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A sermon summary by Pastor Dave Hentschel

In Luke 15, Jesus shares a powerful parable commonly known as the Parable of the Prodigal Son. However, a closer examination reveals that it could be aptly titled “The Parable of the Prodigal Sons,” as it highlights not just one, but two sons and their unique journeys towards reconciliation with their father.

The Younger Son: A Journey of Repentance

The younger son in the parable represents those who wander away from God, chasing after worldly desires and pleasures. He asks his father for his share of the inheritance, essentially wishing his father dead in his heart. With his newfound wealth, he squanders it in reckless living, only to find himself destitute and longing for the sustenance he once took for granted.

Yet, in his desperation, the younger son experiences a transformation. He comes to his senses, realizing the depth of his folly and the abundance he left behind in his father’s house. With humility, he decides to return, not expecting to be received as a son but willing to be a servant.

This part of the parable teaches us about the power of repentance and the unwavering love of God. As Tim Keller aptly puts it, “The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.”

The Older Son: A Journey of Humiliation

The older son represents those who remain obedient and dutiful outwardly but harbor resentment and self-righteousness in their hearts. When the younger son returns and is celebrated by their father, the older son is filled with anger and bitterness. He feels slighted, believing his years of faithful service have gone unnoticed and unappreciated.

Yet, the father’s response to the older son’s indignation is one of compassion and understanding. He reminds him of the unconditional love and inheritance he has always had access to. The older son’s journey towards redemption lies in recognizing the depth of his father’s love and his need for a heart transformation.

The younger son surrendered his soul to his passions.

But the older son surrendered his soul to his pride!

This aspect of the parable challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards others and God’s grace. It reminds us that outward obedience is not enough; our hearts must also align with the Father’s heart of love and forgiveness.

Tim Keller says this, “Jesus taught that we not only need to repent of our sins, but we also need to repent of the very reasons why we obey.”

How is it possible for us to be reconciled into God’s family?

The Third Son: A Journey of Redemption.

The only way to understand that – is to understand the third son in the story. you may be looking now to see if you have the right Bible. What third son? Doesn’t Jesus only mention two? But you haven’t fully understood the story if you miss the third Son. Who is the third Son? … He is the one telling the story! The third son is the one revealing the Father’s heart toward sinners. He is the one showing us what God is like, the third son is Jesus Christ.

Jesus said, “The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19:10, ESV)

This is the point of the gospel of Luke, Jesus is the one who was willing to pay the cost to get us back, and he paid that price, and he laid it all down, at great personal cost to himself, when he died on the cross to our sins.

In conclusion, the Parable of the Prodigal Sons encapsulates the essence of God’s redemptive love. It reminds us that no matter how far we wander or how deeply we may stray, God’s arms are always open wide, ready to welcome us back into His embrace. Whether we identify with the younger son, the older son, or both, may we find solace and hope in the boundless grace of our heavenly Father.

God says to both sons, “Come Home.”

Recommended Resources for Further Study:

The Prodigal God, by Tim Keller

The Cross and the Prodigal, by Kenneth Bailey

The Guest List

If you were throwing a party, who would be on your guest list? In Luke 14, Jesus tells two parables about two different parties. Both parables challenge our assumptions about invitations and guest list. In fact, as he so often does, Jesus turns our expectations upside down. Listen to this:

He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.” (Luke 14:12-14, ESV)

Who is on the guest list? Notice what he says: Don’t invite your rich friends and relatives. Why? Because those people will want something in return from you. There are strings attached to those invitations. Instead, Jesus says, invite the people who have no money, no power, no influence. Invite the people you might send to voicemail. Invite the people who are disabled. The people who cannot see. Why? Because they are overjoyed just to receive an invitation!

A Generous Invitation

Jesus has just made the party awkward by telling the rich important host to reverse his guest list. “Don’t invite all these sycophantic people to you party … they just want to be close to your money and power.” Instead, you should invite the outcasts of society. That would make the room quiet.

At this moment, now that the table is set, Jesus tells one of his famous parables:

But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ (Luke 14:16-17, ESV)

Now … that is a beginning of a story. It begins with a generous invitation. Much packed into these two verses that is crucial to understand the point of the story. Let me make several observations:

First, what is this “great banquet?” We learn in v. 16 that a man (some translations say, “a certain man”) decided to throw a large party and invite a lot of people. The fact the it says, “many,” are invited indicates that he is a person a great wealth. Perhaps the best comparison is the “Great Gatsby!” This is meant to be a huge party for the other wealthy people of the town. Today, this would take place in an elite building in NYC!

Now, culturally speaking, it is important to understand how ancient parties worked. Notice, there is a DOUBLE Invitation. The first invitation served as a SAVE THE DATE. However, the first invitation was crucial because the host must decide how many animals to slaughter so there was enough food to eat at the party. Remember, in the ancient world there were no freezers—the food had to be eaten that night or it would go to waste.

Second, let’s talk about more about the INVITATION. Here is the crazy part about the invitation—the guest didn’t know the exact timing of the meal. The first invitation puts them on notice—there will be a meal and you are expected to come. The second invitation is a summons to the meal—it would come at an unknown hour and you had to be ready. In vv. 12-24 the word, “INVITED,” is repeated 12 times. The Greek word is KALEO, which means “called.”

