The Song of Zechariah
In his series "Prelude to Bethlehem," Stephen introduces us to some of the earliest and greatest Christmas carols ever written -- carols that burst forth from the mouths of Old Testament men and women who were overjoyed by the thought of Christ's coming. Let's listen as he leads us in the song of a faithful old saint named Zacharias--a man who refused to die until he saw the promised Messiah!
The Song of Isaiah
Jesus Christ is the subject of more than 300 Old Testament prophecies. His birth and life were foretold by many individual prophets over a period of 1,500 years. History confirms that even the smallest details of those prophecies came true. That means that the proof for Christ's Messiahship is undeniable. People don't disbelieve in Him for lack of evidence . . . they disbelieve in Him for lack of conviction.
The Lion IS a Lamb
To many people, Christmas is just another day off from work or a reason to party and exchange gifts. But this day is so much more than that. In this message Stephen asks, "What is Christmas to you?"
Stolen Apples and Turkish Delight
It's a little crazy to think that all of the natural disasters in the world, all the diseases, and all the sin is the result of two people eating a piece of fruit, isn't it? I mean, you can understand why some people roll their eyes at such a suggestion! But in this message Stephen reminds us that what transpired in the Garden of Eden was far more serious than a stolen apple. It was treachery of the basest kind, it was idolatry, and it was the curse of sin on the human race. And until we understand the magnitude of what happened in Genesis 3, we'll never understand why there's so much evil in the world today. So let's join Stephen now as he gives us a deeper understanding of that event we call "The Fall."
The Song of the Emperor's Son
In C.S. Lewis' well-loved series "The Chronicles of Narnia," Lewis gives us many timeless analogies to Christianity. One is found in his depiction of the creation of the world. In that story, Aslan--the character who represents Jesus--sings a song, and at the sound of his voice all the world is made. Not just the world, however, but the story of history as well. And that's why it is such an incredible analogy to the true story. In the biblical account of creation, Stephen reminds us that God breathed out more than just trees and rocks and oceans--He breathed out a people, a cross, and a Gospel.
Happily Forever After, Part 2
Everyone loves a good fairy tale, especially the ones with happy endings. As believers, we are part of a real-life tale, with a great Rescue, a real Prince, and true Love. In Matthew's gospel, the lineage of Jesus includes Boaz and Ruth, a literal love story that depicts and prefigures the redemption that Jesus Christ made more than 1000 years later for all those who believe in Him. It's a story of amazing grace that brings a new joy to the Christmas season. It's a story that begins before time and ends--for every Christian--happily forever after.
Happily Forever After, Part 1
Everyone loves a good fairy tale, especially the ones with happy endings. As believers, we are part of a real-life tale, with a great Rescue, a real Prince, and true Love. In Matthew's gospel, the lineage of Jesus includes Boaz and Ruth, a literal love story that depicts and prefigures the redemption that Jesus Christ made more than 1000 years later for all those who believe in Him. It's a story of amazing grace that brings a new joy to the Christmas season. It's a story that begins before time and ends--for every Christian--happily forever after.
Marvelous Grace, Part 2
Most people are aware of the account of David and Bathsheba--it's an infamous story of adultery, conspiracy, and murder. But there's more to the story that many don't consider. In fact, within the genealogy of Jesus written in the fist chapter of Matthew's gospel, both David and Bathsheba are listed as ancestors of the King of Kings. By naming this couple here, the Bible reveals their repentance, God's forgiveness, and ultimately, the marvelous grace of Jesus available to us all.
Marvelous Grace, Part 1
Most people are aware of the account of David and Bathsheba--it's an infamous story of adultery, conspiracy, and murder. But there's more to the story that many don't consider. In fact, within the genealogy of Jesus written in the fist chapter of Matthew's gospel, both David and Bathsheba are listed as ancestors of the King of Kings. By naming this couple here, the Bible reveals their repentance, God's forgiveness, and ultimately, the marvelous grace of Jesus available to us all.
Gems From the Genealogy of Jesus, Part 2
Despite the “coexist†bumper stickers and other unity-of-world-religion assertions in our culture today, the fact is that Christianity is different—and it’s exclusive. In fact, it’s the only belief system that is fully rooted in historical and archaeological fact. The genealogy of Jesus found at the beginning of Matthew not only attests to His surprising ancestry, but also asserts unique gems of profound truth about the Person of Jesus Christ and promises of God.