WEBVTT 00:00:00.440 --> 00:00:09.160 Amen, amen. You may be seated. Children, we are ready for Children's Church. You may make your way up to the front here over to this side. 00:00:10.599 --> 00:00:26.920 I'm so thankful that Jesus paid it all. Amen. He didn't pay part of it. He didn't pay most of it. He paid it all. And because of that, we get to gather together today and sing praises to His name and have hope and joy like no one else on this earth does. 00:00:26.920 --> 00:00:34.460 And what a joy it is to come together to celebrate and partake in the Lord's Supper today. 00:00:35.060 --> 00:00:46.740 Over the last eight weeks, we have been talking about this discipleship pathway, focusing on four different aspects of things that disciples should have a part of their life. 00:00:47.140 --> 00:00:53.560 Understanding the fact that all disciples know. They know who God is, who they are in light of that. 00:00:53.560 --> 00:01:01.020 And that the only salvation we have is in Christ Jesus. So in short, all disciples know the gospel. 00:01:01.800 --> 00:01:06.700 But it's not something that we stop there. We don't just start and then that's where it finishes. 00:01:06.920 --> 00:01:10.439 We understand the fact that all disciples grow in that relationship. 00:01:11.159 --> 00:01:18.599 And the fact that all disciples should show and be shown the things that God is doing in our life and the lives of those around us. 00:01:18.599 --> 00:01:22.119 And then the fact that all disciples go. 00:01:22.599 --> 00:01:31.939 They take this message and they proclaim it across the street, across the world, to anybody that needs to know, that anybody that needs to hear the gospel message, 00:01:32.079 --> 00:01:35.959 that salvation only belongs to Christ. 00:01:36.060 --> 00:01:44.979 And so as we come to the table together today, we see all of those elements being displayed here as we partake in communion, 00:01:44.980 --> 00:01:48.020 as we partake in the Lord's Supper. 00:01:48.600 --> 00:01:52.280 And we often think of this time as a time of remembering. 00:01:53.100 --> 00:01:57.280 But what we are remembering is the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus. 00:01:57.460 --> 00:02:01.719 We're remembering what that sacrifice accomplishes in our life. 00:02:02.040 --> 00:02:06.780 So in short, what we are remembering is the gospel message. 00:02:07.840 --> 00:02:11.659 And we're also told in Scripture that this is something that we should do often. 00:02:11.659 --> 00:02:18.780 And so the gospel, remembering the gospel, is not simply a box that we're checking off and saying that we're done with it, 00:02:18.900 --> 00:02:21.139 but we're growing deeper into it. 00:02:21.379 --> 00:02:24.919 And so as we come to the table, we're remembering those things. 00:02:25.039 --> 00:02:29.259 But we're also encouraged that we are to proclaim this. 00:02:29.879 --> 00:02:35.579 Paul in 1 Corinthians reminds us of the fact that in addition to remembering, 00:02:36.180 --> 00:02:38.439 this is a time of proclaiming, 00:02:38.439 --> 00:02:41.419 of showing what Christ has done for us. 00:02:41.659 --> 00:02:43.299 We're reminded of this when he says this, 00:02:43.379 --> 00:02:46.919 for as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, 00:02:47.159 --> 00:02:51.859 you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. 00:02:52.359 --> 00:02:55.519 And so what are we proclaiming to those here today 00:02:55.519 --> 00:02:59.259 and to those that we will encounter in our lives each and every day? 00:02:59.379 --> 00:03:03.340 What is it that we as believers are proclaiming to them? 00:03:03.519 --> 00:03:05.460 That this is a serious matter? 00:03:05.460 --> 00:03:07.260 Hopefully so. 00:03:07.740 --> 00:03:12.040 That we should do this as something we should do in remembrance 00:03:12.040 --> 00:03:14.460 and do this in a sense of reverence? 