WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.879 Well, it's so good to be back up here again. 00:00:05.940 --> 00:00:12.480 It's not easy talking into a phone in an empty room and trying to be natural. 00:00:12.720 --> 00:00:15.860 So even though we're not back to normal, it's still great. 00:00:17.800 --> 00:00:26.480 So on Thursday, many of us listened as Nicola Sturgeon gave her regular update 00:00:26.480 --> 00:00:29.240 on the current position with the coronavirus. 00:00:30.440 --> 00:00:33.240 There were a couple of lines that stood out to me. 00:00:34.420 --> 00:00:42.579 She said, I am aware that the announcements I have made so far are hard for people to hear. 00:00:43.740 --> 00:00:51.980 After six long, hard months, we are still asking the public to make a lot of difficult sacrifices. 00:00:53.780 --> 00:00:59.859 I know that making these choices gets harder and much more tiresome. 00:01:00.000 --> 00:01:01.859 As time passes. 00:01:03.479 --> 00:01:12.540 Here she's expressing her frustration and the frustration of the nation at how long all of this is lasting. 00:01:12.540 --> 00:01:18.600 How long we are having to endure these challenges and these restrictions. 00:01:18.599 --> 00:01:26.780 Things that were easy to do for the first few weeks become more and more tiresome. 00:01:28.079 --> 00:01:31.299 Patience and endurance are required. 00:01:31.299 --> 00:01:38.739 And I think that's very much the idea that we've been looking at over the last few weeks in Hebrews. 00:01:40.739 --> 00:01:44.819 There's been a repeated call to keep going. 00:01:44.819 --> 00:01:47.259 To hold on in there. 00:01:47.259 --> 00:01:52.439 And repeated reminders of why it is all worthwhile. 00:01:52.439 --> 00:02:02.280 Tonight, I want to start with a bit of a refresher of the three big pictures that we've looked at in the last couple of chapters. 00:02:02.280 --> 00:02:10.080 Then in the first few verses of our passage, we'll see three ways that we should live in light of this. 00:02:11.280 --> 00:02:16.539 And then at the end of the passage, we'll see three ways of reacting towards God. 00:02:17.539 --> 00:02:18.800 So three pictures. 00:02:19.680 --> 00:02:20.599 Three ways to live. 00:02:21.139 --> 00:02:22.479 Three reactions to God. 00:02:23.319 --> 00:02:24.979 Nine points to get through in half an hour. 00:02:25.539 --> 00:02:27.340 So we'd better get in there. 00:02:27.340 --> 00:02:34.900 I think it's important for us to set tonight's passage in the context. 00:02:36.340 --> 00:02:39.879 If we're to not misunderstand some of the things that are said, 00:02:40.520 --> 00:02:44.439 we need to see the links with what has gone before. 00:02:46.300 --> 00:02:50.219 Back in chapter 11 and into the beginning of chapter 12, 00:02:50.680 --> 00:02:54.480 we saw the picture of a great cloud of witnesses. 00:02:55.159 --> 00:02:57.280 Of the people who have gone before us. 00:02:57.340 --> 00:03:01.219 The people who can testify to God's faithfulness. 00:03:02.360 --> 00:03:10.740 And a repeated feature throughout this chapter is how they refused to accept the best that this world could offer to them. 00:03:11.159 --> 00:03:14.080 Because they had a far greater hope. 00:03:15.159 --> 00:03:20.939 They were willing to endure rejection, ridicule, and even death. 00:03:20.939 --> 00:03:25.780 Because they knew that God was faithful to his promises. 00:03:25.780 --> 00:03:31.920 And then at the beginning of chapter 12, we saw this image of a race. 00:03:32.740 --> 00:03:36.800 We were encouraged to get rid of the things that were holding us back. 00:03:37.259 --> 00:03:39.800 We were encouraged to run with endurance. 00:03:40.659 --> 00:03:45.539 To keep running despite how long and hard the race is. 00:03:45.539 --> 00:03:49.979 And we were encouraged to fix our eyes on Jesus. 00:03:49.979 --> 00:03:54.500 Who had run the race before us as our example. 00:03:55.139 --> 00:03:58.019 But also had opened up the way for us. 00:03:58.539 --> 00:04:01.579 And ultimately is the goal of the race. 00:04:01.580 --> 00:04:12.760 And then last week, we continued in chapter 12 with the picture of a loving father disciplining his son. 00:04:12.759 --> 00:04:20.800 We were reminded that we do not suffer because God does not love us and does not care for us. 00:04:21.759 --> 00:04:29.379 But rather we suffer because he loves us so much that he is unwilling to leave us as we are. 00:04:30.240 --> 00:04:32.959 But is working in us to transform us. 00:04:33.180 --> 00:04:35.099 To make us who we are meant to be. 00:04:35.100 --> 00:04:37.879 We were encouraged to endure. 00:04:38.780 --> 00:04:41.879 Because suffering does not last forever. 00:04:42.960 --> 00:04:46.000 And God is working for our good. 00:04:47.879 --> 00:04:51.960 All of these pictures are about motivating us for the long haul. 00:04:53.100 --> 00:04:56.540 Motivating us so that we will endure trials and difficulties. 00:04:57.260 --> 00:05:01.860 So that we will keep going because we have such a great hope. 00:05:01.860 --> 00:05:04.819 As we were reminded this morning. 00:05:05.879 --> 00:05:08.759 The key to living faithfully in the present. 00:05:09.319 --> 00:05:12.180 Is thinking clearly about the future. 00:05:14.800 --> 00:05:16.699 So as we turn to our passage. 00:05:17.220 --> 00:05:18.040 To verse 12. 00:05:18.900 --> 00:05:22.480 We see the first of the three ways of how we should live. 00:05:24.819 --> 00:05:26.500 We're told therefore. 00:05:27.860 --> 00:05:28.780 Because of. 00:05:29.139 --> 00:05:31.480 In light of these things that you have just heard about. 00:05:31.480 --> 00:05:34.520 In light of these big pictures. 00:05:36.879 --> 00:05:38.680 Strengthen your feeble arms. 00:05:39.340 --> 00:05:40.080 And weak knees. 00:05:42.180 --> 00:05:44.740 This might be seen as insensitive. 00:05:45.939 --> 00:05:46.840 Just try harder. 00:05:47.420 --> 00:05:48.140 Just do better. 00:05:49.759 --> 00:05:51.640 If it wasn't for the context. 00:05:53.220 --> 00:05:55.400 Because we're told to do all of this. 00:05:55.819 --> 00:05:56.560 In light. 00:05:57.340 --> 00:05:59.340 Of the encouragement to endure. 00:05:59.339 --> 00:06:02.659 We're told to do it in light of being reminded. 00:06:02.659 --> 00:06:05.060 That the hardship that we're going through. 00:06:05.060 --> 00:06:06.399 Is for our benefit. 00:06:07.699 --> 00:06:08.979 And so we're told. 00:06:09.439 --> 00:06:10.159 Don't give up. 00:06:11.500 --> 00:06:13.919 Gather what little strength you have together. 00:06:14.120 --> 00:06:14.739 And push on. 00:06:15.439 --> 00:06:16.219 Another step. 00:06:17.399 --> 00:06:18.079 And then another. 