WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:06.480 You are listening to a message from Southwood Presbyterian Church in Huntsville, Alabama. 00:00:06.980 --> 00:00:09.560 Our passion is to experience and express grace. 00:00:10.080 --> 00:00:10.620 Join us. 00:00:12.580 --> 00:00:15.200 Turn with me to Matthew chapter 2. 00:00:17.160 --> 00:00:23.920 We're considering this year what Christmas means to me, how the birth of Jesus impacts 00:00:23.920 --> 00:00:30.720 us personally as we see it through the eyes of real people in the Nativity story. 00:00:32.320 --> 00:00:39.320 Mary helped us see the life-changing reality of God's grace reaching down to us. 00:00:40.280 --> 00:00:46.560 Joseph helped us see how Jesus interrupts our lives and meets our biggest need. 00:00:46.560 --> 00:00:53.940 This morning, we have not merely an interruption, but an invasion. 00:00:54.920 --> 00:00:59.719 Kingdoms clash as the true King is born. 00:00:59.840 --> 00:01:01.560 That's what happens at Christmas. 00:01:02.620 --> 00:01:11.820 Notice as I read in Matthew 2, the markedly different responses to the arrival of the King, 00:01:12.099 --> 00:01:13.060 King Jesus. 00:01:13.060 --> 00:01:20.299 God gives us this historical account for our instruction that we might know Him and love 00:01:20.299 --> 00:01:21.620 Him and trust Him. 00:01:22.460 --> 00:01:25.760 So let's read it with that sense of expectation this morning. 00:01:26.420 --> 00:01:32.040 Now, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the King, behold, 00:01:32.219 --> 00:01:37.939 wise men from the east came to Jerusalem saying, Where is he who has been born King of the Jews? 00:01:38.159 --> 00:01:41.120 For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him. 00:01:41.120 --> 00:01:46.620 When Herod the King heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 00:01:47.600 --> 00:01:52.000 And assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the 00:01:52.000 --> 00:01:53.340 Christ was to be born. 00:01:54.359 --> 00:02:00.460 They told him, In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet, And you, O Bethlehem, 00:02:00.500 --> 00:02:05.320 in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, for from you shall 00:02:05.319 --> 00:02:08.719 come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. 00:02:10.039 --> 00:02:14.719 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star 00:02:14.719 --> 00:02:15.239 had appeared. 00:02:16.299 --> 00:02:20.819 And he sent them to Bethlehem saying, Go and search diligently for the child, and when you 00:02:20.819 --> 00:02:24.459 have found him, bring me word that I too may come and worship him. 00:02:25.859 --> 00:02:28.519 After listening to the king, they went on their way. 00:02:28.520 --> 00:02:33.880 And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest 00:02:33.880 --> 00:02:35.800 over the place where the child was. 00:02:36.820 --> 00:02:40.780 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 00:02:41.140 --> 00:02:46.580 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and 00:02:46.580 --> 00:02:47.439 worshipped him. 00:02:48.600 --> 00:02:52.640 Then opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 00:02:52.639 --> 00:02:58.659 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country 00:02:58.659 --> 00:03:00.399 by another way. 00:03:01.359 --> 00:03:07.799 The grass withers, the flowers fade, but these words of our God will stand forever. 00:03:08.199 --> 00:03:08.699 Let's pray. 00:03:11.399 --> 00:03:20.299 Father, open our eyes that we might behold wonderful things in your word. 00:03:22.639 --> 00:03:31.759 Soften our hearts that they would not remain hardened, but may be molded to yours. 00:03:34.159 --> 00:03:37.659 Subdue our wills, King Jesus. 00:03:39.039 --> 00:03:40.659 We ask it in your name. 00:03:41.939 --> 00:03:42.259 Amen. 00:03:45.599 --> 00:03:49.539 The story that we just read is a story about kings. 00:03:49.539 --> 00:03:57.719 Not perhaps the three kings that we usually sing about this time of year, but about Herod 00:03:57.719 --> 00:04:02.000 the king and Jesus the king. 00:04:02.459 --> 00:04:10.819 And it gives us, in that sense, a unique view into seeing that Christmas means the true king 00:04:10.819 --> 00:04:14.039 invading our world. 00:04:14.039 --> 00:04:21.000 Now, you may wonder, why when this baby is born, do people start talking about kings so 00:04:21.000 --> 00:04:21.219 much? 00:04:21.279 --> 00:04:23.399 I mean, is his father a king? 00:04:23.920 --> 00:04:26.259 Was he born with a crown on his head? 00:04:26.379 --> 00:04:28.219 Like, where did the king stuff? 00:04:28.319 --> 00:04:31.939 No, neither of those things is where it comes from. 00:04:31.939 --> 00:04:40.800 But remember that when we talk about the Messiah coming into the world, the primary Old Testament 00:04:40.800 --> 00:04:48.220 understanding of this promised one, this person who will come, is that he would be a king. 00:04:48.860 --> 00:04:53.639 We just read it from one prophet, but many said it that way. 00:04:53.899 --> 00:04:55.659 He would be the anointed one. 00:04:55.660 --> 00:04:57.660 It's what the word Messiah means. 00:04:58.080 --> 00:05:02.040 The one in David's line who would rule justly. 00:05:02.180 --> 00:05:05.140 Finally, a king who would really do it right. 00:05:05.740 --> 00:05:10.320 So it's the true king who's invading our world. 00:05:10.780 --> 00:05:19.500 With unrivaled supernatural power, you see already in this account, his star, it says, moves. 00:05:19.500 --> 00:05:26.319 To announce his birth and point out his location, he owns stars. 00:05:27.459 --> 00:05:30.439 There's no other king like this one. 00:05:32.339 --> 00:05:39.199 And as in any good story, when the king arrives, loyalties are exposed quickly. 00:05:40.600 --> 00:05:44.639 The true king will require complete allegiance, right? 00:05:44.639 --> 00:05:52.639 Utter submission, wholehearted devotion, and so the presence of the king as he shows up demands 00:05:52.639 --> 00:05:54.740 a response from everyone else. 00:05:55.800 --> 00:05:57.379 We know what this looks like. 00:05:57.500 --> 00:05:59.759 Just think of the Lion King, right? 00:06:00.120 --> 00:06:09.379 When Simba comes back to Pride Rock to claim his rightful throne, Scar and his treachery is exposed. 00:06:10.039 --> 00:06:12.839 And you're either with him or you're against him, right? 00:06:12.839 --> 00:06:20.959 You may picture the return of Aragorn to the throne of Gondor and the honor that the true king is due. 00:06:22.219 --> 00:06:29.719 Perhaps you think of the response required in the Black Panther movie after rivals fight to the death 00:06:29.719 --> 00:06:32.859 over the waterfall for the kingship of Wakanda. 00:06:34.000 --> 00:06:40.759 When one wins, it's either long live the king or flee for your life, right? 00:06:41.359 --> 00:06:42.500 It's one or the other. 00:06:42.839 --> 00:06:48.779 I want to show you a quick clip from one other movie where the kingship is at stake. 00:06:49.799 --> 00:06:55.579 Robin Hood tells the story of King Richard who has left England. 