Peter addresses the “elect exiles” and speaks about the living hope through Jesus’ resurrection, an imperishable inheritance, and the salvation ready to be revealed (1:3-5).
Rejoicing in trials, because through them, faith is refined and leads to praise at Jesus’ return (1:6-9).
Prophets prophesied of this grace and the sufferings and glories of Christ (1:10-12).
2. Holiness and Obedience (1 Peter 1:13-2:3)
Believers are exhorted to prepare their minds for action, be sober-minded, and live in holiness, not conforming to their previous desires (1:13-16).
Conduct yourselves with fear and reverence, knowing you were redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus (1:17-21).
Love one another earnestly and crave pure spiritual milk for growth (1:22-2:3).
3. The Living Stone and Chosen People (1 Peter 2:4-10)
Jesus is the living stone, chosen by God but rejected by men (2:4-8).
Believers are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, and God’s special possession, called to proclaim His excellencies (2:9-10).
4. Living Among the Gentiles (1 Peter 2:11-25)
Live honorable lives among the Gentiles, submit to human authorities for God’s sake, and honor all people (2:11-17).
Servants should be subject to masters, even the unjust. Jesus is the ultimate example of suffering for doing good (2:18-25).
5. Roles in Relationships (1 Peter 3:1-7)
Wives should be submissive to their husbands, focusing on inner beauty. Husbands should live with understanding and honor toward their wives (3:1-7).
6. Suffering for Righteousness (1 Peter 3:8-22)
Harmony, sympathy, and love are urged, with a call to bless those who do harm and always be prepared to give a defense of the hope within (3:8-15).
Christ suffered once for sins and was made alive in the spirit (3:18-22).
7. Living for God (1 Peter 4:1-19)
Live for the will of God, no longer for human passions (4:1-6).
Live with alertness, fervent love, hospitality, and using God-given gifts to serve others (4:7-11).
Rejoice in sharing Christ’s sufferings, and commit yourselves to the faithful Creator (4:12-19).
8. Shepherding the Flock (1 Peter 5:1-11)
Elders are to shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly, not for personal gain (5:1-4).
Younger men are to be submissive. Everyone is to be humble, casting anxieties on God, and be watchful against the devil (5:5-9).
God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish believers after they have suffered (5:10-11).
9. Conclusion (1 Peter 5:12-14)
Peter’s purpose in writing is to exhort and testify to the true grace of God (5:12).
Greetings from “Babylon” and final blessings (5:13-14).
Overall Themes:
1 Peter emphasizes enduring suffering and persecution with hope and joy, based on the accomplished work and example of Jesus Christ. The epistle encourages believers to live holy lives, maintaining good conduct among unbelievers, and grounding themselves in their identity as God’s chosen people.
The First Epistle of Peter: Seeing Jesus in 1 Peter
1. Precious Cornerstone:
Peter refers to Jesus as the living stone, chosen and precious, upon which believers are built as a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:4-8).
This builds on Old Testament imagery, particularly from Isaiah 28:16, where God lays a precious cornerstone in Zion.
2. Example in Suffering:
Jesus is presented as an example for believers when faced with suffering.
Just as He entrusted Himself to the one who judges justly while undergoing suffering, believers are encouraged to do the same (1 Peter 2:21-23).
3. Redemptive Sacrifice:
Jesus’ sacrificial death and its redemptive purpose are central to the epistle.
Believers are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ, the lamb without blemish (1 Peter 1:18-19).
4. Living Hope Through Resurrection:
Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation of the believer’s living hope.
Through His resurrection, believers are born again to an imperishable inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-4).
5. Chief Shepherd:
In exhorting the elders to shepherd the flock of God, Peter looks to the return of Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, who will give the unfading crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4).
6. Suffering and Glory:
The theme of suffering followed by glory, which is evident in Jesus’ own journey from the cross to the throne, is prevalent throughout the letter.
Believers are encouraged to suffer with this perspective, knowing that after suffering, they will be restored and established by God (1 Peter 5:10).
7. Spirit of Christ in Prophets:
Peter states that the prophets of old testified about the grace that was to come, and it was the Spirit of Christ in them indicating the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories (1 Peter 1:10-12).
8. Victory Over Powers:
Jesus, after His suffering, has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to Him (1 Peter 3:22).
9. Harbinger of a New Life:
Jesus is the reason believers are called to a new way of life.
