In Psalm 1:3 the person whose delight is the law of the Lord is compared to a tree planted by streams of water. Fresh streams result in fruitful seasons and healthy growth. Being Grounded in Truth & Growing in Grace provides the same spiritual benefits. The constant stream of truth from God’s word, coupled with His grace provides healthy spiritual growth - Christ in us, the result of the cross. Truth and grace are essential ingredients as we seek to make disciples of one another at LJBC and of others within our sphere of influence.
The Bible was written by men inspired by the Holy Spirit in a certain time and place and oftentimes to a certain people. If we want to learn to love God the best we can, it is helpful to learn to read the Bible in it’s context before thinking about “today.” Click below for helpful tools for studying God's Word.
Before embarking into Jesus’ first public message referred to as the Sermon on the Mount, it seems like the question ‘Should I listen to Jesus?’ needs to be answered. After all, if He is nothing more than just another religious teacher, there are plenty of those to choose from. However, as we know Jesus fulfills many Old Testament prophetic Scriptures of the promised Messiah, and there isn’t anyone else who claims to teach truth that has died, been buried and raised from the dead. We are going to listen to Him, and we invite you to join us.
In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount He systematically addresses critical issues about His kingdom. Here is the outline we intend to follow:
Chapter 5
2-12 The Beatitudes 8/9 – ‘Blessed are’ . . . and there are very unique qualities for being blessed
13-16 Light of the world and salt of the earth
17-20 Jesus’ word concerning the Law and the Prophets
21-49 Jesus gives six ‘You have heard it said, but I say to you’ statements stressing internal transformation rather than external religious requirements.
Chapter 6
1-18 A section on rewards
1-4 Warning about practicing righteousness before men and what happens if you do
Examples: 2-4 Giving to the needy / 5-15 Praying to be seen by men (the Lord’s prayer) / 16-18 Fasting
19-24 Seeking treasures in heaven, not on earth is emphasized
25-34 Seeking God’s kingdom and in that way experience His provision
Chapter 7
1-6 Concerning judging others
7-11 Asking, seeking, knocking in order to receive from God
12-14 The narrow gate to life is emphasized as is the wide path to destruction
15-20 A warning about false prophets. We see this so many times throughout Scripture
21-23 Genuine & non-genuine disciples is addressed, with some hearing ‘I never knew you’
24-27 Building a sure foundation for my house (life) – Will it be on the rock or on sand?
John MacArthur’s offers the following outline of Jesus’ messages:
An introduction: The beatitudes (5.1-12)
The citizens of the kingdom (5.13-16)
The righteousness of the kingdom (the majority of the text 5.17-7.12)
The exhortation to enter the kingdom (7.13-27)
Conclusion – The effects of Jesus’ msg. on the people (7.28-29)
We invite you to join us as we seek to understand Jesus’ teaching. Our worship services begin at 10am on Sunday mornings. If you are not able to join us physically, you can also join us on Facebook, or access our messages through our webpage.
Sermons
Listen to the latest message.
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars for these upcoming events.
