In Mark 8:1-21 we see the disciples’ pattern of unbelief continue. As Jesus confronts them, their slowness to understand persists and draws a stern rebuke from Jesus. Jesus warns them of the danger of their unbelief, but we should also consider the mercy and longsuffering that is shown as Jesus allows them to continue with Him. We are so slow to trust Him, and yet He is kind and merciful to us in our weakness https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-11-01/494/do-you-not-yet-understand-mark-8:1-21 Sun, 1 Nov 2020 11:30:00 -0500 All Will Be Well - Mark 7:31-37 All Will Be Well - Mark 7:31-37 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-25/all-will-be-well-mark-7:31-37 In a time of uncertainty and political and cultural volatility it can be easy to become overwhelmed. It can easy to lose hope and to give in to despair. Thankfully, as Christians we can return to the Scriptures for perspective. We can look to the Word of God and be reminded that for those who know Christ there is a day coming when all will be well. There is a common way that the story of the Bible and of human history is often summarized: Creation, Fall, Redemption, Consummation. These four words are often used to remind us of the plan of God for the world. He created all things, and He created them perfectly (Gen 1:31). Through sin came the fall and the curse, but through Jesus came redemption. Now, we await the consummation of all things when Jesus calls His people to Himself and restores all that sin has distorted and destroyed. The promise of the Bible is that for those who know Christ a day is coming when all will be well (Rev 21:1-5). In Mark 7:31-37 we have the account of a deaf and mute man who is healed by Jesus. It’s a great reminder of the power and compassion of Jesus. But there’s more to be gleaned from this passage than seeing Jesus as a kind miracle worker. The response of the crowd and Mark’s subtle allusion to Isaiah 35 serve as reminders that Jesus came as the fulfillment of the prophecies of the Old Testament and to set in motion the fulfillment of the promise that all will be well. In a time of uncertainty and political and cultural volatility it can be easy to become overwhelmed. It can easy to lose hope and to give in to despair. Thankfully, as Christians we can return to the Scriptures for perspective. We can look to the Word of God and be reminded that for those who know Christ there is a day coming when all will be well. There is a common way that the story of the Bible and of human history is often summarized: Creation, Fall, Redemption, Consummation. These four words are often used to remind us of the plan of God for the world. He created all things, and He created them perfectly (Gen 1:31). Through sin came the fall and the curse, but through Jesus came redemption. Now, we await the consummation of all things when Jesus calls His people to Himself and restores all that sin has distorted and destroyed. The promise of the Bible is that for those who know Christ a day is coming when all will be well (Rev 21:1-5). In Mark 7:31-37 we have the account of a deaf and mute man who is healed by Jesus. It’s a great reminder of the power and compassion of Jesus. But there’s more to be gleaned from this passage than seeing Jesus as a kind miracle worker. The response of the crowd and Mark’s subtle allusion to Isaiah 35 serve as reminders that Jesus came as the fulfillment of the prophecies of the Old Testament and to set in motion the fulfillment of the promise that all will be well. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-25/492/all-will-be-well-mark-7:31-37 Sun, 25 Oct 2020 11:30:00 -0500 A Humble Faith and the Reach of Salvation - Mark 7:24-30 A Humble Faith and the Reach of Salvation - Mark 7:24-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-18/a-humble-faith-and-the-reach-of-salvation-mark-7:24-30 As Jesus describes the person of faith in the Sermon on the Mount He describes a person of mercy and humility, a person who recognizes their position before God and lives for Him in righteousness and peace (Matthew 5:3-10). Suffice it to say, it’s a description that stands in stark contrast to the scribes and Pharisees of Jesus’s day (Mark 7:6-13; Luke 20:46-47). In the previous sections of Mark 7 Jesus has rebuked the Pharisees for their callous hearts and their reliance on religion. He taught that defilement doesn’t come from the outside, but that defilement is a matter of the heart. As we come to Mark 7:24-30 we may initially think we have come to a transition in focus. But in fact what Mark reveals through a Gentile woman who comes to Jesus is an example of the kind of faith that Jesus honors. While the religious leaders trusted in themselves and their ability to keep the Law, this unclean Gentile woman exemplifies the kind of humble and genuine faith that Jesus seeks. In addition, through this interaction Jesus foreshadows the inclusion of the Gentiles and the offer of the Gospel going to all nations. As Jesus describes the person of faith in the Sermon on the Mount He describes a person of mercy and humility, a person who recognizes their position before God and lives for Him in righteousness and peace (Matthew 5:3-10). Suffice it to say, it’s a description that stands in stark contrast to the scribes and Pharisees of Jesus’s day (Mark 7:6-13; Luke 20:46-47). In the previous sections of Mark 7 Jesus has rebuked the Pharisees for their callous hearts and their reliance on religion. He taught that defilement doesn’t come from the outside, but that defilement is a matter of the heart. As we come to Mark 7:24-30 we may initially think we have come to a transition in focus. But in fact what Mark reveals through a Gentile woman who comes to Jesus is an example of the kind of faith that Jesus honors. While the religious leaders trusted in themselves and their ability to keep the Law, this unclean Gentile woman exemplifies the kind of humble and genuine faith that Jesus seeks. In addition, through this interaction Jesus foreshadows the inclusion of the Gentiles and the offer of the Gospel going to all nations. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-18/491/a-humble-faith-and-the-reach-of-salvation-mark-7:24-30 Sun, 18 Oct 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Heart of the Problem - Mark 7:14-23 The Heart of the Problem - Mark 7:14-23 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-11/the-heart-of-the-problem-mark-7:14-23 It’s a problem that goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden. All of us are guilty at times of convincing ourselves that our sin is the result of something or someone outside of us. We say things like: I yelled because he cut me off or I lost my temper because I’m under a lot of stress. Whether we recognize it or not we are often tempted to see the source of our sin as something outside of us instead of something within us (James 4:1-2). But not only do we fail to recognize the true source of our sin, we are also prone to turning to the wrong solutions for dealing with our sin. Our nature is to try and justify ourselves. We do something outwardly in an attempt atone for our sins and to earn the favor of God. Thankfully we have the Word of God to help us properly understand both the source and the solution for our sins. In Mark 7:14-23 Jesus makes it clear that the source of our sin is the corruption of our hearts and that there’s nothing that we can do to make our to make ourselves clean. It’s a problem that goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden. All of us are guilty at times of convincing ourselves that our sin is the result of something or someone outside of us. We say things like: I yelled because he cut me off or I lost my temper because I’m under a lot of stress. Whether we recognize it or not we are often tempted to see the source of our sin as something outside of us instead of something within us (James 4:1-2). But not only do we fail to recognize the true source of our sin, we are also prone to turning to the wrong solutions for dealing with our sin. Our nature is to try and justify ourselves. We do something outwardly in an attempt atone for our sins and to earn the favor of God. Thankfully we have the Word of God to help us properly understand both the source and the solution for our sins. In Mark 7:14-23 Jesus makes it clear that the source of our sin is the corruption of our hearts and that there’s nothing that we can do to make our to make ourselves clean. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-11/490/the-heart-of-the-problem-mark-7:14-23 Sun, 11 Oct 2020 11:30:00 -0500 A Warning for the Religious - Mark 7:1-13 A Warning for the Religious - Mark 7:1-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-04/a-warning-for-the-religious-mark-7:1-13 Throughout the ministry of Jesus we see examples of His mercy and grace toward the lost and wandering. He is full of compassion and is quick to help those who are weak. But we also see, time and time again, that there are those who Jesus strongly and vehemently rebukes. The ones who are most often on the receiving end of Jesus’s reproofs are those who confess God with their mouths but who trust in themselves and in their own good works. As those who are faithful in our habits and practices of faith Mark 7:1-13 should serve as a source of warning. In this passage we are reminded that it is possible to have lives that are characterized by outward forms of godliness but to have hearts that are far from God. We can very easily find ourselves in the trap of maintaining a commitment to religious tradition and yet neglecting any true love for God or His commands. Throughout the ministry of Jesus we see examples of His mercy and grace toward the lost and wandering. He is full of compassion and is quick to help those who are weak. But we also see, time and time again, that there are those who Jesus strongly and vehemently rebukes. The ones who are most often on the receiving end of Jesus’s reproofs are those who confess God with their mouths but who trust in themselves and in their own good works. As those who are faithful in our habits and practices of faith Mark 7:1-13 should serve as a source of warning. In this passage we are reminded that it is possible to have lives that are characterized by outward forms of godliness but to have hearts that are far from God. We can very easily find ourselves in the trap of maintaining a commitment to religious tradition and yet neglecting any true love for God or His commands. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-10-04/489/a-warning-for-the-religious-mark-7:1-13 Sun, 4 Oct 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Jesus Walks Where Only God Walks - Mark 6:45-56 Jesus Walks Where Only God Walks - Mark 6:45-56 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-27/jesus-walks-where-only-god-walks-mark-6:45-56 One of the recurring themes throughout the Gospel of Mark is the disciple’s slowness to true faith in Jesus. It’s true that they were faithful followers of Jesus, and they had a front row seat to all that Jesus said and did. But despite their proximity to Christ and their desire to be with Him, Mark tells us over and over that they still failed to truly see Jesus and believe (Mark 4:40-41; 8:17-18). This becomes evident again following the feeding of the 5,000. One of the recurring themes throughout the Gospel of Mark is the disciple’s slowness to true faith in Jesus. It’s true that they were faithful followers of Jesus, and they had a front row seat to all that Jesus said and did. But despite their proximity to Christ and their desire to be with Him, Mark tells us over and over that they still failed to truly see Jesus and believe (Mark 4:40-41; 8:17-18). This becomes evident again following the feeding of the 5,000. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-27/488/jesus-walks-where-only-god-walks-mark-6:45-56 Sun, 27 Sep 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Compassionate Shepherd - Part 2 - Mark 6:35-44 The Compassionate Shepherd - Part 2 - Mark 6:35-44 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-20/the-compassionate-shepherd-part-2-mark-6:35-44 In Mark 6:30-34 we are given a glimpse into the heart of Jesus. As Jesus stands on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and looks over a crowd of thousands who have followed Him into the wilderness Mark records that Jesus has compassion on them because they are like sheep without a shepherd. A common theme in the Scriptures is that God is the perfect Shepherd for His people. Jesus comes as the fulfillment of the promises of God and as the One who will gather the lost and wandering sheep. While the previous section shows the heart of Jesus as the compassionate Shepherd, in Mark 6:35-44 we see how Jesus reveals Himself as a shepherd who can provide for and fully satisfy all who come to Him. Through the feeding of the 5,000 we are reminded that Jesus, our good Shepherd, can be trusted. In Mark 6:30-34 we are given a glimpse into the heart of Jesus. As Jesus stands on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and looks over a crowd of thousands who have followed Him into the wilderness Mark records that Jesus has compassion on them because they are like sheep without a shepherd. A common theme in the Scriptures is that God is the perfect Shepherd for His people. Jesus comes as the fulfillment of the promises of God and as the One who will gather the lost and wandering sheep. While the previous section shows the heart of Jesus as the compassionate Shepherd, in Mark 6:35-44 we see how Jesus reveals Himself as a shepherd who can provide for and fully satisfy all who come to Him. Through the feeding of the 5,000 we are reminded that Jesus, our good Shepherd, can be trusted. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-20/487/the-compassionate-shepherd-part-2-mark-6:35-44 Sun, 20 Sep 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Compassionate Shepherd - Part 1 - Mark 6:30-34 The Compassionate Shepherd - Part 1 - Mark 6:30-34 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-13/the-compassionate-shepherd-part-1-mark-6:30-34 As followers of Christ we should long to know the heart of Christ. We should desire to know what He loves and what He hates and what moves Him to action. It’s in the Gospels that Jesus is most fully revealed and in Mark 6:30-34 we see a particularly clear vision of His heart through His interaction with His disciples and His reaction to a persistent crowd. In the passages leading up to this one Mark has been emphasizing the mission of Jesus and the cost of discipleship. It’s clear that the call to follow is a high calling that often requires great sacrifice. While this true, Mark follows this call to costly discipleship with a reminder of the heart of Jesus. He is a sympathetic and caring Lord who has compassion on those who are lost and wandering. As followers of Christ we should long to know the heart of Christ. We should desire to know what He loves and what He hates and what moves Him to action. It’s in the Gospels that Jesus is most fully revealed and in Mark 6:30-34 we see a particularly clear vision of His heart through His interaction with His disciples and His reaction to a persistent crowd. In the passages leading up to this one Mark has been emphasizing the mission of Jesus and the cost of discipleship. It’s clear that the call to follow is a high calling that often requires great sacrifice. While this true, Mark follows this call to costly discipleship with a reminder of the heart of Jesus. He is a sympathetic and caring Lord who has compassion on those who are lost and wandering. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-13/486/the-compassionate-shepherd-part-1-mark-6:30-34 Sun, 13 Sep 2020 11:30:00 -0500 A Message the World Hates (The Cost of Discipleship) - Mark 6:14-29 A Message the World Hates (The Cost of Discipleship) - Mark 6:14-29 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-06/a-message-the-world-hates-the-cost-of-discipleship-mark-6:14-29 Repentance isn’t a practice that most people enjoy. And it’s certainly not something people want to be told they need to do. In a world that cheers personal autonomy and self-expression, the suggestion that someone’s way of life is something that needs to be repented of is largely considered out of bounds. But as Christians, we recognize the call to repentance is a primary part of the message of the Gospel. It’s only when we repent of our sins and turn to Jesus that we can be forgiven and saved from the wrath of God. As we come to Mark 6:14-29 we encounter a group of people who are fully committed to living for themselves. At the heart of the story is a King who has an affair and who is called to repentance by John the Baptist. In these fifteen verses we get an incredible view of the deceitfulness and destructiveness of sin as well as a stark reminder of the significant opposition we can face as we stand for the things of God in world that is in rebellion against Him. Repentance isn’t a practice that most people enjoy. And it’s certainly not something people want to be told they need to do. In a world that cheers personal autonomy and self-expression, the suggestion that someone’s way of life is something that needs to be repented of is largely considered out of bounds. But as Christians, we recognize the call to repentance is a primary part of the message of the Gospel. It’s only when we repent of our sins and turn to Jesus that we can be forgiven and saved from the wrath of God. As we come to Mark 6:14-29 we encounter a group of people who are fully committed to living for themselves. At the heart of the story is a King who has an affair and who is called to repentance by John the Baptist. In these fifteen verses we get an incredible view of the deceitfulness and destructiveness of sin as well as a stark reminder of the significant opposition we can face as we stand for the things of God in world that is in rebellion against Him. