This sermon covers the passage of John 3:1-15 which features the profound encounter between Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, and Jesus Christ. Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, seeking to understand His teachings. Jesus introduces the concept of being "born again" or "born from above," explaining that spiritual rebirth is necessary to see the kingdom of God. This confounds Nicodemus, prompting further explanation from Jesus about the difference between physical and spiritual birth. Jesus emphasizes the role of the Spirit in this rebirth, which is mysterious and sovereign, like the wind. The passage culminates in Jesus alluding to His future crucifixion (lifted up) as the means for salvation, indicating that belief in Him will lead to eternal life. This conversation lays the foundation for understanding salvation, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the nature of faith in Christ.
Nicodemus Meets Jesus
You must be Born Again
February 18, 2024 • Dr. Nic Williams • John 3:1–15
Are you Thirsty?
May 19, 2024 • Dr. Nic Williams • John 7
John Chapter 7 provides a profound exploration of Jesus' offer to satisfy our spiritual thirst. As Jesus navigates the dangers of His ministry and attends the Festival of Tabernacles, He teaches us to remember God's faithfulness. Rejecting human strategies for popularity, speculation, and control, Jesus emphasizes the importance of God's timing and seeking His will. He confronts the religious leaders' desire for control and invites everyone to find true satisfaction in Him as the living water. This chapter challenges us to reflect on our own attempts to quench our spiritual needs and to embrace Jesus as the source of life-giving fulfillment.
How to Develop a Faith that Finishes Strong
May 5, 2024 • Dr. Nic Williams • John 6:56–69
In this sermon, we explore the responses of different groups to Jesus' declaration of being the Bread of Life in John 6. The central question posed is how to develop a faith that endures and finishes strong, rather than one that fizzles out over time. The sermon examines the importance of not just starting with enthusiasm but maintaining our faith through life's challenges. It emphasizes that true satisfaction and the fulfillment of our deepest needs come from depending on Jesus, not from our own efforts. The sermon also addresses the reactions of Jesus' followers, some of whom turned away when faced with difficult teachings, and highlights Peter's confession of faith as an example of enduring belief.
The Bread Of Life
April 21, 2024 • Dr. Nic Williams • John 6:25–59
In this sermon, we explore the deep spiritual hunger that exists within each of us and how Jesus, as the Bread of Life, satisfies that longing. Pastor Nic draws parallels between physical hunger and spiritual hunger, emphasizing that just as our bodies need food to survive, our souls require spiritual nourishment. Through the Gospel of John, particularly John 6:35, Jesus is presented as the ultimate sustenance for our spiritual needs, making bold claims that align Him with God. The sermon also touches on the miracles of feeding the 5000 and 4000, Jesus walking on water, and the healing of the Canaanite woman's daughter, illustrating Jesus' power and His role as the sustenance for all, Jew and Gentile alike.