00:03:15.159 --> 00:03:16.159 Hopefully so. 00:03:17.319 --> 00:03:20.780 But at the same time, it is my prayer that we come to the table, 00:03:20.900 --> 00:03:26.340 we proclaim, we show the joy that comes from a relationship with Christ. 00:03:26.340 --> 00:03:33.219 The Lord's Supper calls us to look to the past as we remember our Savior's sacrifice, 00:03:33.219 --> 00:03:41.520 but it also calls us to look to the future and proclaim the hope that we have in Christ. 00:03:42.319 --> 00:03:47.060 We are told to do this as often as we can, 00:03:47.140 --> 00:03:50.319 to do this in remembrance of him, to do this as we proclaim. 00:03:50.319 --> 00:03:55.159 I love how Dr. Aiken, a recently retired professor at Southeastern, 00:03:55.620 --> 00:04:01.079 he says the Lord's Supper should certainly be a time of careful meditation and reflection, 00:04:01.639 --> 00:04:07.259 but it should also be a time of joyful anticipation and celebration. 00:04:07.799 --> 00:04:12.079 Yes, Jesus died, but he rose from the dead and he's coming again. 00:04:12.639 --> 00:04:18.659 And so with hearts that remember and hearts that are ready to proclaim this gospel message, 00:04:18.660 --> 00:04:21.740 ready to proclaim the hope that we have in Christ, 00:04:22.160 --> 00:04:28.720 I want to invite you to open the Word of God with me this morning to Mark chapter 14, 00:04:29.480 --> 00:04:32.480 and we're going to read verses 12 through 25. 00:04:33.140 --> 00:04:39.920 Mark 14 verses 12 through 25, I encourage you to follow along as I read. 00:04:40.760 --> 00:04:42.860 This is what the Word of the Lord says, it says this, 00:04:43.040 --> 00:04:46.060 And on the first day of unleavened bread, 00:04:46.060 --> 00:04:49.040 when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, 00:04:49.560 --> 00:04:51.339 his disciples said to him, 00:04:51.819 --> 00:04:55.459 Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat this Passover? 00:04:56.439 --> 00:04:59.220 And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, 00:04:59.620 --> 00:05:03.959 Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. 00:05:04.639 --> 00:05:09.160 Follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, 00:05:09.660 --> 00:05:11.100 The teacher says, 00:05:11.100 --> 00:05:15.900 Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples? 00:05:16.680 --> 00:05:20.640 And he will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. 00:05:21.260 --> 00:05:23.400 There, prepare for us. 00:05:23.860 --> 00:05:30.080 And the disciples set out and went into the city and found it just as he had told them, 00:05:30.240 --> 00:05:31.879 and they prepared the Passover. 00:05:32.760 --> 00:05:35.700 And when it was evening, he came with the twelve, 00:05:35.699 --> 00:05:38.599 And as they were reclining at the table eating, 00:05:38.800 --> 00:05:39.879 Jesus said, 00:05:40.079 --> 00:05:41.719 Truly I say to you, 00:05:42.060 --> 00:05:43.800 One of you will betray me, 00:05:44.060 --> 00:05:45.920 one who is eating with me. 00:05:46.500 --> 00:05:48.980 And they began to be sorrowful and to say to him, 00:05:49.159 --> 00:05:50.139 one after the other, 00:05:50.399 --> 00:05:51.300 Is it I? 00:05:52.019 --> 00:05:53.199 And he said to them, 00:05:53.620 --> 00:05:55.000 It is one of the twelve, 00:05:55.159 --> 00:05:58.759 one who is dipping bread into the dish with me. 00:05:59.120 --> 00:06:02.060 For the Son of Man goes that is written of him, 00:06:02.060 --> 00:06:06.300 But woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. 