00:06:56.719 --> 00:07:02.579 The king has departed and Richard's brother John has claimed the throne in his place 00:07:02.579 --> 00:07:07.459 and he does not appreciate those who are still loyal to King Richard. 00:07:07.459 --> 00:07:13.279 He's rounding up and eliminating loyalists, including Robin Hood. 00:07:13.279 --> 00:07:16.819 The traitors to the crown must die. 00:07:16.819 --> 00:07:17.719 Traitors to the crown. 00:07:17.819 --> 00:07:19.419 That crown belongs to King Richard. 00:07:19.839 --> 00:07:21.299 Long live King Richard. 00:07:21.659 --> 00:07:22.959 Long live King Richard. 00:07:23.599 --> 00:07:24.120 Enough! 00:07:24.399 --> 00:07:25.839 I am king! 00:07:26.240 --> 00:07:26.959 King! 00:07:27.299 --> 00:07:27.899 King! 00:07:28.379 --> 00:07:28.679 Ah! 00:07:28.680 --> 00:07:30.900 Off with his hand! 00:07:34.620 --> 00:07:43.980 I showed you that clip primarily for that one memorable response from would-be King John. 00:07:44.620 --> 00:07:45.819 I am king! 00:07:46.040 --> 00:07:46.259 King! 00:07:46.259 --> 00:07:47.139 I am king! 00:07:47.139 --> 00:07:47.460 King! 00:07:47.639 --> 00:07:48.139 King! 00:07:48.139 --> 00:07:48.579 King! 00:07:48.579 --> 00:07:48.600 King! 00:07:48.600 --> 00:07:48.620 King! 00:07:48.620 --> 00:07:48.639 King! 00:07:48.639 --> 00:07:48.680 King! 00:07:48.680 --> 00:07:48.720 King! 00:07:48.720 --> 00:07:49.199 King! 00:07:49.199 --> 00:07:49.480 King! 00:07:49.480 --> 00:07:49.960 King! 00:07:49.960 --> 00:07:57.920 Sounds a lot like Herod's response to the presence of another king. 00:07:57.920 --> 00:08:08.300 More importantly for us this morning, it sounds a lot like our response to the presence of another king. 00:08:09.420 --> 00:08:10.780 I am king! 00:08:11.120 --> 00:08:11.800 King! 00:08:12.180 --> 00:08:12.720 King! 00:08:12.840 --> 00:08:13.439 King! 00:08:13.439 --> 00:08:13.560 King! 00:08:13.560 --> 00:08:14.560 King! 00:08:14.560 --> 00:08:15.480 King! 00:08:15.480 --> 00:08:16.280 I want you to remember that. 00:08:16.279 --> 00:08:19.839 We are going to talk about our own hearts more later. 00:08:20.979 --> 00:08:26.659 But just consider briefly how our hearts resist being moved off the throne. 00:08:27.659 --> 00:08:31.819 At the age of three, that cry may sound like, 00:08:32.059 --> 00:08:32.919 It's mine! 00:08:33.419 --> 00:08:34.039 Mine! 00:08:35.799 --> 00:08:38.620 At 13, it may sound like a passionate, 00:08:38.620 --> 00:08:41.159 That is so unfair! 00:08:41.159 --> 00:08:47.740 At 33, it may sound like a reasoned, 00:08:48.699 --> 00:08:51.139 Well, I've got to do what's best for me. 00:08:53.279 --> 00:08:54.879 But at every stage, 00:08:55.399 --> 00:08:56.919 While we sound different, 00:08:57.740 --> 00:08:59.480 We like to be in control. 00:09:00.259 --> 00:09:02.279 To maintain our own comfort. 00:09:02.899 --> 00:09:05.220 To be the one in charge of ourselves. 00:09:05.220 --> 00:09:08.620 To be the king, king, king, 00:09:08.620 --> 00:09:10.919 With no rival. 00:09:11.159 --> 00:09:11.799 Don't we? 00:09:13.579 --> 00:09:14.639 So did Herod. 00:09:15.399 --> 00:09:18.039 We know from even secular histories, 00:09:18.379 --> 00:09:20.399 That Herod was a ruthless, 00:09:20.740 --> 00:09:23.620 And very defensive king. 00:09:23.939 --> 00:09:25.980 He even had his wife, 00:09:26.559 --> 00:09:28.659 And three of his sons murdered, 00:09:29.539 --> 00:09:32.120 When he sensed a threat to his rule. 00:09:32.519 --> 00:09:34.159 Herod would do anything, 00:09:34.620 --> 00:09:36.319 To keep power. 00:09:36.320 --> 00:09:39.300 He sought to sideline or eliminate, 00:09:39.600 --> 00:09:41.720 Anyone who threatened his control, 00:09:41.840 --> 00:09:42.800 And his comfort, 00:09:42.980 --> 00:09:43.420 Even, 00:09:43.780 --> 00:09:44.740 And especially, 00:09:46.220 --> 00:09:46.560 Jesus. 00:09:48.900 --> 00:09:51.220 Herod had ruled on behalf of Rome, 00:09:51.280 --> 00:09:52.100 Over the Jews, 00:09:52.220 --> 00:09:54.280 For 30 years or so, 00:09:54.340 --> 00:09:55.820 At the time the Magi, 00:09:56.260 --> 00:09:57.820 Show up in this story. 00:09:58.400 --> 00:10:00.200 Notice how Matthew makes sure, 00:10:00.320 --> 00:10:02.640 That you see the awkward tension, 00:10:02.639 --> 00:10:04.500 That's here in this passage, 00:10:04.580 --> 00:10:05.879 And what it's really about. 00:10:05.879 --> 00:10:06.879 Verse 1, 00:10:07.199 --> 00:10:09.960 In the days of Herod the king. 00:10:11.699 --> 00:10:13.019 And then verse 3, 00:10:13.379 --> 00:10:17.039 When Herod the king heard this, 00:10:17.299 --> 00:10:18.879 Wouldn't Herod have sufficed, 00:10:19.620 --> 00:10:20.439 The second time? 00:10:20.440 --> 00:10:25.020 It's to Herod the king, 00:10:25.120 --> 00:10:27.040 That the Magi asked the question, 00:10:27.140 --> 00:10:27.880 In verse 2, 00:10:28.340 --> 00:10:29.760 Walking up to the king, 00:10:30.080 --> 00:10:32.060 Where is he who has been born, 00:10:32.460 --> 00:10:34.920 The king of the Jews? 00:10:36.600 --> 00:10:38.200 You sense the tension there? 00:10:38.400 --> 00:10:39.860 You don't ask that to the king. 00:10:41.700 --> 00:10:42.660 Herod is troubled, 00:10:43.100 --> 00:10:44.300 At the very thought, 00:10:44.880 --> 00:10:46.600 That the king has been born, 00:10:46.660 --> 00:10:47.480 And it's not him. 00:10:47.720 --> 00:10:48.480 He's vulnerable, 00:10:49.280 --> 00:10:49.980 He's afraid, 00:10:49.980 --> 00:10:50.960 Enraged, 00:10:51.060 --> 00:10:51.940 We find out. 00:10:52.639 --> 00:10:54.680 And all of Jerusalem, 00:10:55.220 --> 00:10:55.899 With him, 00:10:56.980 --> 00:10:57.480 We're told. 00:10:57.940 --> 00:10:59.200 Not just the one king, 00:10:59.360 --> 00:11:01.639 But all those in the central city, 00:11:01.940 --> 00:11:04.740 Wielders of religious and political power, 00:11:05.120 --> 00:11:06.420 They seem to be unnerved, 00:11:06.480 --> 00:11:07.759 At the thought of something, 00:11:07.800 --> 00:11:09.000 Upsetting the system. 00:11:10.080 --> 00:11:12.139 Of their control being taken. 00:11:13.000 --> 00:11:13.759 It's interesting, 00:11:13.899 --> 00:11:14.720 None of those who, 00:11:15.200 --> 00:11:16.320 Gather to tell Herod, 00:11:16.399 --> 00:11:17.759 Where the Messiah will be born, 00:11:17.840 --> 00:11:18.659 Are recorded as, 00:11:18.659 --> 00:11:20.179 Going to find him, 00:11:21.279 --> 00:11:22.399 To worship him. 00:11:22.759 --> 00:11:23.019 I mean, 00:11:23.100 --> 00:11:24.399 This was supposed to be something, 00:11:24.500 --> 00:11:25.899 They were all planning for, 00:11:26.039 --> 00:11:26.740 Longing for, 00:11:26.799 --> 00:11:27.899 But this was a good thing, 00:11:27.959 --> 00:11:28.240 Right? 00:11:30.699 --> 00:11:31.679 But Herod, 00:11:31.759 --> 00:11:32.719 In particular, 00:11:32.919 --> 00:11:33.799 Understands, 00:11:33.799 --> 00:11:35.919 What kingship means. 