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-09-06/485/a-message-the-world-hates-the-cost-of-discipleship-mark-6:14-29 Sun, 6 Sep 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Sending of the Twelve - Mark 6:7-13 The Sending of the Twelve - Mark 6:7-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-30/the-sending-of-the-twelve-mark-6:7-13 In the opening verses of Mark 6 Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth heralding the same message that He had shared throughout Galilee. But the reception in Nazareth was anything but welcoming. The city was marked by unbelief; an unbelief that Mark says made Jesus marvel. While Jesus was affected by the unbelief in Nazareth, He wasn’t surprised. And their unbelief didn’t deter Him from His mission. He left Nazareth and continued teaching and also did something that He had never done up to this point: He sent out witnesses to speak on His behalf. In the opening verses of Mark 6 Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth heralding the same message that He had shared throughout Galilee. But the reception in Nazareth was anything but welcoming. The city was marked by unbelief; an unbelief that Mark says made Jesus marvel. While Jesus was affected by the unbelief in Nazareth, He wasn’t surprised. And their unbelief didn’t deter Him from His mission. He left Nazareth and continued teaching and also did something that He had never done up to this point: He sent out witnesses to speak on His behalf. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-30/484/the-sending-of-the-twelve-mark-6:7-13 Sun, 30 Aug 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Astonishment and Unbelief - Mark 6:1-6 Astonishment and Unbelief - Mark 6:1-6 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-23/astonishment-and-unbelief-mark-6:1-6 Because of the time and place in which we live there are many people who have a perceived familiarity with Jesus. That’s to say that they know some things about Jesus, but they don’t know Him truly or fully. Sadly there are many who reject Jesus even though what they know of Him may not be accurate or complete. Or perhaps a fuller revelation of who He is doesn’t fit with who they’ve previously understood Him to be. This is the case in Mark 6 when Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth. Because of the time and place in which we live there are many people who have a perceived familiarity with Jesus. That’s to say that they know some things about Jesus, but they don’t know Him truly or fully. Sadly there are many who reject Jesus even though what they know of Him may not be accurate or complete. Or perhaps a fuller revelation of who He is doesn’t fit with who they’ve previously understood Him to be. This is the case in Mark 6 when Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-23/483/astonishment-and-unbelief-mark-6:1-6 Sun, 23 Aug 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Called to Faith in the Sufficiency and Supremacy of Christ - Hebrews 10:39-12:2 Called to Faith in the Sufficiency and Supremacy of Christ - Hebrews 10:39-12:2 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-16/called-to-faith-in-the-sufficiency-and-supremacy-of-christ-hebrews-10:39-12:2 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-16/482/called-to-faith-in-the-sufficiency-and-supremacy-of-christ-hebrews-10:39-12:2 Sun, 16 Aug 2020 11:30:00 -0500 God is For Us - Romans 8:31-39 God is For Us - Romans 8:31-39 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-09/god-is-for-us-romans-8:31-39 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-09/480/god-is-for-us-romans-8:31-39 Sun, 9 Aug 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Promises for Weary People - Matthew 11:20-30 Promises for Weary People - Matthew 11:20-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-02/promises-for-weary-people-matthew-11:20-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-08-02/481/promises-for-weary-people-matthew-11:20-30 Sun, 2 Aug 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Do Not Fear, Only Believe - Mark 5:21-43 Do Not Fear, Only Believe - Mark 5:21-43 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-26/do-not-fear-only-believe-mark-5:21-43 Do Not Fear, Only Believe Do Not Fear, Only Believe https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-26/479/do-not-fear-only-believe-mark-5:21-43 Sun, 26 Jul 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Unrivaled Power and a Zealous Witness - Mark 5:1-20 Unrivaled Power and a Zealous Witness - Mark 5:1-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-19/unrivaled-power-and-a-zealous-witness-mark-5:1-20 As Jesus and His disciples sailed across the Sea of Galilee Jesus revealed Himself in a way beyond anything the disciples had witnessed. With the power of His Words He calmed howling winds and a raging sea prompting the question: Who then is this, that even the wind and sea obey Him? That night on the sea they saw the power of Jesus to calm a chaotic storm (4:35-41) and just a matter of hours later they witnessed the power of Jesus to calm a chaotic man (5:1-20). Not only does Jesus have authority over the natural world, He has authority over the supernatural world. In both of these events we see Jesus revealed for who He really is: God Himself, the all-powerful One. And in His confrontation with a demon possessed man we also gain insight into the reason the almighty God came to earth. Jesus came to earth on a mission to save people and His mission continues as those who have witnessed His saving power tell others about the Person and the power that has changed them. As Jesus and His disciples sailed across the Sea of