THEME: RECONCILIATION

Sermon
Date: 30th March 2025
Occasion: 4th Sunday in Lent

Venue: PCG, LIVING BREAD CONGREGATION, TANTRA HILL
Text: Psalm 32:2; 1 Corinthians 5:16-21; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

A. INTRODUCTION

We have three passages before us, all pointing to the central theme of Reconciliation. They emphasize three key aspects:

1.      An Example of the Process of Reconciliation (Luke 15:11-32)

2.      The Privilege of Being Reconciled (Psalm 32:2)

3.      The Acceptance and Assignment of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:16-21)

Reconciliation is a journey that starts with a decision, is fueled by desire, and requires drastic action. The beauty of this message is that no matter how far we have gone, God always welcomes us back. The challenge, however, is that we also need to accept others just as God has accepted us.

Let’s reflect on how this works in our daily lives.

 

B. REFLECTIONS FROM THE FIRST READING (LUKE 15:11-32)

Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son paints a vivid picture of our spiritual journey.

1. The Father Had Two Prodigal Sons

Both sons, though different in lifestyle, were lost in their own way:

·        Both sons used the same approach when asking for something: "Give me" (v.12, v.29)

·        Both sons left the presence of the father: one physically, the other emotionally (v.13, v.28)

·        Both sons wanted the father’s property, not the father himself (v.12, v.28)

·        Both sons followed evil: one through action, the other in his thoughts (v.13, v.30)

·        Both sons abused the father’s generosity: one wasted it, the other rejected it (v.14, v.31)

This means that we can be lost even inside the church. Some people physically walk away from God, while others stay in church but have hearts full of resentment and judgment.

2. Reconciliation Begins with a Decision

The younger son only realized his mistake when he hit rock bottom.

·        The pleasures he pursued turned into pain

·        His high-class status was reduced to nothing

·        He was starving and feeding pigs, something unacceptable for a Jew

Lesson: Sin may look attractive, but it will always leave you broken, empty, and ashamed. No one ever enters sin and comes out the same.

3. Reconciliation Takes Desire

The young man could have stayed in self-pity, but he longed for his father’s house.

·        His language changed from "Father, give me" (v.12) to "Father, make me" (v.19)

·        He walked back home, despite shame and fear

Lesson: It is not enough to know you are lost. You must have the desire to return. Many people feel regret but never take steps toward change.

4. Reconciliation Requires Drastic Action

The father’s response was unusual in Jewish culture:

·        He ran to meet his son (showing urgency and love)

·        He kissed him (showing acceptance)

·        He gave him a robe (restoring identity)

·        He gave him a ring (restoring economic status)

·        He gave him shoes (elevating his position)

·        He organized a feast (restoring his social standing)

Lesson: When God forgives, He does not do it halfway. He restores us completely!

 

C. REFLECTIONS ON THE SECOND READING (PSALM 32:2)

Reconciliation with God brings privileges:

1.      Divine Protection (v.6-7) – God becomes our refuge

2.      Divine Preservation (v.7) – He keeps us through trials

3.      Divine Proximity (v.8-9) – He gives guidance

4.      Divine Peace (v.10) – Walking with God brings joy

5.      Divine Praise (v.11) – We gain a testimony of deliverance

Lesson: When we are reconciled with God, we are covered on all sides.

 

D. REFLECTIONS ON THE THIRD READING (2 CORINTHIANS 5:16-21)

This is where the challenge comes in.

1. Living as Proof of Reconciliation

After being reconciled with God, you must show it in your life. God does not remove you from the world, but sends you to be a testimony:

·        First to Jerusalem (your immediate circle)

·        Then to Judea (your community)

·        Then to Samaria (those different from you)

·        Finally to the world (Acts 1:8)

2. Proving the Old is Gone

It is not enough to say "I have changed." You must prove it.

·        People around you will not trust you immediately

·        You will face judgment and skepticism

·        You must remain faithful despite opposition

3. Making Reconciliation Possible for Others

Many times, we make it difficult for others to reconcile with God.

·        We judge people by appearance, past sins, or status

·        We make strict rules about what they must do before they are "accepted"

The father in the parable did not wait for his son to clean up before welcoming him. Let’s not put unnecessary obstacles before people who are trying to find God.

