INTRODUCTION
In the intricate tapestry of Christian theology, the concept of the Trinity stands as a profound mystery—a mystery that invites us to contemplate the nature of God in all its richness and complexity. At the heart of this mystery lies God the Son, whose love knows no bounds, whose wisdom surpasses understanding, and whose presence sustains us in every moment of our lives.
SERMON TEXT
John 1:1-18
THREE TRUTHS TO GOD THE SON:
I. The Incarnation:
– John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
– Reflect on the profound mystery of the Incarnation, where the eternal Son of God took on human form. Renowned theologian Karl Barth notes, “In Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God assumed our humanity. In His person, the divine and human natures are united in perfect harmony.”
II. Redemption and Sacrifice:
– Romans 5:8: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
– Emphasize the significance of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross as the ultimate act of redemption for humanity’s sins. Theologian John Stott emphasizes, “The essence of sin is man substituting himself for God, while the essence of salvation is God substituting Himself for man. Man asserts himself against God and puts himself where only God deserves to be; God sacrifices Himself for man and puts Himself where only man deserves to be.”
– Dive deeper into the theological concept of atonement, discussing how Jesus’ death satisfies the demands of justice and extends mercy to sinners. Explore the depth of God’s love demonstrated through Jesus’ sacrifice, highlighting the profound act of grace that offers forgiveness and reconciliation to all who believe.
III. Eternal Sonship:
– Colossians 1:15-17: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
– Reflect on the eternal nature of Jesus as the Son of God. Theologian Wayne Grudem explains, “The eternal Sonship of Jesus means that He has eternally existed as the Son of God, sharing the same divine nature as the Father and the Holy Spirit.”
– Delve deeper into the mystery of the Trinity, discussing the unity and diversity within the Godhead and the eternal relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Explore how Jesus’ eternal sonship highlights His divine nature and His essential role in creation, redemption, and the reconciliation of all things.
APPLICATION:
1. **Emulate Christ’s Humility**: Reflect on how we can embody Christ’s humility and servant-heartedness in our daily lives. Consider practical ways to serve others selflessly, following Jesus’ example of sacrificial love and compassion. Let us actively seek opportunities to serve others and demonstrate Christ’s love in our communities.
2. **Receive God’s Gift of Redemption**: Reflect on the depth of God’s love demonstrated through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. Consider how we can respond to this gift by embracing forgiveness, extending grace to others, and living lives transformed by His redeeming love. Let us accept the forgiveness offered to us through Christ and extend that same forgiveness to others, fostering reconciliation and healing.
3. **Walk in Victory**: Reflect on the hope and assurance we have in Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Consider how this truth can inspire courage, resilience, and perseverance in the face of challenges, knowing that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Let us walk in the confidence of our identity as children of God, trusting in His promises and living with hope for the future.
CONCLUSION:
As we conclude, let us reflect on the profound truth of God the Son’s presence in our lives. May we strive to follow His example of love, service, and sacrifice each day.
– Let us leave this place with a renewed sense of awe and gratitude for the gift of God the Son, who offers us salvation, hope, and eternal life.
Closing Prayer:
As we conclude, let us reflect on the profound truth of God the Son’s presence in our lives. May we strive to follow His example of love, service, and sacrifice each day.
– Let us leave this place with a renewed sense of awe and gratitude for the gift of God the Son, who offers us salvation, hope, and eternal life.