00:06:19.699 --> 00:06:21.399 As Ian White used to sing. 00:06:21.399 --> 00:06:23.319 You've got to keep on. 00:06:23.319 --> 00:06:23.839 Keep on. 00:06:23.839 --> 00:06:24.039 Keep on. 00:06:24.319 --> 00:06:24.839 Keeping on. 00:06:26.759 --> 00:06:29.599 And that's why we were reminded back in chapter 10. 00:06:30.159 --> 00:06:31.500 To spur one another on. 00:06:33.359 --> 00:06:35.159 One of our directors at work. 00:06:35.479 --> 00:06:37.419 A Christian who goes to Curbbers. 00:06:38.079 --> 00:06:39.939 Shared something with me during the week. 00:06:39.939 --> 00:06:43.139 He's been working with a business coach. 00:06:43.759 --> 00:06:44.879 For better or worse. 00:06:45.579 --> 00:06:48.339 Who was encouraging him to start the day. 00:06:49.040 --> 00:06:50.860 With self-affirmation statements. 00:06:52.579 --> 00:06:55.639 And so he shared with me the list that he has pulled together. 00:06:56.600 --> 00:06:58.120 Based off Ephesians 1. 00:06:59.259 --> 00:07:01.379 God is my father. 00:07:02.379 --> 00:07:06.040 I was chosen to be his before God said let there be light. 00:07:06.040 --> 00:07:09.280 I am holy and blameless in his sight. 00:07:09.939 --> 00:07:12.900 God's blessings are a result of his love for me. 00:07:13.720 --> 00:07:14.600 And so on. 00:07:14.920 --> 00:07:16.900 I think he had 16 points in total. 00:07:18.100 --> 00:07:20.860 Not quite sure that that's what the coach was thinking of. 00:07:22.340 --> 00:07:23.860 But if we intend to stand. 00:07:24.740 --> 00:07:25.960 If we intend to run. 00:07:26.420 --> 00:07:28.340 We must remind ourselves. 00:07:29.020 --> 00:07:29.759 And each other. 00:07:30.300 --> 00:07:31.700 Again and again. 00:07:32.040 --> 00:07:32.879 Of these truths. 00:07:32.879 --> 00:07:36.079 But secondly. 00:07:36.659 --> 00:07:38.120 We're called in verse 13. 00:07:39.040 --> 00:07:40.500 To make level paths. 00:07:40.800 --> 00:07:41.620 For our feet. 00:07:43.560 --> 00:07:45.579 This seems to be a quote from. 00:07:46.300 --> 00:07:47.360 Proverbs 4. 00:07:47.759 --> 00:07:48.259 26. 00:07:49.000 --> 00:07:52.259 Which gets translated in quite a wide variety of ways. 00:07:52.420 --> 00:07:55.180 But commonly something along the lines of. 00:07:55.819 --> 00:07:56.980 Give careful thought. 00:07:57.839 --> 00:07:58.680 Or ponder. 00:07:59.159 --> 00:08:00.420 The path of your feet. 00:08:00.420 --> 00:08:05.240 We're being called here to think about our path. 00:08:05.819 --> 00:08:07.379 To think about our choices. 00:08:07.900 --> 00:08:09.500 The way that we choose to live. 00:08:10.780 --> 00:08:12.360 And to choose to walk. 00:08:12.879 --> 00:08:14.360 A careful path. 00:08:16.040 --> 00:08:18.680 It would be foolish for us to choose to walk. 00:08:18.900 --> 00:08:19.939 On a precarious. 00:08:20.340 --> 00:08:21.319 I say path. 00:08:21.400 --> 00:08:22.680 On the edge of a precipice. 00:08:22.680 --> 00:08:25.600 Or foolish for us to. 00:08:26.340 --> 00:08:27.300 Wander through. 00:08:28.300 --> 00:08:29.420 A dark alley. 00:08:29.780 --> 00:08:30.959 In the middle of the night. 00:08:31.220 --> 00:08:31.560 Alone. 00:08:33.740 --> 00:08:35.840 But I think what's very significant. 00:08:36.440 --> 00:08:38.039 Is the second half of the verse. 00:08:39.200 --> 00:08:39.899 Where we're given. 00:08:40.560 --> 00:08:41.500 The reason why. 00:08:43.200 --> 00:08:44.580 So that the lame. 00:08:44.580 --> 00:08:45.820 May not be disabled. 00:08:46.960 --> 00:08:48.379 But rather healed. 00:08:48.379 --> 00:08:52.620 These are slightly confusing words. 00:08:53.779 --> 00:08:55.080 But I think. 00:08:55.480 --> 00:08:56.759 This is basically saying. 00:08:57.600 --> 00:08:58.980 Because you're weak. 00:08:59.460 --> 00:09:00.059 And broken. 00:09:00.539 --> 00:09:01.100 And hurting. 00:09:03.840 --> 00:09:05.279 We must recognize. 00:09:06.299 --> 00:09:07.919 That while still in this life. 00:09:08.480 --> 00:09:09.320 We are. 00:09:09.860 --> 00:09:09.919 We are. 00:09:09.919 --> 00:09:09.980 We are. 00:09:09.980 --> 00:09:10.100 We are weak. 00:09:11.559 --> 00:09:13.799 It would not be sensible for us. 00:09:14.539 --> 00:09:15.539 To attempt a marathon. 00:09:16.080 --> 00:09:17.179 With our leg in plaster. 00:09:17.179 --> 00:09:19.559 Or to climb a Monroe. 00:09:20.399 --> 00:09:21.419 With blistered feet. 00:09:23.500 --> 00:09:25.659 But what does this mean for us in practice? 00:09:27.659 --> 00:09:28.500 I don't know. 00:09:29.979 --> 00:09:31.000 Maybe it means. 00:09:31.599 --> 00:09:33.019 That we're careful to choose. 00:09:33.679 --> 00:09:35.639 To live where there is a good church nearby. 00:09:37.419 --> 00:09:39.000 Maybe it means that we're careful. 00:09:39.500 --> 00:09:40.919 Not to accept a promotion. 00:09:41.359 --> 00:09:42.659 That will consume all. 00:09:43.039 --> 00:09:44.139 Our time and energy. 00:09:45.539 --> 00:09:46.419 Maybe it means. 00:09:46.559 --> 00:09:47.079 Being careful. 00:09:47.179 --> 00:09:48.879 How we spend our leisure time. 00:09:49.500 --> 00:09:50.699 And who we spend it with. 00:09:51.500 --> 00:09:52.379 Being careful. 00:09:53.019 --> 00:09:54.199 About what books. 00:09:54.679 --> 00:09:55.199 Films. 00:09:55.399 --> 00:09:56.139 Or other media. 00:09:56.279 --> 00:09:57.779 We choose to fill our minds with. 00:10:01.659 --> 00:10:02.099 But. 00:10:02.379 --> 00:10:03.699 We have to be careful. 00:10:04.659 --> 00:10:05.519 About this. 00:10:06.819 --> 00:10:07.319 Yes. 00:10:07.319 --> 00:10:08.620 We are called to be careful. 00:10:09.000 --> 00:10:10.359 About the choices we make. 00:10:10.939 --> 00:10:12.240 To recognize our weakness. 00:10:13.139 --> 00:10:14.500 And to flee temptation. 00:10:14.500 --> 00:10:16.639 Rather than flirt with it. 00:10:16.639 --> 00:10:16.659 Rather than flirt with it. 00:10:19.379 --> 00:10:19.960 But. 00:10:20.340 --> 00:10:21.840 The easy answer. 00:10:23.139 --> 00:10:24.980 Is to shut ourselves off. 00:10:25.519 --> 00:10:26.480 From everything. 00:10:26.840 --> 00:10:28.139 In the world around us. 00:10:28.820 --> 00:10:30.899 And all the challenges that that brings. 00:10:32.019 --> 00:10:35.259 To live lives of splendid monastic isolation. 00:10:35.259 --> 00:10:36.259 To be careful. 00:10:36.259 --> 00:10:37.259 To be careful. 00:10:37.259 --> 00:10:39.740 At many times in the history of the church. 00:10:39.899 --> 00:10:40.519 That has. 00:10:41.039 --> 00:10:41.559 Been seen. 00:10:41.980 --> 00:10:42.939 As the right thing to do. 00:10:44.220 --> 00:10:45.399 I remember once. 00:10:45.620 --> 00:10:46.379 Several years ago. 00:10:47.139 --> 00:10:48.120 Through in room three. 00:10:48.580 --> 00:10:49.220 Paul Johnson. 00:10:49.360 --> 00:10:50.220 Leading a discussion. 