Sunday Morning Podcast | The Moody Church

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] In this passage, the tension is building as Jesus' predictions of his arrest, suffering, death, and resurrection are becoming imminent. His disciples are beginning to realize the seriousness of the situation—they are on the eve of danger, unprepared for the trials ahead. Jesus, knowing they are not ready, seeks to prepare them for what’s coming, focusing not on external threats but on internal dangers of the heart. He warns them about four specific dangers within themselves that they must confront, dangers that are also present in all of us.   I. The Danger of Entitlement (Luke 22:24-30) We overindulge our ego. The disciples argue over who is the greatest. Jesus redefines greatness: true leaders serve others. Takeaway: Get serving!   II. The Danger of Delusion (Luke 22:31-34) We overestimate our strength. Jesus warns Peter that Satan desires to sift him. Peter insists he will never fail, but Jesus predicts his denial. Takeaway: Get real!

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] Have you ever felt like everything was falling apart, only to realize later that those difficult moments were actually setting the stage for something greater? As we approach the Easter season, I'm reminded of how Jesus faced His darkest hour with unwavering courage and purpose. Let's explore how His actions during the Last Supper can inspire us to find triumph even in our most challenging times.   The Gathering Darkness As we look at Luke 22:1-23, we see the plot against Jesus thickening. The religious leaders are scheming, Judas is betraying, and the shadow of the cross looms large. Yet, in this moment of impending tragedy, Jesus demonstrates an astounding level of control and foresight.   "Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people" (Luke 22:1-2).   The irony is palpable. During a festival celebrating Go

What if you could know the future? In Luke 21, Jesus reveals what is to come—both the destruction of Jerusalem and His ultimate return. This sermon explores His prophetic words, showing how history confirms His truth and how His promises shape how we live today.   The Destruction of Jerusalem – Jesus foretells the fall of the Temple, which occurred in 70 AD, warning His followers to remain faithful through persecution.   The Coming of the Son of Man – The chaos of the world is not the end; it points to Jesus’ return in power and glory.   The Posture of Faithful Awaiting – Jesus calls us to be spiritually prepared as we await His return.   Takeaways Watch Yourselves – Do not be weighed down by sin or the distractions of life. Stay Awake – Remain spiritually alert and ready for Christ’s return. Pray Hard – Seek God’s strength to endure trials and temptation. Stand Firm – Endure faithfully and boldly witness for Christ. Listen Well – Stay grounded in God’s Word, the only truth that endures.   Knowing the future

Friends, we've been diving deep into Luke, and today I want to unpack what we really, really need in this life. We're looking at three key things: a greater son, a better goodness, and a deeper offering.   You see, many in Jesus' day were fixated on a Messiah who'd simply kick out the Romans and restore Israel's glory days. They wanted David 2.0. But Jesus, through a clever little Bible study on Psalm 110, exposes their blind spot. He shows them that Messiah isn't just David's son, but also David's Lord! This means Messiah has to be both son of David AND Son of God! We need a savior who's not just a political liberator, but one who conquers sin, Satan, and even death itself!   And it's not enough to just look the part, like those scribes with their fancy robes and long prayers. Jesus warns us about those who prioritize outward appearances over genuine heart transformation. We need a righteousness that surpasses mere performance, a goodness that flows from a heart made new by God's Spirit.   Finally, Jes

In a world rife with threats and anxieties, Psalm 17 offers a beacon of hope, reminding us that our refuge lies in the steadfast love of our good God. David's heartfelt plea in this psalm reveals the stark contrast between the menacing nature of his adversaries and the unwavering protection of the Lord.   David paints a chilling portrait of his enemies: their hearts are closed to pity, their mouths spew arrogance, their eyes are fixed on his downfall, and their leader lurks like a ravenous lion. Yet, amidst this palpable fear, David finds solace in the Lord's promise of refuge. He describes God's attentiveness as an incline ear, his unwavering support as an outstretched right hand, his constant watchfulness as the pupil of his eye, and his unwavering protection as the shadow of his wings.   The illustration of a mother hen shielding her chicks from a raging fire serves as a poignant reminder of God's sacrificial love. Just as the hen willingly endured the flames to protect her young, so too does our God s