Because He is holy, they too are called to be holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).
And, because He suffered for righteousness, they are called to do the same, not fearing the threats of the world but sanctifying Christ as Lord in their hearts (1 Peter 3:14-15).
Conclusion:
1 Peter is saturated with Christological emphasis.
Jesus isn’t merely mentioned; His life, death, resurrection, and example permeate the believer’s call to hope, holiness, and endurance in suffering.
The epistle is a powerful reminder that the believers’ identity and mission are firmly rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
B. Reflection on the times we are living in and the urgency of living with purpose.
Scriptural Foundation: 1 Peter 4:7-11 –The emphasis on being self-controlled, sober-minded, maintaining fervent love, offering hospitality, and using gifts to serve one another.
Thesis Statement: In light of the imminent return of Christ, we are called to be vigilant, maintain love among us, and be good stewards of God’s manifold grace through the gifts He has given us.
What is Passion?
Passion can be defined as:
a powerful or compelling emotion, feeling, or intense enthusiasm towards a particular subject, object, or activity.
It’s an innate or acquired driving force or desire that fuels an individual to pursue, engage with, and dedicate themselves to something with zeal and fervor, often leading them to invest significant time, energy, and resources.
Passion often manifests as a deep sense of fulfillment and joy in the involved activities and can be a significant factor in overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s goals and aspirations.
In a broader context, it can also refer to a strong inclination or desire to make a difference or create an impact in a specific area or field.
The Message
I. Living in the End Times (1 Peter 4:7a)
1 Peter 4:7 NIV The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.
A. Main Point: Understanding the significance of living as if Christ’s return is near.
B. Supporting Scripture:
Matthew 24:42 – “Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.”
C. Application: Remaining spiritually vigilant and focused on God’s will.
II. The Priority of Prayer (1 Peter 4:7b)
A. Main Point: The importance of being self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of our prayers.
B. Supporting Scripture:
Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
C. Application: Cultivating a consistent and fervent prayer life, maintaining a clear and sober mind to connect with God.
III. Maintaining Fervent Love (1 Peter 4:8)
1 Peter 4:8 NIV Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
A. Main Point: The imperative of maintaining fervent love among ourselves because love covers a multitude of sins.
B. Supporting Scripture:
Proverbs 10:12 – “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.”
C. Application: Choosing to love fervently, forgiving, and covering one another’s faults.
IV. Hospitality and Stewardship (1 Peter 4:9-10)
1 Peter 4:9-10 NIV Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
A. Main Point: The call to be hospitable without grumbling and to use our gifts to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
B. Supporting Scripture:
Romans 12:13 – “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.”
C. Application: Embracing and expressing hospitality and using our varied gifts to serve others, reflecting God’s grace.
V. Serving with the Strength that God Supplies (1 Peter 4:11)
1 Peter 4:11 NIV If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
A. Main Point: Serving by the strength that God supplies so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.
B. Supporting Scripture:
Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
C. Application: Relying on God’s strength in our service and seeking to glorify Him in everything we do.
Conclusion:
Reiteration of the importance of living with the end in mind, maintaining fervent love, being hospitable, and using our gifts to serve others as good stewards of God’s grace, all to the glory of God.
Challenge: To live each day with purpose and love, seeking to glorify God in all we do, being vigilant and prayerful, loving one another deeply, and serving others with the gifts God has given us.
Call to Action:
A. Encourage the Congregation to reflect on their gifts and how they can use them to serve others and glorify God.
B. Prompt Reflection on how each person can maintain fervent love and hospitality within their sphere of influence.
C. Offer Practical Steps to live vigilantly and purposefully in light of the imminent return of Christ, such as through committed prayer and intentional acts of service and love.
The key takeaways from the sermon based on 1 Peter 4:7-11:
Living in Expectation of Christ’s Return:
Understand and live with the awareness that we are in the end times, and Christ’s return is imminent. This perspective should prompt a life of vigilance, intentionality, and prioritization of spiritual matters.
The Importance of Fervent Prayer:
A sober, self-controlled mind is crucial for effective prayer. Prioritizing a life of prayer is essential in maintaining a strong connection with God and discerning His will.
Maintaining Deep, Fervent Love:
The emphasis is on sustaining a fervent love among believers, as love covers a multitude of sins. It is about choosing to love unconditionally and to forgive, reflecting God’s love and forgiveness towards us.