00:10:50.860 --> 00:10:51.860 On the subject of. 00:10:52.360 --> 00:10:52.899 The Christian. 00:10:53.159 --> 00:10:53.840 And entertainment. 00:10:53.840 --> 00:10:54.040 Environment. 00:10:55.800 --> 00:10:56.600 And he said. 00:10:56.680 --> 00:10:57.100 That for him. 00:10:57.220 --> 00:10:57.780 Growing up. 00:10:58.139 --> 00:10:58.759 It was simple. 00:10:59.899 --> 00:11:00.960 The answer was no. 00:11:03.379 --> 00:11:04.280 And for many. 00:11:04.440 --> 00:11:04.660 That. 00:11:05.259 --> 00:11:06.560 Was the simple answer. 00:11:07.860 --> 00:11:08.660 The cinema. 00:11:09.080 --> 00:11:09.519 The pub. 00:11:09.759 --> 00:11:10.460 The stadium. 00:11:11.080 --> 00:11:12.220 Were all off limits. 00:11:13.379 --> 00:11:14.180 The TV. 00:11:14.399 --> 00:11:15.540 Was not allowed in house. 00:11:16.240 --> 00:11:17.600 And the only reading material. 00:11:18.100 --> 00:11:18.780 Was the Bible. 00:11:19.400 --> 00:11:20.340 Christian commentaries. 00:11:20.420 --> 00:11:21.160 And biographies. 00:11:21.159 --> 00:11:24.079 And there is. 00:11:24.299 --> 00:11:25.000 Most definitely. 00:11:25.419 --> 00:11:26.439 A certain wisdom. 00:11:27.019 --> 00:11:27.839 In that path. 00:11:29.120 --> 00:11:30.199 And for some of you. 00:11:30.299 --> 00:11:31.259 That may be the path. 00:11:31.600 --> 00:11:32.799 That you choose to follow. 00:11:34.120 --> 00:11:35.699 Because many of these things. 00:11:35.919 --> 00:11:36.719 Are seductive. 00:11:37.679 --> 00:11:39.000 They can lead us astray. 00:11:39.339 --> 00:11:40.199 In our thoughts. 00:11:41.019 --> 00:11:41.699 And ultimately. 00:11:41.879 --> 00:11:42.480 In our actions. 00:11:44.759 --> 00:11:45.500 But yet. 00:11:45.579 --> 00:11:47.019 Jesus prays in the upper room. 00:11:47.199 --> 00:11:47.480 Saying. 00:11:48.059 --> 00:11:49.079 My prayer is not. 00:11:49.179 --> 00:11:50.279 That you take them out. 00:11:50.500 --> 00:11:51.139 Of the world. 00:11:51.159 --> 00:11:53.839 But that you protect them. 00:11:54.199 --> 00:11:55.000 From the evil one. 00:11:55.879 --> 00:11:57.039 He calls us to not. 00:11:57.139 --> 00:11:58.019 Hide our light. 00:11:58.639 --> 00:11:59.379 Under our bowl. 00:12:01.039 --> 00:12:02.059 When we recently. 00:12:02.059 --> 00:12:03.480 Studied Paul's ministry. 00:12:04.139 --> 00:12:05.219 In the book of Acts. 00:12:05.740 --> 00:12:06.339 One thing. 00:12:06.439 --> 00:12:07.439 That was really clear. 00:12:07.559 --> 00:12:07.899 To me. 00:12:08.740 --> 00:12:09.659 Was how much. 00:12:09.740 --> 00:12:10.199 He knew. 00:12:10.600 --> 00:12:11.299 And understood. 00:12:11.819 --> 00:12:12.379 The cultures. 00:12:12.500 --> 00:12:13.319 He was speaking to. 00:12:14.179 --> 00:12:14.819 He quoted. 00:12:15.039 --> 00:12:16.199 Their poets. 00:12:16.899 --> 00:12:17.759 He responded. 00:12:17.759 --> 00:12:19.240 To their philosophers. 00:12:19.240 --> 00:12:20.500 I certainly. 00:12:20.500 --> 00:12:22.840 I certainly. 00:12:22.840 --> 00:12:23.159 Know. 00:12:23.159 --> 00:12:23.940 That the closest. 00:12:24.159 --> 00:12:25.259 I ever get. 00:12:25.259 --> 00:12:26.120 To deep. 00:12:26.240 --> 00:12:26.680 Meaningful. 00:12:26.680 --> 00:12:27.419 Conversations. 00:12:27.620 --> 00:12:29.120 With my work colleagues. 00:12:29.460 --> 00:12:30.519 Is in the pub. 00:12:31.639 --> 00:12:32.980 In that environment. 00:12:32.980 --> 00:12:33.980 They are relaxed. 00:12:34.500 --> 00:12:35.279 And willing. 00:12:35.279 --> 00:12:35.879 To talk. 00:12:36.279 --> 00:12:36.860 In a way. 00:12:37.019 --> 00:12:37.779 That they wouldn't. 00:12:38.019 --> 00:12:39.000 At any other time. 00:12:39.000 --> 00:12:42.779 But for some. 00:12:43.740 --> 00:12:44.840 Depending on their particular. 00:12:45.480 --> 00:12:46.399 Areas of weakness. 00:12:46.559 --> 00:12:47.259 That would not. 00:12:47.779 --> 00:12:48.659 Be a wise path. 00:12:48.759 --> 00:12:49.159 To take. 00:12:50.159 --> 00:12:51.019 Which is why. 00:12:51.120 --> 00:12:52.080 We have to be careful. 00:12:52.080 --> 00:12:52.519 Here. 00:12:53.080 --> 00:12:53.919 Not to try. 00:12:53.980 --> 00:12:54.700 And put rules. 00:12:55.100 --> 00:12:55.700 Where scripture. 00:12:55.820 --> 00:12:56.259 Is silent. 00:12:57.600 --> 00:12:58.740 But we must tread. 00:12:58.860 --> 00:12:59.340 Carefully. 00:13:00.179 --> 00:13:01.779 And not be foolhardy. 00:13:04.220 --> 00:13:05.440 And then thirdly. 00:13:06.220 --> 00:13:07.539 In verse 14. 00:13:07.539 --> 00:13:09.539 We are told. 00:13:10.000 --> 00:13:10.439 To make. 00:13:10.539 --> 00:13:11.299 Every effort. 00:13:11.879 --> 00:13:12.939 To live in peace. 00:13:12.939 --> 00:13:13.679 With everyone. 00:13:14.240 --> 00:13:15.039 And to be holy. 00:13:16.179 --> 00:13:17.360 Without holiness. 00:13:18.039 --> 00:13:18.559 No one. 00:13:18.719 --> 00:13:19.719 Will see the Lord. 00:13:21.879 --> 00:13:22.699 Once again. 00:13:22.779 --> 00:13:23.339 This seems like. 00:13:23.439 --> 00:13:24.059 An impossible. 00:13:24.519 --> 00:13:24.959 Demand. 00:13:25.919 --> 00:13:26.759 We are being told. 00:13:26.860 --> 00:13:27.360 To strive. 00:13:27.480 --> 00:13:27.959 For something. 00:13:28.059 --> 00:13:28.599 That we know. 00:13:28.799 --> 00:13:29.980 We cannot achieve. 00:13:31.099 --> 00:13:32.339 With the added threat. 00:13:32.439 --> 00:13:33.360 That if we do not achieve. 00:13:33.399 --> 00:13:33.879 The impossible. 00:13:34.480 --> 00:13:35.879 We will not see God. 00:13:35.879 --> 00:13:35.960 God. 00:13:37.580 --> 00:13:39.100 If this is all there is. 00:13:40.139 --> 00:13:40.919 Then Christianity. 00:13:40.919 --> 00:13:41.860 Is a sick joke. 00:13:44.320 --> 00:13:45.240 But again. 00:13:45.480 --> 00:13:46.820 We need to look back. 00:13:47.019 --> 00:13:48.220 At what has gone before. 00:13:49.840 --> 00:13:51.500 In verses 10 and 11. 00:13:51.700 --> 00:13:52.220 We read. 00:13:53.299 --> 00:13:54.399 God disciplines us. 00:13:54.500 --> 00:13:55.220 For our good. 00:13:55.860 --> 00:13:57.200 In order that we may. 00:13:57.399 --> 00:13:58.779 Share in his holiness. 00:14:00.279 --> 00:14:01.159 No discipline. 00:14:01.159 --> 00:14:01.960 Seems pleasant. 00:14:01.960 --> 00:14:02.659 At the time. 00:14:02.740 --> 00:14:03.379 But painful. 00:14:03.379 --> 00:14:04.840 Later on. 00:14:04.919 --> 00:14:05.240 However. 00:14:05.240 --> 00:14:05.840 It produces. 00:14:05.840 --> 00:14:07.139 A harvest. 00:14:07.139 --> 00:14:07.980 Of righteousness. 00:14:07.980 --> 00:14:08.779 And peace. 00:14:09.120 --> 00:14:10.100 For those. 00:14:10.299 --> 00:14:10.919 Who have been trained. 00:14:10.919 --> 00:14:11.480 By it. 00:14:13.179 --> 00:14:14.439 Do you see the link? 00:14:15.480 --> 00:14:16.659 What were the things. 