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December 19, 2016
Jesus Christ The Sin Bearer - Matthew26
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| The cross is so common in our culture that most people don’t think twice when they see one on a church. But unfortunately, familiarity with the symbol can actually get in the way of understanding what it truly means. So let’s stop to consider how Jesus became the bearer of sin.
We begin with Scripture written long before Jesus was born. Genesis, the first book of the Bible, explains how man chose to disobey God. Because Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, their descendants are all born under the curse of death, having inherited a sinful “flesh†nature.
In Leviticus, God’s laws for the Jewish nation included observance of Yom Kippur, the day each year when the Israelites fasted, prayed, and sacrificed an animal to atone for sin. In essence, the goat would bear the wrongs done by the people and suffer the penalty that divine justice required.
Centuries later, Isaiah prophesied that a Savior would atone for transgression once and for all (Isaiah 53:5, 8; Hebrews 7:27). After another 700 years, John the Baptist identified Jesus as the Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The Messiah had come, though He was totally different from what the people expected - so much so, in fact, that they rejected Him and requested His crucifixion.
In all, God gave 613 laws through Moses. But none of us can perfectly follow even the Ten Commandments. In fact, one reason He gave us these rules is to show us our need for a Savior (Psalm 19:7; Galatians 3:24). Meditate on those commands (Exodus 20:1-17), asking God to speak to your heart.
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Upcoming Sermon Series
Believe your big risks will be rewarded. Believe what you ask for is possible. If you’re ready to see a spark in your life, pray boldly. Pray daringly. Pray with fire. And remember God's listening to your Dangerous Prayers. This three-week series teaches us to pray bold prayers. This series will start on January 1, 2017.
Last Week:
With God, nothing is impossible. A child would say, "My God can do anything." With faith like a child, we should be able to say, "My God can, and my God will." If He doesn't do what He can, I still believe that God's ways are higher.
Sunday's message is available for streaming or for download on our
sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes.
Next Week:
Come celebrate Christmas with us as we have a unified service at 11 AM. It will be a very family-friendly service.
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Upcoming Events
December 24, 2016 - Christmas Eve Service at 5 PM
December 25, 2016 - Christmas Day Service at 11 AM, no Sunday School.
January 1, 2017 - Special Communion Service at 10:30 AM, and no Sunday School
January 8, 2017 - Deacon Meeting at 8 AM
January 14, 2017 - Trustee Meeting at 8 AM
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