THEO: In regards to salvation, theologians distinguish between two calls: (1) There is the GENERAL of GOSPEL CALL that goes out to all people. That is the generous invitation. If you have heard the message of the Gospel, if you know about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for you … the invitation has been extended. (2) However, there is a second, EFFECTUAL CALL that only comes to God’s Elect—true Christians. As it applies to the parables, it is the true regenerate believers who actually attend the Banquet of the King.

Some Lame Excuses

One of the popular mantras of our day and age is this: FOMO. It stands for Fear of Missing Out. This concept has revealed a generational mindset shift. Older generations in the US had a great focus on DUTY and HONOR. We would keep our word at all costs. In contrast, the younger, FOMO generation lives by this axiom “I’ll show up to your party … if nothing better comes along. I’m a maybe … because I want to keep my options open.” The FOMO generation is the “MAYBE” generation.

Now, let me ask you a question—and I might get some audible groans here—have you ever tried to prepare for a party when 75% of the people are MAYBES? Why did I even waste money on the invitation? Or how about this, have you ever sent an outlook calendar meeting invite to some and they respond … MAYBE? I wish they would delete that as choice—it’s YES … or NO! You have to commit so others can plan!

The point of this parable will now become clear—DON’T BE A MAYBE! Jesus is not calling “Maybe” followers who can change their mind at the last minute. When he gives in the invitation it is YES … or NO. Let’s see where he goes next:

And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. (Luke 14:17-18, ESV)

Don’t raise your hands, but I want you all to start thinking “am I an excuse maker?” What is the best excuse you have come up with for not attending a party? In the parable, the first person says, “I have to buy a FIELD—excuse me.” That would be interesting dinner conversation. The second person says, “I am on my way to buy some animals.” The third guy just says, “I’m staying home” No excuse.

Now … here is what the parable teaches. When the time comes for the actual meal—all are invited … but only a few actually come. Instead, the offer lame excuses. Why? Because they are pre-occupied by the mundane elements of life. Business affairs. Spontaneous midlife crisis purchases. Family issues. All of those things may distract us from the invitation to Great Banquet of the Lamb at the end of time. The invitation, might not be effectual. Some will be excluded at their own choosing.

The Shocking Replacements

The story ends with a reversal: the insiders become outsiders—and—the perceived outsiders become insiders at the table. Let me remind you where we are in this story. An invitation has been given to an expensive party from a generous and wealthy host. All the elite people of his neighborhood were invited and said they would attend. The host spends considerable resources preparing this party … but everyone cancels at the last minute! If that was you … how would you react? Probably like this …

So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry […] (Luke 14:21, ESV)

The host became angry. Now, that is a natural response, but let’s ask ourselves—why is he angry? Yes, he lost money, the food would go to waste—but! The real reason, the deeper reason is that this host was publicly snubbed. His cultural cache would plummet.

So now he has a choice: does he go in the corner and pout … or does he seek another solution? This host decides to get creative …

Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’ (Luke 14:21, ESV)

Do you see what just happened? The party will go on as scheduled! But with an entirely new, unexpected guest list. In fact, these are the people who would never make it on anyone’s party list. This second invitation goes to the streets—where the poorest of the poor live. In fact, these are the people who lived behind the walls and gates of the city—which shielded them from the view of wealthy citizens. They were literally the outcasts.

And they are not just invited. Notice that phrase, “bring in.” Circle it. This implies they are not just invited but escorted into the party … to share in this glorious meal.

Do you see what Luke is doing here? He is repeating a theme is has used over and over again in the Gospel already. He is turning this party UPSIDE-DOWN! And by doing so, he is displaying for us the UPSIDE-DOWN nature of the Kingdom of God. Jesus just slipped the script on the invite list. Jesus broke the expected algorithm. That is what he does — he defies worldly expectations.

The first shall be last. The last shall be first.

Friends, here is the great truth—all of us, before we came to Jesus, were outcasts. We were outsiders. But now, because of the blood of the true sacrificial lamb who was slaughtered for us we are invited to be insiders. The invitation has been offered to you. Will your RSVP be “maybe?” Or will you say “yes” to Jesus and be ready with JOY when he says: come, it is finished—everything is ready. Dinner is served … who is coming?

A Sermon Summary

By David Hentschel

Embarking on a journey of real change is akin to setting foot on a narrow path—one that demands our full commitment and unwavering resolve. In my recent sermon based on Luke 13, we delved into the urgency of embracing transformation and wholeheartedly following Jesus. Through three significant moments in this passage—The Sparing of the Fig Tree, The Loosing of the Woman, and The Weeping of the Savior—we gleaned profound insights into the call to change.

The Call to True Repentance

In Luke 13:1-5, Jesus underscores the necessity of true repentance. Jonathan Edwards, a notable theologian, distinguished between two kinds of repentance. The first, the repentance of Attrition, is motivated by a fear of punishment—a shallow remorse driven by a desire to escape consequences. This form of repentance falls short of true salvation.

True repentance, on the other hand, involves a change of heart and a change of life—the repentance of Contrition. It is characterized by a brokenness over sin, a genuine sorrow for having offended God. Edwards aptly noted that this godly sorrow leads to reconciliation with God.

For those unsure of their repentance, Edwards advised continued attendance at church and exposure to the Word of God. Through the ministry of the Word, hearts are softened, and true repentance blossoms, leading to a life transformed by the grace of God.

