#WeAreChristChurch

The sermon explores the concept of the church as a household, emphasizing its distinct nature from modern corporate structures like LLCs or corporations. Drawing from 1 Timothy 3, 1 Corinthians 3, and Ephesians 2, the message highlights the importance of covenant succession, inheritance, and hierarchical obedience within the church community, asserting that individual behavior directly impacts the entire body. It challenges the notion of casual membership, advocating for a deeper commitment akin to adoption and inheritance, while also affirming the vital role of dedicated service to the church, exemplified by figures like Dorcas and Anna, and ultimately pointing to the church as the ultimate household of faith, where individuals can contribute meaningfully regardless of familial status.

The sermon explores the theological implications of baptism, particularly within the context of the Abrahamic covenant, asserting that all believers, regardless of status or background, are heirs to God's promises. Drawing from Galatians 3 and connecting to the Old Testament, the message emphasizes the responsibility of parents, acting as stewards and guardians, to raise children within the fear and admonition of the Lord, recognizing them as belonging to Jesus and claiming the covenant promises made to Abraham. The sermon challenges secular notions of individual consent, affirming that infants are inherently part of God's household and deserving of baptism as a sign of that belonging, while acknowledging the potential for individuals to forsake their inheritance, urging the community to support parents in their sacred duty.

The sermon explores the relationship between the Old Testament Mosaic law and the New Testament grace offered through Jesus Christ, arguing that the phrase 'grace upon grace' signifies a fulfillment rather than a replacement of the law. It contends that the Old Testament covenant, while structured by law, was itself a gracious expression of God's covenant with his people, and that the law served to intensify blessings and reveal God's character. Drawing on Reformed theological tradition, the sermon emphasizes that the law is an integral aspect of God's covenant, guiding believers toward a deeper understanding of God's will and ultimately pointing to the need for Christ, and that the New Testament builds upon the Old Testament, blossoming from its foundations to offer a fuller revelation of God's grace.