Author: Pastor Page

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Holy Saturday: Jesus in the Tomb

Matthew 27:59-61

Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock.

He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.

A Saturday Prayer

Father, We recognize the significance of Holy Saturday for the Easter season. It is not merely a day between Good Friday and Easter, but it is a day to observe in consecration of what You did for us. We leave our own agendas, our own desires, and our own pleas at the door and crave today to be still and rest in Your presence. We are so grateful for the ability to quiet our hearts and stand in Your presence, we want to come to know Your heart more this day. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus to die for us, and thank You that You kept Your promise that Easter Sunday. Let us not be so hurried in our own lives that we forget the glory that You brought forth that day, and every day.
In Jesus name, Amen

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Good Friday: The Crucifixion

Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed. 2 So they bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.

3 When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.”

“What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.”

5 So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.

6 The chief priests picked up the coins and said, “It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money.” 7 So they decided to use the money to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners. 8 That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day. 9 Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: “They took the thirty pieces of silver, the price set on him by the people of Israel, 10 and they used them to buy the potter’s field, as the Lord commanded me.”[a]

Jesus Before Pilate

11 Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

“You have said so,” Jesus replied.

12 When he was accused by the chief priests and the elders, he gave no answer. 13 Then Pilate asked him, “Don’t you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?” 14 But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor.

15 Now it was the governor’s custom at the festival to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd. 16 At that time they had a well-known prisoner whose name was Jesus[b] Barabbas. 17 So when the crowd had gathered, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you: Jesus Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” 18 For he knew it was out of self-interest that they had handed Jesus over to him.

19 While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.”

20 But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed.

21 “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor.

“Barabbas,” they answered.

22 “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked.

They all answered, “Crucify him!”

23 “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.

But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”

24 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!”

25 All the people answered, “His blood is on us and on our children!”

26 Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

27 Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28 They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29 and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said. 30 They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.

The Crucifixion of Jesus

32 As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. 33 They came to a place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). 34 There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. 35 When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 37 Above his head they placed the written charge against him: this is jesus, the king of the jews.

38 Two rebels were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. 39 Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads 40 and saying, “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” 41 In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. 42 “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 44 In the same way the rebels who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.

The Death of Jesus

45 From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. 46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli,[c] lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).[d]

47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.”

48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49 The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.”

50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.

51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split 52 and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and[e] went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

54 When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!”

55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph,[f] and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.

The Burial of Jesus

57 As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.

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Maundy Thursday: The Last Supper

“Maundy” in “Maundy Thursday” refers to the commandment or mandate given by Jesus Christ to His disciples during the Last Supper, as recounted in the Christian Scriptures. The word “Maundy” is derived from the Latin word “mandatum,” meaning “commandment” or “order.” This term reflects Jesus’ words to His disciples, as recorded in John 13:34 NIV: “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

The Last Supper

When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.

John 13:3‭-‬17

Jesus Washes The Disciples Feet

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. 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. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should

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Holy Wednesday: Honor and Betrayal

Matthew 26:6-16

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

 While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper,  a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.

When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. “Why this waste?” they asked.  “This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.”

Aware of this, Jesus said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me.  The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.  When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.  Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.  From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

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Holy Tuesday: Teachings and Controversies

Summary: Jesus teaches in parables, challenges religious leaders, and predicts the Temple’s destruction.

Scripture: Matthew 21:23-46

Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?” Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin?” They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin’—we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Then he said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things. “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him. “Listen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and moved to another place. When the harvest time approached, he sent his servants to the tenants to collect his fruit. “The tenants seized his servants; they beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. Then he sent other servants to them, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. Last of all, he sent his son to them. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said. “But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him and take his inheritance.’ So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. “Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” “He will bring those wretches to a wretched end,” they replied, “and he will rent the vineyard to other tenants, who will give him his share of the crop at harvest time.” Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “ ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’ ? “Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.” When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus’ parables, they knew he was talking about them. They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.

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Holy Monday: Cleansing the Temple

  • Summary: Jesus cleanses the Temple, condemning the merchants for their disrespect.
  • Scripture: Mark 11:15-17 NIV – “And as he taught them, he said, ‘Is it not written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’? But you have made it ‘a den of robbers.’'”