4. Living as Ambassadors of Reconciliation

Paul says we are Christ’s ambassadors (v.20).

·        An ambassador carries the message of their home country

·        Our message is one of love, grace, and acceptance

·        How we live must reflect our identity as representatives of Christ

Lesson: We are not just saved for ourselves but are called to lead others to Christ.

 

E. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: MAKING RECONCILIATION EASY

1.      For Those Who Need to Be Reconciled:

o   Come back to God; He is waiting for you

o   No sin is too great for God to forgive

o   Do not let fear or shame keep you from returning

2.      For Those Who Have Been Reconciled:

o   Live in a way that proves you have changed

o   Accept yourself as a new creation

o   Be patient as you earn the trust of others

3.      For Those Who Need to Accept Others:

o   Stop putting unnecessary burdens on people

o   Welcome people before they change, just as God welcomes them

o   Make the church a place of grace, not judgment

 

F. CONCLUSION

Reconciliation is God’s greatest gift to us. It starts with a decision, is fueled by desire, and requires drastic action. But the real test is not just accepting reconciliation—it is helping others receive it too.

God has called us not just to be reconciled but to be agents of reconciliation. The world is broken, and people are waiting for someone to show them the way back to God. Will you be that person?

May the Lord give us the grace to live as true ambassadors of reconciliation. Amen!

 

CONVERSION

SUNDAY SERMON – 23RD MARCH 2025

(Based on the Presbyterian Almanac)

Theme:

Conversion

Bible Readings:

• First Reading: Isaiah 55:1–9
• Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1–13
• Third Reading: Luke 13:1–9

Introduction

Imagine a raw material that is useless until it is processed. Take electricity, for example it is a powerful form of energy, but if you touch it directly, it can kill you. However, when converted into heat, light, or sound, it becomes beneficial to us. We use electricity to cook, provide light, and power appliances.

Similarly, humanity, in its sinful nature, is disconnected from God and unable to fulfill its purpose. But when we experience conversion through Jesus Christ, we become useful instruments in God's hands, equipped for every good work.

Today's theme, "Conversion," focuses on this transformation and the call for us to turn away from our sinful ways and surrender fully to Christ.

1. God Calls Us to Conversion (Isaiah 55:1–9)

Since the fall of humanity in Genesis 3, sin has corrupted us, making us incapable of pleasing God. However, God is always calling us back to Him, offering us salvation freely.

In Isaiah 55:1–3, God invites us:
"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters… Listen, that you may live; I will make an everlasting covenant with you."

Jesus echoes this invitation in Matthew 11:28:
"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest."

God is ready to forgive and transform us, but we must respond to His call. The prophet Isaiah urges, "Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his ways and the unrighteous man his thoughts" (Isaiah 55:6–7).

Application:

• Do not postpone your decision to follow Christ—God’s call is urgent.
• Conversion requires a complete turnaround from our sinful ways to God's path.

2. Conversion Is Not Automatic (1 Corinthians 10:1–13)

Being part of a church does not automatically make you a Christian. Many people participate in church activities but are not truly converted.

Paul reminds us that although the Israelites in the wilderness experienced God’s miracles—crossing the Red Sea, eating manna, and drinking from the spiritual Rock (Christ) many of them still displeased God (1 Corinthians 10:1–5).

This teaches us an important lesson:

• Just attending church, praying, fasting, or giving offerings does not mean you are truly converted.
• There are people in the church engaging in immorality, idolatry, and hypocrisy, just as some Israelites did.

Jesus warns in Luke 13:1–5 that unless we repent, we will perish. True conversion is not about religious activities but about a changed life.

Application:

• Conversion begins with repentance but continues with daily commitment to righteousness.
• It is not enough to say, "I am a Christian"—our lives must show it.
• Ask yourself: Am I truly transformed, or am I just going through religious motions?

3. True Conversion Must Transform Every Aspect of Life

When we surrender to Christ, every area of our lives spiritual, emotional, social, financial, and ethical must reflect this change.

Paul warns Christians:
"Do not be idolaters… Do not commit sexual immorality… Do not test Christ… Do not grumble" (1 Corinthians 10:7–10).

Being a Christian does not mean we can live however we please. True conversion requires obedience to God’s word in every aspect of our lives.