00:11:37.079 --> 00:11:38.779 If he is king, 00:11:38.779 --> 00:11:41.220 I am not. 00:11:41.220 --> 00:11:41.240 I am not. 00:11:42.579 --> 00:11:44.819 And the coming of the Messiah, 00:11:45.519 --> 00:11:47.360 The birth of the anointed one, 00:11:47.659 --> 00:11:49.740 In a way clearer than at any other time, 00:11:49.860 --> 00:11:52.860 Means the true king is here. 00:11:54.259 --> 00:11:57.120 Everyone has to respond to that. 00:11:57.120 --> 00:11:59.600 Herod's response, 00:11:59.720 --> 00:12:00.620 His decision is, 00:12:01.139 --> 00:12:01.419 War. 00:12:02.620 --> 00:12:04.019 Taking up his sword, 00:12:04.120 --> 00:12:05.879 In a desperate fight, 00:12:06.120 --> 00:12:07.539 Trying to use his power, 00:12:07.639 --> 00:12:09.139 To maintain his power, 00:12:09.580 --> 00:12:10.940 Herod seeks to find, 00:12:10.940 --> 00:12:11.960 This newborn king, 00:12:12.000 --> 00:12:12.820 In order to kill him, 00:12:13.000 --> 00:12:13.399 Doesn't he? 00:12:14.759 --> 00:12:16.620 When he slips through his hands, 00:12:16.820 --> 00:12:18.960 At the end of this passage we read, 00:12:19.220 --> 00:12:20.279 We find out later, 00:12:20.399 --> 00:12:20.919 In the chapter, 00:12:21.080 --> 00:12:22.039 That Herod orders, 00:12:22.039 --> 00:12:23.459 His young boys killed, 00:12:24.159 --> 00:12:25.439 Likely dozens, 00:12:26.079 --> 00:12:28.419 Of boys under the age of two, 00:12:29.539 --> 00:12:30.579 In an effort to get, 00:12:31.539 --> 00:12:32.339 The one. 00:12:33.899 --> 00:12:34.919 He lies, 00:12:36.000 --> 00:12:37.480 He abuses power, 00:12:37.639 --> 00:12:39.480 Anything it will take, 00:12:41.219 --> 00:12:41.939 And his sin, 00:12:42.059 --> 00:12:43.299 As with all sin, 00:12:43.399 --> 00:12:44.659 Is irrational. 00:12:46.019 --> 00:12:46.699 Have you ever wondered, 00:12:46.899 --> 00:12:48.539 What Herod thought he would accomplish, 00:12:48.879 --> 00:12:49.299 In this? 00:12:49.419 --> 00:12:51.219 What dots was he connecting? 00:12:51.399 --> 00:12:51.620 I mean, 00:12:51.620 --> 00:12:53.000 If the Jewish prophets, 00:12:53.120 --> 00:12:54.299 Are not to be believed, 00:12:54.379 --> 00:12:56.519 And Yahweh is no true God, 00:12:56.639 --> 00:12:56.820 Then, 00:12:57.659 --> 00:12:58.279 Why bother? 00:12:59.080 --> 00:12:59.740 Why be worried, 00:12:59.740 --> 00:13:01.120 About these prophecies, 00:13:01.179 --> 00:13:01.620 Of a king? 00:13:02.620 --> 00:13:03.860 On the other hand, 00:13:04.019 --> 00:13:04.100 If, 00:13:04.220 --> 00:13:06.620 If he is the true God, 00:13:07.000 --> 00:13:08.700 And the prophets are right, 00:13:08.720 --> 00:13:10.220 About a promised king, 00:13:10.320 --> 00:13:10.480 Then, 00:13:10.759 --> 00:13:11.840 Herod is picking, 00:13:12.259 --> 00:13:13.460 The wrong fight. 00:13:14.639 --> 00:13:16.039 Is he so prideful, 00:13:16.120 --> 00:13:16.620 That he thinks, 00:13:16.659 --> 00:13:17.560 He could outfox, 00:13:17.639 --> 00:13:18.600 Or overpower, 00:13:18.899 --> 00:13:20.259 Such a sovereign God, 00:13:20.299 --> 00:13:21.600 At work for centuries, 00:13:21.600 --> 00:13:23.159 To send this king, 00:13:23.159 --> 00:13:23.180 To send this king, 00:13:23.180 --> 00:13:25.680 Either way, 00:13:25.740 --> 00:13:26.240 It doesn't make, 00:13:26.440 --> 00:13:27.220 Any sense, 00:13:27.379 --> 00:13:27.720 Does it? 00:13:29.379 --> 00:13:29.680 But, 00:13:29.920 --> 00:13:30.580 Herod takes, 00:13:30.879 --> 00:13:31.779 Option one, 00:13:31.940 --> 00:13:32.899 When the true king, 00:13:33.019 --> 00:13:33.659 Shows up, 00:13:34.040 --> 00:13:34.740 He wages, 00:13:34.940 --> 00:13:35.500 War, 00:13:36.100 --> 00:13:36.779 Against him, 00:13:36.940 --> 00:13:37.720 To resist, 00:13:38.279 --> 00:13:39.019 The true king, 00:13:39.120 --> 00:13:39.879 To eliminate him, 00:13:40.019 --> 00:13:40.820 From his life, 00:13:40.920 --> 00:13:42.000 So that he can maintain, 00:13:42.120 --> 00:13:42.980 His control, 00:13:43.920 --> 00:13:44.560 And comfort, 00:13:44.559 --> 00:13:48.099 There's another option, 00:13:48.199 --> 00:13:48.839 In this passage, 00:13:48.959 --> 00:13:50.219 When the true king arrives, 00:13:50.319 --> 00:13:51.019 And it's pictured, 00:13:51.639 --> 00:13:52.619 By the magi, 00:13:53.699 --> 00:13:54.099 They, 00:13:54.839 --> 00:13:55.259 Worship, 00:13:56.379 --> 00:13:56.899 The king, 00:13:57.539 --> 00:13:58.759 Look at the contrast, 00:13:58.899 --> 00:13:59.579 Matthew makes, 00:13:59.699 --> 00:13:59.879 With, 00:14:00.019 --> 00:14:00.819 With Herod, 00:14:00.859 --> 00:14:01.939 As he describes them, 00:14:02.019 --> 00:14:02.159 They're, 00:14:02.259 --> 00:14:02.919 They're searching, 00:14:03.079 --> 00:14:04.179 For this newborn king, 00:14:04.339 --> 00:14:04.779 Genuinely, 00:14:05.079 --> 00:14:05.579 In order, 00:14:05.979 --> 00:14:06.779 To drop, 00:14:06.939 --> 00:14:07.919 Their swords, 00:14:08.219 --> 00:14:08.939 And kneel, 00:14:09.019 --> 00:14:09.859 Before him, 00:14:09.919 --> 00:14:10.619 In worship, 00:14:10.620 --> 00:14:12.580 Journeying, 00:14:12.740 --> 00:14:13.019 In fact, 00:14:13.100 --> 00:14:13.480 Likely, 00:14:13.600 --> 00:14:14.899 For several months, 00:14:15.060 --> 00:14:16.100 And hundreds, 00:14:16.379 --> 00:14:17.080 Of miles, 00:14:17.799 --> 00:14:18.580 To find him, 00:14:18.860 --> 00:14:19.340 That's, 00:14:19.440 --> 00:14:20.460 Why of course, 00:14:20.779 --> 00:14:21.200 To make sure, 00:14:21.259 --> 00:14:21.980 We're being accurate, 00:14:22.240 --> 00:14:22.759 This morning, 00:14:23.139 --> 00:14:24.120 We're not in a manger, 00:14:24.679 --> 00:14:25.639 In Bethlehem, 00:14:25.720 --> 00:14:26.980 With three kings, 00:14:27.700 --> 00:14:28.580 But rather, 00:14:28.740 --> 00:14:29.879 A year or so later, 00:14:30.060 --> 00:14:30.519 Probably, 00:14:31.440 --> 00:14:32.139 At a home, 00:14:32.860 --> 00:14:33.519 With likely, 00:14:33.620 --> 00:14:34.240 An entourage, 00:14:34.480 --> 00:14:35.080 Of travelers, 00:14:35.259 --> 00:14:35.899 If you're going to go, 00:14:35.899 --> 00:14:36.580 That far, 00:14:36.960 --> 00:14:37.500 Who bring, 00:14:37.500 --> 00:14:38.799 Three gifts, 00:14:39.259 --> 00:14:39.620 Which is, 00:14:39.620 --> 00:14:40.519 Why we sing, 00:14:40.600 --> 00:14:41.500 About three kings, 00:14:41.639 --> 00:14:42.100 Sometimes, 00:14:42.480 --> 00:14:44.159 But they are magi, 00:14:44.940 --> 00:14:46.139 They're wise men, 00:14:46.639 --> 00:14:48.139 Of some kind, 00:14:48.259 --> 00:14:49.539 Probably from a Persian, 00:14:49.539 --> 00:14:50.279 Court, 00:14:51.039 --> 00:14:52.039 Those who would have, 00:14:52.139 --> 00:14:53.820 Served and advised, 00:14:54.279 --> 00:14:54.899 Kings, 00:14:55.419 --> 00:14:58.480 But these wise men, 00:14:58.639 --> 00:15:00.500 With limited knowledge, 00:15:00.639 --> 00:15:01.019 Apparently, 00:15:01.220 --> 00:15:02.700 Of Hebrew scriptures, 00:15:03.360 --> 00:15:03.720 Journey, 00:15:03.720 --> 00:15:04.720 To worship, 00:15:04.720 --> 00:15:06.340 The king, 00:15:06.480 --> 00:15:07.519 Of the Jews, 00:15:07.720 --> 00:15:08.720 It's no exaggeration, 00:15:08.720 --> 00:15:09.700 To say, 00:15:09.820 --> 00:15:10.240 That they have, 00:15:10.240 --> 00:15:11.700 Shaped their lives, 00:15:12.060 --> 00:15:12.620 Around, 00:15:13.139 --> 00:15:14.259 This king, 00:15:14.720 --> 00:15:15.320 Investing, 00:15:15.379 --> 00:15:16.580 Considerable time, 00:15:17.000 --> 00:15:17.620 Expense, 00:15:17.720 --> 00:15:18.240 And effort, 00:15:18.500 --> 00:15:19.560 Just to find him, 00:15:21.560 --> 00:15:22.200 