Preparing for the Lord's Day
Kingdoms in Conflict
When the Lord delivered his people from slavery in Egypt, He purposely ordered Israelite society to protect their freedom. There were laws instituted by God to be bulwarks against the encroachment of tyrannical and enslaving forces. These laws included the Sabbath that free God’s people from slavery to work (Deut 5:15). Another way he protected his people, he limited the interest to be paid on debt (Lev 25:37–38). However, the most powerful institution established in Israel to protect them from slavery was the inheritance (Num 26:53). The inheritance was a plot of land that was given to each family in Israel in perpetuity. The land of Canaan was divided by tribes and then clans, and then families. By design, this land protected the people from being enslaved by those with financial or political power.
The institution of the inheritance continues into the Church age but now fulfilled in Christ. For on this earth there is no plot of land that will provide absolute protection from slavery. However, through the work of Christ a new land of promise has been won. A new and better Canaan has been assigned to those who are in Christ, even the coming New Heavens and Earth (1 Pet 1:3-4).
In our passage for this Sunday the institution of the inheritance is assaulted by Ahab, king of Israel. For he desires the inheritance of a man named Naboth. And what we will see in our passage is that Ahab does not trust in God’s assigned inheritance, therefore, he is discontent, weak, and enslaved. However, Naboth places his faith in God’s promised inheritance and walks in contentment, strength, and freedom. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon 1 Kings 21, Psalms 16:5–6, Mark 8:35, 2 Corinthians 7:10, and Hebrews 11:24–26.
As we gather to worship our loving Father this Lord’s Day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “Come, Christians, Join to Sing”, the Acclamation of Praise “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us”, and the Hymn of Response “Blessed Assurance.” 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: 1 Kings 21
Title: A Beautiful Inheritance
Outline:
- Every Christian Must Trust in their Inheritance to be Content
- Every Christian Must Trust in their Inheritance to be Strong
- Every Christian Must Trust in their Inheritance to be Free