Application:

• Conversion should affect how we work, do business, treat our families, and engage in politics or entertainment.
• We should not conform to the world’s standards but always seek to please God.
• Like the early church reformers taught: "The Church reformed, always reforming according to the Word of God."

Conclusion & Call to Action

1. God is calling you today will you respond? Don’t delay your conversion.
2. Conversion is not just an event but a lifelong journey of surrendering to Christ.
3. Let your conversion be complete, touching every part of your life.

Let us pray!

---

Shalom!
© Rev. Immanuel Wiafe
Resident Minister – PCG, Living Bread Congregation, Tantra Hill

For counseling & prayer support: WhatsApp 0243284790 / 0268688687

THE MEANING OF JESUS RESURRECTION

SUNDAY SERMON

(BASED ON THE PRESBYTERIAN ALMANAC)

(16TH FEBRUARY 2025)

Theme: “THE MEANING OF JESUS RESURRECTION”

BIBLE READINGS:

1ST: PSALM 1: 1 – 6 

2ND: 1 COR. 15: 12 – 20 

3RD: LUKE 6: 17 – 26  

INTRODUCTION

Today is the 6th Sunday after Epiphany. We are in between the seasons of Christmas and Easter. The Almanac theme for today is “The meaning of Jesus’ resurrection”. 

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of the Christian faith and hope and hence we need to understand and build on it. 

LET US PRAY

#1. Jesus’ resurrection restores us to life 

Have you wondered about the meaning of this life we live? Is it all about what happens in this ‘life’ or there is a continuation of life after death?

Just as in the days of the Apostle Paul, people still preach and say that there is no resurrection; once a person dies, that is the end. But Apostle Paul used the fact of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection to explain that, life continues after death and there is resurrection for all people. 

He said, “Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised” (1 Cor. 15: 12 – 13).

Life as created by God from the beginning was eternal and everlasting because we were created in His image and He does not die. But death was introduced by sin and Christ came to destroy the power of death (Ref. Heb. 2:14). Death is not the end of life; it is total banishment from the presence of God into the darkness of gloom and torture. 

Apostle Paul tells us “For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead” (1 Cor. 15: 21). He continues that: “Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep”. And the songwriter says, “Because He lives I can face tomorrow; because He lives all fear is gone . . .” (Let us sing along)

So, the resurrection of Christ has opened the doorway for us to escape from death, which is permanent and everlasting separation from God to eternal life with God. Man is restored to his original state of the Imago Dei (the image of God).

#2. Jesus’ resurrection authenticates the Christian faith 

Everything has a source and a point of reference. What is the source and point of reference for the Christian faith? The life, work, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of the Lord Christ Jesus is the foundation of our faith, hope and trust in the Lord. 

Apostle Paul says, “If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain”. (1 Cor. 15: 14)

The Christian faith is anchored on the resurrection of Christ and by it, Christianity is set apart from all other religions. No religious leader or founder died and came back to life. Jesus did not only die and resurrect, but He ascended into heaven and lived forever. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Jesus is therefore the (one and only) way, truth and life; without Him, man has no access to the kingdom of God. Jesus Christ is the only accredited saviour of humankind. 

If you believe in Jesus Christ, then know for sure that you will not perish but have everlasting life (Ref. John 3: 16)

Delight ourselves in the Lord walk in His ways and appropriate the power of the resurrections over your life.  

#3. Blessings from Christ Jesus

In the first reading, the Psalmist makes it clear that delighting in the law of the Lord brings blessings. He said, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers” (Ps. 1; 1 – 3).

In the gospel reading (Luke 6: 17 – 26), Luke gives his version of the beatitudes that Jesus taught. The word "beatitudes" originates from the Latin word "beatus," which means "blessed" or "happy,". The blessings of life come from Jesus and His resurrection.  

It is important to note that the way of Jesus is different from that of the world. What the world deems a blessing and success is not what Christ measures as blessings. 

Jesus said, “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets” (Luke 6: 22 - 23)

If we follow the standards of the world we will miss out on the blessings of God. but if we walk in the new life after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we will rejoice and leap for joy on account of the reward we will receive. When we put our trust in the Lord, He can turn our poverty, hunger and hatred of people into blessings. 

