The Sermon emphasizes the power of pictures and stories in evoking emotions and moral reflection. The speaker draws parallels to biblical figures like Daniel, who stood up for their faith despite cultural pressures. The message encourages Christians to take a stand for their beliefs, emphasizing that the kingdom of God opposes earthly cultures. It highlights the importance of discernment in choosing battles and maintaining influence while staying true to Christian values and resisting cultural defilement.
Christ in Culture (From Daniel) - Lesson 2
Monty Pettyjohn
The speaker emphasizes that culture is pervasive, influencing every aspect of our lives, but warns against letting it drive our values and morals. While culture has its benefits, such as fostering community and promoting good practices, it often conflicts with the will of God. Jesus, although born into culture, was driven by divine will, not cultural norms. Christians should follow his example by anchoring themselves in scripture and divine wisdom. The speaker encourages self-reflection on whether one's actions are influenced by culture or by God's will, advocating for a driven, purposeful life rooted in divine guidance rather than cultural influence.
Christ in Culture (From Daniel) - Lesson 3
Charles Speer
This comprehensive sermon underscores the dangers of wealth’s deceitfulness and the importance of trusting God and seeking His kingdom above material pursuits. The teachings are rooted in biblical scripture, providing a guide for both the wealthy and the poor on how to navigate the temptations of riches.
Christ in Culture (From Daniel) - Lesson 4
Monty Pettyjohn
The sermon addresses the universal burdens of life, including work, illness, and relationships, and emphasizes that the heaviest burden is sin. The speaker explains that while humans cannot alleviate the burden of sin on their own, Jesus offers a solution through the gospel, providing spiritual rest and relief. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross justifies and redeems believers, offering them freedom from the weight of sin. The sermon calls for the congregation to support missionaries not just financially but by spreading spiritual rest. It also encourages local outreach to relieve the burden of sin in their own communities.
Christ in Culture (From Daniel) - Lesson 5
Monty Pettyjohn
In a sermon on critically evaluating cultural practices, the speaker discusses the need to go beyond mere legality when considering issues like gambling and alcohol. He emphasizes that Christians should not simply accept these practices because they are legal, but should instead assess them critically from a Christian perspective. The sermon highlights the dangers and pitfalls of gambling and alcohol, urging believers to consider the spiritual and practical impacts of their choices. Ultimately, it calls for a deeper evaluation of all aspects of life, including money, media, and personal habits, in light of Christian values and spiritual well-being.
Christ in Culture (From Daniel) - Lesson 6
Chris Johnson • Daniel 2:44, Daniel 9:24–26
The speaker compares historical and modern advancements, like Roman roads and 5G, to underscore that while these innovations are significant, they are not as crucial as Jesus Christ. Emphasizing that Jesus is God's ultimate "big thing," the speaker argues that despite human achievements, God's plan centers on Jesus, who divides history and offers salvation. Using the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch from Acts 8, the speaker illustrates that all innovations and paths ultimately lead to Jesus. The message challenges listeners to prioritize Jesus in their lives, recognizing Him as the true focus of God's purpose.
Christ in Culture (From Daniel) - Lesson 7
Bill Tracy • Daniel 2:44–45, Daniel 2:1–23
The speaker contrasts cultural views of power with Christ’s perspective, emphasizing that society often equates power with politics, wealth, and fame. He argues that Jesus, despite having opportunities to leverage these forms of power, chose a different path. Instead, Jesus’ power was rooted in the presence of God, focusing on the eternal and unseen. Christians, like Jesus, are called to find their power in the presence of God and prayer rather than worldly measures.