The Sparing of the Fig Tree

As I expounded on the parable of the fig tree, we contemplated the patience and mercy of the vineyard owner—a reflection of God’s enduring grace towards us. Just as the barren fig tree received time to bear fruit, God extends to us the opportunity for repentance and transformation. However, this grace is not without expectation. I emphasized the imperative of genuine change, urging us to seize the moment before it slips away. Like the fig tree, our lives must yield fruit—a tangible expression of our commitment to the narrow way of following Jesus. There are three crucial components to biblical change: 1) We dig around 2) We fertilize and 3) We give it time. These three ingredients are present as God does his work of spiritual formation in all of us.

We also discussed that this fig tree was not merely an individual image, but also a national symbol for the nation of Israel in the first century, without fruit and urgently being warned of it being “cut down.” More on this below, in the story about the woman being loosed…

The Loosing of the Woman

In the poignant encounter with the bent-over woman, we witnessed Jesus’ compassion and power to set captives free. I highlighted Jesus’ ability not only to release physical bondage but also to liberate us from spiritual chains. This narrative underscored the transformative power of encountering Jesus—a power that enables us to stand upright, no longer burdened by sin and shame. I urged the congregation to allow Jesus to loosen the chains that bind them, embracing His transformative grace with humility and gratitude. This is the beginning of change. However, this was not the path taken by the religious leaders of the first century. The Jewish synagogue leader scolded the woman for coming for healing on the Sabbath, and Jesus rebukes him for his hypocrisy. This is why Israel was like a tree which needed to be cut down.

The Weeping of the Savior

Perhaps the most poignant moment in Luke 13 is Jesus’ tears over Jerusalem—a reflection of God’s heartache over humanity’s resistance to change. I drew attention to the Savior’s sorrow, lamenting the missed opportunity for repentance and reconciliation. His tears served as a solemn reminder of the urgency of embracing transformation before it’s too late. I emphasized that the call to change is not a mere suggestion but a matter of eternal significance. We have time, but not unlimited time—to delay is to risk missing the narrow way altogether.

As we conclude, let us heed the call to true repentance and embrace the urgency of change. May our hearts be softened, and our lives transformed, as we wholeheartedly follow Jesus on the narrow way.

The Westminster Story

In the early 1900s, J. Gresham Machen served as NT professor at Princeton Theological Seminary. For 23 years held that post. However, theological compromise began to take hold and Princeton and Machen was gravely concerned. He would later details his concerns in his well-known work, “Christianity and Liberalism.” Unorthodox doctrinal teachings, which questioned the authority of the Bible, were creeping into the school. Machen raised concerns, but to no avail. He, and others like him, had choice: to stay in place or to go boldly.

In 1929, Machen and some other professors chose the latter. They took a stand for the truth of the Bible and the centrality of Christ. This decision was costly—they sacrificed jobs, status, legacy and financial security to do what they felt was right. Machen even lost his ministry ordination credentials in a well-publicized trial.

To top it off, this all occurred just before the 1929 stock market crash and the Great Depression. Still, amidst all that uncertainty, they moved down the road to Philadelphia and founded the well-known Westminster Theological Seminary. It began with few resources, no land, and no name recognition. As noted on their website, “it had every reason to fail.”

In his first address to the fledgling school, Machen uttered these famous words, “But to Christ, despite all, we hold.” In a culture of compromise, when everyone was going the other way, he reminded them that Jesus is worth it. Today, Westminster has a 90-year legacy of faithfulness to the Scriptures and the Gospel.

Why did Machen and his associates take this stand and leave Princeton? Sometimes, it is necessary to take a stand. Sometimes, it is necessary to divide. If remaining faithful to Christ causes division, division is necessary.

Unity At All Costs?

I wonder if that is something with which many of us can resonate. Today’s cultural climate is rank with division. In fact, many of us ask, “Why can’t there be more unity?” Other of us might say, “I just can’t compromise on that issue!” Everywhere we look, division seems prevalent—can you feel that tension?

Then, to exasperate the issue, everyone is speaking in stark extremes. If you don’t agree with me you are evil and immoral! It makes sense that we would long for more unity in life. As a result, and from our longings, we speak in platitudes about an undefined unity. But is that type of unity the goal? Should we have unity at all costs … or should we count the cost and unite around the truth of Scripture, like Machen?

I’ll give you another example from the church world. Is anyone familiar with #exvangelical? This is a current movement of people who have left the Evangelical church. They cite many issues which intersect with CLEAR Biblical teachings. In many ways, this division stems from Scripture itself and even the nature of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. This has divided family members. For some of us, this is a reality right now, even with your own children.

Our passage today, in Luke 12:49-13:5, speaks rather boldly division. As Machen said, “To Christ, despite all, we hold.” In our day and age, like Machen’s, remaining faithful to Christ has sparked division. Now we encounter something odd and unnerving in Luke 12:49-51. Jesus describes himself as a divider. This is not a comforting passage but it is a necessary passage. Let’s read the first part together:

“I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” (Luke 12:49-53, ESV)

This is not an easy word but it is God’s word. In fact, I want to highlight that these are the words of Jesus himself. What does it team us about navigating division?

Feel The Fire

In fact, v. 49 follows a parable where Jesus was talking about servants receiving punishment. Now, he says this:

“I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! (Luke 12:49, ESV)

Alright, so in this verse, we learn who started the fire (Your welcome, Billy Joel!). Jesus starts the fire! Some of you are saying, “Hold on a second Jesus … is this a good idea? I’m not sure fire is safe?” You are right—fire is not safe. Jesus is not safe. As C.S. Lewis once alluded, “He is good.”