Conclusion

Because Jesus resurrected from the dead, we are not under the condemnation of eternal death. Though we die, we will also resurrect to everlasting life with the Father in heaven. Christ’s resurrections have given authenticity and credibility to the Christian faith as the only way to the Father. 

Our lives on earth is blessed and complete due to Christ and His resurrection.

Prayer Song: (Because He lives)

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus  . . .

Shalom

LET US PRAY!

© Rev. Immanuel Asiamah-Wiafe

Resident Minister – PCG, Living Bread Congregation, Tantra Hill. 

NB: For Counselling and Prayer Support WhatsApp on 0243284790.

 

THEME: THE MEANING OF JESUS' RESURRECTION

Psalm 1; 1 Corinthians 15:12-20; Luke 6:17-26

Introduction

Brothers and sisters in Christ, I warmly welcome you to today’s reflection as we celebrate the cornerstone of our faith's resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event is not just a historical milestone but the foundation of our hope and the truth that sets Christianity apart from all other religions. Today, we do not merely ask, “Did Jesus rise from the dead?” but rather, “What does it mean that Jesus rose?”

Our readings provide us with deep insights into the significance of Christ’s resurrection. Psalm 1 presents a vision of the blessed life, rooted in God’s word, flourishing like a tree planted by streams of water. This ultimate blessing is only fully realized through the resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15 presents a stark reality: “If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.” Paul’s words emphasize that the resurrection is not optional it is the very foundation upon which our faith stands.

In Luke 6, Jesus teaches about blessings and woes, a teaching that finds its full meaning in the promise of the resurrection, which ensures ultimate justice and eternal life.

Let us now explore the deeper meaning of Jesus’ resurrection:

 

1. The Resurrection Confirms Jesus' Divinity

Jesus’ resurrection is the ultimate validation of His claim to be the Son of God (John 19:7). He declared Himself to be God incarnate (John 8:58) and demonstrated authority over sin and death (Matthew 9:1-8). Had He simply died and remained in the grave, His claims would have been empty. However, the resurrection is God’s resounding “Yes!” to Jesus' identity and authority. It is the divine seal of approval, proving that He is God's Son.

2. The Resurrection is Victory Over Sin and Death

Since the fall of man, sin and death have enslaved humanity. They are the great enemies that rob us of life and hope. But in His resurrection, Jesus triumphed over these forces: “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” (1 Corinthians 15:17). Through His victory, He broke the chains of sin, offering us forgiveness and reconciliation with God (Romans 5:11).

 

Furthermore, He conquered death itself: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20). The resurrection is not just about Christ’s survival; it is about our liberation. It declares that death no longer has the final word: “I will deliver this people from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is your destruction?” (Hosea 13:14).

 

3. The Resurrection Guarantees Our Own Resurrection

 

Jesus’ resurrection is not an isolated event it is the first fruits of a great harvest. This means that all who belong to Him will also rise from the dead: “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.” (1 Corinthians 15:19).

 

The resurrection assures us that, just as Jesus was raised, we too will be raised to eternal life (Philippians 1:21). This is the hope that strengthens us in times of sorrow and loss. It assures us that death is not the end but a passage to eternal glory: “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16).

 

4. The Resurrection Empowers Us to Live a Transformed Life

 

The resurrection is not just about what happens after death it transforms how we live today. Because death has been defeated and sin has been conquered, we are empowered to live differently.

 

The Psalmist declares: “For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.” (Psalm 1:6). This truth frees us from fear, guilt, and the pursuit of worldly gains. It gives us the courage to endure hardships for Christ: “What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man. When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven.” (Luke 6:22-23).

 

The resurrection enables us to live with joy, peace, and purpose, reflecting the power of Christ in our daily lives.

 

5. The Resurrection Calls Us to Share the Good News

 

Paul boldly states: “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” (1 Corinthians 15:14).

 

The good news of the resurrection is too powerful to keep to ourselves. Just as the early disciples proclaimed the risen Christ, we too are called to share this message with the world. Our lives should reflect the transforming power of the resurrection, pointing others to the reality of God’s love and grace.

 

Conclusion

 

The resurrection of Jesus is not just a doctrine it is a life-changing reality. It is the foundation of our faith, the source of our hope, and the power that enables us to live with purpose and joy. Let us celebrate this glorious truth daily by living in the power of Christ’s resurrection.

 

Shalom Aleikhem!

