Morning Service Live Stream
This week, we turn to Genesis 23 to witness the end of Sarah's life and the profound statement Abraham makes through her burial. This sermon challenges us to consider our own legacy of faith—how we live, how we mourn, and whether we are seen by the world as mere residents or as "foreigners and visitors" whose citizenship is in heaven. The passage is not just about a funeral; it's about the final test of Abraham's integrity and faith in God's promises.
Service Breakdown
- Worship and Music: The service opens with the hymn, "There's Within My Heart a Melody."
- Scripture Reading: A reading from Acts 7:1-8, Stephen's address, which recounts God's initial promise to Abraham, reinforcing that God's plan and promises endure.
- Children’s Corner: Jesus Loves Me: The children's lesson focuses on the central truth that Jesus loves us—a love that never changes (John 15:12, Psalm 100:1-2). The kids lead the congregation in singing the classic hymn, "Jesus Loves Me."
- The Message: The Mighty Prince: Focusing on Genesis 23, the message explores Abraham's response to the death of Sarah. It is a lesson on how a believer should grieve (with sorrow, but not without hope) and how a consistent life of faith earns respect. Abraham insists on paying the full price for the cave of Machpelah, demonstrating his integrity and solidifying his claim to the promised land by faith.
Key Moments & Themes
- Mourning with Hope: The passing of a loved one is a time to preach our greatest sermon. Believers must mourn but not as those who have no hope, testifying that the departed is instantly in the presence of God.
- A Foreigner and a Visitor: Abraham declares himself a stranger to the people of Heth. The message asks: Are we living like foreigners whose citizenship is in heaven and whose roots are not too deep in this passing world?
- The World Sees Our God: Despite his flaws, Abraham's life of faith caused the ungodly world to recognize him as a "mighty prince”. Our life must be different from the world's to effectively witness to God's truth.
- Integrity and Cost: Abraham's choice to pay the full price for the burial place demonstrates that it is better to do what is right now—even if it costs dearly—than to pay double the price later by compromising integrity and bringing shame on Christ's name.
- Marching to Glory: We are not marching to the grave, but marching to glory. This certainty should shape our priorities and service today.
Call to Action
How will your life be judged when you stand before God 100 years from now? Are you making excuses for unfaithfulness, or are you striving daily to live as a foreigner and a stranger in this world?
Examine your life today! Choose to live with the integrity and faith of Abraham, knowing that your greatest impact on an ungodly world is to be different from it. Are you allowing God to train you up to be useful for His purpose?