Galilee Jesus revealed Himself in a way beyond anything the disciples had witnessed. With the power of His Words He calmed howling winds and a raging sea prompting the question: Who then is this, that even the wind and sea obey Him? That night on the sea they saw the power of Jesus to calm a chaotic storm (4:35-41) and just a matter of hours later they witnessed the power of Jesus to calm a chaotic man (5:1-20). Not only does Jesus have authority over the natural world, He has authority over the supernatural world. In both of these events we see Jesus revealed for who He really is: God Himself, the all-powerful One. And in His confrontation with a demon possessed man we also gain insight into the reason the almighty God came to earth. Jesus came to earth on a mission to save people and His mission continues as those who have witnessed His saving power tell others about the Person and the power that has changed them. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-19/478/unrivaled-power-and-a-zealous-witness-mark-5:1-20 Sun, 19 Jul 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The One Who Controls the Storm - Mark 4:35-41 The One Who Controls the Storm - Mark 4:35-41 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-12/the-one-who-controls-the-storm-mark-4:35-41 In Mark 4:35-41 we come to a familiar story that pushes us to ask an important question: Who do we believe God to be? And along with that a related question: how does our understanding of who God is impact the way we respond to difficult seasons in life? These are important questions and questions that at times have divergent answers. While we profess a high view of God and of His power and goodness, we may be tempted to view our situations and respond with worry and fear. We may determine that God is negligent or uncaring. The story of Jesus calming the storm is a story about the revelation of Jesus as God. In addition we have the reminder that He can be trusted. Like the disciples we must consider whether we will respond to the situations of our lives with faith in God or with fear of our situations. In Mark 4:35-41 we come to a familiar story that pushes us to ask an important question: Who do we believe God to be? And along with that a related question: how does our understanding of who God is impact the way we respond to difficult seasons in life? These are important questions and questions that at times have divergent answers. While we profess a high view of God and of His power and goodness, we may be tempted to view our situations and respond with worry and fear. We may determine that God is negligent or uncaring. The story of Jesus calming the storm is a story about the revelation of Jesus as God. In addition we have the reminder that He can be trusted. Like the disciples we must consider whether we will respond to the situations of our lives with faith in God or with fear of our situations. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-12/477/the-one-who-controls-the-storm-mark-4:35-41 Sun, 12 Jul 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Our Hope: The Certain Growth of the Kingdom of God - Mark 4:26-34 Our Hope: The Certain Growth of the Kingdom of God - Mark 4:26-34 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-05/our-hope:-the-certain-growth-of-the-kingdom-of-god-mark-4:26-34 The Scriptures are replete with promises and prophecies of the future of the Kingdom of God. We are told that a day is coming when all things will be made new and the rule of God will be recognized by all. God has promised these things and His Word is sure (Isaiah 55:10-13). However, for all of the promises of what it is to come, we may be tempted to look at the condition of our world and the state of the church and wonder how God intends to accomplish His plan. We may ask, is the Kingdom of God still growing and expanding in the world today? Questions about the Kingdom of God were common among the first disciples of Jesus and in Mark 4 Jesus provides two parables that explain the nature of the Kingdom and the certainty of its’ growth and success. The Scriptures are replete with promises and prophecies of the future of the Kingdom of God. We are told that a day is coming when all things will be made new and the rule of God will be recognized by all. God has promised these things and His Word is sure (Isaiah 55:10-13). However, for all of the promises of what it is to come, we may be tempted to look at the condition of our world and the state of the church and wonder how God intends to accomplish His plan. We may ask, is the Kingdom of God still growing and expanding in the world today? Questions about the Kingdom of God were common among the first disciples of Jesus and in Mark 4 Jesus provides two parables that explain the nature of the Kingdom and the certainty of its’ growth and success. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-07-05/476/our-hope:-the-certain-growth-of-the-kingdom-of-god-mark-4:26-34 Sun, 5 Jul 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Take Heed to What You Hear - Mark 4:21-25 Take Heed to What You Hear - Mark 4:21-25 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-28/take-heed-to-what-you-hear-mark-4:21-25 We live in a world that is hurting. We live world plagued by sin. And we live in a time and place where many people are familiar with the name of Jesus and even with His death and resurrection. But sadly, many have heard and yet remain deaf. They have seen and yet remain blind. Many have an awareness of Jesus but they don’t have saving faith. The question for us all is, will we take heed to what we hear? The call of Mark 4 is a call hear and more specifically to hear with ears of faith. In Mark 4:1-20 Jesus shares and explains the parable of the sower and the soils and describes four responses to Gospel. There are many who hear but who never truly hear. Within the context of the parable of the soils Jesus also acknowledges