Matthew 21:12-22Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “ ‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’ ” The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were indignant. “Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, “ ‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’ ?” And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night. Early in the morning, as Jesus was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” Immediately the tree withered. When the disciples saw this, they were amazed. “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?” they asked. Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

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Sermon Notes: Palm Sunday – Why We Miss What God is Doing

The King (Matthew 21:1–11). The people were blind to their Scriptures (Zech. 9:9). They praised Him with Psalm 118:26 but overlooked verses 22–23, which Jesus quoted later (v. 42). Beware knowing the Bible but not knowing the Lord when He is at work in your midst.

The Message

Matthew 21:6‭-‬11 NIV

6  The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. 8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.

9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”  10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”  The crowds answered, 11 “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”

  • Luke 19:41‭-‬42 NIV As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.

There were five crowds within the large crowd….

  • The Curious CrowdThey followed Him on Palm Sunday because they wanted to know what He was going to do this time. They were curious about what was in it for them.
  • The Confused Crowd The confused crowd is illustrated in Matthew 21:10-11, “When Jesus came to Jerusalem, everyone in the city was excited and asked, “Who can this be? The crowd answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.” Of all the things Jesus did, this one-line description was all they could say. Even though they were following Him, they were still confused about who Jesus was. The confused group today refers to God as “the man upstairs” or as a higher power.
  • The Pretenders They were in the crowd on Palm Sunday pretending to be committed to Jesus. They were pretending, but they were not fully sold out.  Pretenders go through the motion, but their hearts are lukewarm. They are great pretender just to impress others and to get their approval.
  • The Opposers The fourth group included the opposers like the Pharisees and the Sadducees. For three years they had done everything they could to oppose what Jesus was doing. They rebuked Him for healing on the Sabbath and for taking an ox out the ditch. They forgot Him because His disciples ate food without washing their hands. Ultimately they conspired to have Jesus killed…
  • The Committed CrowdHowever, this is the smallest group. A committed person is one who follows Jesus‘ instructions without questioning Him or His motives and without murmuring and complaining.
    • Matthew 21:6-7, “The disciples left and did what Jesus had told them to do. They brought the donkey and its colt and laid some clothes on their backs.”

Reflections in All Cases

  • They missed God’s timing

As Jesus ascended toward Jerusalem, a large multitude gathered around Him. This crowd understood that Jesus was the Messiah; what they did not understand was that it wasn’t time to set up the kingdom yet

  • The power of the religious blinded their spiritually

In their praise of Jesus, the Jewish crowds were quoting Psalm 118:25–26, an acknowledged prophecy of the Christ. The allusion to a Messianic psalm drew resentment from the religious leaders present

  • However, God’s plan was in motion

Some 450 to 500 years prior to Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, the prophet Zechariah had prophesied the event we now call Palm Sunday: “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! / Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! / See, your king comes to you, / righteous and victorious, / lowly and riding on a donkey, / on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9)

The people wanted their earthly objectives met at the expense of God’s eternal plans

  • The crowds looked for a Messiah who would rescue them politically and free them nationally, but Jesus had come to save them spiritually. First things first, and mankind’s primary need is spiritual, not political, cultural, or national salvation.

They failed to realize God’s ways are not our ways

  • They could neither see nor understand the cross. That’s why, “as [Jesus] approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, ‘If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies . . . will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you” (Luke 19:41–47).

We worship him on Sunday then reason like the world on Monday

  • It is a tragic thing to see the Savior but not recognize Him for who He is. The crowds who were crying out “Hosanna!” on Palm Sunday were crying out “Crucify Him!” later that week (Matthew 27:22–23).

We Should Remember: There is coming a day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10–11). The worship will be real then.

  • Philippians 2:10‭-‬11 NIV that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,  and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

John records a scene in heaven that features the eternal celebration of the risen Lord: “There before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands”

  • Revelation 7:9, emphasis added These palm-bearing saints will shout, “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb” (verse 10), and who can measure sum of their joy?