You know, they say there's two subjects you don't bring up in polite conversation: politics and religion. Convictions run deep, tempers can run hot, and it usually ends up in an argument. Well, today we dove into how the religious leaders tried to trap Jesus with these very topics, attempting to undermine His authority. But Jesus, calm, clever, and collected, brilliantly outmaneuvered them, remaining laser-focused on what truly matters.   First, they challenged Jesus on paying taxes to Caesar, hoping to paint Him as a political rebel or a Roman sympathizer. With the simple question, "Whose image is on this coin?", Jesus highlighted their dependence on a system ruled by Caesar while emphasizing God's ultimate claim on their lives. "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesars, and to God the things that are God's." Give Caesar your money, fine, but give God your everything. You bear His image.   Next, the Sadducees, those who deny the resurrection, presented a convoluted scenario about a woman with seven h

Friends, this passage from Luke 19 and 20 paints a powerful picture of Jesus rescuing true religion. It's a sad truth that religion can be twisted and corrupted by those seeking profit and power, just like those TV preachers with their private jets and mansions, discrediting authentic faith. This isn't a new problem; it's an age-old one. Jesus himself confronted these hypocrites, these "broods of vipers," head-on. He saw what they were doing to the temple, turning the court of the Gentiles, meant for prayer and seeking God, into a marketplace. They were exploiting people, lining their pockets with exorbitant fees for temple taxes and animal sacrifices. Jesus, in his righteous anger, drove them out, reclaiming the temple as a house of prayer.   This act of cleansing was a powerful statement. Jesus wasn't just tidying up; he was fulfilling prophecy, coming as the refiner’s fire to purify the priesthood and restore righteous offerings. He was taking back what was meant to be a place for all nations to encounte

Over the last 10 chapters of Luke, we've journeyed with Jesus to Jerusalem, and now, in Luke 19, He arrives. This marks the beginning of Passion Week, His final week before crucifixion and resurrection. Jesus’ entry, riding a colt, fulfills Zechariah’s prophecy and mirrors Solomon's coronation, signifying Jesus as the rightful heir and King. This act, seemingly humble, declares peace and shalom, contrasting with the image of a conquering king on a warhorse. It signals the arrival of true peace, not just for Israel, but for all nations. The disciples’ joyous cries of “Blessed is the King” echo the angels’ announcement in Luke 2, further emphasizing Jesus’ messianic identity.   The Pharisees, threatened by Jesus’ claim to kingship, demand He silence His disciples. Their fear stems from a pragmatic agreement with Rome: maintain order and retain religious authority. Jesus’ popularity and kingship challenge this delicate balance, risking Roman intervention. This highlights a core struggle many have with Jesus: a

Friends, for the last 10 chapters of Luke, we've journeyed with Jesus toward Jerusalem, where he'll lay down his life—crucified, buried, and resurrected. At the end of Luke 19, just before his triumphal entry, Jesus tells a parable based on a historical event: the scramble for Herod the Great's throne after his death in 4 B.C. His son, Archelaus, raced to Rome for Caesar's approval, facing opposition from his brother and Jewish leaders. Jesus uses this familiar story to teach his disciples, tweaking details to avoid political controversy while still making his point clear.   This parable, found in Luke 19:11-27, tells of a nobleman going to a far country to receive a kingdom and then returning. He entrusts his servants with minas, instructing them to engage in business until he comes back. Upon his return, he assesses their stewardship. Some multiplied their minas, receiving authority over cities. One servant, however, hid his mina, fearing the nobleman's harshness. This servant's mina was taken and given t

Friends, today we dove into Luke 19, exploring Zacchaeus's encounter with Jesus—a case study in gospel transformation, a journey from greediness to generosity. Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector and a rich man, was in spiritual peril, trapped by his wealth. His name, ironically meaning "pure" or "clear," contrasted sharply with his corrupt practices. Like the rich man building bigger barns or the rich young ruler clinging to his possessions, Zacchaeus was in danger of losing everything for his love of money. Yet, something remarkable happened. He humbled himself, climbing a tree in desperation to see Jesus, breaking social conventions and risking public ridicule. This act of humility foreshadowed the transformation to come.   Jesus, seeing Zacchaeus, invited himself over, extending grace to this unlikely recipient. Zacchaeus's response was astonishing: he gave away half his wealth to the poor and pledged fourfold restitution to anyone he'd defrauded. This radical generosity wasn't about earning salvation; it

