Last week, we were Pharisees; this week, we are saints. Can we be both? The path of the saints teaches us that the way is uneven. We consider hapless strongman Samson and the rich, despised tax collector Zacchaeus who have lessons for saints of every age.
"The saints" for Presbyterians is different from how our Roman Catholic friends understand the term. Is it a title we deserve, or is it more indicative than definitive?
Samson's story is a messy delight as the Bible's writers spare no details of the mighty hero warrior's struggle to remain faithful to his God and his Nazirite vow. His moment of triumph comes directly out of his moment of greatest weakness where he discovers the truth of his power in faithfulness.
Zacchaeus is a curious fellow who seems to have made the decision to follow the way of the Lord before being discovered hanging out in a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of the popular teacher as Jesus progresses toward his fate in Jerusalem. Jesus provokes instant controversy by announcing his intention to dine with the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. The grumbling at this fellowship with a hated traitor and sinner gives Zacchaeus the opening to declare how he has dramatically changed his life and practice to pursue the Kingdom life.
We should be able to see ourselves in these stories, sinners and saints. Enjoy the sermon video below.
"The saints" for Presbyterians is different from how our Roman Catholic friends understand the term. Is it a title we deserve, or is it more indicative than definitive?
Samson's story is a messy delight as the Bible's writers spare no details of the mighty hero warrior's struggle to remain faithful to his God and his Nazirite vow. His moment of triumph comes directly out of his moment of greatest weakness where he discovers the truth of his power in faithfulness.
Zacchaeus is a curious fellow who seems to have made the decision to follow the way of the Lord before being discovered hanging out in a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of the popular teacher as Jesus progresses toward his fate in Jerusalem. Jesus provokes instant controversy by announcing his intention to dine with the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. The grumbling at this fellowship with a hated traitor and sinner gives Zacchaeus the opening to declare how he has dramatically changed his life and practice to pursue the Kingdom life.
We should be able to see ourselves in these stories, sinners and saints. Enjoy the sermon video below.
| 11-03-19-sermon.mp3 |
| 11-03-19-ff-answers.pdf |
| 11-03-19-becoming_saints.pdf |