00:06:06.660 --> 00:06:10.180 It would have been better for that man if he had not been born. 00:06:10.980 --> 00:06:12.060 And as they were eating, 00:06:12.180 --> 00:06:13.000 He took bread, 00:06:13.100 --> 00:06:14.319 And after blessing it, 00:06:14.600 --> 00:06:16.660 Broke it and gave it to them and said, 00:06:17.180 --> 00:06:18.819 Take, this is my body. 00:06:19.540 --> 00:06:20.459 And he took the cup, 00:06:20.519 --> 00:06:21.620 And when he had given things, 00:06:21.699 --> 00:06:22.579 He gave it to them, 00:06:22.620 --> 00:06:23.959 And they all drank of it. 00:06:24.160 --> 00:06:24.779 And he said, 00:06:24.899 --> 00:06:26.840 This is my blood of the covenant, 00:06:27.060 --> 00:06:28.680 Which is poured out for many. 00:06:29.240 --> 00:06:30.500 Truly I say to you, 00:06:30.500 --> 00:06:33.120 I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine 00:06:33.120 --> 00:06:36.060 Until that day when I drink it new 00:06:36.060 --> 00:06:38.319 In the kingdom of God. 00:06:39.240 --> 00:06:40.240 Let's go to the Lord in prayer. 00:06:40.740 --> 00:06:43.779 Father, thank you for being with us today. 00:06:43.899 --> 00:06:47.339 Thank you for what we get to experience today. 00:06:47.459 --> 00:06:49.899 Lord, thank you for the truth found in your word. 00:06:50.279 --> 00:06:53.040 Lord, I pray that you give us ears to hear your word 00:06:53.040 --> 00:06:55.759 And apply these truths to our lives. 00:06:56.240 --> 00:06:59.240 And Father, we ask all these things in Jesus' precious name. 00:06:59.240 --> 00:06:59.839 Amen. 00:07:00.500 --> 00:07:03.860 You know, when I read this passage of scripture here, 00:07:03.879 --> 00:07:05.839 There's many things that come to mind. 00:07:05.920 --> 00:07:09.420 But I want to highlight a couple of those this morning. 00:07:09.720 --> 00:07:12.319 One of the things that I'm quickly reminded of 00:07:12.319 --> 00:07:13.560 When I look at this passage 00:07:13.560 --> 00:07:16.740 Is the fact that Jesus is in control. 00:07:17.740 --> 00:07:19.980 Jesus is in control. 00:07:20.579 --> 00:07:22.980 It may be easy to miss at first glance, 00:07:23.100 --> 00:07:24.939 But if you look at this passage, 00:07:25.500 --> 00:07:27.420 Jesus makes several predictions here. 00:07:27.420 --> 00:07:32.160 And it reminds us of the fact that he's in complete control of this situation. 00:07:32.160 --> 00:07:35.200 Oftentimes, I know for me at least, 00:07:35.200 --> 00:07:37.660 I'll come to a passage like this, 00:07:37.660 --> 00:07:41.320 And I'll be reminded of all of these different things that are going on. 00:07:41.540 --> 00:07:44.740 And it's easy to miss the fact that we serve a Savior 00:07:44.740 --> 00:07:48.520 Who's in complete control going into the most stressful, 00:07:48.640 --> 00:07:50.780 The most difficult time of his ministry. 00:07:51.000 --> 00:07:51.840 He's in control. 00:07:51.839 --> 00:07:54.379 And so we see this from several different aspects. 00:07:54.899 --> 00:07:55.939 But to begin with, 00:07:56.060 --> 00:08:00.359 Jesus makes predictions about where they will have the Passover meal. 00:08:00.699 --> 00:08:03.619 And the events, including the men that they would encounter 00:08:03.619 --> 00:08:07.339 As they lead to the table where they would have this meal. 00:08:07.339 --> 00:08:10.279 I want you to listen to verses 13 and 14 again. 00:08:10.379 --> 00:08:11.199 It says this, 00:08:11.719 --> 00:08:13.839 And he sent two of his disciples and said, 00:08:14.419 --> 00:08:15.359 Go into the city, 00:08:15.799 --> 00:08:18.339 And a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. 00:08:18.859 --> 00:08:19.739 Follow him, 00:08:19.939 --> 00:08:21.359 And wherever he enters, 00:08:21.519 --> 00:08:23.039 Say to the master of the house, 00:08:23.459 --> 00:08:24.620 The teacher says, 00:08:24.979 --> 00:08:26.859 Where is my guest room? 00:08:27.120 --> 00:08:30.279 Where I may eat the Passover with my disciples. 00:08:30.479 --> 00:08:32.639 And he will show you a large upper room, 00:08:33.059 --> 00:08:34.100 Furnished and ready. 