So, 00:15:22.379 --> 00:15:22.639 It should be, 00:15:22.700 --> 00:15:23.399 No surprise, 00:15:23.580 --> 00:15:23.700 That, 00:15:24.200 --> 00:15:25.220 That their joy, 00:15:25.560 --> 00:15:26.620 Is instantaneous, 00:15:27.320 --> 00:15:28.620 And overwhelming, 00:15:29.080 --> 00:15:29.540 When they, 00:15:29.940 --> 00:15:30.720 Find Jesus, 00:15:30.980 --> 00:15:31.680 Verse 10, 00:15:31.679 --> 00:15:33.120 They rejoiced, 00:15:33.419 --> 00:15:34.099 Exceedingly, 00:15:34.099 --> 00:15:35.659 With great joy, 00:15:36.299 --> 00:15:37.439 You get the idea, 00:15:37.659 --> 00:15:38.399 They're happy, 00:15:39.279 --> 00:15:40.659 They're excited, 00:15:40.799 --> 00:15:40.959 They're, 00:15:41.139 --> 00:15:41.539 In fact, 00:15:41.659 --> 00:15:42.500 Overcome, 00:15:42.620 --> 00:15:43.419 With emotion, 00:15:43.559 --> 00:15:44.719 The words are telling us, 00:15:45.019 --> 00:15:46.299 And they're delighted, 00:15:46.299 --> 00:15:47.399 To worship, 00:15:48.019 --> 00:15:48.739 This king, 00:15:49.519 --> 00:15:51.099 That remarkable response, 00:15:51.199 --> 00:15:51.539 Is why, 00:15:52.039 --> 00:15:52.899 Almost every artist, 00:15:53.019 --> 00:15:53.819 For hundreds of years, 00:15:53.959 --> 00:15:54.299 Painted, 00:15:54.659 --> 00:15:55.479 His own version, 00:15:55.659 --> 00:15:56.659 Of the adoration, 00:15:56.659 --> 00:15:57.959 Of the magi, 00:15:57.960 --> 00:15:59.800 They bow, 00:15:59.879 --> 00:16:00.560 Before this king, 00:16:00.620 --> 00:16:01.879 They offer him gifts, 00:16:02.019 --> 00:16:02.200 Right? 00:16:02.320 --> 00:16:02.720 Gold, 00:16:03.180 --> 00:16:04.019 Frankincense, 00:16:04.120 --> 00:16:04.480 And myrrh, 00:16:04.680 --> 00:16:05.700 The types of gifts, 00:16:05.780 --> 00:16:06.800 They would have offered, 00:16:06.900 --> 00:16:07.420 A king, 00:16:07.680 --> 00:16:08.680 Certainly the best, 00:16:08.759 --> 00:16:09.740 And finest gifts, 00:16:09.840 --> 00:16:11.100 They had to offer, 00:16:11.240 --> 00:16:11.840 That their court, 00:16:12.000 --> 00:16:12.440 Would have known, 00:16:12.560 --> 00:16:13.180 For anyone, 00:16:14.639 --> 00:16:16.220 And then verse 12, 00:16:17.620 --> 00:16:18.400 Being warned, 00:16:18.500 --> 00:16:19.460 In a dream, 00:16:19.960 --> 00:16:20.879 Not to return, 00:16:20.879 --> 00:16:21.060 To her, 00:16:21.060 --> 00:16:21.320 To her, 00:16:21.320 --> 00:16:21.379 To her, 00:16:21.379 --> 00:16:21.460 To her, 00:16:21.460 --> 00:16:21.639 To her, 00:16:21.639 --> 00:16:21.820 To her, 00:16:21.820 --> 00:16:22.480 To her, 00:16:22.480 --> 00:16:22.879 They departed, 00:16:23.000 --> 00:16:24.080 To their own country, 00:16:25.040 --> 00:16:26.220 By another way, 00:16:26.220 --> 00:16:29.259 Maybe that fact, 00:16:29.340 --> 00:16:30.600 Seems old hat to you now, 00:16:30.680 --> 00:16:31.480 Since you've heard, 00:16:31.560 --> 00:16:32.420 The Christmas story, 00:16:32.860 --> 00:16:33.220 Before, 00:16:33.879 --> 00:16:34.580 But do you notice, 00:16:34.720 --> 00:16:35.540 How their loyalty, 00:16:35.759 --> 00:16:36.660 Has changed, 00:16:36.940 --> 00:16:37.340 Already? 00:16:37.700 --> 00:16:38.519 Just like that? 00:16:39.840 --> 00:16:40.279 Herod, 00:16:40.399 --> 00:16:41.240 The king, 00:16:41.300 --> 00:16:42.300 Of this whole region, 00:16:42.420 --> 00:16:43.000 The one they, 00:16:43.139 --> 00:16:45.120 Came looking for answers to, 00:16:45.240 --> 00:16:46.340 Has told them, 00:16:46.399 --> 00:16:47.240 To come back, 00:16:47.279 --> 00:16:48.639 And report to him, 00:16:48.639 --> 00:16:51.100 But when the true king, 00:16:51.200 --> 00:16:52.080 Arrives, 00:16:52.639 --> 00:16:53.840 They immediately, 00:16:54.060 --> 00:16:55.500 Obey his directives, 00:16:55.500 --> 00:16:56.960 Instead, 00:16:57.740 --> 00:16:58.720 Their lives, 00:16:58.799 --> 00:16:59.860 Continue to be shaped, 00:16:59.919 --> 00:17:01.879 Around this new king, 00:17:02.899 --> 00:17:04.960 Wholehearted worship, 00:17:05.240 --> 00:17:06.480 Not just with their lips, 00:17:06.819 --> 00:17:07.940 But with their lives, 00:17:08.640 --> 00:17:09.359 Their hearts, 00:17:09.640 --> 00:17:10.619 Their treasures, 00:17:11.079 --> 00:17:12.140 They eagerly, 00:17:12.140 --> 00:17:13.339 Submit their emotions, 00:17:13.619 --> 00:17:14.259 Their wills, 00:17:14.319 --> 00:17:15.420 Themselves, 00:17:15.519 --> 00:17:16.220 To this young, 00:17:16.579 --> 00:17:18.039 Child king, 00:17:19.039 --> 00:17:19.680 Indeed, 00:17:19.799 --> 00:17:20.259 The prophets, 00:17:20.460 --> 00:17:21.960 Seem to be right already, 00:17:22.240 --> 00:17:22.880 The nations, 00:17:23.539 --> 00:17:24.480 The Gentiles, 00:17:24.480 --> 00:17:25.500 Shall come, 00:17:25.500 --> 00:17:27.059 To your light, 00:17:27.200 --> 00:17:27.920 And it's happening, 00:17:28.140 --> 00:17:29.059 Right as he's born, 00:17:29.500 --> 00:17:30.360 What a king, 00:17:30.880 --> 00:17:34.579 Two contrasting, 00:17:34.579 --> 00:17:35.339 Responses, 00:17:35.460 --> 00:17:36.799 To his arrival, 00:17:37.079 --> 00:17:38.299 Laid out for us here, 00:17:38.799 --> 00:17:39.259 War, 00:17:39.720 --> 00:17:40.660 Or worship, 00:17:41.980 --> 00:17:43.279 Taking up the sword, 00:17:43.519 --> 00:17:43.620 Or, 00:17:44.180 --> 00:17:45.579 Or laying down the sword, 00:17:46.759 --> 00:17:47.920 And the question, 00:17:48.059 --> 00:17:48.360 Of course, 00:17:48.440 --> 00:17:49.480 Is how do we, 00:17:49.660 --> 00:17:50.319 Respond, 00:17:50.319 --> 00:17:52.439 To king Jesus, 00:17:53.039 --> 00:17:54.500 To king Jesus, 00:17:54.500 --> 00:17:55.299 It's a pretty simple, 00:17:55.899 --> 00:17:56.419 Message, 00:17:56.779 --> 00:17:57.819 Nice Christmas message, 00:17:57.939 --> 00:17:58.859 Any nice pastor, 00:17:58.960 --> 00:17:59.399 Would say, 00:17:59.539 --> 00:17:59.720 So, 00:18:00.099 --> 00:18:01.079 Let's all respond, 00:18:01.079 --> 00:18:02.220 By worshiping Jesus, 00:18:02.379 --> 00:18:02.980 Stand together, 00:18:03.079 --> 00:18:03.559 And sing, 00:18:03.980 --> 00:18:04.859 And we'll be through, 00:18:04.859 --> 00:18:08.019 I'd like to do, 00:18:08.019 --> 00:18:08.799 Some application, 00:18:09.439 --> 00:18:09.959 First, 00:18:10.859 --> 00:18:12.339 That's what we usually call, 00:18:13.039 --> 00:18:14.019 This part, 00:18:14.119 --> 00:18:14.799 Of the sermon, 00:18:14.939 --> 00:18:15.079 But, 00:18:15.439 --> 00:18:16.219 We might as well, 00:18:16.219 --> 00:18:17.399 Skip to calling it, 00:18:17.479 --> 00:18:18.259 Meddling today, 00:18:18.639 --> 00:18:20.019 That's alright with you, 00:18:20.159 --> 00:18:20.240 Or, 00:18:20.439 --> 00:18:21.279 Or better yet, 00:18:21.399 --> 00:18:21.799 Perhaps, 00:18:21.879 --> 00:18:22.859 Let's just be honest, 00:18:22.979 --> 00:18:23.279 And say, 00:18:23.359 --> 00:18:24.379 This is invading, 00:18:24.959 --> 00:18:26.319 It's what Jesus is doing, 00:18:27.379 --> 00:18:29.279 I'll be honest with you, 00:18:29.339 --> 00:18:30.159 That I have hated, 00:18:30.159 --> 00:18:31.419 The rest of this sermon, 00:18:31.419 --> 00:18:32.279 All week, 00:18:32.279 --> 00:18:34.839 So you can join in now, 00:18:35.579 --> 00:18:37.200 Unless you've gotten, 00:18:37.359 --> 00:18:37.920 Really good, 00:18:38.519 --> 00:18:39.700 At hearing God's word, 00:18:39.799 --> 00:18:40.599 And walking away, 00:18:41.000 --> 00:18:41.759 Unchanged, 00:18:42.119 --> 00:18:44.119 See, 00:18:44.200 --> 00:18:45.119 I'm just fine, 00:18:45.200 --> 00:18:46.259 At seeing this, 00:18:46.799 --> 00:18:47.599 Contrast, 00:18:47.779 --> 00:18:49.299 Herod versus the Magi, 00:18:49.440 --> 00:18:50.420 And realizing, 00:18:50.660 --> 00:18:50.819 Yeah, 00:18:51.839 --> 00:18:53.440 I choose to worship Jesus, 00:18:53.599 --> 00:18:55.180 That's my response, 00:18:55.660 --> 00:18:57.279 I'm fine with that, 00:18:57.279 --> 00:18:59.119 What I don't appreciate, 00:18:59.399 --> 00:19:00.519 Is being exposed, 00:19:01.019 --> 00:19:01.940 As more like, 00:19:01.940 --> 00:19:03.340 Herod and Jerusalem, 00:19:03.340 --> 00:19:04.000 With him, 00:19:04.240 --> 00:19:05.059 Many days, 00:19:06.140 --> 00:19:06.940 Than I am like, 00:19:07.080 --> 00:19:07.759 The Magi, 00:19:09.039 --> 00:19:10.840 The truth is, 00:19:10.940 --> 00:19:11.640 We don't do, 00:19:11.799 --> 00:19:12.420 Kings, 00:19:12.940 --> 00:19:13.340 Well, 00:19:14.019 --> 00:19:14.440 Period, 00:19:15.240 --> 00:19:16.620 And this, 00:19:16.920 --> 00:19:17.440 Baby, 00:19:17.600 --> 00:19:17.980 That we, 00:19:18.340 --> 00:19:19.200 Rejoice in, 00:19:19.259 --> 00:19:19.779 At Christmas, 00:19:19.940 --> 00:19:20.080 This, 00:19:20.480 --> 00:19:21.740 Newborn king, 00:19:22.059 --> 00:19:22.360 Is, 00:19:22.500 --> 00:19:23.799 Is not just another king, 00:19:23.860 --> 00:19:25.019 It's the true king, 00:19:25.019 --> 00:19:26.160 He is the king, 00:19:26.160 --> 00:19:26.960 Of kings, 00:19:27.539 --> 00:19:28.960 You can't, 00:19:28.960 --> 00:19:30.320 Worship this king, 00:19:30.440 --> 00:19:30.799 And call, 00:19:31.080 --> 00:19:31.660 Your body, 00:19:31.940 --> 00:19:33.019 Your money, 00:19:33.559 --> 00:19:34.660 Your retirement, 00:19:35.140 --> 00:19:35.960 Your home, 00:19:36.100 --> 00:19:36.980 Your kids, 00:19:37.140 --> 00:19:38.400 Or your time, 00:19:39.019 --> 00:19:39.680 Your own, 00:19:39.779 --> 00:19:40.299 Anymore, 00:19:40.840 --> 00:19:41.480 They're his, 00:19:41.720 --> 00:19:42.960 Everything is his, 00:19:43.080 --> 00:19:44.460 For his kingdom, 00:19:44.580 --> 00:19:45.400 He's the king, 00:19:45.400 --> 00:19:48.960 How's that for a beachhead, 00:19:48.960 --> 00:19:49.740 Of the invasion, 00:19:49.740 --> 00:19:52.740 It's all his, 00:19:52.740 --> 00:19:55.220 Y'all, 00:19:55.300 --> 00:19:57.340 Sometimes without even realizing it, 00:19:57.780 --> 00:19:59.420 We can sideline, 00:19:59.800 --> 00:20:01.420 Or eliminate, 00:20:01.880 --> 00:20:02.220 Jesus, 00:20:03.220 --> 00:20:05.000 From any area of our lives, 00:20:05.060 --> 00:20:07.180 Where he might threaten our control, 00:20:07.360 --> 00:20:08.160 Or comfort, 00:20:08.160 --> 00:20:11.360 I control, 00:20:11.360 --> 00:20:12.300 I control myself, 00:20:13.100 --> 00:20:15.400 I define myself, 00:20:15.560 --> 00:20:17.180 I provide for myself, 00:20:17.279 --> 00:20:19.100 It's almost the air we breathe, 00:20:19.220 --> 00:20:20.140 These days, 00:20:20.480 --> 00:20:22.120 Individual autonomy, 00:20:23.320 --> 00:20:24.759 Self rule, 00:20:25.440 --> 00:20:26.800 I am king, 00:20:27.000 --> 00:20:27.920 King, 00:20:28.240 --> 00:20:28.820 King, 00:20:28.819 --> 00:20:33.179 We may laugh at that, 00:20:33.980 --> 00:20:38.700 But we must not settle for that, 00:20:39.240 --> 00:20:40.319 That's in our hearts, 00:20:40.700 --> 00:20:45.079 If you think an invasion of privacy is uncomfortable, 00:20:46.039 --> 00:20:48.539 Try an invasion of autonomy, 00:20:48.539 --> 00:20:52.019 That's what King Jesus is, 00:20:52.859 --> 00:20:54.159 He says he's king, 00:20:55.440 --> 00:20:56.519 So you're not, 00:20:58.599 --> 00:20:59.279 How, 00:20:59.539 --> 00:21:02.259 How about in what your heart worships, 00:21:02.799 --> 00:21:04.119 Did you know being Presbyterians, 00:21:04.240 --> 00:21:06.519 Not an excuse for lacking emotion in your heart, 00:21:06.599 --> 00:21:08.859 Toward the God who loves you passionately, 00:21:09.039 --> 00:21:11.000 And pursues you sacrificially, 00:21:11.759 --> 00:21:14.319 If you're not deeply joyful, 00:21:14.500 --> 00:21:15.839 In the arrival of Jesus, 00:21:16.019 --> 00:21:17.579 Into this world for you, 00:21:17.579 --> 00:21:18.980 Into your world, 00:21:19.059 --> 00:21:20.259 And your life, 00:21:21.159 --> 00:21:22.720 It may be because you're content, 00:21:22.720 --> 00:21:24.599 With life under your own rule, 00:21:25.379 --> 00:21:26.980 It's pretty good, 00:21:27.579 --> 00:21:30.359 We've been singing this morning, 00:21:30.359 --> 00:21:31.960 About Jesus being a king, 00:21:32.099 --> 00:21:33.119 In case you didn't notice, 00:21:34.559 --> 00:21:36.279 Notice how it's in so many, 00:21:36.359 --> 00:21:37.619 Of our Christmas carols, 00:21:38.339 --> 00:21:40.279 Glory to the newborn king, 00:21:40.500 --> 00:21:42.359 Born a child and yet a king, 00:21:42.559 --> 00:21:44.439 Let earth receive her king, 00:21:44.839 --> 00:21:46.939 This, this is Christ the king, 00:21:46.940 --> 00:21:49.080 And I could keep going, 00:21:49.539 --> 00:21:52.759 But is lip service, 00:21:53.700 --> 00:21:54.400 Outward, 00:21:55.059 --> 00:21:56.019 Nominal worship, 00:21:56.279 --> 00:21:58.160 Where it stops for you? 00:22:00.960 --> 00:22:02.900 Herod has some respect for the Bible, 00:22:03.000 --> 00:22:03.340 Doesn't he? 00:22:04.039 --> 00:22:05.039 He wants to know, 00:22:05.420 --> 00:22:07.620 Where it tells him to look for the king, 00:22:07.759 --> 00:22:09.980 Seems to think it has something worth listening to, 00:22:09.980 --> 00:22:11.480 But he thinks, 00:22:11.880 --> 00:22:13.120 Even as he looks there, 00:22:13.700 --> 00:22:15.980 That he can maintain his own control, 00:22:15.980 --> 00:22:16.720 And authority, 00:22:16.880 --> 00:22:19.380 Even while outwardly respecting gods, 00:22:19.940 --> 00:22:22.660 He sings Christmas songs about Jesus, 00:22:22.880 --> 00:22:23.559 If you will, 00:22:23.940 --> 00:22:26.759 But he avoids true worship at all costs, 00:22:26.759 --> 00:22:30.579 Are you content with an occasional, 00:22:31.099 --> 00:22:32.400 Religious formalism, 00:22:33.500 --> 00:22:34.059 A weekly, 00:22:34.339 --> 00:22:34.960 Or monthly, 00:22:35.960 --> 00:22:37.140 Worship experience, 00:22:37.980 --> 00:22:41.339 Or does the king have your whole heart? 00:22:41.900 --> 00:22:44.140 Has his spirit warmed your heart, 00:22:44.240 --> 00:22:45.420 For the first time, 00:22:45.500 --> 00:22:46.299 Maybe recently, 00:22:46.480 --> 00:22:47.440 Or again, 00:22:47.799 --> 00:22:50.160 After many years of coldness, 00:22:50.220 --> 00:22:52.359 With the joy of your salvation, 00:22:52.359 --> 00:22:54.939 The glory of your savior king, 00:22:55.039 --> 00:22:55.939 Coming for you, 00:22:56.939 --> 00:22:59.719 What about giving? 00:23:00.919 --> 00:23:02.279 Because no meddling, 00:23:02.379 --> 00:23:03.259 Or invading sermon, 00:23:03.379 --> 00:23:04.599 Would be complete without that, 00:23:04.659 --> 00:23:04.839 Right? 