Practicing Hospitality:
Christians are called to be hospitable without complaint, welcoming others with open arms, and displaying kindness and generosity, thus reflecting the love and grace of God.
Stewardship of God-given Gifts:
Every believer has received gifts and is called to use them to serve one another. Proper stewardship of these gifts as good managers of God’s varied grace is pivotal in serving God’s purposes in this world.
Serving in God’s Strength to Glorify Him:
Believers should serve by the strength that God supplies, not relying on their abilities. The ultimate goal of every act of service should be to glorify God, acknowledging that the ability and strength to serve come from Him.
Actionable Faith:
Each believer should reflect on how to practically apply these principles, thinking about how to use their unique gifts in service to others, maintain love, and live each day with the expectancy of Christ’s return, all to the glory of God.
These takeaways encourage believers to live intentionally, love deeply, serve diligently, and glorify God in all aspects of life, emphasizing a holistic approach to Christian living that impacts both the individual and the community.
In the Book of Jeremiah, we can see shadows and types of Jesus Christ through prophecies, themes, and the experiences of Jeremiah that point forward to the Messiah. Here’s how we can see Jesus in the Book of Jeremiah:
1. Righteous Branch: Jeremiah 23:5-6 prophesies about a coming “Righteous Branch,” a King from the line of David who will execute justice and righteousness. This is fulfilled in Jesus, the descendant of David, who brings God’s righteous rule (Luke 1:32-33).
2. New Covenant: Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretells the establishment of a New Covenant, not like the one given to the ancestors. Jesus inaugurates this New Covenant through His blood, offering forgiveness of sins (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:6-13).
3. Suffering Servant: Jeremiah’s sufferings and rejections prefigure the sufferings and rejections that Jesus would endure. Jeremiah was rejected by his own people, plotted against, and ridiculed, much like Jesus was (Jeremiah 11:18-21; Matthew 26:3-4; 27:31).
4. Weeping Prophet: Jeremiah, known as the “weeping prophet” for his tears over Jerusalem’s impending destruction (Jeremiah 9:1), foreshadows Jesus, who wept over Jerusalem’s future fate (Luke 19:41-44).
5. The Potter and the Clay: Jeremiah 18:1-6 describes God as the potter and Israel as the clay, emphasizing God’s sovereignty in shaping destinies. This analogy is reminiscent of Jesus as the divine potter who reshapes and reforms our lives (Romans 9:20-21).
6. Living Water: Jeremiah condemns Israel for forsaking God, the “fountain of living waters” (Jeremiah 2:13). Jesus refers to Himself as the source of “living water,” offering eternal life (John 4:10-14; 7:37-38).
7. Good Shepherd: Jeremiah foretells the coming of shepherds who will care for God’s flock (Jeremiah 3:15), which is fulfilled in Jesus, the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11).
8. Called Before Birth: Jeremiah’s calling before he was formed in the womb (Jeremiah 1:5) foreshadows the divine calling and mission of Jesus, foreordained before the foundation of the world (1 Peter 1:20).
9. Redemption and Restoration: The themes of judgment and subsequent restoration in Jeremiah echo the redemptive work of Jesus. Jesus, through His death and resurrection, brings redemption and the hope of eternal restoration (Colossians 1:13-14; Revelation 21:1-5).
Conclusion: While Jeremiah himself is not Jesus, the themes, prophecies, and experiences within the Book of Jeremiah point toward the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, and His mission to bring redemption, establish a new covenant, and shepherd God’s people. These connections underscore the unity of Scripture and its culmination in the person and work of Jesus.
Sermon Outline: “Divine Calling: Embraced and Empowered”
Focal Passage: Jeremiah 1:1-12
Focus Scripture:Psalm 119:16 – Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
I. Introduction
A. Explanation of Jeremiah 1:1-12 Context (see Jeremiah Cliff Notes)
B. The Significance of Divine Calling
C. Relating to Modern-Day Challenges and Callings
II. The Divine Consecration (Jeremiah 1:4-5)
Jeremiah 1:4-5 NIV: The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.“
A. Preordained Purpose
1. Psalm 139:13-16 – God’s intimate involvement in our formation.
B. Chosen by God
1. Ephesians 1:4 – Chosen before the foundation of the world.
C. Set Apart
1. 1 Peter 2:9 – Royal priesthood and holy nation.