We can be in the crowd that mattersThere is good news for everyone on Palm Sunday and on other days as well. There is one crowd we all should want to be in. That’s the crowd that will be caught up with Jesus in the air when He comes back to take us home to glory.

  • Romans 10:9-11 f you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.”

I want to be there…  How about you?

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Yodh – Psalm 119:73-80

“Yodh” (י) is the tenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet and serves as the heading for the tenth section of Psalm 119 (verses 73-80). In this section, like the others, each verse begins with “Yodh” in the original Hebrew text, continuing the acrostic structure of the psalm.

The symbolic meaning of “Yodh” can be multifaceted:

Literal Meaning and Symbolism: “Yodh” is the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet, often symbolizing the idea that even the smallest things can have great significance. In the context of Psalm 119, this could represent the concept that every word of God, no matter how seemingly insignificant, holds profound weight and importance.

Foundation and Beginning: “Yodh” is considered a foundational letter in the Hebrew alphabet and is used to signify the omnipresence of God. This aligns with the themes of Psalm 119, where the psalmist seeks guidance and understanding from God, acknowledging Him as the foundation of all wisdom and knowledge.

Humility and Magnitude: The small size of “Yodh” can symbolize humility, reminding readers of the vastness of God’s creation and law in comparison to human frailty. It encourages believers to approach God’s word with humility, recognizing the depth and breadth of divine wisdom contained in even the shortest verse or command.

Creativity and Potential: In Jewish mysticism, “Yodh” is associated with the hand, and by extension, with the act of creation. This reflects the creative power of God’s word in Psalm 119, highlighting how it shapes and molds the believer’s life, guiding them towards righteousness.

Point of Inflection: Given its role in Hebrew script, “Yodh” can signify a turning point or a moment of reflection, which is evident in the psalmist’s introspective pleas for understanding, guidance, and deliverance from affliction. It suggests that engagement with God’s law serves as a crucial juncture in the believer’s spiritual journey.

In summary, “Yodh” in Psalm 119 symbolizes the profound significance of God’s word, the foundational role of divine guidance in the believer’s life, the importance of approaching scripture with humility, the creative and transformative power of God’s commandments, and the pivotal nature of biblical wisdom in fostering spiritual growth and reflection.

Psalm 119:73-80: Verse by Verse Analysis

Verse 73:  

Text: “Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands.”  

Reflection: The psalmist acknowledges God as his Creator and asks for understanding to grasp and follow God’s commandments, linking the gift of life with the purpose of living according to divine will.  

Cross-reference: Isaiah 64:8 – “Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.”  

Verse 74:  

Text: “May those who fear you rejoice when they see me, for I have put my hope in your word.”  

Reflection: The psalmist desires his life to be an encouragement to others who revere God, showing that hope placed in God’s word has positive, communal effects.  

Cross-reference: Romans 15:4 – “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”  

Verse 75:  

Text: “I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.”  

Reflection: Recognizing God’s righteousness and faithfulness, the psalmist understands that his afflictions are part of God’s loving discipline, aimed at spiritual growth.  

Cross-reference: Hebrews 12:5-6 – “And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, ‘My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you.'”  

Verse 76:  

Text: “May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.”  

Reflection: The psalmist seeks comfort in God’s unfailing love, trusting in the promises made by God, emphasizing the reliance on divine compassion during times of difficulty.  

Cross-reference: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.”  

Verse 77:  

Text: “Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight.”  

Reflection: Asking for God’s mercy to sustain him, the psalmist expresses joy in God’s law, viewing it as a source of life and happiness.  

Cross-reference: Psalm 119:50 – “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”  

Verse 78:  

Text: “May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause; but I will meditate on your precepts.”  

Reflection: Despite injustices from the arrogant, the psalmist chooses to focus on meditating on God’s precepts, seeking justice and maintaining integrity.  

Cross-reference: 1 Peter 3:14 – “But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.'”  

Verse 79:  

Text: “May those who fear you turn to me, those who understand your statutes.”  

Reflection: The psalmist hopes to be a beacon for like-minded believers, fostering a community of those who respect and understand God’s laws.  

Cross-reference: Malachi 3:16 – “Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name.”  