00:14:16.659 --> 00:14:17.279 That God. 00:14:17.419 --> 00:14:18.700 Was working in us. 00:14:18.779 --> 00:14:19.320 To achieve. 00:14:20.379 --> 00:14:21.019 Holiness. 00:14:21.580 --> 00:14:22.220 Righteousness. 00:14:22.340 --> 00:14:22.960 And peace. 00:14:24.120 --> 00:14:25.299 And what are the things. 00:14:25.399 --> 00:14:25.820 We are told. 00:14:25.939 --> 00:14:26.700 To make every effort. 00:14:26.779 --> 00:14:27.240 Towards. 00:14:27.759 --> 00:14:28.120 Peace. 00:14:28.639 --> 00:14:29.220 And holiness. 00:14:29.220 --> 00:14:31.860 We are not being asked. 00:14:31.860 --> 00:14:32.720 To do anything. 00:14:33.139 --> 00:14:34.139 In our own strength. 00:14:35.440 --> 00:14:36.540 We are being called. 00:14:36.759 --> 00:14:37.160 Yes. 00:14:37.440 --> 00:14:38.680 To radical transformation. 00:14:39.259 --> 00:14:40.060 In our lives. 00:14:41.300 --> 00:14:42.420 And how we relate. 00:14:42.519 --> 00:14:43.180 To one another. 00:14:43.800 --> 00:14:44.639 To seek peace. 00:14:46.139 --> 00:14:47.139 And how we relate. 00:14:47.220 --> 00:14:47.720 To God. 00:14:48.080 --> 00:14:48.940 To seek holiness. 00:14:50.540 --> 00:14:51.980 But we are not being asked. 00:14:52.060 --> 00:14:52.460 To do it. 00:14:52.519 --> 00:14:53.379 In our own strength. 00:14:54.379 --> 00:14:55.200 We are being asked. 00:14:55.200 --> 00:14:55.720 To do it. 00:14:55.800 --> 00:14:56.480 In the strength. 00:14:56.480 --> 00:14:58.139 That God will give us. 00:14:58.580 --> 00:14:59.700 As he works in. 00:15:00.320 --> 00:15:01.159 And through us. 00:15:04.279 --> 00:15:05.159 And so. 00:15:05.440 --> 00:15:06.920 As we come to the second half. 00:15:06.920 --> 00:15:07.659 Of our passage. 00:15:08.620 --> 00:15:09.480 We see. 00:15:10.120 --> 00:15:11.519 Three different reactions. 00:15:12.240 --> 00:15:13.220 That people have. 00:15:13.620 --> 00:15:14.420 Towards God. 00:15:16.620 --> 00:15:17.220 Firstly. 00:15:17.480 --> 00:15:17.899 In verses. 00:15:18.200 --> 00:15:18.639 18. 00:15:18.639 --> 00:15:19.580 To 21. 00:15:20.360 --> 00:15:21.560 We see a reaction. 00:15:22.060 --> 00:15:22.740 Of terror. 00:15:24.659 --> 00:15:25.580 The picture. 00:15:25.580 --> 00:15:26.560 We are shown here. 00:15:26.759 --> 00:15:27.680 Is a Mount Sinai. 00:15:29.139 --> 00:15:29.860 The Israelites. 00:15:30.060 --> 00:15:30.900 Have left Egypt. 00:15:31.360 --> 00:15:32.120 And have camped. 00:15:32.160 --> 00:15:32.800 In the desert. 00:15:33.120 --> 00:15:34.320 At the base of Sinai. 00:15:35.879 --> 00:15:37.139 And when they are there. 00:15:37.420 --> 00:15:38.300 God comes down. 00:15:38.400 --> 00:15:38.980 On the mountain. 00:15:39.440 --> 00:15:40.400 To give them the law. 00:15:42.780 --> 00:15:44.040 And as he reveals. 00:15:44.040 --> 00:15:44.759 His presence. 00:15:44.759 --> 00:15:45.460 On the mountain. 00:15:45.780 --> 00:15:46.820 With clouds. 00:15:46.820 --> 00:15:47.740 And thunder. 00:15:47.740 --> 00:15:48.780 And fire. 00:15:49.180 --> 00:15:49.960 And trumpets. 00:15:50.780 --> 00:15:51.600 The people see. 00:15:51.740 --> 00:15:52.280 The power. 00:15:52.759 --> 00:15:53.500 And majesty. 00:15:53.840 --> 00:15:54.440 And holiness. 00:15:54.440 --> 00:15:55.080 Of God. 00:15:55.160 --> 00:15:56.440 And they are. 00:15:56.840 --> 00:15:57.400 Terrified. 00:15:58.660 --> 00:15:59.720 They beg. 00:15:59.720 --> 00:16:00.480 For God. 00:16:00.560 --> 00:16:01.500 Not to speak. 00:16:01.620 --> 00:16:02.560 Directly to them. 00:16:03.220 --> 00:16:04.180 But only to speak. 00:16:04.320 --> 00:16:04.960 Through Moses. 00:16:07.540 --> 00:16:08.720 And ever since. 00:16:08.860 --> 00:16:09.280 The fall. 00:16:10.500 --> 00:16:11.040 That has been. 00:16:11.120 --> 00:16:12.200 The natural reaction. 00:16:12.880 --> 00:16:13.560 To seeing. 00:16:13.660 --> 00:16:14.100 In the presence. 00:16:14.100 --> 00:16:14.620 Of God. 00:16:16.220 --> 00:16:17.260 In the garden. 00:16:17.980 --> 00:16:18.880 Adam and Eve. 00:16:19.220 --> 00:16:19.480 Head. 00:16:19.980 --> 00:16:20.580 From God. 00:16:20.580 --> 00:16:22.460 Isaiah. 00:16:22.460 --> 00:16:23.220 Isaiah cried out. 00:16:23.340 --> 00:16:24.160 Woe is me. 00:16:24.440 --> 00:16:25.300 I am a man. 00:16:25.300 --> 00:16:26.379 Of unclean lips. 00:16:27.500 --> 00:16:28.360 And Peter said. 00:16:28.700 --> 00:16:29.960 Go away from me Lord. 00:16:30.259 --> 00:16:30.840 For I. 00:16:30.980 --> 00:16:32.080 Am a sinful man. 00:16:33.759 --> 00:16:34.940 It's a natural. 00:16:35.540 --> 00:16:35.980 Reaction. 00:16:36.500 --> 00:16:37.200 To an almighty. 00:16:37.920 --> 00:16:38.400 Magnificent. 00:16:38.800 --> 00:16:39.280 Perfect. 00:16:39.560 --> 00:16:40.420 Holy God. 00:16:41.300 --> 00:16:41.879 When you know. 00:16:42.020 --> 00:16:42.320 That you. 00:16:42.500 --> 00:16:42.920 Are a sinner. 00:16:44.960 --> 00:16:46.040 It's a reaction. 00:16:46.300 --> 00:16:47.100 Which makes you. 00:16:47.180 --> 00:16:47.540 Look down. 00:16:47.539 --> 00:16:47.879 On your. 00:16:48.379 --> 00:16:48.819 Bedometer. 00:16:49.259 --> 00:16:49.659 When you see. 00:16:49.699 --> 00:16:50.179 A police car. 00:16:50.279 --> 00:16:50.779 Behind you. 00:16:52.139 --> 00:16:53.059 When you immediately. 00:16:53.059 --> 00:16:53.959 See everything. 00:16:54.079 --> 00:16:54.659 That is sloppy. 00:16:54.659 --> 00:16:55.500 About your driving. 00:16:56.259 --> 00:16:56.799 That you have been. 00:16:56.879 --> 00:16:57.819 Perfectly happy with. 00:16:57.919 --> 00:16:58.679 The moment before. 00:17:01.360 --> 00:17:02.579 But this reaction. 00:17:03.039 --> 00:17:03.519 To God. 00:17:03.519 --> 00:17:04.420 Is one. 00:17:04.720 --> 00:17:05.039 That leads. 00:17:05.180 --> 00:17:05.839 To legalism. 00:17:07.139 --> 00:17:08.180 To the sort of. 00:17:08.259 --> 00:17:08.579 Religion. 00:17:08.720 --> 00:17:09.159 That is about. 00:17:09.339 --> 00:17:10.139 Trying to work. 00:17:10.299 --> 00:17:11.079 To make yourself. 00:17:11.259 --> 00:17:12.200 Acceptable to God. 00:17:13.159 --> 00:17:13.920 To doing. 00:17:14.019 --> 00:17:14.859 Hard penance. 00:17:14.960 --> 00:17:15.359 To show. 00:17:15.480 --> 00:17:16.180 Your contrition. 00:17:16.180 --> 00:17:17.680 To striving. 00:17:17.860 --> 00:17:18.539 To do good. 00:17:18.960 --> 00:17:19.720 In the hope. 00:17:20.980 --> 00:17:21.539 That it will be. 00:17:21.700 --> 00:17:22.580 Just enough. 00:17:23.539 --> 00:17:24.279 For God. 00:17:24.380 --> 00:17:24.980 To allow you. 00:17:25.060 --> 00:17:25.600 Into heaven. 00:17:28.080 --> 00:17:28.960 And I think. 00:17:28.960 --> 00:17:30.279 That's the major view. 00:17:30.920 --> 00:17:31.759 That people outside. 