III. The Human Hesitation (Jeremiah 1:6)
Jeremiah 1:6 NIV: “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
A. Feeling of Inadequacy
1. Exodus 4:10 – Moses’ hesitance and feeling of inadequacy.
B. God’s Reassurance
1. 2 Corinthians 12:9 – God’s grace is sufficient; His power is made perfect in weakness.
C. The Response to Divine Calling
1. Isaiah 6:8 – Isaiah’s willingness to be sent by God.
IV. The Divine Empowerment (Jeremiah 1:7-10)
Jeremiah 1:7-10 NIV: But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord. Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”
A. God’s Command and Commission
1. Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission to the disciples.
B. God’s Promise of Presence
1. Deuteronomy 31:6 – God’s promise to never leave nor forsake us.
C. The Equipper and The Equipped
1. Ephesians 2:10 – Created for good works which God prepared beforehand.
V. The Vision and Confirmation (Jeremiah 1:11-12)
Jeremiah 1:11-12 NIV: The word of the Lord came to me: “What do you see, Jeremiah?” “I see the branch of an almond tree,” I replied. The Lord said to me, “You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.”
A. The Almond Branch: Promptness of God’s Word
1. Numbers 17:8 – Aaron’s rod budding as a sign.
B. God’s Watchfulness to Perform His Word
1. Isaiah 55:11 – God’s word accomplishing what He desires.
C. Confirmation for Assurance
1. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 – God confirming and anointing us.
VI. Application
A. Embracing God’s Call
Recognizing and accepting our divine calling irrespective of our perceived inadequacies.
B. Living Empowered Lives
Relying on God’s empowerment to live out our calling.
C. Faithfulness to God’s Call
Remaining steadfast and obedient to God’s direction and guidance.
The role of a “kinsman-redeemer” (often referred to as “go’el” in Hebrew) is a concept found in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Ruth. The role is multifaceted and derives from several Mosaic laws meant to ensure the protection and continuation of family inheritance and name within the Israelite community. Here’s an overview of the responsibilities and roles of a kinsman-redeemer:
Redeeming Land: According to Leviticus 25:25, if an Israelite became impoverished and sold some of his property, his nearest relative was to come and redeem what his relative had sold. This helped ensure that land remained within the family, preserving the ancestral inheritance.
Marrying a Childless Widow: If a man died without leaving a son, his brother (or nearest relative) was to marry the widow and have a child with her. This child would then carry on the deceased man’s name, ensuring that the name did not die out in Israel (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). This practice is often called “levirate marriage” (from the Latin word “levir,” meaning “brother-in-law”).
Redeeming from Slavery: If an Israelite had to sell himself into slavery due to debt, his relative could redeem him (Leviticus 25:47-49). This provision ensured that family members could assist one another in times of extreme hardship.
Avenger of Blood: In cases of unintentional manslaughter, the “go’el” also had the role of an “avenger of blood.” It was his responsibility to bring the person responsible to justice, ensuring that the death was indeed accidental (Numbers 35:19-28). If the killing was intentional, the avenger had the right to kill the murderer.
In the book of Ruth, Boaz takes on the role of the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz redeems the land that belonged to Naomi’s late husband and marries Ruth, ensuring that the family line of her deceased husband, Mahlon, continues (Ruth 4).
The kinsman-redeemer is a significant theological concept as well, with many Christian theologians seeing it as a foreshadowing or typology of Jesus Christ, who redeems believers from sin and brings them into a new relationship with God.
Ruth 1:16 NIV But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.
I. Introduction
Introduce the Book of Ruth as a beautiful narrative nestled between Judges and 1 Samuel, shining as a beacon of hope and redemption amidst Israel’s turbulent times.
II. Ruth’s Background: A Moabitess in Israel (Ruth 1:1-5)
Ruth 1:1-5 NIV In the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land. So a man from Bethlehem in Judah, together with his wife and two sons, went to live for a while in the country of Moab. 2 The man’s name was Elimelek, his wife’s name was Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Kilion. They were Ephrathites from Bethlehem, Judah. And they went to Moab and lived there. 3 Now Elimelek, Naomi’s husband, died, and she was left with her two sons. 4 They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, 5 both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.
Brief history of Moab and its complicated relationship with Israel. (see separate note)
Ruth’s marriage into an Israelite family and the subsequent tragedies: death of her husband, brother-in-law, and father-in-law.