Verse 80:  

Text: “May my heart be blameless in your statutes, so that I will not be put to shame.”  

Reflection: A prayer for integrity in following God’s statutes, the psalmist desires a heart free from guilt or blame, highlighting the importance of wholehearted devotion to God’s commandments.  

Cross-reference: 1 John 3:21-22 – “Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God.”  

Key Takeaways from Psalm 119:73-80

  • Recognition of Divine Creation and Purpose: The psalmist acknowledges God as his Creator and seeks understanding to fulfill the purpose of living according to divine commandments. Emphasizing the connection between life’s gift and the intention to live it in obedience to God.
  • The Role of Affliction in Spiritual Growth: Afflictions are seen not as random misfortunes but as part of God’s righteous discipline, aimed at refining the believer’s faith and character. The psalmist recognizes these trials as manifestations of God’s faithfulness, intended for spiritual growth and deeper adherence to God’s laws.
  • Comfort and Hope in God’s Promises: The psalmist finds comfort and sustenance in God’s unfailing love and promises. This reliance on divine compassion highlights the sustaining power of hope rooted in God’s word, even amidst adversity.
  • Integrity and the Community of Believers: A desire for personal integrity in following God’s statutes is coupled with a wish to connect with and be a model for other believers. The psalmist expresses a hope that his life reflects a commitment to God’s laws that encourages and attracts fellow God-fearers, fostering a community grounded in mutual respect for divine precepts.
  • Justice and Personal Meditation on God’s Precepts: In facing injustice, the psalmist chooses not to focus on the wrongs done by the arrogant but instead on meditating on God’s precepts. This choice underscores the value placed on personal integrity and the pursuit of righteousness over seeking retribution.
  • A Heart Blameless in God’s Statutes: The ultimate goal expressed is to have a heart that is blameless in following God’s commandments, demonstrating a yearning for a life of wholehearted devotion to God that is free from guilt or shame.

Together, these key takeaways reflect a profound journey of faith where understanding, comfort, integrity, and community are sought through a deep engagement with God’s commandments. The passage illustrates how trials, reflection, and the pursuit of righteousness are intertwined in the believer’s path towards spiritual maturity and fulfillment.

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Sermon Notes: Life Through the Holy Spirit – Our Helper

Guidance (26–30). God’s purpose is to make His children like His Son, and He will succeed. The Spirit intercedes for us and guides us as we pray, and the circumstances of life work for our good, no matter how painful they may be.

Romans 8:26-30 continues to unfold the riches of life in the Spirit, highlighting the Holy Spirit’s assistance in our weaknesses, the intercession on our behalf, God’s purpose in our lives, and the assurance of our future glory.

Romans 8:26-27 – The Spirit’s Intercession

‭‭Romans 8:26-27 NIV‬‬ In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. [27] And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

Note: When Paul transitions to verse 26 with “In the same way,” he is connecting the believers’ experience of hope and suffering with the work of the Holy Spirit.

  • Essentially, Paul is saying that just as our hope sustains us through suffering, the Holy Spirit helps us in our current weakness, particularly when we struggle with prayer.
  • “In the same way” indicates that the Spirit’s assistance is another aspect of how God supports and sustains us in our present condition, amidst our groaning and longing for redemption.
  • Ephesians 6:18 – “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”     

Application: This teaches us about the nature of prayer and reliance on the Spirit, encouraging us to engage in prayer even when we feel unable or unsure of what to pray for, trusting in the Spirit’s intercession on our behalf.     

Explanation: Sometimes, we’re so upset or confused that we don’t even know what to pray for. During these times, the Holy Spirit steps in and helps us out. It’s like having a friend who knows exactly what we’re going through and talks to God on our behalf, making sure our deepest needs are communicated, even without words.

Romans 8:28 – God Works for Our Good

‭‭Romans 8:28 NIV‬‬ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 

  • Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”     

Application: It encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereign and good plan for their lives, even in adversity, knowing that their circumstances are being used by God for a greater purpose.     

Explanation: This famous verse reassures us that no matter what happens—good or bad—God has a way of turning it around for our benefit, especially for those who love Him and are living according to His plan. It’s like knowing that even if things look messy now, there’s a good ending waiting for us.