00:23:06.479 --> 00:23:08.699 Perhaps more because it's in our text, 00:23:09.059 --> 00:23:09.639 This morning, 00:23:09.959 --> 00:23:10.579 The magi, 00:23:10.959 --> 00:23:11.939 Give gifts, 00:23:12.259 --> 00:23:13.099 To this king, 00:23:14.179 --> 00:23:15.959 While Herod tries only to, 00:23:16.039 --> 00:23:17.559 To keep for himself, 00:23:17.679 --> 00:23:18.559 And take life, 00:23:18.859 --> 00:23:19.719 From others, 00:23:19.720 --> 00:23:24.279 Some of us give 10% every month, 00:23:24.339 --> 00:23:25.240 And move on thinking, 00:23:25.460 --> 00:23:26.720 We've done our duty, 00:23:27.120 --> 00:23:28.600 And we can spend our money, 00:23:28.600 --> 00:23:29.299 On our homes, 00:23:29.400 --> 00:23:30.299 Our kids activities, 00:23:30.500 --> 00:23:31.200 Our vacations, 00:23:31.319 --> 00:23:32.079 Whatever we want, 00:23:32.380 --> 00:23:33.319 With no thought at all, 00:23:33.339 --> 00:23:34.660 To what Jesus thinks about it, 00:23:35.759 --> 00:23:36.039 True? 00:23:41.360 --> 00:23:41.900 Y'all, 00:23:43.059 --> 00:23:43.400 Jesus, 00:23:44.160 --> 00:23:45.700 Is the king, 00:23:46.980 --> 00:23:48.039 The king, 00:23:48.039 --> 00:23:50.759 This passage reminds us, 00:23:50.839 --> 00:23:53.039 That if he is the true king, 00:23:53.240 --> 00:23:55.059 He owns it all, 00:23:55.899 --> 00:23:57.659 He's not merely interested, 00:23:58.000 --> 00:24:00.859 In whether you use 10% for him, 00:24:01.000 --> 00:24:04.319 But truly 100% for him, 00:24:04.399 --> 00:24:05.740 And for his kingdom, 00:24:06.220 --> 00:24:07.519 And not merely money, 00:24:08.119 --> 00:24:10.379 But the best of all of the gifts, 00:24:10.379 --> 00:24:11.759 That you give naturally, 00:24:11.960 --> 00:24:14.379 In so many aspects of your life, 00:24:14.480 --> 00:24:14.839 Gold, 00:24:15.240 --> 00:24:15.920 Frankincense, 00:24:15.920 --> 00:24:16.860 And myrrh for you, 00:24:16.940 --> 00:24:19.500 May be your precious weekend time, 00:24:19.940 --> 00:24:21.360 Your professional skills, 00:24:21.519 --> 00:24:22.980 Your passion for kids, 00:24:23.340 --> 00:24:24.900 Whatever those gifts are, 00:24:24.960 --> 00:24:26.039 How can you use, 00:24:26.539 --> 00:24:27.779 The best you have, 00:24:28.279 --> 00:24:29.180 For King Jesus? 00:24:31.560 --> 00:24:31.820 See, 00:24:31.880 --> 00:24:32.300 Even those, 00:24:32.720 --> 00:24:34.380 First two categories, 00:24:34.580 --> 00:24:36.600 Are pointing to something much deeper, 00:24:37.340 --> 00:24:38.800 To a whole life, 00:24:39.500 --> 00:24:40.100 Shaped, 00:24:40.700 --> 00:24:41.680 Around the king, 00:24:41.680 --> 00:24:45.900 While Herod works to protect himself, 00:24:46.019 --> 00:24:46.820 And his control, 00:24:47.120 --> 00:24:47.940 From the king, 00:24:48.039 --> 00:24:49.120 To keep the king, 00:24:49.160 --> 00:24:50.519 As far away as he can, 00:24:51.039 --> 00:24:52.519 The magi are having their, 00:24:52.580 --> 00:24:53.940 Their entire lives, 00:24:54.019 --> 00:24:55.340 Reoriented around this, 00:24:55.700 --> 00:24:56.779 True king, 00:24:57.880 --> 00:24:58.860 Most of us have, 00:24:59.200 --> 00:25:00.279 Unbelieving friends, 00:25:00.440 --> 00:25:01.340 Who have told us, 00:25:01.420 --> 00:25:03.200 At some point in time, 00:25:03.320 --> 00:25:05.759 That one of the scariest things, 00:25:06.019 --> 00:25:06.880 About Jesus, 00:25:07.039 --> 00:25:08.100 As they consider, 00:25:08.099 --> 00:25:09.579 The claims of Christ, 00:25:10.459 --> 00:25:12.359 Is that if what he claims, 00:25:12.439 --> 00:25:13.079 Is true, 00:25:13.319 --> 00:25:14.599 He can ask anything, 00:25:14.599 --> 00:25:15.259 Of me, 00:25:15.859 --> 00:25:16.619 Someone said that, 00:25:16.719 --> 00:25:17.299 To you before? 00:25:18.579 --> 00:25:19.339 That's right, 00:25:19.399 --> 00:25:19.759 Isn't it? 00:25:20.619 --> 00:25:21.719 And that's scary, 00:25:21.839 --> 00:25:22.659 Not just for, 00:25:23.119 --> 00:25:24.119 Folks considering, 00:25:24.559 --> 00:25:25.179 Following Jesus, 00:25:25.319 --> 00:25:27.019 It's scary for followers, 00:25:27.019 --> 00:25:27.699 Of him too, 00:25:27.759 --> 00:25:28.139 Isn't it? 00:25:31.439 --> 00:25:32.639 How else do you and I, 00:25:32.699 --> 00:25:33.359 Keep Jesus, 00:25:33.659 --> 00:25:34.480 Sidelined, 00:25:35.079 --> 00:25:36.079 In other areas, 00:25:36.139 --> 00:25:36.779 Of our lives? 00:25:38.099 --> 00:25:38.719 Watch out, 00:25:38.939 --> 00:25:39.419 Invasion, 00:25:39.939 --> 00:25:40.299 Coming, 00:25:42.059 --> 00:25:44.359 Every time we choose to sin, 00:25:44.740 --> 00:25:45.759 We pick up, 00:25:46.079 --> 00:25:46.599 The sword, 00:25:46.980 --> 00:25:47.799 And decide, 00:25:48.139 --> 00:25:48.819 We want, 00:25:49.219 --> 00:25:50.079 Back on the throne, 00:25:51.099 --> 00:25:52.959 I'd be a better king, 00:25:53.019 --> 00:25:54.000 Of my life, 00:25:54.779 --> 00:25:55.659 Than Jesus, 00:25:57.039 --> 00:25:57.719 Irrational, 00:25:58.039 --> 00:25:58.759 Like Herod, 00:25:59.699 --> 00:26:01.019 But all sins are, 00:26:04.439 --> 00:26:06.199 We ignore the king, 00:26:06.299 --> 00:26:07.359 And indulge our anger, 00:26:08.099 --> 00:26:08.779 At our kids, 00:26:09.419 --> 00:26:10.339 Our friends, 00:26:10.639 --> 00:26:12.259 At a level that says, 00:26:12.379 --> 00:26:13.879 If I don't regain control, 00:26:13.980 --> 00:26:14.919 I'm not safe, 00:26:14.919 --> 00:26:20.240 We hear the promise, 00:26:20.419 --> 00:26:21.779 Of eternal pleasures, 00:26:21.879 --> 00:26:22.859 At the right hand, 00:26:22.899 --> 00:26:23.719 Of the king, 00:26:24.219 --> 00:26:25.779 And decide to indulge, 00:26:25.779 --> 00:26:26.779 Our lusts, 00:26:27.419 --> 00:26:29.059 To click it again, 00:26:30.059 --> 00:26:31.419 To meet him, 00:26:31.480 --> 00:26:32.219 Or her again, 00:26:33.219 --> 00:26:34.899 To watch it again, 00:26:34.900 --> 00:26:37.580 As though only we know, 00:26:37.660 --> 00:26:38.580 How to make sure, 00:26:38.580 --> 00:26:39.800 We are happy, 00:26:40.800 --> 00:26:44.759 We ignore the king, 00:26:44.860 --> 00:26:46.220 And work longer hours, 00:26:47.220 --> 00:26:48.360 Avoid rest, 00:26:49.360 --> 00:26:51.380 And neglect people, 00:26:51.580 --> 00:26:52.700 As if there's no one, 00:26:52.780 --> 00:26:53.840 Providing for me, 00:26:53.900 --> 00:26:55.120 Or protecting me, 00:26:55.340 --> 00:26:56.960 So I better do it myself, 00:26:56.960 --> 00:27:01.700 You see how it's not just, 00:27:01.759 --> 00:27:02.860 The control freaks, 00:27:03.400 --> 00:27:05.220 Who are in our, 00:27:05.220 --> 00:27:07.500 Socially acceptable ways, 00:27:07.819 --> 00:27:08.299 Saying, 00:27:08.440 --> 00:27:09.440 I'm the king, 00:27:09.880 --> 00:27:10.380 King, 00:27:10.900 --> 00:27:11.420 King, 00:27:11.420 --> 00:27:11.519 King, 00:27:11.519 --> 00:27:11.539 King, 00:27:11.539 --> 00:27:11.559 King, 00:27:11.559 --> 00:27:11.579 King, 00:27:11.579 --> 00:27:11.600 King, 00:27:11.600 --> 00:27:11.620 King, 00:27:11.620 --> 00:27:13.620 King, 00:27:13.620 --> 00:27:14.279 King, 00:27:14.279 --> 00:27:15.140 There's only, 00:27:15.240 --> 00:27:16.759 One king, 00:27:17.340 --> 00:27:19.019 And I'm not him, 00:27:20.259 --> 00:27:21.579 