Tragedy Strikes: Ruth was originally from Moab and married into an Israelite family that had come to Moab because of a famine in Bethlehem. In time, Ruth’s husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law all died, leaving her with her mother-in-law, Naomi, and sister-in-law, Orpah (Ruth 1:1-5).
III. Challenges Faced by Ruth
Loyalty Tested (Ruth 1:6-18)
Naomi’s decision to return to Bethlehem.
Naomi’s encouragement for Ruth and Orpah to stay in Moab.
Ruth’s heartfelt commitment: “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16)
Ruth 1:14-17 NIV 14 At this they wept aloud again. Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her. 15 “Look,” said Naomi, “your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her.” 16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.”
Life as a Foreign Widow in Bethlehem (Ruth 2:1-3)
The challenges of being a widow and foreigner in ancient Israel.
Ruth’s humble decision to glean in the fields.
Note: Being a foreign widow in ancient Israel posed a variety of challenges, both due to the status of widowhood and the additional complications of being an outsider. Here are some of the challenges faced by someone in such a position:
Economic Vulnerability: Widows, in general, were among the most economically vulnerable in ancient societies. They often lacked the primary means of financial support, especially in a culture where inheritance and property rights were typically passed through male lineage. Without a husband or grown sons to support them, many widows relied on the charity of extended family or their community.
Foreign Status: As a foreigner, Ruth would have been perceived as an outsider. This could lead to cultural misunderstandings, prejudices, and potential mistreatment. Being from Moab, given the aforementioned complex history between Israel and Moab, might have further complicated her situation.
Limited Legal Protection: While the Torah provided laws to protect widows, orphans, and foreigners (often grouped together due to their vulnerable statuses), enforcement of these laws and local customs might vary. Foreign widows could find themselves at a disadvantage, without family advocates to ensure their rights were upheld.
Cultural and Religious Differences: Adapting to a different culture and religious practices might have been challenging. While Ruth is portrayed as embracing the God and people of Israel, stating, “Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16), she would still have had to navigate the nuances and differences in customs, festivals, and social expectations.
Marriage Prospects: Re-marriage could provide economic security for widows, but a foreign widow might have found it more difficult to find a new spouse. Though Ruth eventually married Boaz, their story is portrayed as exceptional, highlighting Boaz’s righteousness and Ruth’s loyalty and virtue.
Social Isolation: Widows could experience social isolation due to their loss, and this isolation might be compounded for a foreign widow without extended family or a familiar community for support.
Dependence on Kindness of Others: For sustenance, widows like Ruth often had to rely on gleaning, which is picking up leftover grain in fields after harvesters had passed through. This put them at the mercy of landowners’ kindness and generosity. Fortunately for Ruth, Boaz proved to be kind and provided for her needs (Ruth 2:8-12).
IV. Overcoming Challenges through Faith and Integrity
Finding Favor with Boaz (Ruth 2:4-17)
Ruth’s hard work, character, and Boaz’s acknowledgment: “All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me.” (Ruth 2:11)
The Kinsman-Redeemer (Ruth 3:1-13; Ruth 4:1-12)
The biblical concept of a kinsman-redeemer.
Boaz’s commitment to act with honor, first addressing the closer relative.
Boaz’s eventual marriage to Ruth and their role in God’s redemptive plan.
The role of a “kinsman-redeemer” (often referred to as “go’el” in Hebrew) is a concept found in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Ruth. The role is multifaceted and derives from several Mosaic laws meant to ensure the protection and continuation of family inheritance and name within the Israelite community. Here’s an overview of the responsibilities and roles of a kinsman-redeemer:
Redeeming Land: According to Leviticus 25:25, if an Israelite became impoverished and sold some of his property, his nearest relative was to come and redeem what his relative had sold. This helped ensure that land remained within the family, preserving the ancestral inheritance.
Marrying a Childless Widow: If a man died without leaving a son, his brother (or nearest relative) was to marry the widow and have a child with her. This child would then carry on the deceased man’s name, ensuring that the name did not die out in Israel (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). This practice is often called “levirate marriage” (from the Latin word “levir,” meaning “brother-in-law”).
Redeeming from Slavery: If an Israelite had to sell himself into slavery due to debt, his relative could redeem him (Leviticus 25:47-49). This provision ensured that family members could assist one another in times of extreme hardship.