00:08:34.500 --> 00:08:36.799 There, prepare for us. 00:08:37.399 --> 00:08:44.339 This passage has several similarities to the passage previously talked about in Mark chapter 11, 00:08:44.339 --> 00:08:46.979 Where Jesus is getting ready for the triumphal entry. 00:08:47.399 --> 00:08:50.139 Remember, he's sending a couple of his disciples in there. 00:08:50.419 --> 00:08:50.879 And he says, 00:08:50.959 --> 00:08:52.139 You're going to find a colt. 00:08:52.159 --> 00:08:53.899 You're going to find a donkey that's tied up. 00:08:54.139 --> 00:08:57.159 Go ahead and take that donkey and start bringing back it. 00:08:57.199 --> 00:08:59.439 If anybody asks you why you're taking it, 00:08:59.459 --> 00:09:00.779 Just say the Lord has need of it. 00:09:00.779 --> 00:09:02.240 The master has need of it. 00:09:02.240 --> 00:09:04.599 And so now we have a similar situation. 00:09:04.600 --> 00:09:07.080 And in both of these situations, 00:09:07.940 --> 00:09:10.940 Both have seemingly chance encounters, 00:09:11.639 --> 00:09:16.100 But ultimately they show us that even in going to the cross, 00:09:16.639 --> 00:09:18.100 Even in going to Calvary, 00:09:18.320 --> 00:09:20.240 Jesus is in control. 00:09:20.779 --> 00:09:23.659 He understands what is laying before them. 00:09:23.920 --> 00:09:27.019 He understands those steps that they are going to be taking. 00:09:27.019 --> 00:09:32.480 But next we see that Jesus predicts that Judas would betray him. 00:09:32.679 --> 00:09:35.159 We see this in verses 18 through 21. 00:09:35.299 --> 00:09:36.079 He tells them, he says, 00:09:36.620 --> 00:09:38.059 As they're gathered there to eat this meal, 00:09:38.100 --> 00:09:38.340 He says, 00:09:38.419 --> 00:09:41.139 One of you is going to betray me. 00:09:41.460 --> 00:09:42.659 And they're all astonished. 00:09:42.740 --> 00:09:44.539 And so they begin to go around the room saying, 00:09:44.819 --> 00:09:45.899 Lord, is it I? 00:09:46.100 --> 00:09:47.179 Is it I, Lord? 00:09:47.179 --> 00:09:48.500 And he finally says, 00:09:48.579 --> 00:09:51.819 It is the one who is dipping in the cup with me. 00:09:52.039 --> 00:09:54.019 And so he's recognizing the fact that, 00:09:54.019 --> 00:09:56.799 That Judas is going to be the one to betray him. 00:09:56.859 --> 00:09:57.639 But he also, 00:09:58.139 --> 00:09:59.479 As you continue reading, 00:09:59.859 --> 00:10:03.339 Lets them know that the rest of them would reject him. 00:10:03.399 --> 00:10:04.719 They would deny him. 00:10:05.019 --> 00:10:05.959 And Peter's even like, 00:10:06.079 --> 00:10:08.019 Lord, surely not I will do this. 00:10:08.079 --> 00:10:08.579 But yes, 00:10:08.659 --> 00:10:08.879 Peter, 00:10:09.159 --> 00:10:11.799 Even you are going to deny me. 00:10:12.099 --> 00:10:13.159 And so we see, 00:10:13.339 --> 00:10:14.579 Going into that moment, 00:10:14.580 --> 00:10:18.340 When he would take the sins of the world onto himself, 00:10:19.040 --> 00:10:20.020 Jesus knew, 00:10:20.460 --> 00:10:22.060 Those closest to him, 00:10:22.300 --> 00:10:24.340 Would not be standing there with him, 00:10:24.520 --> 00:10:24.800 With, 00:10:25.020 --> 00:10:26.020 During that time. 00:10:26.740 --> 00:10:27.180 Yet, 00:10:27.940 --> 00:10:28.940 He goes anyway. 00:10:29.600 --> 00:10:31.500 Even in the midst of that hard time, 00:10:31.560 --> 00:10:32.480 In the darkest time, 00:10:32.740 --> 00:10:34.320 He knew that this would be something, 00:10:34.460 --> 00:10:37.000 That he would be going without those closest to him, 00:10:37.000 --> 00:10:37.820 On earth. 00:10:37.879 --> 00:10:38.580 But finally, 00:10:39.060 --> 00:10:40.840 We see that Jesus predicts, 00:10:40.840 --> 00:10:43.100 His own death and resurrection here. 00:10:43.100 --> 00:10:45.100 We see this prediction, 00:10:45.259 --> 00:10:46.980 Multiple places in Mark's gospel, 00:10:47.399 --> 00:10:47.700 As long, 00:10:47.879 --> 00:10:49.500 As well as the other gospels. 