As I mentioned in the opening, I want you to notice this is a statement of mission. Jesus is telling us why he came to earth. He makes a number of these statements in Luke. He says things like, “I came to seek and save the lost.” Here, you have to ask, what is up with the fire? In the Greek, “FIRE” is in the emphatic position—it is the main point of the statement.

Commentator Robert Stein notes that, in this context, “FIRE” can be viewed in two ways: (1) First, it can refer to the final judgment at the end of history. (2) Second, fire can refer to how God’s coming kingdom divides people into two camps. Based on the context of this verse, the second is likely true. It is this fire which rightly divides the evil from the good. However, this division will reveal who follows Jesus and who rejects Jesus. Rejection of Jesus will lead to judgment, which is the truth we learn about Jesus mission in v. 49: Jesus came to bring judgment.

However, this is only half the story. Because the judgment exposes our sin, we need to see the second element of his mission:

I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! (Luke 12:50, ESV)

This baptism does not refer to his time with John the Baptist. This baptism would have been a well-known image in the ancient world that paralleled the “cup.” Baptism refers to Jesus suffering and death on the cross—which is the road Luke is leading us on. The key to understanding this metaphor is found in the parallel passage, Mark 10:38. Here, Jesus is also speaking to the disciples …

Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” (Mark 10:38, ESV)

The cup was symbol of God’s wrath poured out. Jesus is telling them—I am going to face the greatest agony anyone could ever face. I am going to be baptized with fire on the cross—for you! The fire that should burn you—it will burn me! And I will remain there until the mission is done.

Jesus came to bring judgement, but more importantly for us: Jesus came to bear judgment. The reason he came the first time, 2000 years ago was to take on the wrath of God for sinners like you and I. He came to seek and save the lost by bearing the judgment of God on our behalf. Both times … sin is atoned for. Both times, fire is involved. Jesus doesn’t just bring the fire; he bears the fire for us.

Face The Fallout

Jesus next statement is shocking.

Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. (Luke 12:51, ESV)

Hold on a second! Pause! Isn’t Jesus the guy who the prophet Isaiah called, the prince of peace? Wasn’t Jesus announced by the angels in Luke 2, mind you, as the one who brings peace on earth? Doesn’t Paul tell us in his letter to the Ephesians that Jesus tears down the wall of hostility and brings peace? You bet.

So what are we to do this this verse? “I have not come to bring peace … rather division.” Jesus is a divider. Now that’s a head scratcher. How many of you in the audience think of Jesus as a divider? Not many.

This is an uncomfortable verse. What is Jesus saying? What’s striking about this verse is that Jesus seems to add division to his mission. Notice the “I have come” statement. I have come to bring the fire and that fire will divide people. The best way to understand this verse is the response people have to Jesus. Some will accept him others will not. There will be division.

This brings us back to our original tension. We live in a divided culture, and it makes many uncomfortable. Can’t we all just get along? The answer is, on some issues, “No … we can’t.” Following Jesus is one of them. Now, he illustrates the consequences …

For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” (Luke 12:52-53, ESV)

Who is living this right now? This is another striking statement. Let’s recap. Jesus came to bring the fire of judgment. Jesus came to divide. That is his mission. He even goes so far as to say that following him, loving him, obeying him will put you at odds with your whole extended family.

Yet, Jesus says his mission, the reason he came, is not to bring peace but division. Why? Jesus knew people would reject him. And he was okay with that. It’s us that have the problem. As hard as it is to do we need to preach Jesus and leave the rest to him. I would like to suggest unity is not the goal. Rather, we need to unify around the right truths. “There is a proper time to divide.” The question is … when? Let me offer three tiers to consider:

FIRST TIER ISSUE: First tier issues are what Jesus is talking about in this passage. These are disagreements which require division. Some examples: the deity of Christ, the authority of the Bible, and, I would say the definition of marriage and humanity.

SECOND TIER ISSUE: Second tier issues might divide us due to their practical significance. These are issues such as the use of supernatural gifts, church government, and who can be a pastor. Those are important issues … but their practicality will change the way church is expressed.

THIRD TIER ISSUES: Third tier issues are issues that should not divide us. It is good to debate them, but the positions should be held with an open hand. Topics like positions on eschatology, views on alcohol consumption, etc. would be in this category.

However, I will point out again—Jesus is talking about a first tier issue in Luke 12: following him. You have either given your life to Jesus or you have not. There is no lukewarm, in between position. When you follow Jesus, especially today, you will: Face the Fallout.

Repent! Or Perish

Because the way we make disciples is not by telling them what their itching ears want to hear. The way we make true disciples, and the way we grow deeper in our walk with Christ, is by calling people to REPENTANCE.

At the beginning of Luke 13 Jesus drives this point home. He outlines two disputes. One incident involved the Galileans. One incident at the tower of Siloam. Both were sinful and destructive in God’s sight. Both came with a warning and call to action:

No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. (Luke 13:3, 5, ESV)

Unless you repent … unless you repent … unless repent. The Kingdom of God is here! I have come to cast fire on the earth. It’s here—but in the future, when the kingdom comes in all its fullness, it is going to burn even hotter. Here is the message: We are all sinners … REPENT! Or Perish (13:1-5). I’ve never forgotten the words of one seminary professor, because they are the words of Jesus himself: “You must preach REPENTANCE!”

Friends, have you repented of your sins? Have you surrendered your life to Jesus and trusted in him and him alone for salvation? If you have not, I say to you with love and concern, the fire is coming. You will bear the weight of judgment alone. But you don’t have to. Jesus came to turn up the heat so that we would repent. It is his kindness, Paul tells us, that leads us to repentance.

