All Saints Anglican Church - Prescott, AZ

Text: Psalm 121 This sermon examines Psalm 121. It is a promise that God will be your helper and defender into eternity. One of the most notable features is that the Psalmist uses the word "keep" six times. Keep is an interesting way to translate this word, and it dates back at least to 1535 and the publication of the Coverdale Bible. But keep is an incomplete understanding of what the Psalmist is saying; he is saying that the Lord is our constant guardian, persistent and active. As we think about how this Psalm relates to Christ and points to him, his person, and his work, perhaps the most obvious way is how in the totality of his humanity Jesus was fully dependent upon God-the-Father's protection. He did this perfectly, fully away that the LORD shall preserve thy going out, and thy coming in, from this time forth for evermore. Psalm 121 reminds us that in season and out of season, no matter where we go, the Lord is our protector, our steadfast guardian.

Text: Psalm 120 We begin our series examining the Ascension Psalms (Psalms 120-134). The first Psalm is a song and prayer of lament. The author cries out to God because his neighbors lie about him and hate peace. Sadly, in a sin-sick world, interpersonal conflict is inevitable, but this Psalmist points us to several hopeful things. First, the Psalm naturally refocuses us on Jesus, who was slandered, hated, and all kinds of unjust things were said about him. He also came to restore true shalom, that is, peace with God. This also reminds us of our call to love peace, even if our neighbors hate it. This is because in Christ, God is restoring us to live at peace with him. St. Paul reminds us of this call in Romans when he writes, If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Finally, the Psalm begins with hope, as the Psalmist writes, "I cried to God, and He answered me." What this statement is conveying is that the Psalmist is crying out to God right now, but he knows God will answer him. This confidence is extended to us in Christ.

Text: Hebrews 13:22-25 This sermon concludes our study of the letter to the Hebrews. The brief personal notes at the end of the epistles provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who wrote and received these ancient letters. These signatures remind us that these letters were between people who cared deeply for one another. This passage focuses on three Reminders: To heed his Instructions Of the fellowship they enjoy To abide in grace As we end, we are reminded of the rich blessing of being a part of Christ's church.

Text: Hebrews 13:20-21 In this sermon, we look at Hebrews 13:20-21, which points us to the good work that God has completed and is doing in us. This passage reminds us that He is the God of peace, He has raised Christ from the dead, and He is redeeming us to live to His glory. This calling is rooted in God's character. In a world filled with madness and hatred, this passage reminds us that we are called to something else. We are called to good works, and we can do this because Christ is our great shepherd, and he will guide us.

Text: Hebrews 13:7-19 In this sermon, we look at Hebrews 13:7-19. The author is quickly finishing up his address to the Hebrew Christians. The assurance that he gives is that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. The madness of the world is nothing new; however, there are times, like last week or the last month, when the madness seems more acute than normal. Times like these can make the world feel off-kilter, and walking in Christ can either be deeply comforting or deeply challenging. However, the author reminds readers that, no matter how crazy the world around us may seem, Christ remains unchanging. When we rest on the assurance of Christ's steadfastness, it binds us to our brothers and sisters in Christ and calls us to make sacrifices of praise to God, do good, and be generous with one another.

Text: Hebrews 13:1-6 We could easily read this text as a checklist for what it means to be a good Christian. Do this, this, and this, and you're good to go. A better way of reading it is to see what Christ has already done for us and, therefore, be inspired by His work in us, seeking to live graciously with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It is by abiding in Christ and seeking to do all that he has called us to that we can have confidence in him. In other words, Christ's good work in us produces confidence in Him.

Text: Hebrews 12:25-29 In a world full of madness and chaos, it can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel discouraged. In this sermon, we take a look at Hebrews 12:25-29. One thing we learn is that the phrase a kingdom that cannot be shaken can also be translated A king that cannot be shaken. Regardless of which translation you prefer, the kingdom that cannot be shaken is firm because of who the king is. This sermon challenges us to trust not in ourselves, but in that king. Even as the world rages around us, and the ground seems to shake, Christ is never shaken.

Text: Hebrews 12:18-24 We often underestimate the greatness of God and our own finiteness. Hebrews 12:18-24 does not allow us to do this. In fact, it invites us into God's greatness, and shows us how Christ has made that way possible. It is in Christ that we are welcomed into the deep mystery of God's glory. This is an incredible promise and invitation.

Text: Hebrews 12:12-17 Date: August 17, 2025 In this sermon, we looked at Hebrews 12:12-17. This passage fleshes out the call to run the race that is set before us. The imagery of running a race can seem very individualistic, but instead, we're to care for one another in that race. The healing and mending isn't done by our own work, but through the prayer and the preaching of the gospel to one another. We are called to help one another on the path that God has placed before us. This is so we can move away from sin, towards peace and holiness. In this lifetime, we will wrestle with sin constantly, which will make the Christian community challenging. Which is why we are reminded again and again to offer each other grace.