 

THE HOLINESS OF GOD

SUNDAY SERMON

(BASED ON THE PRESBYTERIAN ALMANAC)

[9TH FEBRUARY 2025]

Theme:

“THE HOLINESS OF GOD”

BIBLE READINGS:

1ST: ISA. 6: 1 – 13

2ND: 1 COR. 15: 1 – 11

3RD: LUKE 5: 1 – 11

INTRODUCTION

Today is Bible Sunday. It is important that we know and understand the nature of God as presented to us in the Bible. One important characteristic of God is His Holiness. The theme for today’s service is, “The Holiness of God”. We are called to worship God in the beauty of holiness; but if you have not experienced the holiness of God, we cannot worship Him as such. 

LET US PRAY!  

#1. I saw the Lord

Have you seen the Lord? Have you experienced the holy presence of God? if we don’t look at ourselves from the perspective of God’s holiness we cannot worship Him as He deserves. 

In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah tells us that, “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!”. 

It is important to understand that the prophet saw the Lord not because King Uzziah died. By the phrase, “In the year that King Uzziah died” the prophet was only giving a time clause; telling us when he received the vision of the Lord. Therefore, it will not take the death of a person for you to see God. Moreover, King Uzziah was a godly king (Ref. 2 Chron. 26)

When the prophet encountered the glory, majesty, holiness, and splendor of God, he realized his inadequacies and exclaimed, “Woe is me!” (Isa. 6:5). 

In the previous chapter, Isaiah was proclaiming woe unto the wicked and sinners. But as he looked at himself from the perspective of the holy God, he said, woe is me. 

The more we experience and encounter the holiness of God, the humbler and contrite we should be. Seeing the Lord and experiencing His holiness should produce the spirit of meekness and a hunger for righteousness in us. Isaiah saw the Lord, have you also seen the Lord? 

#2. Christ died for our sins to make us holy

God, through Christ, is sharing and bestowing His holiness upon us. The Bible tells us, “For our sake, he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5: 21)

 

So Apostle Paul tells us in the second reading that, “Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures . . . ” (1 Cor. 1: 3 – 5). Christ has died to take away our sins so we can walk in the holiness of God. Therefore, sin should no longer have dominion over us (Rom. 6: 14). We are to seek to be like Jesus in thoughts, words, and deeds.  

For if Paul, the persecutor of the Church, received grace to be a carrier of the gospel and a vessel for manifesting the glory and holiness of God, you too can receive the same. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is available and capable of making you holy.  Don’t just seek to be a good person or a moral person, strive to be holy unto the Lord. 

#3. Call others into holiness

After the encounter of Peter with Jesus and the miraculous great catch of fish, he realized his sinfulness and “fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord” (Luke 5: 8). But because Jesus had come to die for our sins, He said to him “Do not be afraid, from now you will be fishers of men.” 

We have been called by Christ to also call others into the holiness of God. How involved are you in this ministry of calling to the life of holiness and love that Jesus Christ demonstrated to the world?

Challenge and Application

The Bible says “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy because I am holy” (1 Pet. 1; 15 – 16). Therefore, “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord” (Heb. 12: 14 – 15).

Shalom

LET US PRAY!

Let us pray!

© Rev. Immanuel Wiafe 

NB: For Counselling and Prayer Support WhatsApp on 0243 284 790.

KRISTO NE WIASE HANN

SUNDAY, 5TH JANUARY,  2025

       *SERMON GUIDE*

 _Texts:_

1. *JEREMIAH 31: 7- 14*

2. *EPHESIANS 1: 3- 14*

3. *JOHN 1: 1- 9, 18*

 

 _Theme:_ *"CHRIST, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD" - "KRISTO NE WIASE HANN."*

 

 _2ND SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS AND FIRST SUNDAY OF THE YEAR 2025_

 

*"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."* _(John 8: 12)._

 

God has made it possible for us to see _2025, and it must give us a heart to thank Him, knowing that, not all those we started 2024_ with made it to this year.

 

Let us, in humility, observe a minute silent in remembrance of those who couldn't survived to _2025_ - *May their souls find rest with their Maker!*

 

Light always involves the removal of darkness, and it has so many importance

* Light gives us security.

* Light removes fear, and gives confidence.

* Light helps us to see more clearer.

