FAITH Worship (4/28/24): "The Twist" (Series: Prodigal)
April 28, 2024 • Pastor Tim Byer • Luke 15:11–32
When we read this parable in context, it is the third of three parables. The first two feature a "searcher" who searches. Because the searcher is omitted from this parable, it begs the listener to ask, "Where is the searcher?" This is the beautiful nugget we too often miss. Jesus is the BETTER older brother who left to pursue all who have rejected the Father and bring them back home. At his own expense, He leaves home and heads out to the far and near countries to offer a return to the place for which we were created.
FAITH Worship (4/21/24): "The Older Brother" (Series: Prodigal)
April 21, 2024 • Pastor Tim Byer • Luke 15:11–32
The younger brother and the older brother look so different in this story, yet their sin is the same: rebellion against their father's authority. While one brother rebels in a loud way, the older brother (with his reliance on moral superiority and conformity) rebels in a much more dangerous and sinister way. But, the story ends without a conclusion ...
FAITH Worship (4/14/24): "The Younger Brother" (Series: Prodigal)
April 14, 2024 • Pastor Tim Byer • Luke 15:11–32
This story has two Acts. This is Act 1. It is often the only part of the story that people remember and for good reasons. It is tremendously beautiful - The betrayal, the crash, the pardon, the grace, the restoration. It is a loud call to all who have walked their own path. You have not traveled too far away. You have not lost too much. You have not been too foolish. The Father's eyes are watching and waiting for your return.
FAITH Worship (4/7/24): "The Audience" (Series: Prodigal)
April 7, 2024 • Pastor Tim Byer • Luke 15:11–32
The "prodigal son" story might not be what you think it is. The audience might not be what you have always assumed. We tend to think this is a story for the prodigals in their far-off country... partly, yes. Primarily it is a story for the religious who find themselves close yet still alienated from God. This perspective is maddening.