Friends, in Luke 18, Jesus reveals to his disciples his impending suffering and death in Jerusalem. They struggle to grasp this, blinded by their expectations of a glorious Messiah. Yet, Jesus, nearing Jericho, encounters a blind beggar who recognizes him as the Son of David. This juxtaposition is key: the disciples' blindness to Jesus' true identity and mission is contrasted with the blind man's clear-sighted faith. Jesus heals the man, demonstrating his messianic power and foreshadowing the deeper spiritual sight he offers. This miracle serves as a divine calling card, echoing Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah opening the eyes of the blind. It's a powerful reminder that Jesus is both the glorious king and the suffering servant.   The disciples' struggle to accept Jesus' suffering mirrors our own difficulty in understanding pain. We crave immediate glory and healing, questioning why the cross is necessary. But Jesus' path to redemption leads through suffering. He enters into the darkness to bring us

Friends, this passage about the rich young ruler is brilliant! Jesus masterfully draws out the depths of this man's heart with three deft moves: deconstructing religion, diagnosing disease, and detailing hope. This rich young ruler, seemingly the perfect disciple candidate, approaches Jesus with a question: "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" But Jesus immediately challenges his assumptions about "goodness" and earning salvation through works. He exposes the ruler's belief that eternal life can be inherited by doing, that doing is within his power, and that God's standard is within reach. This is the problem with religion – it can never bridge the gap between our efforts and God's holy standard.   Jesus then diagnoses the rich young ruler's disease: idolatry. He commands him to sell all his possessions and follow Him, a personalized prescription targeting the ruler's love of wealth above God. This command wasn't a blanket requirement for discipleship, but a specific remedy for this man's

We often hesitate to approach God with our needs because we've learned not to bother important people. But that's a mistake! Jesus assures us that we are never a nuisance to God. He longs to hear our prayers and bless us.   In Luke 18, Jesus teaches us that pining for justice, pleading for mercy, and pestering for attention never bother God. He tells the parable of a persistent widow who finally receives justice from an unjust judge, highlighting God's willingness to answer our cries for justice. He then contrasts a self-righteous Pharisee with a humble tax collector, emphasizing that God delights in our pleas for mercy, not our boasts of righteousness. Finally, Jesus welcomes little children, who naturally pester and interrupt, showing us that God cherishes our childlike faith and desire to spend time with Him.   Just like the widow who wouldn't give up, we should persistently bring our requests to God, trusting in His goodness and justice. Like the tax collector, we should approach God with humility, ac

Let's talk about the word "faith." It's one of those words that has evolved over time. Today, we often use "faith" interchangeably with "belief," but the Bible paints a much richer picture.   The book of Hebrews, particularly chapter 11, gives us a powerful glimpse into what real, Biblical faith looks like. We see it in Abel, who offered a sincere sacrifice to God, even though it cost him his life. Enoch walked with God for 365 years – talk about an unremarkable life of faithfulness! And Noah? He built that ark for a hundred years, enduring scorn and mockery because he feared God more than men. Then there's Abraham, who left everything he knew, risking it all to follow God's call, even though he had no idea where he was going.   These examples highlight some core truths about saving faith. It's not about blind belief or hoping for the best. It's about a deep trust in God's character and promises, a trust that compels us to act, even when it's hard, even when it doesn't make sense. It's about seeking God's

In our study of the threefold office of Christ this Advent season, we've been exploring how Jesus ministers to us as Prophet, Priest, and King. These three distinct roles, often held by separate individuals in the Old Testament, are beautifully united and fulfilled in Jesus Christ.   Today, we're focusing on Jesus as King. The Old Testament's history with kings is intriguing. There was a time when Israel had no king at all. From the days of Abraham, through Moses and Joshua, and into the period of the Judges, God's people lived without a human monarch. They had God's law to guide them, priests as mediators, and warrior-leaders called Judges. God Himself was their King, providing for them and guiding them.   However, in the 11th century BC, the elders of Israel approached the aging priest Samuel with a request: "Give us a king like all the other nations." They desired a visible, human ruler, even though God had always been their true King. This request deeply saddened Samuel, and God revealed to him that t