00:10:49.639 --> 00:10:50.399 But again, 00:10:50.500 --> 00:10:52.740 Here in verses 22 through 25, 00:10:53.159 --> 00:10:54.820 We see that Jesus, 00:10:55.060 --> 00:10:56.779 Is predicting his own death, 00:10:57.120 --> 00:10:58.139 And resurrection. 00:10:59.139 --> 00:10:59.600 It says, 00:10:59.700 --> 00:11:00.399 And as they were eating, 00:11:00.500 --> 00:11:01.399 He took bread, 00:11:01.800 --> 00:11:02.820 And after blessing, 00:11:02.940 --> 00:11:03.800 It broke it, 00:11:03.860 --> 00:11:05.019 And gave it to them, 00:11:05.060 --> 00:11:05.500 And said, 00:11:05.639 --> 00:11:06.060 Take, 00:11:06.440 --> 00:11:07.620 This is my body. 00:11:08.080 --> 00:11:09.340 And he took a cup, 00:11:09.340 --> 00:11:10.879 And when he had given thanks, 00:11:10.879 --> 00:11:12.460 He gave it to them, 00:11:12.779 --> 00:11:14.379 And they all drank of it. 00:11:14.840 --> 00:11:15.779 And he said to them, 00:11:16.159 --> 00:11:17.820 This is my blood of the covenant, 00:11:17.939 --> 00:11:19.559 Which is poured out for many. 00:11:20.240 --> 00:11:20.620 Truly, 00:11:20.779 --> 00:11:21.360 I say to you, 00:11:21.399 --> 00:11:23.860 I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine, 00:11:23.899 --> 00:11:26.000 Until the day when I drink it new, 00:11:26.100 --> 00:11:27.600 In the kingdom of God. 00:11:28.059 --> 00:11:29.519 And so we clearly see, 00:11:29.659 --> 00:11:32.019 Especially on this side of the cross, 00:11:32.419 --> 00:11:33.679 On this side of the cross, 00:11:33.759 --> 00:11:35.179 We can clearly see, 00:11:35.179 --> 00:11:37.000 That Jesus is predicting, 00:11:37.279 --> 00:11:38.399 Not only his death, 00:11:38.579 --> 00:11:40.819 But also his resurrection. 00:11:41.799 --> 00:11:43.139 Throughout these verses, 00:11:43.479 --> 00:11:44.599 We clearly see, 00:11:44.739 --> 00:11:46.120 That Jesus is in control, 00:11:46.379 --> 00:11:48.819 As he makes his way to Calvary. 00:11:49.199 --> 00:11:50.359 He understands, 00:11:50.659 --> 00:11:51.379 Very clearly, 00:11:51.519 --> 00:11:53.139 What is in front of him. 00:11:53.459 --> 00:11:54.239 Many times, 00:11:54.339 --> 00:11:55.839 It's easy for us to think that, 00:11:56.079 --> 00:11:58.739 The events surrounding the passion, 00:11:58.939 --> 00:11:59.179 The crucifixion, 00:12:00.000 --> 00:12:00.979 The events surrounding those things, 00:12:01.179 --> 00:12:02.979 It seems very chaotic to us. 00:12:02.980 --> 00:12:05.060 It seems like there's so much going on, 00:12:05.100 --> 00:12:06.759 That it seems out of control, 00:12:07.039 --> 00:12:08.379 And for many of the disciples, 00:12:08.560 --> 00:12:11.180 It may very well have felt like it was. 00:12:11.639 --> 00:12:13.159 But for our Lord and Savior, 00:12:13.740 --> 00:12:15.080 The one who is going to be, 00:12:15.080 --> 00:12:17.139 Taking the sins of the world on himself, 00:12:17.700 --> 00:12:19.879 He was in complete control, 00:12:19.879 --> 00:12:22.920 As he made his way to Calvary. 00:12:23.560 --> 00:12:25.019 As he made his way to the cross, 00:12:25.100 --> 00:12:26.899 He knew and accepted, 00:12:27.360 --> 00:12:28.860 His earthly mission. 00:12:29.500 --> 00:12:31.139 And so the cross was not an, 00:12:31.139 --> 00:12:32.139 Unfortunate event, 00:12:32.139 --> 00:12:34.139 That seemingly just happened, 00:12:34.179 --> 00:12:35.059 Out of nowhere. 00:12:35.500 --> 00:12:36.879 But it was God's plan, 00:12:36.980 --> 00:12:38.399 To make a way for us, 00:12:38.439 --> 00:12:39.559 To receive forgiveness. 00:12:40.039 --> 00:12:42.039 For us to have salvation, 00:12:42.399 --> 00:12:44.299 Available for us. 00:12:44.899 --> 00:12:46.120 But it also means, 00:12:46.179 --> 00:12:47.759 That we can have complete trust, 00:12:48.019 --> 00:12:50.039 And faith in God today. 