Coming down from the Mountain after teaching that great Sermon on the Mount, Jesus now encounters a Roman Centurion. This man functions in the Gospel as the embodiment of all that Jesus just taught. In this centurion, we see that profile of a true disciple, and the very kind of person that Jesus will use to save sinners. He becomes a tremendous example to the church. His defining characteristic is one of incredible faith; an ongoing quality that must control the life of any true discipleship. For faith is the only reality that amazes Jesus and pleases the Father.
The Profile of a Disciple
March 14, 2021 • Matt Miller • Luke 7:1–10
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.