And if you are someone who objects to this message, let me just say this, especially to younger generations: judgment is real. In fact, I would argue, all of us want judgment. But who gets to be the judge? If someone wrongs you, you want someone to do something about it don’t you? Imagine a world, where anyone could walk in your house and steal with no consequence. Imagine a world where someone could kidnap your children, be caught and face no consequences. Imagine a world where you could be beaten, left on the side of the street, and your attacker could face no consequence.

I recently saw several headlines on women running, jogging in NYC, who were simply punched in the face by random strangers. Apparently, this is a thing. The women report being assaulted … in broad daylight … while they were walking down the street on their phones. Don’t you want these men arrested? Imagine a world where there were no consequences. Its absurd. No one functionally believes it. We all want a judge.

But who gets to judge? The truth is, we all want to be the judge. We want to decide what is right and wrong for us. There is only one just judge who brings righteous fire. Jesus says, “Let me judge … focus on your repentance … Stay true to me.” Or, as J. Gresham Machen said, “To Christ, despite all, we hold.”

That may cause division. Still, to follow Christ you must Feel the Fire. Face the Fallout. Repent … or perish.

4/7/24 Sermon Summary  – Pastor David Hentschel

In the fast-paced world we inhabit, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, often neglecting our spiritual preparedness and responsibilities. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to live with both readiness and responsibility, especially in the face of the uncertainty of the end times. Here is the key principle:

What we believe about the future impacts what we do today.

In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus presents three parables that illuminate this dual call to action, urging us to be vigilant, faithful stewards of His teachings, and ever-prepared for His return.

Part 1: The Parable of the Servants Waiting for Their Master (Luke 12:35-38)

The first parable Jesus shares emphasizes the importance of readiness. Just as servants wait eagerly for their master’s return from a wedding feast, so too must we be prepared for the unexpected arrival of our Lord. In these end times, when the signs of His coming are becoming increasingly evident, we cannot afford to be complacent. Instead, we must be vigilant in our faith, living each day in anticipation of His return. This means nurturing our relationship with God through prayer, studying His Word, and actively seeking His will in our lives.

Part 2: The Parable of the Householder and the Thief (Luke 12:38-40)

The second parable underscores the concept of preparedness. Jesus uses the imagery of a thief, indicating that His return will likewise be unexpected. As stewards of God’s gifts and teachings, we are called to be always ready, using our time, talents, and resources wisely for the Kingdom’s advancement. This entails serving others, practicing generosity, and living with integrity in all aspects of our lives.

Part 3: The Parable of the Faithful Servants (Luke 12:40-48)

In the final parable, Jesus warns of the consequences of neglecting our responsibilities. He speaks of servants who are exploiting the delay in their master’s return and therefore fail to carry out their duties faithfully. These servants are held accountable for their negligence and are subject to severe punishment. Likewise, if we fail to heed Christ’s call to readiness and responsibility, we risk facing judgment upon His return. As such, we are reminded of the urgency of living faithfully in the present moment, making the most of the time we have been given to serve God and others.

As we reflect on these parables, let us heed Jesus’ teachings with a sense of urgency and conviction. Living in the end times, we are called to be faithful stewards of God’s grace, ever-ready for His return. May we embrace the dual call to readiness and responsibility, knowing that through our steadfast faith and diligent service, we honor our Lord and prepare ourselves for the glorious day when He shall come again.

“Amen, Come, Lord Jesus.”

A Footnote in a Secular World

This past Sunday was Easter. It is the most important day in the Christian faith. Sadly, and evidence of our time, it has become a footnote in the larger cultural conversations. If you go back 15-20 years in American life, Easter garnered a respectable place of prominence in the cultural conversation. Now, people seem to avoid it.

However, in the midst of all this, God is still at word. Jesus, through his Holy Spirit is still speaking to the hearts of people. This is what we see in Luke 24:13-15. It is the famous story of Emmaus Road. The story reminds me of the famous book series, “Where’s Waldo?” The reason you don’t see Waldo is because he is hidden amongst a colorful array of images. But once you see him you can’t un-see him! It’s the same with Jesus on the Road. Put another way, the disciples are playing “Where’s Jesus?” once they hear about the empty tomb.

This passage is a reaction to Easter and it reveals three heart postures.

Broken Hearts

First, it shows us our broken hearts. All of us are going somewhere and it was no different with the disciples. That is, until Jesus interrupts their day. He asks what they are talking about and we read this:

And they stood still, looking sad. (Luke 24:17b, ESV)

They stood still … looking sad. Wow. That is a powerful verse. Interruptions, especially unexpected interruptions, reveal what is happening to our hearts. These disciples just paused … thought about everything that just happened … and they looked sad. Other translations say, “their faces were downcast.” Put another way: their hearts were broken. They were sad. Jesus has a habit of interrupting us at just the right time to speak to our hearts.

When confronted with the reality and beauty of Easter, we realize just how broken our world is. It is dis-heartening.

Foolish Hearts

Second, this passage shows us we have foolish hearts. Often, when our hearts deal with pain, it shows our lack of belief in what God can do. As they are walking along the Road to Emmaus, Jesus, who they still don’t recognize, takes some leadership in the conversation. He has heard enough of their story, and he going to speak to their hearts:

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! (Luke 24:25)

Look carefully at Jesus’ rebuke. What does he call them? Foolish. Why? Because their hearts are SLOW to believe.

