This famous account of Jesus calming the storm begins an important section in Luke. It kicks off a series of four passages in which Luke desires to reveal certain truths about Jesus. This precious, but often misapplied, account reveals Jesus' sovereign power and authority over creation. It is a clear declaration that Jesus is Lord and God. The personal application shows how it is not wrong for Christians to fear in times of trial, or even cry out to God. That is right and proper. However, the question Luke wants to address is how will a person come to God. Will they cry out in fear and faith, or will they cry out in fear only? That is the critical difference. For Luke, the only right way to come is in belief. However, the Christian's belief in times of trial will be forged from their understanding of Jesus as the sovereign Lord and God over every circumstance and event in life.
When Panic Meets Power
August 15, 2021 • Matt Miller • Luke 8:22–25
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.