The Good Samaritan

Doxa Church - WA

The Good Samaritan

January 21, 2024 • Eddie Williams • Luke 10:25–37

Have you ever encountered a story that shook the foundations of what you believe? Our latest series dives into the heart of such narratives, as we unpack the parables unique to the Gospel of Luke. These aren't just quaint bedtime stories; they're revolutionary teachings that turn our understanding of neighborly love on its head. Kicking off with the Parable of the Good Samaritan, we dissect its message and uncover fresh perspectives on mercy, compassion, and the radical hospitality Jesus calls us to embody.

Every parable is a window into the realm of the divine, and in this sermon, we navigate the nuanced layers of Jesus' parables--exploring the 'already but not yet' dynamic of God's kingdom—a reality initiated by Jesus that beckons us to live counter-culturally. The stories are masterfully crafted, challenging us to question our worldviews and adopt kingdom values that often stand in stark contrast to societal norms. Through this lens, the parables guide us from Genesis to Revelation, painting a story of a kingdom both present and promised.

Concluding the sermon, Pastor Eddie helps us grapple with Jesus' radical acceptance and the expansive reach of his message--which defies traditional religious confines and beckons all who seek him. By exploring these themes, we're encouraged to foster an environment where the transformative power of the gospel is evident through our humility and joy. Together, we'll reflect on the inclusive, yet exclusive, nature of Jesus' message and his call to welcome all into a life of worship, service, and community. Join us on this enlightening exploration into the profound lessons of Jesus' parables and their impact on our journey of faith.

-----------

Parables, Luke, Kingdom of God, Jesus, Metaphors, Moral Lessons, Hospitality, Inclusivity, Love, Mercy, Radical Acceptance, Worship, Service, Community, Faith, Evangelism, Transformation, Gospel, Humility, Joy, Doxa, Church, Redmond, Seattle, Washington

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector

March 24, 2024 • Eddie Williams • Luke 18:9–14

Have you ever found yourself judging someone only to realize that you're standing in a hall of mirrors, reflecting your own flaws? That moment of self-revelation is at the heart of this, the final sermon in this series where we've journeyed through the parables of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, this time with a compelling narrative of the Pharisee and the tax collector. Through the lens of Luke 18, we discover that the Kingdom of God isn't just about righteous acts but a radical change of heart. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is a profound lesson in humility and a mirror to our own potential for self-righteousness. As we reflect on Jesus' path to the crucifixion, we're reminded of the pressing need for internal transformation, challenging us to look beyond our deeds and into the core of our being. This sermon serves as a poignant reminder that entrance into God's Kingdom necessitates a new heart posture—one of contrition and openness to God's grace. ---------- Parables, Jesus, Gospel of Luke, Human Heart, Kingdom of God, Reflections, Humility, Righteousness, Pharisee, Tax Collector, Palm Sunday, Easter, Crucifixion, Resurrection, Internal Transformation, Heart Attitudes, Sin, Debt, Mercy, Confidence, Renewal, Self-Righteousness, Contempt, Works, Righteousness, Pride, Comparison, Judgement, Admitting Wrongdoings, Responsibility, Gaslighting, Accountability, Justification, Humility, Mercy, Sacrifice, Ego, Faithfulness, Insecurity, Boasts, Redemption, Suffering, Human Condition, Confidence, Strength, Faithfulness, Trial, Joy, Conviction

The Persistent Widow

March 17, 2024 • Eddie Williams • Luke 18:1–8

Have you ever felt like your prayers are just echoes in a vast void? You're not alone. In this latest sermon, we grapple with the power of persistent prayer, as demonstrated by the Parable of the Persistent Widow. Pastor Eddie peels back the layers of Jesus' parable, revealing the profound truth about our communication with the Father. It's a discussion that challenges the heart of our faith--especially when faced with society's comfortable complacency. Can expressing doubt, confusion, and suffering actually deepen our connection with the Almighty? We engage in this dialogue, emphasizing the transformative effect that comes from aligning our desires with God's plan through prayer—whether it's our pain, joy, or the uncertain spaces in between. Prayer is more than just a wish list—it's a conduit for spiritual awakening and engagement with God's presence. We would invite you to come boldly to the Father who loves you deeply and wants the best for you--so ask Him! --------- Parables, Prayer, Gospel of Luke, Persistent Prayer, Losing Heart, Despair, Deconstruction, God's Kingdom, Comfortable Society, Urgency, Trust, Spiritual Growth, Unanswered Prayers, Divine Realities, Spiritual Awakening, Engagement, God's Presence, God's Power, Jesus, Gospel, Gospel-Centered, Doxa, Church, Eastside, Redmond, Seattle

The Rich Man & Lazarus

March 10, 2024 • Eddie Williams • Luke 16:19–31

Have you ever considered the true cost of your worldly pursuits, or what it means to live a life rich in spiritual wealth? This weeks sermon is a deep-dive on heaven and hell as we navigate Jesus's parable of the rich man and Lazarus, highlighting the stark contrasts between temporary riches and the treasures of God's Kingdom. As Easter approaches, let this be your guide to reevaluating where your heart truly lies, and whether your lifestyle choices reflect the eternal values that matter most. Confronted with Jesus's sobering warnings in Luke 13, we're urged to reflect on the dire consequences of neglecting God's path. We tackle the difficult truths about the reality of hell and the urgency for repentance while embracing the lifesaving grace offered through Jesus's mission. This isn't just theological musing; it's a clarion call for genuine discipleship. Step into a life of authenticity, shedding the trappings of religious identity, and embark on a transformative journey of faith that promises hope beyond our earthly existence. ---------- Parables, Jesus, Rich Man, Lazarus, Wealth, Afterlife, Kingdom of God, Discipleship, Hell, Repentance, Grace, Scripture, Belief, Salvation, Faith, Forgiveness, Doxa, Church, Eastside, Seattle, Redmond