Do you have a slow heart? Maybe Jesus wants to speak to you. Some of us reading this post have been skeptical for a long time. We’ve been staring at the page of life trying to find Jesus. Others of us, we are Christians, but life has dealt us a bad hand and we’ve lost our trust in God. Whatever happens our hearts are slow to believe. I would ask: Why is your heart slow? Our hearts are foolish and slow because we are listening to ourselves and missing the bigger story of God!

Burning Hearts

Finally, our goal should be burning hearts. As the disciples finished their journey, they asked Jesus to stay with them. Why did they want to spend more time with him? Everything was finally making sense. The picture was starting to come into focus. Then, during a meal, the 3-D image explodes off the page.

When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. (Luke 24:30-31, ESV)

Having a meal with Jesus and breaking bread is a common image in Luke’s Gospel. It points to the new life Jesus offers. It’s in that moment that Jesus makes the big reveal—they now see, IT’S HIM! Once you’ve seen who Jesus is you can’t un-see him! The whole picture of life is transformed because they caught a glimpse of the Resurrection.  How did they respond?

They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:32, ESV)

What’s crazy is that just as their eyes are opened he disappears. But inside something is different. Their hearts are BURNING; they are ON FIRE from Jesus. Why? Mike McKinley puts it this way.

No wonder the disciples’ hearts were burning as Jesus opened the Scriptures for them! The resurrection makes sense of the whole story of Jesus—really, the story of the whole Bible. The resurrection stamps the word “KEPT” all over the promises of the Old Testament; it makes the terrible events of the crucifixion to be great news and lights up heavy hearts on fire.

Friends, do you have a heavy heart today? Is something not right in your life? You need the fire that comes from the Resurrection! What is seen … cannot be unseen.

Have You Found Jesus?

Let me ask you: have you found Jesus today? Or are you still staring at life, or at the Bible, trying to figure it out. Because maybe, on this busy road you are traveling, perhaps you’ve missed the point.

I want to speak to two groups of people. First, if you are a Christian, maybe you just attended your 50th Easter Service. Let me exhort you—Easter needs to make your heart burn. If it doesn’t, ask yourself, “What’s wrong? Has Jesus become hidden in my life because I’m not looking?”

Second, some of us are skeptical. If that is you, read this very carefully. God has this message for you:

“You matter to Me. I understand everything about your life. I know you. I made you. And I know your broken heart too. But I sent My Son to die for you. And I raised him up. I did all of this to offer you my victory, to make possible a restored relationship with you.”

That’s what Easter is all about. God knows you. He wants you to know Him. Will you place your faith in Him? “I found Jesus!” That is message of the Emmaus Road on the way to our own Resurrection.

Buried Treasure

March 17^th, this past Sunday, was St. Patrick’s Day. This holiday is filled with images of shamrocks, the color green and leprechauns. In Irish folklore, a leprechaun is a small, trouble-making creature, who excels at one thing: finding hidden treasure. Where is it? In a “pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.”

Now, bear in mind, this is an idiom, but it is germane to our discussion today. When someone says, “I am looking for my pot of gold at the end of the rainbow,” it is not simply talking about money. It also refers to your hopes and dreams. In fact, Jesus voices us it this way in Luke 12:34,

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (Luke 12:34, ESV)

In other words, the pot of gold is what captures your heart. What does your heart treasure? We all need an honest assessment. Many of us are digging for buried treasure making deals with proverbial Leprechauns to aid our quest. Let’s face reality—all of us are gold diggers. Yes, I said it. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Jesus says, “What captures your heart rules your life.” All of us want that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Face The Terror

Terror seems an odd subject to include in a post on treasure hunting. However, let me make an assertion: our fears reveal what we treasure. It’s true. What do you fear losing? Do your fears drive you actions? Perhaps they are a clue to the desires of our heart.

In Luke 12:1-12, Jesus addresses our fears by discussing the morbid topics of judgment, hell and blasphemy. The Pharisees are center stage as this section follows his confrontation with the Pharisees in Luke 11. Jesus teaches us two key principles. First, our private life should match our public life. He was about the leaven and hypocrisy of the Pharisees (v. 1). One day their private deeds and motivation will be evident for all to see (vv. 2-3).

This reality should give us a sober mind. Jesus then gets in the theme of “fearing the Lord (vv. 4-5).” This points to the second principal: develop proper fear. Too many of us are afraid of people and we don’t fear God. That sounds counterintuitive—why should I fear God? Because he is holy and just—he must punish sin. Jesus says this,

And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God, but the one who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. (Luke 12:8-10, ESV)

Notice, again, there is a dichotomy between man and God. Fear of people will cause us to hide our faith. Fear of God will cause us to be bold for our faith. Why? When you fear God you recognize his power, his calling on your life, as well as lengths that Jesus went to pay the penalty for your sin. Trust him!

Assess Your Treasure

In Luke 12:13-21, a man interrupts Jesus teaching and asks him to arbitrate his inheritance dispute. Jesus cuts to the real issue:

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15, ESV)

Jesus says, “GUARD against covetousness.” So it’s worth asking, “What am I coveting today?” The bigger house. The promotion. The next academic degree. The new car, the new phone, the new relationship. As good as your life may be, and as blessed as your life may be … there is always more you can have. At what point will you be content? It reveals something about the treasure of our hearts. What do we do? Give.