00:17:32.420 --> 00:17:33.440 Have of God. 00:17:34.680 --> 00:17:35.259 They think. 00:17:35.420 --> 00:17:36.240 That we believe. 00:17:36.560 --> 00:17:37.360 In an angry. 00:17:37.580 --> 00:17:38.700 And vengeful God. 00:17:39.340 --> 00:17:40.120 And that Christianity. 00:17:40.660 --> 00:17:41.759 Is about trying to. 00:17:42.120 --> 00:17:43.640 Live a good enough life. 00:17:44.180 --> 00:17:44.880 To somehow. 00:17:45.080 --> 00:17:45.720 Appease him. 00:17:46.180 --> 00:17:50.180 But we're told. 00:17:50.299 --> 00:17:51.460 In verses 22. 00:17:51.940 --> 00:17:52.680 To 24. 00:17:53.259 --> 00:17:54.460 Of a different way. 00:17:55.299 --> 00:17:56.279 Of how we. 00:17:56.420 --> 00:17:57.200 Have come to God. 00:17:58.200 --> 00:17:59.440 We have not come. 00:17:59.560 --> 00:18:00.100 In terror. 00:18:01.100 --> 00:18:02.039 But instead. 00:18:02.180 --> 00:18:02.680 In awe. 00:18:04.600 --> 00:18:05.779 Instead of Sinai. 00:18:05.960 --> 00:18:06.480 The mountain. 00:18:06.620 --> 00:18:07.380 Pictured here. 00:18:07.779 --> 00:18:08.400 Is Zion. 00:18:09.360 --> 00:18:10.480 The new Jerusalem. 00:18:11.480 --> 00:18:12.440 Our promised. 00:18:12.640 --> 00:18:12.940 Now. 00:18:13.080 --> 00:18:13.779 And not yet. 00:18:13.860 --> 00:18:14.220 Home. 00:18:14.220 --> 00:18:17.019 This also. 00:18:17.339 --> 00:18:17.980 Is a mountain. 00:18:17.980 --> 00:18:19.200 Where God's glory. 00:18:19.559 --> 00:18:20.200 Is displayed. 00:18:20.460 --> 00:18:21.380 In splendor. 00:18:22.900 --> 00:18:24.000 Instead of fear. 00:18:24.539 --> 00:18:25.620 It's a place of joy. 00:18:27.940 --> 00:18:29.319 It's a place of worship. 00:18:29.319 --> 00:18:30.600 And celebration. 00:18:31.279 --> 00:18:32.680 It's a place where the church. 00:18:32.680 --> 00:18:33.860 Is gathered together. 00:18:33.860 --> 00:18:35.860 Along with countless angels. 00:18:35.859 --> 00:18:39.319 When we read of this city. 00:18:39.319 --> 00:18:40.019 In Revelation. 00:18:40.019 --> 00:18:41.459 It is beautiful. 00:18:42.019 --> 00:18:43.219 It is glorious. 00:18:44.259 --> 00:18:46.079 The best the author can do. 00:18:46.459 --> 00:18:48.199 Is to use pictures of gold. 00:18:48.339 --> 00:18:49.299 Clear like crystal. 00:18:49.659 --> 00:18:51.019 Of precious stones. 00:18:51.240 --> 00:18:51.740 Perils. 00:18:51.879 --> 00:18:52.319 Rainbows. 00:18:52.479 --> 00:18:52.819 Rivers. 00:18:53.240 --> 00:18:54.240 Perfect proportions. 00:18:54.559 --> 00:18:55.619 Massive dimensions. 00:18:57.199 --> 00:18:59.179 Because an accurate description. 00:19:00.459 --> 00:19:01.719 Goes beyond. 00:19:01.979 --> 00:19:02.799 What our language. 00:19:02.959 --> 00:19:03.599 Or our minds. 00:19:03.599 --> 00:19:04.500 Could possibly. 00:19:04.500 --> 00:19:05.579 Comprehend. 00:19:07.199 --> 00:19:09.000 But that's not really. 00:19:09.139 --> 00:19:10.259 What's amazing about it. 00:19:12.639 --> 00:19:13.599 What's amazing. 00:19:13.599 --> 00:19:14.319 Is that here. 00:19:14.439 --> 00:19:15.519 The dwelling of God. 00:19:15.839 --> 00:19:16.699 Is with his people. 00:19:18.559 --> 00:19:19.059 Gone. 00:19:19.179 --> 00:19:20.139 Is all death. 00:19:20.599 --> 00:19:21.099 Mourning. 00:19:21.459 --> 00:19:22.019 Crying. 00:19:22.240 --> 00:19:22.819 And pain. 00:19:23.299 --> 00:19:24.799 Sin will be no more. 00:19:25.119 --> 00:19:26.699 And neither will the effects. 00:19:27.039 --> 00:19:27.839 And consequences. 00:19:27.839 --> 00:19:28.579 Of it. 00:19:28.579 --> 00:19:31.839 We will be with him. 00:19:32.759 --> 00:19:34.199 And we will be like him. 00:19:34.339 --> 00:19:35.500 For we will see him. 00:19:35.500 --> 00:19:36.639 As he is. 00:19:37.759 --> 00:19:38.939 And his job says. 00:19:39.059 --> 00:19:39.919 How our hearts. 00:19:40.059 --> 00:19:40.460 Yearn. 00:19:40.779 --> 00:19:41.500 Within us. 00:19:44.179 --> 00:19:45.220 So many people. 00:19:45.399 --> 00:19:46.319 Would look at this. 00:19:46.399 --> 00:19:46.759 And say. 00:19:47.220 --> 00:19:47.859 Ah yes. 00:19:48.019 --> 00:19:48.319 Yes. 00:19:49.319 --> 00:19:50.279 This is the God. 00:19:50.319 --> 00:19:51.139 Of the New Testament. 00:19:52.139 --> 00:19:53.019 A loving. 00:19:53.480 --> 00:19:54.299 Friendly God. 00:19:55.259 --> 00:19:56.119 Completely different. 00:19:56.119 --> 00:19:56.919 From that nasty. 00:19:57.039 --> 00:19:57.819 Judgmental God. 00:19:57.859 --> 00:19:58.500 Of the Old Testament. 00:19:58.639 --> 00:19:58.919 We want. 00:19:59.119 --> 00:20:00.180 Nothing to do with him. 00:20:01.839 --> 00:20:03.119 But that's not the case. 00:20:04.200 --> 00:20:05.919 This is the exact same God. 00:20:06.299 --> 00:20:08.099 With the exact same character. 00:20:09.099 --> 00:20:10.039 Because we're told. 00:20:10.180 --> 00:20:11.019 In verse 23. 00:20:11.539 --> 00:20:12.879 That we have come to God. 00:20:13.379 --> 00:20:14.079 The judge. 00:20:14.419 --> 00:20:14.960 Of all. 00:20:14.960 --> 00:20:18.640 So what's the difference? 00:20:19.900 --> 00:20:21.539 Why the different response? 00:20:23.920 --> 00:20:25.380 That's what verse 24. 00:20:25.579 --> 00:20:26.180 Tells us. 00:20:26.539 --> 00:20:27.019 And in fact. 00:20:27.120 --> 00:20:28.000 All the previous. 00:20:28.079 --> 00:20:28.880 Eleven chapters. 00:20:28.880 --> 00:20:29.480 Of Hebrews. 00:20:30.019 --> 00:20:31.180 You have come. 00:20:31.620 --> 00:20:32.200 To Jesus. 00:20:32.880 --> 00:20:33.799 The mediator. 00:20:34.000 --> 00:20:35.019 Of a new covenant. 00:20:36.140 --> 00:20:37.140 We have come. 00:20:37.400 --> 00:20:38.240 To the same God. 00:20:39.160 --> 00:20:40.120 But we have not come. 00:20:40.200 --> 00:20:41.319 Trying to impress him. 00:20:41.740 --> 00:20:42.400 With our own. 00:20:42.579 --> 00:20:43.140 Attempts. 00:20:43.200 --> 00:20:43.740 At righteousness. 00:20:43.740 --> 00:20:46.359 We have come. 00:20:47.019 --> 00:20:48.559 To the sprinkled blood. 00:20:49.460 --> 00:20:49.960 That speaks. 00:20:50.059 --> 00:20:51.140 A better word. 00:20:51.819 --> 00:20:52.519 Than the blood. 00:20:52.880 --> 00:20:53.480 Of Abel. 00:20:55.700 --> 00:20:56.859 Back in Genesis. 00:20:57.039 --> 00:20:57.759 Chapter 4. 00:20:58.440 --> 00:20:58.859 Cain. 00:20:59.200 --> 00:21:00.099 Killed his brother. 00:21:00.259 --> 00:21:00.579 Abel. 00:21:01.880 --> 00:21:03.400 And God says to him. 00:21:03.759 --> 00:21:04.099 Listen. 00:21:04.660 --> 00:21:05.740 Your brother's blood. 00:21:05.960 --> 00:21:07.160 Cries out to me. 00:21:07.579 --> 00:21:08.400 From the ground. 00:21:10.579 --> 00:21:11.960 What does Abel's blood. 00:21:12.099 --> 00:21:12.620 Cry out? 00:21:12.619 --> 00:21:15.179 Surely cries out for vengeance. 