From the beginning, God wanted all of humanity to be holy priests serving him on earth. Adam and Eve were commissioned to care for and keep the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15), terms used later of the holy work of priests at the temple.
After humanity fell in sin, God chose Israel to be a nation of priests (Exodus 19:5-6), but they refused. So, the sacred privilege was bestowed on a single tribe within Israel—Levi.
Through Jesus Christ, God’s original plan for the priesthood of all believers is being realized in the Church (1 Peter 2:9).
In this sermon, we will explore the honor and privileges we bear as holy priests in God’s kingdom and how the local church should be the most safe, healthy, and personally esteeming community on earth.
To prepare, please read 1 Peter 2:1-10.
Your Honor
Life In Exile
January 17, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
An Addendum
May 2, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
In the last Sermon, we finished 1 http://peter...well, almost. This Sermon, Pastor Ben will present “an addendum" by focusing on two important issues Peter only mentions in his closing remarks, likely, because the original readers didn't need further explanation. We do. Peter mentions "the devil" and uses the term "Babylon" to refer to Rome. Both topics span the whole of Scripture, and understanding their significance is helpful in understanding God's word from cover-to-cover. Prayerfully prepare your mind and heart for this message.
Down Is Up
April 25, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
This Sermon, Peter concludes his teaching on the believer's life in exile in this world with a loving kiss--really! In 1 Peter 5:6-14, he re-captures the dominant themes of his letter, taking us deeper into the realities behind Christian suffering that should comfort us and give us hope in even the most painful of times.
Under-shepherds of the Chief Shepherd
April 18, 2021 • Pastor Ben Cross
In this Sermon, Pastor Ben will share a report on his recent ministry to missionaries in Kenya, Africa. We will also take a brief look at 1 Peter 5:1-5 and the vital role elders play in the local church, especially in times of crisis and suffering. This passage presents a timely opportunity for us to commission the four new elders our church family recently affirmed. Please join us for this important moment in our church's life.