Live Sermons at The Living Word
Season 2024
Remembering Who We Are - Pr. Jerry Lutz
Fresh Starts and Opportunities - Todd Jerman
by Jeff Kern
Pastor Jerry Lutz's sermon commemorates the tenth anniversary of the Living Word Church merger, emphasizing the importance of remembering the church's mission and identity as Seventh Day Adventists. He cautions against "mission drift," illustrating this with examples like Coca-Cola and Ivy League universities that strayed from their original purposes. Lutz uses biblical examples of memorials and commemorations to highlight God's emphasis on remembering His acts and our purpose. The sermon encourages the congregation to remain focused on their calling to teach, preach, and baptize, continually remembering Christ's sacrifice and their identity as God's people.
Todd Jerman's sermon, delivered on the last Sabbath of 2024, focuses on the concept of "fresh starts" and their significance in both psychology and the Bible. He uses biblical examples to illustrate God's repeated offers of new beginnings, emphasizing God's enduring patience and desire for humanity's salvation. Jerman then addresses different groups within his congregation: the undecided, those struggling with faith, and long-time Christians facing spiritual plateaus. He encourages all to cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and active witnessing, urging them to embrace the opportunities for spiritual growth offered by their church community. Finally, he issues a serious call to remain vigilant and prepared for Christ's return, highlighting the urgency of the times.
The sermon explores the profound significance of “Emmanuel,” meaning “God with us,” as revealed in Matthew 1:20–23. Through Joseph’s encounter with the angel Gabriel, we see God’s assurance of His presence and salvation through Jesus Christ, who came to save humanity from sin. The message highlights the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, where the name “Immanuel” transcends a mere title to embody the reality of God dwelling among His people. This theological truth underscores the Incarnation, where Jesus bridges the gap between the divine and the human, offering hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal communion with God. The call to “not be afraid” resonates universally, inviting believers to embrace God's transformative presence in their daily lives and live with faith, trust, and courage in His promises.