00:12:50.559 --> 00:12:53.259 Because Jesus is still on the throne. 00:12:53.840 --> 00:12:55.279 Jesus is still reigning. 00:12:55.399 --> 00:12:57.480 He still has our lives, 00:12:57.519 --> 00:12:58.439 In the palm of his hands. 00:12:58.539 --> 00:13:01.019 I love how Doug O'Donnell says it. 00:13:01.019 --> 00:13:01.840 He says, 00:13:01.840 --> 00:13:03.620 We can and should believe, 00:13:03.620 --> 00:13:05.679 That God is in complete control, 00:13:05.679 --> 00:13:06.980 Of the world, 00:13:06.980 --> 00:13:09.559 And has your life under his eye, 00:13:09.559 --> 00:13:10.860 And in his hands. 00:13:11.360 --> 00:13:13.899 He's got the whole world in his hands, 00:13:13.899 --> 00:13:15.220 But also, 00:13:15.659 --> 00:13:16.659 Your issues, 00:13:16.879 --> 00:13:17.579 And problems, 00:13:18.079 --> 00:13:18.759 And hopes, 00:13:19.179 --> 00:13:19.899 And dreams. 00:13:19.899 --> 00:13:21.220 Yes, 00:13:21.459 --> 00:13:22.799 We love to see the fact, 00:13:22.879 --> 00:13:24.179 That he has the whole world, 00:13:24.179 --> 00:13:24.939 In his hands. 00:13:25.120 --> 00:13:26.259 But what that means, 00:13:26.379 --> 00:13:27.439 Personally for us, 00:13:27.679 --> 00:13:28.279 Is yes, 00:13:28.319 --> 00:13:29.259 He has the whole world, 00:13:29.319 --> 00:13:29.720 In his hands, 00:13:29.899 --> 00:13:30.799 But he has you, 00:13:31.059 --> 00:13:31.600 And me, 00:13:31.759 --> 00:13:33.039 In the palm of his hands. 00:13:33.699 --> 00:13:34.419 He has each, 00:13:34.459 --> 00:13:35.100 And every one of us. 00:13:35.159 --> 00:13:37.059 He cares for the world, 00:13:37.519 --> 00:13:38.679 But he cares for you, 00:13:38.779 --> 00:13:39.299 As well. 00:13:39.879 --> 00:13:41.139 And so as I'm thinking of that, 00:13:41.179 --> 00:13:42.319 It reminds me of another, 00:13:42.519 --> 00:13:43.740 Beautiful truth, 00:13:43.819 --> 00:13:45.699 That we see in this passage. 00:13:45.700 --> 00:13:47.060 A passage that is, 00:13:47.140 --> 00:13:48.180 That is easy, 00:13:48.320 --> 00:13:50.220 A truth that's easy for us to overlook, 00:13:50.840 --> 00:13:51.020 But, 00:13:51.160 --> 00:13:52.020 And it's simple, 00:13:52.180 --> 00:13:52.600 But yet, 00:13:52.660 --> 00:13:54.180 It is so powerful, 00:13:54.440 --> 00:13:55.800 If we will take a moment, 00:13:55.900 --> 00:13:57.120 To stand in awe of it. 00:13:57.420 --> 00:13:58.340 And it is the fact, 00:13:58.420 --> 00:14:00.140 That not only is Jesus in control, 00:14:00.560 --> 00:14:02.879 But Jesus loves you. 00:14:04.220 --> 00:14:05.160 I am sometimes, 00:14:05.879 --> 00:14:07.220 I can get very focused, 00:14:07.600 --> 00:14:09.080 I know just at least me personally, 00:14:09.180 --> 00:14:10.460 I can get very focused, 00:14:10.460 --> 00:14:12.640 On all the details of prophecies, 00:14:12.940 --> 00:14:14.160 All the fulfillments, 00:14:14.259 --> 00:14:15.080 All the predictions, 00:14:15.080 --> 00:14:15.920 In fact, 00:14:15.980 --> 00:14:17.860 I can remember in seminary, 00:14:17.900 --> 00:14:19.320 I loved it when our professors, 00:14:19.480 --> 00:14:20.780 They would make these connections, 00:14:21.080 --> 00:14:22.280 Between the Old Testament, 00:14:22.379 --> 00:14:23.060 The New Testament, 00:14:23.139 --> 00:14:24.740 How all of these prophecies, 00:14:24.840 --> 00:14:25.540 Were being fulfilled, 00:14:25.900 --> 00:14:27.040 Highlighting the fact that, 00:14:27.259 --> 00:14:27.700 We see, 00:14:27.840 --> 00:14:29.360 We have one story of scripture, 00:14:29.500 --> 00:14:30.620 That we have this meta narrative, 00:14:30.740 --> 00:14:32.220 That is working its way, 00:14:32.300 --> 00:14:33.040 Through history, 00:14:33.400 --> 00:14:35.100 Understanding that God is in control, 00:14:35.180 --> 00:14:36.840 He's working in all these different places, 00:14:37.020 --> 00:14:38.240 And it's really easy, 00:14:38.240 --> 00:14:39.360 To just be amazed, 00:14:39.360 --> 00:14:40.720 At how all of those things, 00:14:40.720 --> 00:14:41.820 Fit together. 