In the New Testament (NT), God does not command us to give a specific amount of money. It is not in there. 10%? That is the OT. The language of the NT is sacrificial giving. What does Paul say? 2 Corinthians 9:6-7,

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:6-7, ESV)

So, what is his instruction? (1) Prayerfully, decide what God is calling you to give. (2) Don’t give reluctantly because you have to. Don’t think, “Alright God, I’ll pay my membership dues.” (3) God loves a cheerful giver. The heart behind it all is this—generosity kills greed. Generosity images God. Generosity points us to the real treasure in Jesus.

Trust The King

If you want to re-orient the treasure of your heart … you have to trust the King. Yet, so many of us don’t trust him. Instead, we need to heed Jesus words in v. 22-23:

And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. (Luke 12:22-23, ESV)

Don’t be anxious about your life. Now, this verse points back to the previous section. What causes anxiety in our lives? Provision. All the examples he gives here have to do with provision—food, clothing, nourishments. How will we provide for ourselves without money? Isn’t that why the guy who interrupted Jesus want the inheritance? He want a better life filled with wealth and no worries. Have you ever worried about money and bills? What would it be like to not worry and trust God? It all comes back to the heart. Bible Scholar Darrell Bock makes a wonderful observation:

“Our heart can tell us if we are anxious, and our pocketbook can tell us if we are generous. Both tell us if we are trusting God.”

Do you trust the King? This the “X” marks the spot. Ultimately, that may be why you are picking up your shovel and digging in all the wrong places. What should we do instead?

Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. (Luke 12:31, ESV)

The only thing you need to do is seek his kingdom. Everything else will follow. Seek the kingdom by having faith in the King! And if you are a disciple of Jesus, you may remember this was a key piece in the Disciple’s Prayer: “Your kingdom come. Give us today our daily bread.” The more you pray that prayer the more you keep coming back to Jesus. Don’t worry—TRUST THE KING! What does it look like to seek the Kingdom? Let me conclude with the famous prayer of St. Patrick entitled “Christ Be With Me.” It goes like this:

Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,

Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,

Christ on my right, Christ on my left,

Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise,

Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,

Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks to me,

Christ in every eye that sees me,

Christ in every ear that hears me.

Salvation is of the Lord.

Salvation is of the Christ.

May your salvation, Lord, be ever with us.

A sermon summary of Luke 11:14-54

By: Pastor David Hentschel

In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” These timeless words resonate not only in the realm of politics but also in the spiritual journey depicted in Luke 11:14-54. This passage contains three compelling sections: the battle with the demon, the battle with darkness, and the battle at the dinner. Within these narratives, the debate about spiritual warfare and the controversial topic of whether Christians can be possessed by a demon took center stage.

Section 1: The Battle with the Demon (Lk 11:14-28)

The passage opens with a vivid account of Jesus casting out a demon, sparking a heated debate among the onlookers. Dr. Michael Heiser, writes in his book, The Unseen Realm: Recovering the supernatural worldview of the Bible, “We’ve been desensitized to the vitality and theological importance of the unseen world.” (p 16)

Some were in awe of His authority, while others sought to discredit Him. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of spiritual warfare and the implications for believers. The question arises: Can Christians be possessed by a demon? The sermon delves into various perspectives on this controversial issue, emphasizing the importance of discernment and a strong spiritual foundation.

Jim Osman writes in his book Truth or Territory, that there are six reasons why a Christian can’t be possessed by a demon.

1) We have been delivered (Col 1:13)

2) We are temples of the living God (1 Cor 6:19)

3) The one in us is greater than the one who is in the world (1 Jn 4:4)

4) We are sealed by the Spirit (Eph 1:13)

5) There is an absence of instruction in the NT on how to deal with a demon possessed believer.

6) We are told we can and should resist the devil as a follower of Christ, and he will flee. (James 4:7)

Allow me to add a 7th reason: the word “possession” implies “ownership,” but a Christian has been bought by the blood of Christ. Because you have been purchased Christ is your rightful owner and Lord. Therefore, true Christians need not be afraid.  “The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” (2 Thess 3:3)

However, spiritual warfare is in fact real and we can be influenced by the enemy, so we are still called to “fight,” and to “wrestle,” and to resist the devil and to wage this spiritual war.

Dr. Michael Heiser teaches that a Christian cannot be possessed by a demon, but he also points out that the term “possession” may not always be the right English word to translate the term. “Demonazomai.”

Another legitimate definition of “Demonization” given to me by my seminary professor, was this: “Demonization could also mean the ongoing affliction or torment of an individual through the presence of a demon.” (Dr. Robert Pyne)

This, many believe, actually can happen to a believer. Not demon possession but demon oppression.

So Yes, Satan is a defeated foe, but he has not yet been defeated – in a final sense.  So we are still engaged in the battle.

But, how do we fight? We are to put on the full armor of God (Eph 6) and stand firm against the lies of the enemy. The devil is a liar.

Dr. Michael Heiser says, “The way that spiritual warfare is accomplished is by telling the truth. You speak truth to lies.”

Section 2: The Battle with Darkness (Lk 11:29-32)

Moving forward, the sermon unfolds the narrative of Jesus addressing the darkness that lurks within. He warns against the dangers of spiritual emptiness and the consequences of allowing darkness to take root. This section challenges believers to examine their hearts, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance and a continuous pursuit of the light.

Section 3: The Battle at the Dinner (Lk 11:33-54)

As the sermon progresses, we find Jesus engaged in a heated dinner conversation with Pharisees and experts in the law. This setting becomes a battleground for ideological clashes, highlighting the dangers of self-righteousness and hypocrisy. The message encourages believers to cultivate humility, authenticity, and a genuine love for others.