that for many, because of their hardness of heart, the parables don’t serve to reveal Him, but instead they further conceal Him. But the appeal of Jesus continues to be for all people to hear and believe. We live in a world that is hurting. We live world plagued by sin. And we live in a time and place where many people are familiar with the name of Jesus and even with His death and resurrection. But sadly, many have heard and yet remain deaf. They have seen and yet remain blind. Many have an awareness of Jesus but they don’t have saving faith. The question for us all is, will we take heed to what we hear? The call of Mark 4 is a call hear and more specifically to hear with ears of faith. In Mark 4:1-20 Jesus shares and explains the parable of the sower and the soils and describes four responses to Gospel. There are many who hear but who never truly hear. Within the context of the parable of the soils Jesus also acknowledges that for many, because of their hardness of heart, the parables don’t serve to reveal Him, but instead they further conceal Him. But the appeal of Jesus continues to be for all people to hear and believe. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-28/475/take-heed-to-what-you-hear-mark-4:21-25 Sun, 28 Jun 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Church: The Gospel Made Visible (Part 3) - Romans 12:17-21 The Church: The Gospel Made Visible (Part 3) - Romans 12:17-21 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-21/the-church:-the-gospel-made-visible-part-3-romans-12:17-21 This is our third and final week of considering a section of commands in Romans 12 with this in mind: that God intends to use His church, and our presence in this world, as a means of revealing His character and the power of the Gospel. We must speak the Gospel, but we also have the opportunity to live in a way that makes the power of the Gospel visible to a watching world. As we come to this final section Paul helps us consider how we as Christians should respond to those who come against us. • How do we respond when we are slandered? • How do we react when we are mistreated? In verses 17-21 Paul unpacks how we should and how we should not respond to those who oppose us, those who are our enemies. And the summation of his commands comes in verse 21: we should not be overcome with evil, but we are to overcome evil with good. This is our third and final week of considering a section of commands in Romans 12 with this in mind: that God intends to use His church, and our presence in this world, as a means of revealing His character and the power of the Gospel. We must speak the Gospel, but we also have the opportunity to live in a way that makes the power of the Gospel visible to a watching world. As we come to this final section Paul helps us consider how we as Christians should respond to those who come against us. • How do we respond when we are slandered? • How do we react when we are mistreated? In verses 17-21 Paul unpacks how we should and how we should not respond to those who oppose us, those who are our enemies. And the summation of his commands comes in verse 21: we should not be overcome with evil, but we are to overcome evil with good. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-21/473/the-church:-the-gospel-made-visible-part-3-romans-12:17-21 Sun, 21 Jun 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Hank Cates Funeral Service Hank Cates Funeral Service https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-20/hank-cates-funeral-service On Saturday, June 20, 2020 we celebrated the life of Hank Cates and the hope of eternal life. An audio recording of the entire service is available. There is also a video recording, but unfortunately the video recording cut off about 15 minutes before the conclusion of the service, just before the funeral message from the Scriptures. Please take advantage of the video, but also take time to listen to the final part of the service on the audio recording starting at 43 minutes and 55 seconds. On Saturday, June 20, 2020 we celebrated the life of Hank Cates and the hope of eternal life. An audio recording of the entire service is available. There is also a video recording, but unfortunately the video recording cut off about 15 minutes before the conclusion of the service, just before the funeral message from the Scriptures. Please take advantage of the video, but also take time to listen to the final part of the service on the audio recording starting at 43 minutes and 55 seconds. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-20/474/hank-cates-funeral-service Sat, 20 Jun 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Church: The Gospel Made Visible (Part 2) - Romans 12:14-16 The Church: The Gospel Made Visible (Part 2) - Romans 12:14-16 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-14/the-church:-the-gospel-made-visible-part-2-romans-12:14-16 Throughout the Bible we find the use of the imagery of light and darkness. God and the things of God are called light, while the ways of the world and those separated from God are called darkness. As those who are in a relationship with God through Christ, not only are we identified as light (Ephesians 5:8), but we are called to shine as lights so the world can see the work of God and give Him glory (Matthew 5:14-16). Last week we started considering a section of commands in Romans 12 with this in mind: that God intends to use His church, and our presence in this world, as a means of revealing His character and the power of the Gospel. We must speak the Gospel, but we also have the opportunity to live in a way that makes the power of the Gospel visible to a watching world. Throughout the Bible we find the use of the imagery of light and darkness. God and the things of God are called light, while the ways of the world and those separated from God are called darkness. As those who are in a relationship with God through Christ, not only are we identified as light (Ephesians 5:8), but we are called to shine as lights so the world can see the work of God and give Him glory (Matthew 5:14-16). Last week we started considering a section of commands in Romans 12 with this in mind: that God intends to use His church, and our presence in this world, as a means of revealing His character and the power of the Gospel. We must speak the Gospel, but we also have the opportunity to live in a way that makes the power of the Gospel visible to a watching world. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-14/472/the-church:-the-gospel-made-visible-part-2-romans-12:14-16 Sun, 14 Jun 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Church: The Gospel Made Visible - Romans 12:9-13 The Church: The Gospel Made Visible - Romans 12:9-13 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-07/the-church:-the-gospel-made-visible-romans-12:9-13 After eleven weeks of not gathering together in person, we are starting to come back together. It is a sweet time. And yet, it is also a somber time as we consider the disunity and division that is plaguing our nation. This morning as we turn to God’s Word we are going to consider how God intends to use His church, and our presence in this world, as a means of revealing His character and the power of the Gospel. All around us people are searching for peace and justice and hope After eleven weeks of not gathering together in person, we are starting to come back together. It is a sweet time. And yet, it is also a somber time as we consider the disunity and division that is plaguing our nation. This morning as we turn to God’s Word we are going to consider how God intends to use His church, and our presence in this world, as a means of revealing His character and the power of the Gospel. All around us people are searching for peace and justice and hope https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-06-07/471/the-church:-the-gospel-made-visible-romans-12:9-13 Sun, 7 Jun 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Parable of the Soils (and Ears) - Mark 4:1-20 The Parable of the Soils (and Ears) - Mark 4:1-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-31/the-parable-of-the-soils-and-ears-mark-4:1-20 The Parable of the Soils (and Ears) - Mark 4:1-20 The Parable of the Soils (and Ears) - Mark 4:1-20 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-31/470/the-parable-of-the-soils-and-ears-mark-4:1-20 Sun, 31 May 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Danger of Blasphemy and the Comfort of Faith - Mark 3:22-30 The Danger of Blasphemy and the Comfort of Faith - Mark 3:22-30 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-24/the-danger-of-blasphemy-and-the-comfort-of-faith-mark-3:22-30 This is a portion of Scripture that has troubled many people. It has been debated and discussed by scholars and it has even led some to despair over whether or not they can ever be saved. While the climax of the passage is a warning from Jesus about the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (often called the unforgivable or unpardonable sin) there is more to the story than the warning. During this interaction with the scribes Jesus also provides some great comforts for Christians as He emphasizes His strength and also the forgiveness of God. This is a portion of Scripture that has troubled many people. It has been debated and discussed by scholars and it has even led some to despair over whether or not they can ever be saved. While the climax of the passage is a warning from Jesus about the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (often called the unforgivable or unpardonable sin) there is more to the story than the warning. During this interaction with the scribes Jesus also provides some great comforts for Christians as He emphasizes His strength and also the forgiveness of God. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-24/469/the-danger-of-blasphemy-and-the-comfort-of-faith-mark-3:22-30 Sun, 24 May 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Family of Jesus - Mark 3:20-21, 31-35 The Family of Jesus - Mark 3:20-21, 31-35 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-17/the-family-of-jesus-mark-3:20-21-31-35 The Bible doesn’t tell us much about Jesus’ earthly family. Of course we know about Mary and Joseph, but Jesus also had siblings. It can be easy to forget that these are probably people whom He was close to and whom He loved. With that in mind we may wonder how they responded when Jesus, at age thirty, began teaching, performing miracles and drawing crowds. In Mark 3 we get a small glimpse into the family of Jesus and their reaction to His ministry. But the most significant aspect of the passage is what Jesus says about His family, and whom He identifies as His family. The Bible doesn’t tell us much about Jesus’ earthly family. Of course we know about Mary and Joseph, but Jesus also had siblings. It can be easy to forget that these are probably people whom He was close to and whom He loved. With that in mind we may wonder how they responded when Jesus, at age thirty, began teaching, performing miracles and drawing crowds. In Mark 3 we get a small glimpse into the family of Jesus and their reaction to His ministry. But the most significant aspect of the passage is what Jesus says about His family, and whom He identifies as His family. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-17/468/the-family-of-jesus-mark-3:20-21-31-35 Sun, 17 May 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Crowds and the Called - Mark 3:7-19 The Crowds and the Called - Mark 3:7-19 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-10/the-crowds-and-the-called-mark-3:7-19 As we move through the Gospel of Mark Jesus continues to grow in popularity. While the Pharisees and others are trying to silence Him, crowds of people continue to flock to Jesus and follow Him wherever He goes. Jesus is getting a lot of attention, but we are also beginning to see that while many are attracted to Jesus for what He is doing, far fewer are coming to Him as true followers. This is a something that is true today, especially in America. There are many people who are attracted to Jesus and who believe true things about Him, but who have never truly trusted Him, they have never submitted to Him as Lord. In this section of the Gospel, Mark helps us see that Jesus didn’t come simply to draw crowds; He didn’t come to attract fans, He came to call disciples. As we move through the Gospel of Mark Jesus continues to grow in popularity. While the Pharisees and others are trying to silence Him, crowds of people continue to flock to Jesus and follow Him wherever He goes. Jesus is getting a lot of attention, but we are also beginning to see that while many are attracted to Jesus for what He is doing, far fewer are coming to Him as true followers. This is a something that is true today, especially in America. There are many people who are attracted to Jesus and who believe true things about Him, but who have never truly trusted Him, they have never submitted to Him as Lord. In this section of the Gospel, Mark helps us see that Jesus didn’t come simply to draw crowds; He didn’t come to attract fans, He came to call disciples. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-10/467/the-crowds-and-the-called-mark-3:7-19 Sun, 10 May 2020 11:30:00 -0500 The Lord of the Sabbath - Mark 2:23-3:6 The Lord of the Sabbath - Mark 2:23-3:6 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-03/the-lord-of-the-sabbath-mark-2:23-3:6 While descriptions of Jesus often emphasize His humility, compassion and meekness, all of which Jesus exemplified, He was by no means soft-spoken or passive, and Mark 2 makes that abundantly clear. As we move through Mark chapters 2 and 3 Mark records a series of five events in which religious leaders are confronting and questioning Jesus. As they seek to shame and discredit Him, Jesus is anything but passive or reserved. He is quick to answer the Pharisees in ways that show both His authority and their error. They may be known as experts on the Sabbath, but He is the Lord of the Sabbath. While descriptions of Jesus often emphasize His humility, compassion and meekness, all of which Jesus exemplified, He was by no means soft-spoken or passive, and Mark 2 makes that abundantly clear. As we move through Mark chapters 2 and 3 Mark records a series of five events in which religious leaders are confronting and questioning Jesus. As they seek to shame and discredit Him, Jesus is anything but passive or reserved. He is quick to answer the Pharisees in ways that show both His authority and their error. They may be known as experts on the Sabbath, but He is the Lord of the Sabbath. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-05-03/466/the-lord-of-the-sabbath-mark-2:23-3:6 Sun, 3 May 2020 11:30:00 -0500 A New and Better Way - Mark 2:18-22 A New and Better Way - Mark 2:18-22 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-04-26/a-new-and-better-way-mark-2:18-22 As more and more people continued to hear and respond to the teaching of Jesus there was a growing concern among the religious leaders of the day. As we move through Mark chapters 2 and 3 Mark records a series of five events in which these religious leaders are confronting and questioning Jesus. While we know their desire is to discredit Jesus we can still be thankful for their questions, because as Jesus responds we get a greater insight into who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish. As more and more people continued to hear and respond to the teaching of Jesus there was a growing concern among the religious leaders of the day. As we move through Mark chapters 2 and 3 Mark records a series of five events in which these religious leaders are confronting and questioning Jesus. While we know their desire is to discredit Jesus we can still be thankful for their questions, because as Jesus responds we get a greater insight into who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-04-26/465/a-new-and-better-way-mark-2:18-22 Sun, 26 Apr 2020 11:30:00 -0500 Life After The Resurrection - Luke 24:36-53 Life After The Resurrection - Luke 24:36-53 https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-04-19/life-after-the-resurrection-luke-24:36-53 Last week, on Easter Sunday, we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus by remembering and proclaiming that He is risen, that He is alive. But now, the week after Easter perhaps the appropriate question is, what now? If we know and believe that Christ has been raised from the dead, what’s next? As we return to Luke 24 we return to a gathering of the disciples of Jesus who are about to see and hear from the risen Lord Himself. As Jesus appears to His followers on the evening of that resurrection Sunday He teaches them and gives them instructions regarding their calling and commission in light of His resurrection and the salvation that He has accomplished. Last week, on Easter Sunday, we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus by remembering and proclaiming that He is risen, that He is alive. But now, the week after Easter perhaps the appropriate question is, what now? If we know and believe that Christ has been raised from the dead, what’s next? As we return to Luke 24 we return to a gathering of the disciples of Jesus who are about to see and hear from the risen Lord Himself. As Jesus appears to His followers on the evening of that resurrection Sunday He teaches them and gives them instructions regarding their calling and commission in light of His resurrection and the salvation that He has accomplished. https://www.southernhillslife.org/get-connected/resources/sermons-and-podcasts/sermon/2020-04-19/464/life-after-the-resurrection-luke-24:36-53 Sun, 19 Apr 2020 11:30:00 -0500