00:14:42.800 --> 00:14:44.420 But we've got to make sure, 00:14:45.080 --> 00:14:46.440 That we don't miss, 00:14:46.440 --> 00:14:47.759 The forest for the trees, 00:14:47.759 --> 00:14:50.220 Because what all of those things, 00:14:50.220 --> 00:14:51.320 Remind us of, 00:14:51.540 --> 00:14:52.759 Is a beautiful, 00:14:53.180 --> 00:14:54.060 Beautiful truth, 00:14:54.680 --> 00:14:56.879 The fact that God loves us, 00:14:57.600 --> 00:15:00.040 The fact that even in our sin, 00:15:00.120 --> 00:15:01.080 Even when we were dead, 00:15:01.139 --> 00:15:02.500 In our sins and trespasses, 00:15:02.900 --> 00:15:05.860 God made a way for us, 00:15:05.860 --> 00:15:07.460 We need to stand in awe, 00:15:07.539 --> 00:15:10.419 The fact that Jesus loves us, 00:15:10.940 --> 00:15:12.039 That he loves us, 00:15:12.200 --> 00:15:15.080 And I love what Luke describes, 00:15:15.419 --> 00:15:17.320 In his account of this same story, 00:15:17.399 --> 00:15:18.220 This same time, 00:15:18.220 --> 00:15:20.000 This first Passover meal, 00:15:20.080 --> 00:15:21.039 This Lord's Supper, 00:15:21.600 --> 00:15:22.720 Luke says this, 00:15:23.440 --> 00:15:24.279 As they came together, 00:15:24.419 --> 00:15:25.259 Jesus said to them, 00:15:25.300 --> 00:15:25.560 He says, 00:15:25.940 --> 00:15:27.220 I have earnestly desired, 00:15:28.100 --> 00:15:29.980 To eat this Passover with you, 00:15:30.039 --> 00:15:31.019 Before I suffer. 00:15:31.919 --> 00:15:33.819 So as Jesus is getting ready, 00:15:33.819 --> 00:15:34.699 To go to the cross, 00:15:34.759 --> 00:15:36.559 He's there with his closest friends, 00:15:36.799 --> 00:15:37.220 And he says, 00:15:37.299 --> 00:15:39.279 I have earnestly desired, 00:15:39.279 --> 00:15:41.360 To eat this Passover with you, 00:15:41.860 --> 00:15:43.460 I've been looking forward, 00:15:43.699 --> 00:15:45.679 To having this time with you, 00:15:45.840 --> 00:15:46.799 And in doing so, 00:15:46.860 --> 00:15:48.460 We are reminded very clearly, 00:15:48.659 --> 00:15:49.299 That Jesus, 00:15:49.799 --> 00:15:51.000 Over and over again, 00:15:51.059 --> 00:15:51.840 Throughout scripture, 00:15:52.240 --> 00:15:53.699 Reveals that he loves, 00:15:53.759 --> 00:15:55.220 Being a part of the ordinary, 00:15:55.980 --> 00:15:58.639 He loves being a part of our lives, 00:15:58.639 --> 00:16:00.720 Having a Passover meal, 00:16:00.720 --> 00:16:01.480 With your friends, 00:16:01.720 --> 00:16:03.879 Was about as ordinary as it gets, 00:16:03.919 --> 00:16:05.720 For a group of Jewish friends, 00:16:06.480 --> 00:16:08.199 Jesus doesn't just want, 00:16:08.259 --> 00:16:09.279 Your Sunday mornings, 00:16:09.779 --> 00:16:10.919 He doesn't just want, 00:16:11.000 --> 00:16:11.899 Those times when, 00:16:12.179 --> 00:16:13.779 When you have an encounter with him, 00:16:13.840 --> 00:16:15.240 Whether it be through a quiet time, 00:16:15.379 --> 00:16:16.659 Or singing, 00:16:16.840 --> 00:16:18.299 Or whatever the case may be, 00:16:18.439 --> 00:16:20.159 He doesn't just want those times, 00:16:20.259 --> 00:16:23.159 He wants your everyday lives, 00:16:23.240 --> 00:16:25.539 Because he loves you, 00:16:26.240 --> 00:16:27.220 And I am convinced, 00:16:27.220 --> 00:16:28.120 That sometimes, 00:16:28.259 --> 00:16:30.879 The greatest theological truth, 00:16:30.920 --> 00:16:31.940 That we can know, 00:16:32.320 --> 00:16:33.700 Is that God loves us, 00:16:34.759 --> 00:16:36.379 I think the greatest theological truth, 00:16:36.379 --> 00:16:37.820 That we can know sometimes, 00:16:37.920 --> 00:16:38.480 Is the fact that, 00:16:38.820 --> 00:16:39.639 Because of Jesus, 00:16:39.700 --> 00:16:40.920 What he