00:21:15.759 --> 00:21:16.739 For justice. 00:21:17.379 --> 00:21:18.939 It's the cry of the innocent. 00:21:18.939 --> 00:21:20.419 Who have been wronged. 00:21:21.699 --> 00:21:23.799 And this is not a wrong thing. 00:21:24.179 --> 00:21:24.899 To long for. 00:21:25.899 --> 00:21:28.179 If there is no justice. 00:21:29.239 --> 00:21:31.739 If evil goes unpunished forever. 00:21:31.740 --> 00:21:34.160 If there is no reckoning. 00:21:34.160 --> 00:21:35.380 If there is no reckoning. 00:21:35.380 --> 00:21:38.279 For all the atrocities carried out. 00:21:39.279 --> 00:21:40.960 And all the little hurts. 00:21:41.420 --> 00:21:41.980 And lies. 00:21:42.359 --> 00:21:42.779 And gossip. 00:21:43.079 --> 00:21:43.539 And betrayal. 00:21:44.900 --> 00:21:46.240 Then this world. 00:21:46.579 --> 00:21:48.759 Is a very unfair place to live. 00:21:49.819 --> 00:21:51.559 And the God who rules it. 00:21:52.400 --> 00:21:54.140 Cannot claim to be good. 00:21:55.940 --> 00:21:58.220 Justice must be done. 00:21:58.220 --> 00:22:00.860 But we know. 00:22:00.860 --> 00:22:02.480 That if justice is done. 00:22:03.059 --> 00:22:04.160 We are in trouble. 00:22:06.400 --> 00:22:08.460 So if that cry for justice. 00:22:08.460 --> 00:22:09.579 Is so strong. 00:22:10.339 --> 00:22:11.740 What better word. 00:22:12.779 --> 00:22:15.299 Does the blood of Jesus have. 00:22:17.579 --> 00:22:18.259 Finished. 00:22:19.420 --> 00:22:20.440 Paid for. 00:22:21.740 --> 00:22:22.360 Mine. 00:22:23.360 --> 00:22:24.900 No condemnation. 00:22:24.900 --> 00:22:27.680 That is why. 00:22:27.900 --> 00:22:28.920 We can approach. 00:22:29.360 --> 00:22:30.480 This holy God. 00:22:30.480 --> 00:22:31.360 With joy. 00:22:34.000 --> 00:22:35.400 But we must not think. 00:22:35.540 --> 00:22:36.320 That this in any way. 00:22:36.440 --> 00:22:37.259 Makes him a less. 00:22:37.540 --> 00:22:38.420 Awesome God. 00:22:39.640 --> 00:22:40.759 He is still. 00:22:41.040 --> 00:22:41.560 The God. 00:22:41.880 --> 00:22:42.500 Before whom. 00:22:42.660 --> 00:22:43.400 The living creatures. 00:22:43.580 --> 00:22:43.960 Cry out. 00:22:44.100 --> 00:22:44.460 Holy. 00:22:44.940 --> 00:22:45.380 Holy. 00:22:45.740 --> 00:22:46.120 Holy. 00:22:46.420 --> 00:22:47.259 All day long. 00:22:48.680 --> 00:22:49.420 He is still. 00:22:49.660 --> 00:22:50.640 The same God. 00:22:51.560 --> 00:22:53.040 But we have been washed. 00:22:53.039 --> 00:22:55.220 We have been sanctified. 00:22:55.819 --> 00:22:57.039 We have been justified. 00:22:57.859 --> 00:22:58.940 We have been adopted. 00:22:59.960 --> 00:23:00.960 And so we can come. 00:23:01.259 --> 00:23:02.099 Before him. 00:23:02.339 --> 00:23:03.000 With joy. 00:23:06.259 --> 00:23:07.940 But there is a third way. 00:23:08.519 --> 00:23:10.139 That we might react to God. 00:23:11.440 --> 00:23:12.559 Not in terror. 00:23:13.700 --> 00:23:14.759 Not in awe. 00:23:16.279 --> 00:23:17.899 But in indifference. 00:23:19.899 --> 00:23:21.559 If you turn back up to. 00:23:21.759 --> 00:23:22.920 Verse 16. 00:23:24.039 --> 00:23:24.899 We read. 00:23:24.899 --> 00:23:26.619 See to it. 00:23:26.659 --> 00:23:28.180 That no one is sexually immoral. 00:23:29.000 --> 00:23:30.619 Or is godless like Esau. 00:23:31.420 --> 00:23:32.879 Who for a single meal. 00:23:33.339 --> 00:23:34.940 Sold his inheritance rights. 00:23:35.460 --> 00:23:36.480 As the oldest son. 00:23:38.659 --> 00:23:39.899 There is an amazing contrast. 00:23:40.659 --> 00:23:41.299 That can be drawn. 00:23:41.440 --> 00:23:42.440 Between this verse. 00:23:42.899 --> 00:23:43.759 And verse 2. 00:23:44.819 --> 00:23:46.079 I didn't notice this. 00:23:46.339 --> 00:23:47.779 Until I read it in an article. 00:23:47.920 --> 00:23:49.440 But as soon as you see it. 00:23:49.440 --> 00:23:50.440 The parallels. 00:23:50.440 --> 00:23:51.720 The parallels and the contrast. 00:23:52.120 --> 00:23:53.640 Are so striking. 00:23:54.920 --> 00:23:56.420 Back in verse 2. 00:23:56.620 --> 00:23:57.980 We read of Jesus. 00:23:58.820 --> 00:24:01.019 Who for the joy set before him. 00:24:01.720 --> 00:24:02.860 Endured the cross. 00:24:03.860 --> 00:24:05.059 In verse 16. 00:24:05.180 --> 00:24:06.140 We read of Esau. 00:24:07.140 --> 00:24:08.360 Who for a single meal. 00:24:09.460 --> 00:24:10.440 Sold his inheritance. 00:24:11.900 --> 00:24:12.420 Jesus. 00:24:13.240 --> 00:24:15.400 Who for the joy set before him. 00:24:15.740 --> 00:24:16.960 Endured the cross. 00:24:16.960 --> 00:24:17.960 Esau. 00:24:17.960 --> 00:24:18.559 Esau. 00:24:19.180 --> 00:24:20.660 Who for a single meal. 00:24:21.620 --> 00:24:22.579 Sold his inheritance. 00:24:24.220 --> 00:24:26.100 Each person is identified. 00:24:26.680 --> 00:24:27.559 With a motivation. 00:24:28.460 --> 00:24:29.400 And an action. 00:24:29.400 --> 00:24:32.580 Jesus is looking ahead. 00:24:33.140 --> 00:24:35.960 Beyond the agony and torment of the cross. 00:24:36.640 --> 00:24:37.560 To the joy. 00:24:38.120 --> 00:24:39.060 Not just. 00:24:39.440 --> 00:24:41.340 Of being back at his father's side. 00:24:41.560 --> 00:24:42.660 In the glories of heaven. 00:24:43.500 --> 00:24:45.000 Because that was his from the beginning. 00:24:46.000 --> 00:24:48.840 But for the joy of presenting to his father. 00:24:48.840 --> 00:24:50.600 A redeemed people. 00:24:51.600 --> 00:24:52.660 To present us. 00:24:53.120 --> 00:24:54.240 Without fault. 00:24:54.780 --> 00:24:55.900 And with great joy. 00:24:55.900 --> 00:24:59.440 As one old hymn puts it. 00:25:00.120 --> 00:25:01.540 He and I. 00:25:02.259 --> 00:25:03.480 In that bright glory. 00:25:04.340 --> 00:25:06.480 One deep joy shall share. 00:25:07.660 --> 00:25:08.080 Mine. 00:25:08.720 --> 00:25:10.500 To be forever with him. 00:25:11.120 --> 00:25:11.500 His. 00:25:12.019 --> 00:25:12.800 That I. 00:25:13.060 --> 00:25:13.620 Am there. 00:25:15.540 --> 00:25:18.000 With that glorious vision before him. 00:25:18.380 --> 00:25:19.420 He endures. 00:25:19.740 --> 00:25:22.100 The excruciating pain of the cross. 00:25:22.099 --> 00:25:24.659 He endures the horror of my sin. 00:25:24.879 --> 00:25:25.699 And of yours. 00:25:26.419 --> 00:25:27.859 He endures the agony. 00:25:28.119 --> 00:25:30.019 Of separation from his father. 00:25:30.779 --> 00:25:33.559 Because the motivation was so glorious. 00:25:34.119 --> 00:25:35.819 And so compelling. 00:25:37.879 --> 00:25:40.059 And so the difference with Esau's story. 00:25:41.039 --> 00:25:41.679 Is shocking. 00:25:43.659 --> 00:25:45.879 He'd been out in the open country. 00:25:46.599 --> 00:25:47.480 Probably hunting. 00:25:47.480 --> 00:25:51.339 He comes back starving and exhausted. 