Preparing for the Lord's Day
Jesus is Better
Great Expectations is one of Charlie Dicken's most celebrated works. In this novel, the young working-class boy, Pip, is graced by an anonymous donor to go to London and obtain a higher education. Pip is overjoyed to leave behind what he perceives as second-class for the high life of wealth and privilege. However, as the book unfolds Pip's expectation that he will enter into the privileged class is undermined. His anonymous benefactor turns out to be a fugitive, his love for the beautiful Estelle goes unrequited, and as the funds dry up Pip goes into tremendous debt. He had expectations of escaping the leaving behind his provincial life, only to realize that such expectations only lead to greater poverty and disappointment. It was not the outward circumstances that mattered but rather contentment within whatever circumstance one might find himself.
In our passage for this week, the author calls us to be faithful to our heavenly calling. Elsewhere the Apostle Paul encourages his readers to, “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” (Ephesians 4:1). As Christians we have Great Expectations. We have a heavenly calling, a high calling. However, many of us do not know how we might live up to such expectations. We feel like Pip, who was overcome by his call to become an educated gentleman. However, unlike Pip, our benefactor will not disappoint. He will not remain anonymous. Rather he calls us to a higher calling and equips us to live out this heavenly call. Have you ever felt that you are not worthy of the calling that you have been given in Christ? Do you feel ashamed and not up to the task? Then trust in Jesus because he not only calls us heavenward but brings us safely home. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon Hebrews 3:1-6, Numbers 12:7, John 6:32-35, Ephesians 2:19-22, 2 Corinthians 6:16, 1 Peter 2:5, and this article on Perseverance.
As we gather to worship the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit this Lord’s Day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “Vast The Immensity,” the Acclamation of Praise, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” and the Hymn of Response “Christ is Made the Sure Foundation.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, to receive it in faith, to love and treasure it in our hearts, and to practice it in our lives that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!
Sermon Information
Text: Hebrews 3:1-6
Title: Great Expectations
Outline:
- We Must Trust in Jesus as the Faithful Mediator (vv.1-2)
- We Must Trust in Jesus as the Faithful Builder (vv. 3-4)
- We Must Trust in Jesus as the Faithful Son (vv. 5-6)