accomplished on the cross, 00:16:41.160 --> 00:16:42.480 We can look to the cross, 00:16:42.560 --> 00:16:43.320 And see the fact, 00:16:43.399 --> 00:16:44.820 That we have a heavenly father, 00:16:45.480 --> 00:16:46.899 Who loves us, 00:16:47.220 --> 00:16:48.560 Because that truth, 00:16:48.660 --> 00:16:49.660 Changes everything, 00:16:50.300 --> 00:16:52.080 That truth gives us hope, 00:16:52.120 --> 00:16:54.000 In the midst of life's greatest challenges, 00:16:54.399 --> 00:16:56.220 That truth gives perspective, 00:16:56.220 --> 00:16:57.860 On all the difficulties, 00:16:57.860 --> 00:16:59.920 And circumstances that we face, 00:17:00.220 --> 00:17:03.120 That truth gives us joy, 00:17:03.460 --> 00:17:05.600 Like nothing else can, 00:17:06.500 --> 00:17:07.600 And so this morning, 00:17:08.100 --> 00:17:10.700 As we prepare to take communion, 00:17:10.839 --> 00:17:12.860 As we prepare to take the Lord's Supper, 00:17:13.500 --> 00:17:15.019 I want you to stand in awe, 00:17:15.120 --> 00:17:16.299 Of the God that we serve, 00:17:16.880 --> 00:17:18.259 I want you to be amazed, 00:17:18.339 --> 00:17:20.440 Of the fact that we can look through this, 00:17:20.799 --> 00:17:22.480 And Jesus knew exactly, 00:17:22.480 --> 00:17:23.880 What was ahead of him, 00:17:23.880 --> 00:17:25.280 He knew exactly, 00:17:25.280 --> 00:17:27.200 What he was going to be encountering, 00:17:27.560 --> 00:17:28.060 And yet, 00:17:28.180 --> 00:17:29.360 He went through it anyway, 00:17:29.480 --> 00:17:30.680 He was in control, 00:17:31.620 --> 00:17:33.660 But it also reminds us of the fact, 00:17:34.100 --> 00:17:35.580 That as we look to the cross, 00:17:36.040 --> 00:17:37.120 As we remember, 00:17:37.120 --> 00:17:38.600 What was accomplished on it, 00:17:39.140 --> 00:17:40.480 It reminds us of the fact, 00:17:40.600 --> 00:17:42.020 That Jesus loves us, 00:17:42.680 --> 00:17:44.620 That he desires a relationship with us, 00:17:44.800 --> 00:17:46.180 That he doesn't just want, 00:17:46.340 --> 00:17:47.900 Our time here once a week, 00:17:47.920 --> 00:17:49.000 When we gather together, 00:17:49.000 --> 00:17:50.440 But he wants to be, 00:17:50.440 --> 00:17:51.420 A part of our lives, 00:17:51.519 --> 00:17:52.940 Each and every day, 00:17:53.599 --> 00:17:55.000 And so let's go to the Lord in prayer, 00:17:55.140 --> 00:17:55.440 Father, 00:17:56.380 --> 00:17:57.759 As we prepare, 00:17:58.539 --> 00:18:00.720 Our hearts for communion this morning, 00:18:01.759 --> 00:18:03.119 Lord let us do so, 00:18:03.200 --> 00:18:05.380 Being reminded that you are in control, 00:18:05.839 --> 00:18:06.819 Let us do so, 00:18:06.940 --> 00:18:08.299 Being reminded of the fact, 00:18:08.380 --> 00:18:09.819 That you are in control, 00:18:09.940 --> 00:18:10.960 That you knew exactly, 00:18:11.119 --> 00:18:12.160 What was ahead of you, 00:18:12.299 --> 00:18:14.319 And you went to the cross anyway, 00:18:14.460 --> 00:18:16.240 So Lord we thank you for that, 00:18:16.240 --> 00:18:18.259 We thank you for the fact that, 00:18:18.859 --> 00:18:21.079 You took our sins, 00:18:21.640 --> 00:18:22.779 Paid for them on the cross, 00:18:22.900 --> 00:18:23.900 You paid all of it, 00:18:23.940 --> 00:18:25.519 And so Lord we thank you for that, 00:18:25.920 --> 00:18:27.599 And so Lord I pray that this morning, 00:18:28.039 --> 00:18:30.839 As we prepare our hearts and minds, 00:18:31.380 --> 00:18:32.319 For communion Lord, 00:18:32.420 --> 00:18:33.500 That you would remind us, 00:18:33.660 --> 00:18:34.819 Not only that you are in control, 00:18:35.140 --> 00:18:37.259 But the fact that you love us, 00:18:37.620 --> 00:18:39.319 And so Lord we thank you for that hope, 00:18:39.400 --> 00:18:41.039 And we ask all of these things, 00:18:41.500 --> 00:18:42.839 In Jesus precious name, 00:18:43.359 --> 00:18:43.660 Amen.