00:25:52.120 --> 00:25:53.519 And he wanted a bowl. 00:25:53.860 --> 00:25:55.000 Of Jacob's stew. 00:25:55.559 --> 00:25:56.319 So much. 00:25:56.720 --> 00:25:58.660 That he was willing to sell his inheritance. 00:26:00.880 --> 00:26:02.460 As the first born son. 00:26:02.880 --> 00:26:05.259 He probably stood to inherit a double portion. 00:26:05.920 --> 00:26:07.460 Of all of his father's wealth. 00:26:08.819 --> 00:26:11.420 But he stood to inherit far more than just goods. 00:26:11.420 --> 00:26:14.600 Because Esau was not just the son. 00:26:14.920 --> 00:26:17.300 Of any random nomadic herdsman. 00:26:17.400 --> 00:26:19.200 Growing up in Bronze Age Canaan. 00:26:20.640 --> 00:26:22.519 His father was Isaac. 00:26:23.759 --> 00:26:25.480 His grandfather was Abraham. 00:26:26.720 --> 00:26:28.039 And if you remember back. 00:26:28.200 --> 00:26:29.500 God had made covenants. 00:26:29.820 --> 00:26:31.680 With Abraham and Isaac. 00:26:32.380 --> 00:26:33.539 God had promised. 00:26:33.800 --> 00:26:35.840 To make them into a great nation. 00:26:36.800 --> 00:26:38.160 To give them descendants. 00:26:38.360 --> 00:26:39.460 That could not be counted. 00:26:39.460 --> 00:26:42.720 He promised to give them a wonderful land. 00:26:43.160 --> 00:26:43.779 To live in. 00:26:44.759 --> 00:26:46.180 And more than all of those. 00:26:46.759 --> 00:26:48.640 He had promised that he would bless them. 00:26:49.200 --> 00:26:51.400 And bless all nations through them. 00:26:53.640 --> 00:26:54.200 Ultimately. 00:26:54.759 --> 00:26:57.079 Although they could not have imagined it at the time. 00:26:57.680 --> 00:26:59.240 These promises would lead. 00:26:59.680 --> 00:27:00.660 To the birth of Jesus. 00:27:02.680 --> 00:27:04.819 But as we read a couple of weeks ago. 00:27:05.299 --> 00:27:07.000 Looking forward to these promises. 00:27:07.000 --> 00:27:08.140 Was what shaped. 00:27:08.140 --> 00:27:11.820 And defined the lives of Abraham and Isaac. 00:27:13.800 --> 00:27:15.680 These were not promises given. 00:27:16.220 --> 00:27:17.940 To someone in the distant past. 00:27:19.360 --> 00:27:20.960 Abraham would still have been around. 00:27:21.420 --> 00:27:22.780 When Esau was growing up. 00:27:23.500 --> 00:27:25.600 He must have heard about these promises. 00:27:26.140 --> 00:27:27.340 Countless times. 00:27:28.940 --> 00:27:30.440 He would have been told. 00:27:31.620 --> 00:27:32.820 Esau my son. 00:27:32.819 --> 00:27:34.639 One day. 00:27:34.639 --> 00:27:36.740 You will be the head of this family. 00:27:37.639 --> 00:27:39.119 It will be through you. 00:27:39.399 --> 00:27:40.399 And your children. 00:27:40.799 --> 00:27:42.599 That God will do all these things. 00:27:44.759 --> 00:27:47.740 I don't know whether he had placed any value. 00:27:48.099 --> 00:27:49.379 On these things before. 00:27:50.539 --> 00:27:51.919 But at that moment. 00:27:51.920 --> 00:27:53.740 He could only see. 00:27:53.740 --> 00:27:54.980 He could only see as far. 00:27:54.980 --> 00:27:56.600 As his present needs. 00:27:56.600 --> 00:27:57.720 And desires. 00:27:59.460 --> 00:28:01.580 He was so desperate. 00:28:02.019 --> 00:28:03.720 For that bowl of stew. 00:28:05.000 --> 00:28:06.039 But in comparison. 00:28:06.560 --> 00:28:08.259 With his immediate hunger. 00:28:08.880 --> 00:28:10.480 Which will be gone in a few minutes. 00:28:11.360 --> 00:28:12.380 He considered. 00:28:12.880 --> 00:28:13.960 The promises of God. 00:28:14.380 --> 00:28:15.700 To be inconsequential. 00:28:15.700 --> 00:28:17.880 And so. 00:28:18.340 --> 00:28:19.460 He sold his inheritance. 00:28:20.299 --> 00:28:22.100 For a single meal. 00:28:24.980 --> 00:28:26.019 So why. 00:28:26.440 --> 00:28:28.180 Is sexual immorality brought up here? 00:28:29.860 --> 00:28:31.559 What has it got to do with Esau? 00:28:32.480 --> 00:28:33.340 It's not something. 00:28:33.940 --> 00:28:34.740 He's particularly. 00:28:35.200 --> 00:28:35.840 Renowned for. 00:28:36.860 --> 00:28:38.440 Why is it being singled out. 00:28:38.759 --> 00:28:40.100 From all other sins? 00:28:42.799 --> 00:28:43.779 I think. 00:28:44.319 --> 00:28:45.059 The link is. 00:28:45.059 --> 00:28:46.740 That like with Esau. 00:28:47.899 --> 00:28:48.960 Sexual sin. 00:28:49.220 --> 00:28:50.159 Is all about. 00:28:50.460 --> 00:28:51.559 What we would be willing. 00:28:51.679 --> 00:28:52.319 To sacrifice. 00:28:53.039 --> 00:28:54.399 For just a few minutes. 00:28:54.539 --> 00:28:55.099 Of pleasure. 00:28:56.419 --> 00:28:57.619 However ecstatic. 00:28:57.759 --> 00:28:58.919 Those minutes might be. 00:29:00.059 --> 00:29:00.980 Like Esau. 00:29:01.440 --> 00:29:02.059 Is about. 00:29:02.299 --> 00:29:03.319 Looking only. 00:29:03.779 --> 00:29:04.279 As far. 00:29:04.440 --> 00:29:05.259 As the felt needs. 00:29:05.379 --> 00:29:05.919 Of the moment. 00:29:07.220 --> 00:29:08.339 However overwhelming. 00:29:08.960 --> 00:29:09.639 Those needs. 00:29:10.019 --> 00:29:10.579 And desires. 00:29:10.779 --> 00:29:11.179 Might be. 00:29:13.359 --> 00:29:13.960 Failure. 00:29:13.960 --> 00:29:14.539 In this area. 00:29:14.539 --> 00:29:14.879 Has been. 00:29:14.879 --> 00:29:14.899 Has been. 00:29:14.899 --> 00:29:15.859 The downfall. 00:29:15.859 --> 00:29:16.639 Of so many. 00:29:16.639 --> 00:29:17.720 Prominent figures. 00:29:19.720 --> 00:29:20.960 When they've failed. 00:29:21.079 --> 00:29:21.799 To keep even. 00:29:21.960 --> 00:29:22.500 To the minimal. 00:29:22.680 --> 00:29:23.039 Standards. 00:29:23.159 --> 00:29:23.700 Of restraint. 00:29:23.700 --> 00:29:24.940 That the society. 00:29:24.940 --> 00:29:25.740 Around us. 00:29:26.259 --> 00:29:27.039 Would expect. 00:29:28.319 --> 00:29:29.599 All too often. 00:29:30.019 --> 00:29:30.460 Has been. 00:29:30.519 --> 00:29:31.019 The downfall. 00:29:31.099 --> 00:29:32.139 Of prominent figures. 00:29:32.539 --> 00:29:33.440 Within the church. 00:29:33.440 --> 00:29:35.720 Has been. 00:29:35.720 --> 00:29:36.160 The case. 00:29:36.360 --> 00:29:36.900 The cause. 00:29:36.900 --> 00:29:37.600 Of so many. 00:29:37.600 --> 00:29:39.160 Broken relationships. 00:29:39.820 --> 00:29:40.840 And so many. 00:29:40.940 --> 00:29:41.380 Have put it. 00:29:41.420 --> 00:29:41.840 Before. 00:29:42.259 --> 00:29:42.640 God. 00:29:44.480 --> 00:29:45.240 And it's. 00:29:45.320 --> 00:29:45.660 An area. 00:29:45.799 --> 00:29:45.980 Where. 00:29:46.420 --> 00:29:46.860 Probably. 00:29:47.279 --> 00:29:47.960 Most of us. 00:29:48.059 --> 00:29:48.360 Struggle. 00:29:49.480 --> 00:29:50.519 And many of us. 00:29:50.840 --> 00:29:51.140 Fall. 00:29:52.539 --> 00:29:52.820 Whether. 00:29:52.980 --> 00:29:53.660 With our minds. 00:29:54.360 --> 00:29:55.019 Our eyes. 00:29:55.400 --> 00:29:56.140 Or our bodies. 