* Light helps our plants to grow.

* Light helps in our overall well-being.

 

Biblical light centered on God, who, at the beginning of creation, spoke to the darkness that covered the surface of the world, and light came into being - _(Genesis 1: 2)._

Both light and darkness are evocative, and darkness evokes everything that is anti-God; the wicked, _(Prov. 2: 13),_ judgement, _(Exod. 10: 21),_ and death, _(Psalm 88: 12)._

However, light represents life,  _(Psalm 56: 13),_ salvation, _(Isaiah 9: 2),_ commandments of God, _(Prov. 6: 23),_ goodness and the divine presence of God, _(Exod. 10: 23)._

God in His redemptive plan, revealed Himself in Christ Jesus, who declared, *"I am the light of the world."*_(John 9: 5)._

John the Baptist testified about Jesus Christ, as the light that comes to the world - _(John 1: 7)._

The same Jesus Christ, was the Word from the beginning, so He was the light that God spoke to dispel the darkness that covered the surface of the earth at creation was Christ Jesus.

✓ Jesus Christ is the Light for a darkened world.

Light overcomes darkness,for the scriptures says; *"And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it."* _(John 1:5)._

The world is engulfed with sin, wickedness and needs a light that can drive away such darkness.

Martin Luther Jr. once said, *"Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that."*

Jesus Christ is the only light that can shine over the world, to bring total brightness that will shine in the hearts of those who believe Him.

Prophet Isaiah saw the revelation about the Christ before His birth when he said; *"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined."* _(Isaiah 9: 2)._

 

*As the sun is necessary to the solar system, so is Christ is to this dark,sin-filled world.*

✓ Jesus is the Light that saves.

Christ Jesus saves us from our own darkness of sin when we believe in Him.

He bids us to follow Him, and obeying this, He saves us from the darkened world with it's wicked activities.

*Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God, who reveals the presence of God, the provisions of God, and the salvation of God.*

He is the Living Water, and He is the life-giving Light.

✓ Jesus Christ is the Victorious Light.

Light always conquers darkness, and Christ Jesus always overcome the forces of darkness.

Jesus Christ, who is the Victorious Light, gives those who believe Him the power to overcome darkness, making every believer, victorious over Satan and everything that darkness represent..

*The victory that believers have is because of the Light that dwells in our hearts.*

You are therefore an overcomer if you are in Christ Jesus.

* You are victorious over that marital challenges.

* You are victorious over that disappointments.

* Declare victory over the chronic disease.

* You are victorious over that financial problems.

* You are victorious over that challenges confronting your business.

* You are an overcomer over that nightmare.

✓ Jesus Christ is the pure light.

"The Light of the world" - Jesus Christ was exposed to sin, but was never contaminated by sin, He touched sinners, by sin never touched Him, He was undefiled.

*Jesus Christ was in the world, but not of the world.* _(John 1: 10)._

The Word became flesh and lived amongst humans, but His purity made Him lived a sinless and holy life among humans.

* Humans found no fault in Him.

* Kings, Pharisees, Scribes and teachers of the Law found no fault with Him.

* His purity made sin flee from His presence, and sinners knelt before Him.

* His purity drove away demons and set captives free.

✓ Jesus Christ is the vital Light.

Light and life are interwoven, and cannot be sperated.

Natural light gives plants photosynthesis to produce their fruits.

The light Jesus give us eternal life, and life to produce fruit of the Spirit.

 _John 1: 4_ says; *"In Him is life, and the life was the light of men."*

Without Jesus Christ, there is no life.

* You are dead without Jesus in your life.

* Your home is dead if Jesus is not the head of the home.

* Your business and work are dead without Christ Jesus.

* There is no life in your marriage if Christ is not the owner of the marriage.

 

*OUR RESPONSE.*

Jesus Christ is the Light of salvation and Life for believers, and responding to this ushered Christians into a life in which darkness is dispelled.

Salvation in Christ brings light to those in darkness - _(Psalm 27: 1, Matt. 4: 15, 16)._

Jesus said those who believe and follow Him *"Will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life* " _(John 1: 9)._

Believers are sons  _(and daughters)_ of light - _(John 12: 36, 1Thess. 5: 5),_ and we are to emit the light we have in Christ Jesus.

