After escaping an attempted execution in Nazareth, Jesus returns to Capernaum and begins teaching in the synagogue. In a dramatic display of power, Jesus confirms the authority of His Word by expressing the power of His Word over truth, spirits, and sickness. Capernaum responds vastly different than Nazareth. Instead of seeking to kill Him, they seek to keep Him. However, He gives the clear statement that He must be about the preaching of the kingdom. The passage shows the passion of Jesus. The priority of His ministry will be the preaching of His Word. For His Word is what possesses authority. Therefore, it's through His Word alone that He will liberate those enslaved to the powers of sin, Satan, and death.
His Authoritative Word
December 1, 2019 • Matt Miller • Luke 4:31–44
More from
Luke
Would-Be Followers
June 19, 2022 • Matt Miller • Luke 9:57–62
Jesus challenges three would-be followers who've not yet discovered the nature of true discipleship. Many are eager, but have not counted the cost. Others have counted the cost, but are working in their own power to hedge against the coming challenges. And, then, others are willing to follow Jesus, but with a divided heart. In these difficult words of Jesus, He shows forth the heart of a true follower. It is a challenging passage, but one worthy of much meditation.
A Preview of Glory
December 5, 2021 • Matt Miller • Luke 9:27–29
We come to the mysterious passage known as the transfiguration. It is a strange passage that many are not certain what to do with. However, it serves a very important purpose. Not only does it continue to reveal the divine identity of Jesus, but it serves to bolster the disciples faith. This sermon explores the relationship of God's holiness with His glory, revealing Jesus to be the intrinsic essence of God's holiness when it is made publicly known. He is the glory of God.
The Gospel of Self-Denial
November 21, 2021 • Matt Miller • Luke 9:23–26
We come to the heart of Jesus' message. The Gospel is not about self-fulfillment, but self-denial. The way up is the way down. The way to gain life is to lose your life. Jesus teaches on the costliness of following Him. He says it requires a complete abandonment of your former identity, and then reassociation with Him. The one who desires to follow Jesus must lay down all former ways of life, take up their cross every single day, and follow Him. This is a message that doesn't sell, but it's one the truly converted heart loves.