This Advent season, we're exploring the threefold office of Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. Last time, we saw Jesus as the ultimate Prophet, God's final Word. Now, we turn our attention to Jesus, our High Priest.   The priesthood isn't merely an Old Testament concept. It's rooted in Eden, where Adam was entrusted with priestly duties, mediating between God and creation. Tragically, he failed, leading to humanity's expulsion from God's presence. The tabernacle and later the temple, with their intricate rituals and sacrifices, were God's way of restoring a taste of Eden, allowing for His presence to dwell among His people.   However, the Old Testament priesthood faced inherent limitations. The priests themselves were sinful, requiring atonement. Animal sacrifices, while symbolic, couldn't truly atone for the cosmic treason of sin. Access to God's presence was restricted to once a year, and the priests' finite lives limited their intercession for the people.   Enter Jesus, our Great High Priest. Prophes

This Advent season, we're diving deep into the threefold office of Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. These roles, distinct in the Old Testament, find their ultimate unity in Jesus, our Savior.   We began today by exploring Jesus as Prophet. Why did we need a prophet? Because God's Word is life itself! It's the source of creation, the sustenance of our souls, and the light that guides our path. However, humanity found itself trapped in an echo chamber of its own making, desperately needing an intervention. Enter the prophets of old, like Moses and Isaiah, who spoke God's truth into the darkness, revealing His wonders, will, and wisdom.   Yet, Jesus stands apart. He doesn't merely deliver God's Word; He is the Word made flesh. John the Baptist, that pivotal prophet, prepared the way for the Messiah, who would usher in the fullness of God's revelation. Jesus speaks with an authority unlike any other, not as a mere messenger, but as the very source of truth.   But don't mistake this for a departure from th

In this passage, we're diving deep into the heart of God's grand story, a drama unfolding across history with us right in the middle of it. Just like an actor needs to know their place in a movie's plot, we need to understand where we fit in God's timeline.   The Pharisees were obsessed with when the kingdom of God was coming, but Jesus, in his typical way, flipped the script. He told them the Kingdom wasn't coming in a way they expected – it was already here, present but not yet fully realized. This is the "already not yet" kingdom. We see glimpses of it now, but the fullness awaits us.   Think of all of history like a play in six acts: Creation, the Fall, Israel, Jesus' redemption, the Church Age (that's us!), and finally, the grand finale – renewal when God makes all things new. We're living between the advents – the first coming of Jesus and the second. This time, this "age between," is crucial.   So, how should we act, knowing all this? We need to live with an awareness of the "already" – the Kingd

In Luke 17:1-19, Jesus calls his disciples–and us–to have hearts that are growing in four things: vigilance, sincerity, humility, and gratitude. These traits represent a roadmap for cultivating a heart that is truly free.   First, we are called to vigilance, recognizing that temptations to sin are sure to come. We must be alert, stopping sin in its tracks through confession, repentance, and forgiveness.   Secondly, Jesus calls us to sincerity, living with a deep dependence on Him and extending forgiveness to others, just as God, through Christ, has forgiven us.   Thirdly, we are called to humility, serving one another with the understanding that we are all servants of God.   Finally, we are called to gratitude, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God.   None of this comes naturally. It requires a discipleship of the heart, a conscious choice to follow the way of Jesus and cultivate these traits in our lives. As we follow the way of Jesus and learn this heart of vigilance, sincerity, h

Alright friends, we're diving into a tough but important passage today. It's a story about the twists of fate and the crux of our choices. We're going to see how God, in His love and justice, sets things right in the end. So, open your minds and hearts, and let's learn from the wisdom of Jesus.   The Twist The story of the rich man and Lazarus isn't just about wealth and poverty; it's about a radical reversal, a twist of fate. The rich man, living in luxury, ignored the suffering Lazarus. But in the afterlife, their positions are reversed. This speaks to God's justice, His promise to make things right. It's a powerful reminder: Don't waste your life chasing fleeting pleasures while neglecting your soul. True wealth lies in eternity. Takeaway: Don't waste your life!   The Name Now, notice how the rich man remains nameless, while Lazarus is given an identity. This is significant. The rich man lived for his wealth, making it his identity. But when his wealth vanished in death, so did he. Lazarus, however, hel