In the concluding moments of Luke 11, Jesus pronounces six woes upon the Pharisees, reminiscent of Isaiah’s six woes, culminating with the 7^th woe which Isaiah pronounces upon himself. However, a curious absence lingers—a “missing woe” as the Pharisees sought to trap Jesus. This deliberate omission speaks volumes, illustrating Jesus’ divine wisdom and their refusal to submit to Him.

The parallels with Isaiah’s woes add depth to the narrative, ultimately leading to a profound observation. Isaiah’s seventh woe was pronounced upon himself, saying, “Woe is me.” Similarly, in Luke 11, the missing woe serves as a mirror for introspection.

What is the greatest danger of the 21^st century church? Based on Jesus’ stern rebuke, NT Commentator Philip Ryken states, “The greatest danger may come from theologically informed, religiously active, morally conservative people whose hearts are far from God.” (Ryken, Luke, p 618)

As we navigate the battles with demons, darkness, and dinner with people who have religious ideologies, we are reminded of our own vulnerabilities. In acknowledging our shortcomings, we find the path to redemption and the transformative power of Christ’s love.

“The missing woe” echoes the importance of humility and self-reflection, paving the way for a deeper connection with the divine. As we grapple with the battles within and around us, may we find solace in the unifying power of Christ’s message, transcending divisions and fostering a house built on the solid foundation of Christ’s love and grace in the gospel.

How do I deepen my prayer life?

The Wall of Distraction

The end of Luke chapter 10, beginning at v. 38, surfaces several issues worthy of discussion. The most pressing topics are distraction and prayer. This begs the question: have you ever been distracted during prayer? The truth is we live in an extremely distracted age. Modern technology, particularly media technology, offers a wealth of distractions: streaming platforms, social media updates, news updates, and a constant flurry of emails in our inbox create a cycle of distraction. I will call this phenomenon the  “wall of distraction.”

In Luke 10:38-42 we meet two sisters who illustrate this point: Martha and Mary. Jesus comes to their home on his way to Jerusalem and they display a bifurcated response to his presence. We read this: “And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving (10:38).” Did you hear that? Martha was distracted; Mary sat at Jesus feet and listened. There is the tension.

Three questions arise which I would like you to consider: (1) When are you distracted? (2) What distracts you? (3) Once you answer those questions, you should then ask this question: how can I remove the distractions?

Get Focused

When the text tells us the Martha was distracted, the Greek word (perispaomai) has the sense of something “pulling you away.” We are told that Martha was distracted with “much serving,” which seems counterintuitive. How can serving be seen in a negative light? I think Luke is pointing out that Martha is engaging in selfish service. In other words, sometimes we serve for the wrong reasons. Rather than truly giving of our time and talents we might want recognition to gain a form of power and influence. This is evidenced in Martha’s life by her confrontation with Jesus himself in v. 40:

But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” (Luke 10:40, ESV)

I picture her interrupting Jesus mid-sentence and then attempting to pull him into whatever family drama is happening with Mary. Jesus, for his part, graciously responds to Martha and points out that her distractions are a result of anxiety. The solution is to follow Mary’s example by choosing the “good portion.” What is the good portion? Psalm 119:57 tells us that the “LORD is our portion.” Or put another way, Jesus must be the focus of our prayers—our entire life! When that happens, all the distractions fall away.

Pray The Pattern

Now, you might say, “Jesus is the focus of my prayers but how do I pray?!” I’m glad you asked, because it is the same query the disciples make of Jesus in Luke 11:1. After observing Jesus prayer life, they come to him and say, “Lord … teach us to pray!” Jesus responds by giving them a pattern: one address, two statements, and three requests. Often our prayers are dominated by self-focused requests motivated by distractions in the world. To counter this, Jesus says—before you make any requests—recognize who you are talking to and how to approach him.

The address is to “Our Father,” which recognizes that God has both authority over us and intimacy with us. The statements, “Hallowed be your name and your Kingdom come” are reminders that God is holy and offers hope. He is set apart from this world, but his desire is to eradicate sin and chaos now. With that in mind, now we make three requests: (1) Basic needs (2) Forgiveness (3) Protection. That is what we need—let’s not get distracted by everything else.

In sum—if you want to remove distractions in prayer you need to get focused but you also have to pray the pattern. That is what Jesus teaches his disciples when they ask.

Ask with Audacity

Once the first two pieces are in place—now we get to the fun part. Jesus tells us that when we pray—ask with audacity! He closes the section by telling two parables, which explain how to approach God and what to expect from him. For the sake of time, I will simply note that God is a good God and we should expect good gifts from him. He is our Father who loves us.

But how do we approach him? The first parable outlines a scenario where a friend, rather boldly, comes to another friend late in the night asking for bread. While this may be annoying to some, Jesus says this request is successful due to the requester’s “impudence (11:8, ESV).” What is impudence? The original word can mean shameless boldness. Or, put another way, audacity. The reason the person received help is because they asked with audacity!

Jesus tells us, when pursuing God we must ask, seek and knock (11-9-10). Many of us don’t receive because we don’t ask. Where do you need to make a bold request of God today? Do you need to ask with audacity? This is a surefire way to remove distraction because now you are asking with a purpose. Health problem? Ask. Financial problem? Ask. Family problem? Ask.

And expect our good father to offer grace in our moment of need.