And neither are you, 00:27:21.579 --> 00:27:25.399 But we run around, 00:27:25.460 --> 00:27:26.299 Even violently, 00:27:26.559 --> 00:27:27.699 Like Herod, 00:27:27.779 --> 00:27:28.539 Harming others, 00:27:29.019 --> 00:27:29.899 To keep ourselves, 00:27:29.899 --> 00:27:30.699 On the throne, 00:27:30.980 --> 00:27:32.039 We stress ourselves, 00:27:32.119 --> 00:27:32.699 And our kids, 00:27:32.759 --> 00:27:34.519 Over things we can't control, 00:27:34.619 --> 00:27:34.939 Anyway, 00:27:35.119 --> 00:27:36.259 And pressures to perform, 00:27:36.359 --> 00:27:37.599 That even God doesn't carry, 00:27:37.599 --> 00:27:38.579 For them or us, 00:27:39.259 --> 00:27:40.960 We run down, 00:27:41.039 --> 00:27:41.699 Our co-workers, 00:27:41.879 --> 00:27:42.480 Our spouses, 00:27:43.099 --> 00:27:43.740 Our friends, 00:27:43.819 --> 00:27:45.220 In order to prop ourselves up, 00:27:45.259 --> 00:27:46.299 And feel important, 00:27:46.980 --> 00:27:48.319 We manipulate others, 00:27:48.439 --> 00:27:49.220 To get our way, 00:27:49.299 --> 00:27:50.019 At a rate that would, 00:27:50.159 --> 00:27:50.939 Lead you to believe, 00:27:50.940 --> 00:27:51.880 We won't survive, 00:27:51.920 --> 00:27:52.759 If things don't go, 00:27:52.840 --> 00:27:54.200 According to our plans, 00:27:55.320 --> 00:27:55.660 Y'all, 00:27:56.799 --> 00:27:57.360 In these, 00:27:57.460 --> 00:27:58.840 And in so many, 00:27:59.080 --> 00:27:59.820 Other ways, 00:27:59.960 --> 00:28:00.640 We too, 00:28:00.940 --> 00:28:02.299 Seek to sideline, 00:28:02.600 --> 00:28:03.440 Or eliminate, 00:28:03.799 --> 00:28:04.180 Jesus, 00:28:04.740 --> 00:28:06.200 From our daily lives, 00:28:07.320 --> 00:28:08.519 Maybe not for an hour, 00:28:08.680 --> 00:28:09.059 On Sunday, 00:28:09.200 --> 00:28:09.299 But, 00:28:10.059 --> 00:28:11.440 But all the other ones, 00:28:12.680 --> 00:28:13.680 And Jesus, 00:28:14.039 --> 00:28:14.700 Invades, 00:28:15.320 --> 00:28:16.240 This morning, 00:28:16.779 --> 00:28:17.299 And says, 00:28:17.720 --> 00:28:18.539 Get off, 00:28:19.039 --> 00:28:19.700 The throne, 00:28:19.700 --> 00:28:20.960 Put down, 00:28:20.960 --> 00:28:21.920 Put down, 00:28:21.920 --> 00:28:22.019 Put down, 00:28:22.620 --> 00:28:23.440 Your sword, 00:28:24.080 --> 00:28:27.500 You see now, 00:28:27.559 --> 00:28:28.019 What it means, 00:28:28.120 --> 00:28:28.700 When we sing, 00:28:29.120 --> 00:28:30.140 Joy to the world, 00:28:30.460 --> 00:28:31.500 The Lord is come, 00:28:31.840 --> 00:28:33.680 Let earth receive her king, 00:28:34.039 --> 00:28:35.720 Let every heart, 00:28:35.960 --> 00:28:36.960 Prepare him, 00:28:37.380 --> 00:28:37.620 Room, 00:28:37.799 --> 00:28:38.100 It's, 00:28:38.220 --> 00:28:39.000 It's a little harder, 00:28:39.140 --> 00:28:40.580 Than you might think, 00:28:40.640 --> 00:28:41.559 Let every heart, 00:28:42.440 --> 00:28:43.319 Prepare him, 00:28:43.740 --> 00:28:44.100 Room, 00:28:44.099 --> 00:28:46.679 Let me give you, 00:28:46.679 --> 00:28:47.559 A picture, 00:28:47.559 --> 00:28:49.000 Of what needs to happen, 00:28:49.000 --> 00:28:50.099 For my heart, 00:28:50.579 --> 00:28:51.859 To prepare room, 00:28:52.199 --> 00:28:53.319 For the true king, 00:28:53.959 --> 00:28:56.859 In our queen sized bed, 00:28:57.359 --> 00:28:59.000 We can prepare room, 00:28:59.359 --> 00:29:00.459 For a six year old, 00:29:00.679 --> 00:29:02.019 Who's having bad dreams, 00:29:02.119 --> 00:29:02.919 In the middle of the night, 00:29:03.139 --> 00:29:04.859 By just rolling over, 00:29:04.919 --> 00:29:05.359 A little bit, 00:29:05.879 --> 00:29:07.359 And squeezing her in, 00:29:07.579 --> 00:29:08.740 And trying to go back, 00:29:08.819 --> 00:29:09.199 To sleep, 00:29:09.259 --> 00:29:10.159 And not be bothered, 00:29:10.159 --> 00:29:10.740 By her, 00:29:10.859 --> 00:29:12.039 And pretend she's not there, 00:29:12.039 --> 00:29:12.839 For the rest of the night, 00:29:13.299 --> 00:29:14.139 Works pretty well, 00:29:15.279 --> 00:29:16.579 However, 00:29:16.779 --> 00:29:16.940 If, 00:29:17.119 --> 00:29:18.639 If one of her sisters, 00:29:18.639 --> 00:29:19.899 Shows up later, 00:29:20.799 --> 00:29:22.079 Then the only option, 00:29:22.240 --> 00:29:23.799 To prepare room for her, 00:29:23.920 --> 00:29:24.920 Involves me, 00:29:25.200 --> 00:29:26.539 Getting out of the bed, 00:29:27.379 --> 00:29:29.180 And going into her bed, 00:29:29.259 --> 00:29:30.859 To sleep for the rest of the night, 00:29:30.940 --> 00:29:31.339 And saying, 00:29:31.700 --> 00:29:33.659 This spot that I used to claim, 00:29:33.720 --> 00:29:34.460 As mine, 00:29:34.720 --> 00:29:36.500 Is now yours, 00:29:37.440 --> 00:29:38.539 See the difference, 00:29:38.639 --> 00:29:39.680 Between those two ways, 00:29:39.759 --> 00:29:41.039 To prepare room, 00:29:41.039 --> 00:29:43.500 My heart, 00:29:43.500 --> 00:29:44.720 Would prefer, 00:29:44.940 --> 00:29:46.799 To roll over a little bit, 00:29:47.200 --> 00:29:49.200 And squeeze Jesus in, 00:29:49.440 --> 00:29:50.899 Alongside me, 00:29:51.019 --> 00:29:51.680 In my life, 00:29:51.759 --> 00:29:52.279 So that I can, 00:29:52.599 --> 00:29:53.200 Stay on the throne, 00:29:53.319 --> 00:29:55.019 And he can be important too, 00:29:55.480 --> 00:29:57.240 Whenever it doesn't bother me, 00:29:57.720 --> 00:30:04.399 But preparing Jesus' room, 00:30:05.180 --> 00:30:06.559 Is the other, 00:30:07.299 --> 00:30:08.259 Picture really, 00:30:08.259 --> 00:30:08.960 It means, 00:30:08.960 --> 00:30:08.980 It means, 00:30:09.240 --> 00:30:10.660 Real repentance, 00:30:11.259 --> 00:30:12.779 Real stepping down, 00:30:12.920 --> 00:30:14.019 Off the throne, 00:30:14.379 --> 00:30:15.279 Real turning, 00:30:15.539 --> 00:30:16.359 In trust, 00:30:16.500 --> 00:30:17.200 And submission, 00:30:17.420 --> 00:30:19.039 And wholehearted worship, 00:30:19.180 --> 00:30:20.539 And obedience to him, 00:30:20.680 --> 00:30:21.759 That real repentance, 00:30:21.900 --> 00:30:22.680 Can start today, 00:30:22.759 --> 00:30:23.259 By the way, 00:30:23.900 --> 00:30:24.240 With, 00:30:24.359 --> 00:30:25.279 With what you're feeling, 00:30:25.359 --> 00:30:25.799 In your heart, 00:30:25.859 --> 00:30:26.460 A longing, 00:30:27.500 --> 00:30:29.039 For him to take charge, 00:30:29.180 --> 00:30:30.539 And be your king, 00:30:31.379 --> 00:30:31.980 And praying, 00:30:32.200 --> 00:30:32.900 Begging him, 00:30:32.960 --> 00:30:34.779 To subdue you to himself, 00:30:34.900 --> 00:30:35.039 Just, 00:30:35.240 --> 00:30:36.099 Just ask him, 00:30:36.099 --> 00:30:37.019 Just be honest, 00:30:37.119 --> 00:30:37.299 God, 00:30:37.339 --> 00:30:37.980 Even in the places, 00:30:38.079 --> 00:30:39.519 I still really don't want you, 00:30:39.759 --> 00:30:40.399 To be king, 00:30:40.459 --> 00:30:41.459 Would you please come, 00:30:41.519 --> 00:30:42.079 And rule, 00:30:42.619 --> 00:30:43.279 Over me, 00:30:45.500 --> 00:30:46.959 See the truth is, 00:30:47.079 --> 00:30:48.439 That the king, 00:30:48.740 --> 00:30:50.359 Has come, 00:30:51.359 --> 00:30:52.939 The question, 00:30:53.379 --> 00:30:55.000 Is how you'll respond, 00:30:56.019 --> 00:30:57.699 Whether you'll, 