Sermon of the Week: Pastor Kevin Smith: Don't Ignore Jesus

02/21/25 • 48 min

Biblical Talks with Elder Michael Tolliver Podcast

Understanding true faith in Jesus Christ requires recognizing Him as more than just a gentle teacher or spiritual guide. He is God's representative on earth, and our response to Him is our response to God Himself. This means that authentic faith demands complete devotion and transformation of our lives, not just mental agreement or cultural acceptance.Many people reject or ignore Jesus because they prioritize human approval over God's, prefer to keep their faith private, or treat His words as mere suggestions rather than divine commands. Even believers can fall into the trap of ignoring Jesus by not consulting Scripture for important decisions, trusting worldly wisdom over biblical truth, or relying on feelings rather than God's Word.The consequences of ignoring Jesus are profound and eternal. Those who reject Him remain in spiritual darkness, and His Word will judge people on the last day. True faith must produce evidence through active obedience, public identification with Christ, and complete submission to His authority in all areas of life.

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Previous Episode

A Spotlight on the Scripture, Matthew 11:28-30: A Path to Redemption and Restful Living.

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This is a spotlight on the Scripture; Matthew 11:28-30.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

In view here is the invitation to salvation. It's like coming out of a snowstorm into a warm spring day, or from a storm into calm weather, or moving from darkness into light. It's a new message from Jesus, who shifts his focus from the nation to individuals. He's no longer talking about a kingdom for everyone but inviting each person to find rest and salvation.

When Jesus says "I will give you rest," it means "I will give you relief." When he talks about being "heavy laden," he means being burdened by sin. The Bible uses analogous descriptions, like in Isaiah and the Psalms, to describe sin as a heavy burden.

Sin is too heavy for you to carry—it would be like pulling a muscle from trying to lift a thousand pounds. The only place to get rid of your sin burden is at the Cross of Christ. Jesus carried it for you and invited you to bring your sins to him. He can forgive you because he bore your sins on the cross.

When Jesus says "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest," he means that sinners can find salvation through him. "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" refers to the ongoing process of spiritual growth and sanctification for believers. Jesus offers rest through redemption and commitment to him. If you are committed to Christ, you don't need to worry about being recognized or striving for positions of power. He will place you where he wants you when you are connected to him, and you will find rest for your souls

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Next Episode

Biblical talks Encouraging Word for the Week, with Rachel Tolliver: Transforming Life through Continuous Communion with God

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Prayer is the spontaneous response of the believing heart to God. Those truly transformed by Jesus Christ find themselves lost in the wonder and joy of communion with Him. Prayer is as natural for the Christian as breathing. John MacArthur. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Paul said pray without ceasing. What is Paul saying? He is saying, make prayer is a regular habit that involves our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Speaking prayers aloud is occasional and just an expression of this habit. The reasons for praying always exist, so we should keep praying without stopping. Prayer means: Recognizing danger, which is always around us. Acknowledging our personal weaknesses and needs, which are ongoing. Depending on God constantly, which should be continuous. All the reasons for praying encourage us to pray without stopping. For more encouraging, words please go to biblicaltalks.com

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Have a blessed day, and thanks for listening! Visit my website to learn more at https://www.biblicaltalks.com