Romans 8:29-30 – Foreknown, Predestined, Called, Justified, Glorified

Romans 8:29-30 NIV‬‬ For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

  • Ephesians 1:4-5 – “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—”     

Application: This provides deep assurance to believers of their secure position in Christ and the comprehensive scope of God’s saving work, encouraging them to live in light of their identity and destiny in Christ.      

Explanation:

  • Foreknown and Predestined: God knows us deeply and has chosen us for a special purpose—to become more like Jesus, showing love and kindness.
  • Called: God invites us to follow Him, not just as a general call to everyone, but with a personal invitation to each of us to be part of His family.
  • Justified: When we accept God’s invitation, He forgives our mistakes and sees us as if we’ve never done anything wrong.
  • Glorified: In the end, God has an amazing future planned for us, where we’ll be honored and free from all the pain and troubles of this world.

Key Takeaways

1. The Holy Spirit Helps Us in Our Weakness

Even when we don’t know what to pray for, the Holy Spirit is right there, helping us by interceding for us with wordless groans. This shows the depth of God’s understanding and compassion for our struggles. 

2. God Works for Our Good

In every situation, God is working for the benefit of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This doesn’t mean everything that happens will be good, but that God can use every situation to bring about good in our lives. 

3. We Are Part of God’s Plan

Before we were even born, God knew us and had a plan for us. This plan includes being shaped into the likeness of Jesus, showing us that our lives have purpose and direction. 

4. God Calls and Justifies

God not only calls us to Himself but He also justifies us, meaning He declares us righteous in His sight. This is solely based on Jesus’ sacrifice, not on anything we’ve done. 

5. Our Glorious Future

God’s ultimate goal for us is glory. Despite the sufferings of this present time, believers have a glorious future to look forward to, a future that God has guaranteed. 

Application:

Trust in the Spirit’s Assistance: Remember that you’re never alone in your struggles. The Holy Spirit is always there to help, especially when you’re feeling weak or unsure how to pray. 

Rest in God’s Sovereignty: Take comfort in knowing that God is in control and is working things out for your good, even when circumstances seem challenging or unclear. 

Embrace Your Purpose: Live with the understanding that you are called to be like Jesus, and let this truth shape how you live and interact with others. 

Hold Onto Hope: Look forward to the glory that will be revealed in us, letting this hope sustain you through current trials and challenges. 

Romans 8:26-30 encourages believers with the assurance of the Spirit’s intercession, the certainty of God’s purposeful work in their lives, and the glorious future that awaits them. 

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Premarital Questions Couples Should Discuss

Undergoing a marriage counseling process before tying the knot offers many benefits for couples, laying a solid foundation for a healthy, lasting relationship.

Note: It’s important to engage in these conversations openly and honestly, always seeking to understand and support each other’s perspectives and needs. Remember that the process is in the best interest of the couple and their long and happy life together.

Here are some key reasons this preparatory step is important:

Enhancing Communication Skills

Marriage counseling helps couples develop strong communication skills, enabling them to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs more effectively. It teaches active listening and empathy, ensuring that both partners feel heard and understood, which is vital for resolving conflicts and deepening emotional intimacy.

Identifying and Managing Differences

Every individual brings their unique background, beliefs, and expectations into a relationship. Counseling provides a safe space to explore these differences and discuss sensitive issues, such as finances, family planning, and lifestyle choices. It helps couples find common ground and develop strategies for managing disagreements in a respectful and constructive manner.

Strengthening Conflict Resolution Skills

Conflict is a natural part of any relationship. Pre-marital counseling equips couples with the tools they need to handle disagreements without causing harm to the relationship. Learning to resolve conflicts in a healthy way can prevent them from escalating into major issues and help maintain a strong bond over time.

Setting Realistic Expectations for Marriage

Many people enter marriage with unrealistic expectations, influenced by cultural narratives, family backgrounds, or personal assumptions. Counseling helps couples set realistic expectations, understand the commitment marriage requires, and recognize that challenges and growth opportunities are part of a shared life.