00:30:57.839 --> 00:30:58.519 Get out, 00:30:59.039 --> 00:31:00.439 And give him the spot, 00:31:00.519 --> 00:31:01.740 That you used to claim, 00:31:01.740 --> 00:31:04.299 Or, 00:31:05.660 --> 00:31:06.339 Since you're already here, 00:31:06.380 --> 00:31:06.900 In a church, 00:31:07.019 --> 00:31:08.039 Whether all you want to do, 00:31:08.079 --> 00:31:09.240 Is just roll over a little bit, 00:31:09.380 --> 00:31:10.519 And squeeze him in, 00:31:10.779 --> 00:31:11.680 And hope he doesn't, 00:31:11.680 --> 00:31:13.039 Keep you up at night, 00:31:13.120 --> 00:31:14.160 Or bother you, 00:31:14.460 --> 00:31:15.000 Anymore, 00:31:16.039 --> 00:31:16.579 Christmas, 00:31:17.160 --> 00:31:18.880 Is an invasion, 00:31:19.420 --> 00:31:20.120 Of my, 00:31:20.480 --> 00:31:21.200 Autonomy, 00:31:22.720 --> 00:31:24.720 I'd even take the interruption, 00:31:24.980 --> 00:31:25.880 From last week, 00:31:26.319 --> 00:31:26.700 Back, 00:31:27.359 --> 00:31:28.519 When we start talking, 00:31:28.859 --> 00:31:29.660 About that, 00:31:29.660 --> 00:31:32.660 But listen, 00:31:33.620 --> 00:31:35.160 It's an invasion, 00:31:35.800 --> 00:31:36.960 Of my autonomy, 00:31:37.519 --> 00:31:38.900 For my good, 00:31:40.240 --> 00:31:41.380 This king, 00:31:41.620 --> 00:31:43.540 Reigns in our lives, 00:31:43.900 --> 00:31:44.300 Unlike, 00:31:44.779 --> 00:31:45.840 Any other king, 00:31:45.960 --> 00:31:46.420 Doesn't he? 00:31:47.920 --> 00:31:49.300 Subduing us to himself, 00:31:49.500 --> 00:31:50.840 Ruling and defending us, 00:31:51.160 --> 00:31:52.640 Restraining and conquering, 00:31:52.740 --> 00:31:53.480 All his, 00:31:53.680 --> 00:31:54.960 And our enemies, 00:31:55.200 --> 00:31:55.640 How? 00:31:55.860 --> 00:31:57.100 How does he do that? 00:31:57.259 --> 00:31:57.980 With a sword? 00:31:59.660 --> 00:32:01.519 By laying down, 00:32:01.740 --> 00:32:02.200 His own, 00:32:02.800 --> 00:32:03.340 Life, 00:32:03.940 --> 00:32:05.140 No other king, 00:32:05.240 --> 00:32:05.840 Does that, 00:32:06.720 --> 00:32:08.400 Herod takes lives, 00:32:08.560 --> 00:32:09.980 To defend himself, 00:32:10.300 --> 00:32:11.180 But Jesus, 00:32:11.440 --> 00:32:12.440 Lays down, 00:32:12.540 --> 00:32:13.620 His own life, 00:32:13.960 --> 00:32:15.120 On the cross, 00:32:15.560 --> 00:32:16.640 To defend us, 00:32:17.779 --> 00:32:18.600 Right there, 00:32:18.680 --> 00:32:19.540 Underneath the sign, 00:32:20.160 --> 00:32:20.759 That reads, 00:32:21.440 --> 00:32:22.580 King of the Jews, 00:32:22.579 --> 00:32:25.119 He lays down, 00:32:25.119 --> 00:32:26.119 His life, 00:32:26.119 --> 00:32:26.179 He lays down, 00:32:26.179 --> 00:32:26.199 His life, 00:32:26.199 --> 00:32:27.119 He lays down, 00:32:27.119 --> 00:32:28.119 His life, 00:32:28.119 --> 00:32:28.639 Prophet, 00:32:28.839 --> 00:32:29.220 Tell us, 00:32:29.299 --> 00:32:29.519 Will there, 00:32:29.720 --> 00:32:30.980 Will there be another king, 00:32:31.279 --> 00:32:32.059 Like this? 00:32:33.259 --> 00:32:34.139 He'll bear no, 00:32:34.539 --> 00:32:35.720 Beauty or glory, 00:32:36.220 --> 00:32:36.899 Rejected, 00:32:37.039 --> 00:32:37.679 Despised, 00:32:37.759 --> 00:32:38.960 A man of such sorrow, 00:32:39.079 --> 00:32:40.199 Will cover our eyes, 00:32:41.039 --> 00:32:42.519 He'll take up our sickness, 00:32:43.000 --> 00:32:44.019 Carry our tears, 00:32:44.480 --> 00:32:45.299 For his people, 00:32:45.419 --> 00:32:46.519 He will be pierced, 00:32:46.859 --> 00:32:47.639 He'll be crushed, 00:32:47.759 --> 00:32:48.759 For our evils, 00:32:48.980 --> 00:32:49.779 Our punishment, 00:32:50.139 --> 00:32:50.419 Feel, 00:32:50.420 --> 00:32:51.920 By his wounds, 00:32:52.039 --> 00:32:53.380 We will be healed, 00:32:53.900 --> 00:32:55.519 From you, 00:32:55.580 --> 00:32:56.360 O Bethlehem, 00:32:56.500 --> 00:32:57.700 Small among Judah, 00:32:58.120 --> 00:32:58.640 A ruler, 00:32:59.000 --> 00:32:59.680 Will come, 00:33:00.360 --> 00:33:00.720 Ancient, 00:33:01.539 --> 00:33:02.360 And strong, 00:33:04.000 --> 00:33:05.160 The true king, 00:33:06.300 --> 00:33:07.600 Unlike any other, 00:33:08.680 --> 00:33:09.500 Has come, 00:33:10.039 --> 00:33:10.880 To rule you, 00:33:11.320 --> 00:33:12.039 Completely, 00:33:13.120 --> 00:33:13.580 And, 00:33:14.300 --> 00:33:15.000 Graciously, 00:33:15.860 --> 00:33:18.660 Won't you lay down your sword, 00:33:18.660 --> 00:33:20.560 And bow, 00:33:21.279 --> 00:33:22.340 Before King Jesus, 00:33:22.560 --> 00:33:22.640 And, 00:33:22.779 --> 00:33:24.019 And offer yourself, 00:33:24.140 --> 00:33:24.940 And all that you are, 00:33:25.000 --> 00:33:25.440 And have, 00:33:25.620 --> 00:33:25.980 To him, 00:33:26.680 --> 00:33:27.900 Let's pray, 00:33:28.279 --> 00:33:32.460 Jesus, 00:33:32.620 --> 00:33:33.000 We know, 00:33:33.200 --> 00:33:34.060 No other king, 00:33:34.779 --> 00:33:35.500 Like this, 00:33:36.060 --> 00:33:38.240 And we confess, 00:33:38.360 --> 00:33:39.400 That we need a king, 00:33:40.400 --> 00:33:43.040 And we don't like it, 00:33:43.039 --> 00:33:45.420 But when there is no king, 00:33:45.500 --> 00:33:46.819 We do whatever is right, 00:33:46.899 --> 00:33:47.960 In our own eyes, 00:33:48.399 --> 00:33:50.759 And that is really dangerous, 00:33:50.759 --> 00:33:51.480 For us, 00:33:52.119 --> 00:33:53.019 We confess, 00:33:53.139 --> 00:33:54.039 That you know better, 00:33:54.720 --> 00:33:55.940 You love us, 00:33:56.319 --> 00:33:56.700 Better, 00:33:57.379 --> 00:33:59.859 You have loved us, 00:34:00.240 --> 00:34:01.859 Fully, 00:34:02.700 --> 00:34:04.099 In giving yourself, 00:34:04.379 --> 00:34:05.079 For us, 00:34:05.240 --> 00:34:06.539 And so we worship you, 00:34:07.159 --> 00:34:10.840 We lift your name up, 00:34:10.840 --> 00:34:11.800 And we ask, 00:34:11.920 --> 00:34:14.300 That you would so work, 00:34:14.380 --> 00:34:14.900 In our hearts, 00:34:14.980 --> 00:34:16.260 That that wouldn't just happen, 00:34:16.640 --> 00:34:17.900 Now in a moment, 00:34:18.980 --> 00:34:20.460 In an hour of worship, 00:34:20.720 --> 00:34:20.920 But, 00:34:21.420 --> 00:34:22.559 But that you would make that, 00:34:22.620 --> 00:34:23.460 In every moment, 00:34:23.940 --> 00:34:24.559 Of everyday, 00:34:25.460 --> 00:34:26.079 Reality, 00:34:26.940 --> 00:34:27.680 Subdue us, 00:34:28.180 --> 00:34:29.000 To yourself, 00:34:29.200 --> 00:34:30.480 And give us joy, 00:34:30.640 --> 00:34:31.280 In a king, 00:34:31.920 --> 00:34:33.019 Who loves us, 00:34:33.059 --> 00:34:34.820 And lays down his life for us, 00:34:35.740 --> 00:34:36.960 That delight us, 00:34:37.079 --> 00:34:37.800 This Christmas, 00:34:37.800 --> 00:34:40.360 Invasions are not comfortable, 00:34:40.560 --> 00:34:41.860 But would what you accomplished, 00:34:42.140 --> 00:34:43.400 When you invaded this world, 00:34:43.400 --> 00:34:45.280 Give us eternal joy, 00:34:45.720 --> 00:34:46.560 And great cause, 00:34:46.660 --> 00:34:47.400 For celebration, 00:34:47.600 --> 00:34:48.940 We ask in Jesus name, 00:34:49.539 --> 00:34:49.800 Amen. 00:34:53.260 --> 00:34:54.660 For more information, 00:34:55.039 --> 00:34:55.960 Visit us online, 00:34:56.240 --> 00:34:57.260 At southwood.org