Matthew 8:1-4

The narratives of 8:1-10:4 seems to naturally follow a pattern of three sets of miracles, with three miraculous accounts in each set. Matthew places first in the narratives an account of Jesus cleansing a leper.

Leviticus 5:14-6:7

This passage completes the first major unit in the book of Leviticus, in which the Lord gave the Israelites instructions for the primary sacrifices to be used in their worship: the ascending sacrifice, the tribute sacrifice, the peace or fellowship sacrifice, and the sacrifices for purification and reparation.

Leviticus 5:1-13

Leviticus 5 continues the Lord’s instructions concerning the sacrificial system that is in many ways central to Israel’s worship and preparatory to the coming of Jesus as the Messiah.

Leviticus 4

In this chapter, the Lord gives instructions to the congregation of Israel concerning what are best called purifying or sanctifying sacrifices, used in cases of inadvertent violations of ceremonial laws, in rites of purification, and in ceremonies of ordination and consecration.

Leviticus 3

Leviticus chapters one through three share common themes, but at the same time describe three different categories of sacrifices: the ascending (often translated burnt) sacrifices, the tribute (sometimes called grain) sacrifices, and the peace offerings, or fellowship sacrifices. Each of these categories of sacrifices highlight different aspects of truth concerning the perfect sacrifice of Christ.

Leviticus 2

Chapter two of Leviticus continues the book’s theme of drawing near to the Lord in worship and service.

Leviticus 1

Leviticus opens with instructions concerning what is literally called the ascending, or ascension sacrifice. In the drama of this offering, we can discern many important truths.

Leviticus 1:1

The opening of the book of Leviticus draws our attention to important truths about God’s revelation of himself to his people.

Exodus 40:34-38

The first five books of the Bible form one unit, more like chapters in a book than separate books. The closing verses of Exodus form an introduction to Leviticus. At the same time, this text links back to Genesis chapter three and has connections with the New Testament as well.

Genesis 22:15-18; Deuteronomy 9:4-5

Owing to a software problem during our worship service, the sermon did not record properly, so this is a re-recording done later. I find it difficult to preach to an empty sanctuary; I think preaching is meant to be part of the worship of a congregation.

Genesis. 22:1-19

Using John chapter eight, and particularly verse fifty-six as an introduction, we consider the ascending, or ascension sacrifice that is at the center of the dramatic and memorable narrative of Genesis chapter twenty-two.

Genesis 15

R. C. Sproul said and if he was imprisoned and could keep only one verse of Scripture with him, it would be Genesis 15:17. It is certainly true that we have in this text an amazing covenantal revelation from the Lord!

Genesis 8:20-22

Beginning a sermon series on biblical sacrifices, this passage is the first one that makes specific mention of what is commonly called a “burnt sacrifice.” There is profound meaning for this ancient form of worship.

Matthew 7:28-29

Matthew moves our attention from the Sermon on the Mount to the sermon’s preacher.

Matthew 7:24-27

The Sermon on the Mount concludes with an encouragement and a warning regarding the response of those who hear it.

Matthew 7:21-23

Jesus creates a vivid word picture to communicate a sober warning.

Matthew 5:15-20

Two times in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells his disciples “Beware!” We will be wise to hear and heed his warnings, for they are meant for our benefit.

Matthew 7:12

The Apostle John tells us, “We love, because he first loved us.” So, too, we are able to do good works because the Spirit of God works in us. “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8–10)

Matthew 7:7-11

In this text, Jesus beautifully combines repeated imperatives with repeated promises. For children of God, his commands are always linked with promises.

Matthew 7:1-6

We live in a censorious culture, characterized by self-exaltation and harsh criticism of others. Such behavior should not surprise us, for it comes naturally to sinful human beings. The gospel calls sinners to repent, and the Holy Spirit gives those united with Christ Jesus by faith the spiritual power to choose a different way of life–the way of love and mercy.