In the Old Testament, fig trees are often used to symbolize Israel. This sermon explains how Israel's spiritual barrenness in Christ's time, led to judgement on their nation. The message in current times is the same as we will not bear eternal fruit without seeking Christ for faith and salvation.
In this sermon, Christ's post-resurrection appearance to his disciples in the Sea of Tiberias is documented. Jesus, though unrecognized at first, directs them to cast their net on the right side of the boat, resulting in a miraculous catch of fish. After the disciples recognize Jesus, they share a meal of bread and fish, and Jesus reinstates Peter, prompting him to "feed my sheep".
In this sermon, Phil uses C.S. Lewis' 1941 book the Screwtape Letters to reveal past and current untruths about Christianity. The lies the devil uses to discourage and corrupt Christians are revealed. Tactics such as promoting pride, encouraging Christians to church shop, seeing Jesus as not divine and not sticking to Biblical truths are exposed.
Understanding debt in a new way is presented. From a Christian perspective it is what we owe to others and to God for His grace towards us.
The Parable of the Shrewd Manager, found in Luke 16 tells the story of a manager who, upon learning he's about to be fired for mismanaging his wealthy master's assets, reduces the debts of his master's debtors. While the manager's actions are initially presented as dishonest, the master commends him for his shrewdness. The parable emphasizes the importance of using earthly resources wisely, even to the point of being "shrewd" in preparing for the future, whether earthly or eternal.
Acts 2 describes the coming of the Holy Spirit on the apostles on the day of Pentecost and the subsequent establishment of the early church in Jerusalem. This chapter portrays the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to preach the gospel in various languages, leading to the conversion of approximately 3,000 people that day. It marks the beginning of the church's mission and emphasizes the importance of community, teaching, and fellowship.
John 20 tells the story of Jesus appearing to his disciples after the resurrection, offering peace and empowering them to forgive sins. The passage emphasizes Jesus' victory over death, His presence among His followers, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It also highlights the disciples' initial fear and doubt, ultimately leading to a moment of rejoicing and understanding.
The Holy Spirit gushes power in Acts 3 and 4. It describe the miracle of healing and it highlights the power of Jesus and the apostles' unwavering faith, even in the face of opposition and persecution.
Paul and Silas travel through Galatia and are prevented by the Holy Spirit from going to Asia, but they are guided to Macedonia. They thought they were to help a man, but God had them preach the gospel and set up a new Christian community. Sometimes our plans are quite different from God's plan for us.
For three Sabbaths, Paul interprets the scriptures, demonstrating that the Messiah must suffer and rise from the dead, and that Jesus is the fulfillment of those prophecies. Some Jews and Gentiles believe Paul's message, but others become jealous and incited a riot, attacking the converts and searching for Paul and Silas to put them in jail. The Christian message will divide light from darkness.