With the light of Christ in us, we are to;

* Lead many to the Light by our new life we have in Christ Jesus.

* We are to put away the fruits of the flesh - _(Gal. 5: 19- 21)._

*  We are to bear responsibility as missionaries of Christ, to be lights in the dark world - _(Phil. 2: 15)._

* We are to let the light lead us in all our ways - _(Psalm 119: 105)._

* We are to remain in the Light, not allowing the worries of this life to separate us from the love of God - _(Rom. 8: 38, 39)._

 

We live in a dark world full of atrocities, and the light we have in Christ Jesus enables us to ride over these atrocities.

 

Praise God for the changeless, pure and eternal light of Jesus Christ.

Be assured that no matter how cold or dark your world may seem, it can be brought back to light and life when the glorious light of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, shines into your heart. 

 

*MAY THE SAME GOD WHO SPOKE LIGHT INTO THE DARK UNIVERSE SPEAK OVER ANY DARK SPOT IN YOUR LIFE!*                  _AMEN._

Theme: God’s Blessings

Sermon Title: God's Blessings in the New Year

Theme: God’s Blessings

Texts: Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Revelation 21:1-6, Matthew 25:31-46

 

Introduction

Happy New Year, beloved in Christ! As we gather on this first day of 2025, we are reminded of God's abundant blessings in our lives. Entering a new year is an opportunity to reflect on the past, anticipate the future, and reaffirm our trust in God's providence. Today, let us meditate on God’s Blessings and how they shape our lives, align us with His purpose, and inspire us to be a blessing to others.

 

1. God’s Timing and Purpose in Blessings (Ecclesiastes 3:1-13)

The writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is a time and season for everything under heaven.

• Acknowledging God's Sovereignty: Verse 11 declares, “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” God's blessings are not random but are perfectly timed to fit His divine plan for our lives.

• Gratitude in Every Season: As we reflect on 2024, there were moments of joy and challenges. Yet, in all seasons, God was faithful. The ability to enjoy life, work, and relationships is a gift from God (v. 13). As we enter 2025, let us embrace this season with faith and gratitude, trusting that God’s timing is perfect.

Application:

In 2025, be intentional about seeking God's purpose in every blessing and challenge. Trust that His plans for you are good and will bring glory to His name.

 

2. God’s Promise of New Beginnings (Revelation 21:1-6)

The apostle John’s vision of a new heaven and new earth offers hope and assurance.

• A New Beginning: Verse 5 proclaims, “I am making everything new!” As we step into 2025, this promise reminds us that God is the God of new beginnings. The past—its failures, pains, and disappointments—does not define us.

• The Ultimate Blessing: God's presence with His people is the greatest blessing. He promises to wipe away every tear and make all things new. This gives us hope to persevere, knowing that our ultimate reward is eternal life with Him.

Application:

In 2025, allow God to renew your heart, mind, and spirit. Surrender your worries, embrace His transformative power, and walk in the confidence of His promises.

 

3. God’s Blessings Call Us to Be a Blessing (Matthew 25:31-46)

Jesus’ teaching on the final judgment underscores the importance of using God’s blessings to bless others.

• A Life of Compassion: Jesus identifies acts of kindness—feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick—as evidence of a life aligned with God's will. These acts reflect a heart transformed by His blessings.

• Faith in Action: The righteous are commended not just for believing in God but for living out their faith by serving others. This aligns with the principle that we are blessed to be a blessing.

Application:

In 2025, let us commit to using our time, resources, and talents to bless those in need. As we do so, we fulfill Christ's command to love and serve others.

 

Key Reflections for the New Year

1. Trust God’s Timing: Every season has a purpose. Walk in faith and gratitude.

2. Embrace New Beginnings: Leave the past behind and allow God to renew and guide you.

3. Be a Blessing: Use your blessings to impact others positively, living out your faith in action.

 

Conclusion

As we begin 2025, let us carry these truths in our hearts: God’s blessings are abundant, purposeful, and transformative. He calls us to trust His timing, embrace His renewal, and extend His blessings to others. With this mindset, we can confidently face the year ahead, knowing that we are in His hands.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your blessings in 2024 and the new beginnings You have given us in 2025. Help us to trust Your timing, embrace Your renewal, and be a blessing to others. May this year be a testament to Your faithfulness in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.