Avenger of Blood: In cases of unintentional manslaughter, the “go’el” also had the role of an “avenger of blood.” It was his responsibility to bring the person responsible to justice, ensuring that the death was indeed accidental (Numbers 35:19-28). If the killing was intentional, the avenger had the right to kill the murderer.
In the book of Ruth, Boaz takes on the role of the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz redeems the land that belonged to Naomi’s late husband and marries Ruth, ensuring that the family line of her deceased husband, Mahlon, continues (Ruth 4).
V. Legacy and God’s Sovereignty (Ruth 4:13-17; Matthew 1:5)
Ruth’s place in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.
The overarching theme of God’s providence, even in seemingly ordinary events.
Ruth 4:13-17 NIV 13 So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 14 The women said to Naomi: “Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a guardian-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! 15 He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.” 16 Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him. 17 The women living there said, “Naomi has a son!” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
Note: The name “Obed” is of Hebrew origin and it means “servant” or “worshiper.” In the context of the Bible, Obed is most notably recognized as the son of Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:17) and the grandfather of King David. The story of Ruth leads to the birth of Obed, establishing the lineage that would later give rise to David and, according to the New Testament, eventually to Jesus Christ in the genealogy. The naming of Obed is significant in the narrative, as it ties together themes of faithfulness, redemption, and God’s providence.
VI. Takeaways from Ruth’s Story
Unwavering Loyalty: Ruth’s story underscores the power of steadfast commitment, not just to individuals but to God. Our loyalty can have lasting impacts beyond what we can imagine.
Faith amidst Uncertainty:Ruth’s decision to follow Naomi and the God of Israel was made without a clear picture of the future. We, too, are called to trust God even when the path ahead is unclear.
God’s Redemptive Plan: No matter our background, God can weave our stories into His grand tapestry of redemption. Ruth, once a foreign widow, became a forebear of the Savior of the world.
VII. Conclusion
Just as Ruth played an integral part in God’s redemptive narrative, each believer has a role in the unfolding story of God’s Kingdom.
Sermon Outline: “The Servant’s Towel: Lessons from John 13:12-17”
Sermon Theme:
Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Introduction:
Setting the stage for the event: The Last Supper, a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry.
The unexpected act: Jesus, the Teacher and Lord, assuming the role of a servant.
Scripture Reading:
– John 13:12-17
I. Background of the Event
A. Historical context:
Foot washing: A routine in the Jewish culture due to the dusty paths and open sandals.
Normally, a task designated for the lowest servant.
B. The atmosphere of the evening:
Jesus’ impending betrayal (John 13:21).
The looming crucifixion.
C. Jesus’ awareness of His divine mission (John 13:3)
Recognizing His divine origin and destiny, yet choosing to serve.
This act was significant, not just as a demonstration of humility and service, but also as a symbolic act pointing to the spiritual cleansing that Jesus provides. It was also meant as an example for the disciples, emphasizing the importance of humble service in the Kingdom of God.
Message Text
John 13:12-17 NIV When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them.
13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.
15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.
17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
II. The Profound Act of Service
A. The humility of Christ:
Setting aside His outer garments (John 13:4).
The depth of the Creator serving His creation.
B. Peter’s objection (John 13:6-8):
A lesson on the need for spiritual cleansing.
C. Jesus’ elucidation:
Beyond physical cleansing—spiritual teachings on service and humility.
III. The Purpose of the Event
A. Manifesting His profound love (John 13:1).
B. Establishing an example of humility and service (John 13:15).
C. Emphasizing the importance of spiritual cleansing and fellowship with Him (John 13:8).
D. Advocating for mutual love and service among believers (John 13:14-15).
IV. Incorporating the Lessons in Our Daily Lives
A. Embracing humility:
Recognizing that no service is beneath us when done in love (Philippians 2:5-8).
B. Actively identifying opportunities to serve:
Within families, communities, and churches (Galatians 5:13).
C. Spiritual vigilance:
The need for consistent spiritual renewal and dependence on Christ (2 Corinthians 4:16).
D. The “Towel Principle”:
Opting to wear the “servant’s towel” in all interactions (Matthew 23:11).
Conclusion:
Jesus’ action wasn’t merely about foot washing but about adopting a lifestyle of humility and service. We’re beckoned to follow His lead, allowing His teachings to reshape our hearts and influence our world.