Building a Strong Foundation in Faith

For Christian couples, pre-marital counseling rooted in faith can deepen their understanding of marriage as a covenant with God. It encourages them to center their relationship in Christ, align their values with biblical principles, and commit to practices like prayer and worship together, strengthening their spiritual bond.

Fostering Emotional Intimacy

Counseling encourages couples to explore their emotional needs and vulnerabilities, fostering a deeper emotional connection. It provides tools for building intimacy, ensuring that both partners feel loved, valued, and supported as they embark on their life together.

Preparing for Future Challenges

Life brings changes, challenges, and unexpected events. Pre-marital counseling helps couples anticipate and prepare for these ups and downs, discussing topics like career changes, family dynamics, and health issues. Being prepared can help them navigate life’s storms without drifting apart.

Encouraging Long-Term Growth and Happiness

Marriage is a journey of growth and discovery. Counseling sets the stage for a fulfilling and enduring relationship by encouraging ongoing communication, mutual respect, and shared goals. It reminds couples that marriage requires effort and adaptation, and that their love and commitment can deepen over time.

In summary, undergoing a marriage counseling process is invaluable for young couples. It not only equips them with the skills and insights needed for a healthy marriage but also deepens their understanding and appreciation of each other, laying the groundwork for a loving, resilient partnership.

The following are key questions a couple should discuss before getting married. The couple should openly discuss these questions, and they write where they align as well as where they recognize opportunities for growth together. In areas where they feel it’s necessary, the couple may decide to involve a counselor or pastor to facilitate dialogue.

Faith and Beliefs

  • How does your faith influence your daily decisions and lifestyle?
  • In what ways will we actively practice our faith together?
  • What are our plans for involving God through prayer and Bible study in our marriage?
  • How will we navigate any differences in our theological beliefs or church traditions?

Marriage Expectations

  • What is your understanding of marriage based on biblical principles?
  • How do you see the roles within a Christian marriage?
  • What lessons have you learned from observing marriages around you, and how do you wish to apply them to ours?

Communication and Conflict Resolution

  • What strategies can we use to ensure we maintain healthy communication?
  • Are there any previous experiences that might influence our relationship, and how can we work through them together?
  • How can we create a safe space for expressing our feelings and needs?

Family and Children

  • Do you envision having children, and what are your thoughts on parenting styles?
  • How open are we to options like adoption if we face challenges with having children?
  • What core values do we want to instill in our children?
  • What boundaries should we set with extended family to protect our nuclear family dynamic?

Financial Management

  • How should we approach managing our finances in light of Christian stewardship?
  • What system will we use for budgeting, and who will oversee it?
  • How do we plan to address any current or future debt?

Career and Education

  • How will we balance professional ambitions with our family commitments?
  • Are there any significant career or education moves anticipated in our future?
  • What are our views on one partner pausing their career for parenting or other reasons?

Intimacy and Boundaries

  • What expectations do we have regarding intimacy within our marriage?
  • How will we establish healthy boundaries with others to safeguard our marriage?
  • What proactive steps will we take to keep our marriage vibrant and guard against external and internal threats?

Lifestyle and Leisure

  • How do we envision spending our leisure time both together and individually?
  • What role do hobbies, travel, and entertainment play in our lives?
  • How important is it for us to cultivate shared interests?

Health and Well-being

  • How do we prioritize physical and mental health within our lifestyle?
  • What is our stance on seeking help through counseling or therapy when needed?
  • How can we support one another in pursuing a healthy lifestyle?

Trust

  • How do we define trust within our relationship, and why is it important?
  • Can we share experiences where trust was built or challenged in our past relationships, and how those lessons apply to us?
  • What specific actions and commitments are we willing to make to ensure trust remains a cornerstone of our marriage?

Future Planning

  • Where do we see ourselves in the future, and what dreams do we have for our marriage?
  • How will we support each other in achieving individual and shared goals?
  • How do we plan to adapt and grow together through life’s unexpected challenges?

Remember: It’s important to make the time to engage in these conversations openly and honestly, always seeking to understand and support each other’s perspectives and needs. The goal of the process is in the best interest of the couple and their long and happy life together.