00:29:56.140 --> 00:29:56.220 Things. 00:29:58.300 --> 00:29:59.120 But it's not. 00:29:59.120 --> 00:29:59.460 Just. 00:29:59.460 --> 00:29:59.520 Just. 00:29:59.520 --> 00:30:00.080 Sex. 00:30:00.880 --> 00:30:01.580 That is. 00:30:01.660 --> 00:30:01.940 Just. 00:30:02.440 --> 00:30:03.160 An illustration. 00:30:03.940 --> 00:30:04.680 A representative. 00:30:05.060 --> 00:30:05.540 Example. 00:30:07.220 --> 00:30:07.740 Elsewhere. 00:30:07.820 --> 00:30:08.040 Paul. 00:30:08.140 --> 00:30:08.640 Talks about. 00:30:08.740 --> 00:30:09.020 Those. 00:30:09.280 --> 00:30:09.720 Whose God. 00:30:09.800 --> 00:30:10.400 Is their stomach. 00:30:11.580 --> 00:30:12.320 And those. 00:30:12.400 --> 00:30:12.540 Who are. 00:30:12.640 --> 00:30:12.940 Lovers. 00:30:13.020 --> 00:30:13.600 Of pleasure. 00:30:14.020 --> 00:30:14.440 Rather. 00:30:14.600 --> 00:30:14.740 Than. 00:30:14.820 --> 00:30:15.120 Lovers. 00:30:15.220 --> 00:30:15.680 Of God. 00:30:17.560 --> 00:30:18.040 Ultimately. 00:30:18.039 --> 00:30:18.519 It's all. 00:30:18.519 --> 00:30:18.879 About the. 00:30:18.879 --> 00:30:19.339 Contrast. 00:30:19.440 --> 00:30:19.859 With the people. 00:30:19.859 --> 00:30:20.399 That we read. 00:30:20.399 --> 00:30:20.639 About. 00:30:20.759 --> 00:30:21.079 Back in. 00:30:21.159 --> 00:30:21.740 Chapter 11. 00:30:23.799 --> 00:30:24.159 People. 00:30:24.440 --> 00:30:24.659 Who were. 00:30:24.740 --> 00:30:25.059 Willing. 00:30:25.159 --> 00:30:25.799 To give up. 00:30:26.220 --> 00:30:26.579 Fleeting. 00:30:26.759 --> 00:30:27.119 Pleasures. 00:30:28.039 --> 00:30:29.099 For long-term. 00:30:29.339 --> 00:30:29.720 Eternal. 00:30:29.960 --> 00:30:30.299 Hope. 00:30:31.700 --> 00:30:32.139 People. 00:30:32.279 --> 00:30:32.539 Who had been. 00:30:32.619 --> 00:30:33.019 Captured. 00:30:33.099 --> 00:30:33.680 By a vision. 00:30:33.839 --> 00:30:34.839 So grand. 00:30:34.940 --> 00:30:35.500 And compelling. 00:30:35.899 --> 00:30:36.339 That they would. 00:30:36.420 --> 00:30:36.779 Give up. 00:30:37.039 --> 00:30:37.460 Everything. 00:30:37.960 --> 00:30:38.420 For it. 00:30:40.879 --> 00:30:41.440 As C.S. 00:30:41.480 --> 00:30:41.700 Lewis. 00:30:41.819 --> 00:30:42.099 Wrote. 00:30:42.240 --> 00:30:42.539 We are. 00:30:43.139 --> 00:30:43.639 Like an. 00:30:43.639 --> 00:30:44.139 Ignorant. 00:30:44.220 --> 00:30:44.599 Child. 00:30:45.680 --> 00:30:46.200 Who wants. 00:30:46.279 --> 00:30:46.819 To go on. 00:30:46.879 --> 00:30:47.159 Making. 00:30:47.159 --> 00:30:47.940 Mud pies. 00:30:47.940 --> 00:30:48.700 In a slum. 00:30:49.420 --> 00:30:50.019 Because he. 00:30:50.019 --> 00:30:50.460 Cannot. 00:30:50.500 --> 00:30:51.080 Imagine. 00:30:51.480 --> 00:30:51.860 What is. 00:30:51.940 --> 00:30:52.240 Meant. 00:30:52.340 --> 00:30:52.600 By the. 00:30:52.600 --> 00:30:53.000 Offer. 00:30:53.340 --> 00:30:53.880 Of a holiday. 00:30:53.960 --> 00:30:54.420 At the sea. 00:30:55.400 --> 00:30:55.840 We are. 00:30:55.840 --> 00:30:56.279 Far. 00:30:56.660 --> 00:30:57.299 Too easily. 00:30:57.660 --> 00:30:58.059 Pleased. 00:30:59.559 --> 00:31:00.360 And we are. 00:31:00.799 --> 00:31:01.100 Far. 00:31:01.460 --> 00:31:02.000 Too easily. 00:31:02.180 --> 00:31:02.600 Pleased. 00:31:03.140 --> 00:31:04.000 We continually. 00:31:04.240 --> 00:31:04.519 Put our. 00:31:04.600 --> 00:31:05.059 Immediate. 00:31:05.140 --> 00:31:05.580 Comfort. 00:31:06.000 --> 00:31:06.580 And pleasure. 00:31:07.160 --> 00:31:07.559 Above. 00:31:08.279 --> 00:31:08.740 Infinitely. 00:31:09.000 --> 00:31:09.440 Greater. 00:31:09.860 --> 00:31:10.220 Future. 00:31:10.380 --> 00:31:10.660 Glory. 00:31:11.980 --> 00:31:12.960 We fail. 00:31:13.299 --> 00:31:13.799 Again. 00:31:14.220 --> 00:31:14.820 And again. 00:31:16.779 --> 00:31:17.620 But there is. 00:31:17.619 --> 00:31:17.919 Hope. 00:31:20.919 --> 00:31:21.599 As we have. 00:31:21.599 --> 00:31:21.959 Seen. 00:31:21.959 --> 00:31:22.479 Before. 00:31:23.199 --> 00:31:23.699 We come. 00:31:23.839 --> 00:31:24.199 To this. 00:31:24.279 --> 00:31:24.959 Holy God. 00:31:25.479 --> 00:31:26.019 Through the. 00:31:26.099 --> 00:31:26.619 Sprinkled. 00:31:26.799 --> 00:31:27.039 Blood. 00:31:27.179 --> 00:31:27.779 Of Christ. 00:31:28.979 --> 00:31:30.039 As James. 00:31:30.039 --> 00:31:30.759 Would write. 00:31:31.759 --> 00:31:32.459 If we. 00:31:32.459 --> 00:31:32.899 Confess. 00:31:32.959 --> 00:31:33.519 Our sins. 00:31:33.879 --> 00:31:34.319 He is. 00:31:34.399 --> 00:31:34.919 Faithful. 00:31:35.319 --> 00:31:35.899 And just. 00:31:36.379 --> 00:31:36.759 And will. 00:31:36.819 --> 00:31:37.439 Forgive us. 00:31:37.559 --> 00:31:38.119 Our sins. 00:31:38.500 --> 00:31:39.679 And purify us. 00:31:39.679 --> 00:31:40.500 From all. 00:31:41.159 --> 00:31:41.839 Unrighteousness. 00:31:41.839 --> 00:31:45.399 As one modern song. 00:31:45.500 --> 00:31:46.000 Puts it. 00:31:46.119 --> 00:31:47.459 Which we will listen to later. 00:31:48.500 --> 00:31:49.359 What patience. 00:31:49.759 --> 00:31:50.579 Would wait. 00:31:50.899 --> 00:31:52.259 As we constantly roam. 00:31:52.899 --> 00:31:53.720 What father. 00:31:53.819 --> 00:31:54.539 So tender. 00:31:54.759 --> 00:31:55.720 Is calling us home. 00:31:56.500 --> 00:31:57.240 He welcomes. 00:31:57.240 --> 00:31:58.019 The weakest. 00:31:58.679 --> 00:31:59.539 The vilest. 00:31:59.779 --> 00:32:00.500 The poor. 00:32:01.819 --> 00:32:02.639 Our sins. 00:32:03.179 --> 00:32:04.220 They are many. 00:32:05.220 --> 00:32:06.099 His mercy. 00:32:06.500 --> 00:32:07.359 Is more. 00:32:07.359 --> 00:32:10.079 Or if your tastes. 00:32:10.159 --> 00:32:11.119 Are a little bit older. 00:32:12.079 --> 00:32:12.799 My sin. 00:32:13.719 --> 00:32:14.599 Oh the bliss. 00:32:14.979 --> 00:32:16.419 Of this glorious thought. 00:32:17.359 --> 00:32:18.039 My sin. 00:32:18.139 --> 00:32:18.959 Not in part. 00:32:19.119 --> 00:32:19.759 But the whole. 00:32:20.439 --> 00:32:21.039 Is nailed. 00:32:21.339 --> 00:32:22.079 To his cross. 00:32:22.799 --> 00:32:23.799 And I bear it. 00:32:23.979 --> 00:32:25.000 No more. 00:32:25.699 --> 00:32:26.719 Praise the Lord. 00:32:27.539 --> 00:32:28.419 Praise the Lord. 00:32:29.099 --> 00:32:29.879 Oh my soul. 00:32:32.199 --> 00:32:33.859 Our time is almost done. 00:32:34.699 --> 00:32:35.659 Or probably is. 00:32:35.660 --> 00:32:38.120 But it would be wrong. 00:32:38.540 --> 00:32:39.220 To avoid. 00:32:39.759 --> 00:32:40.460 Verse 17. 00:32:42.160 --> 00:32:43.160 Where we see. 00:32:43.279 --> 00:32:43.680 Esau. 00:32:44.200 --> 00:32:44.980 Too late. 00:32:45.580 --> 00:32:46.019 Realising. 00:32:46.340 --> 00:32:47.140 What he has done. 00:32:49.380 --> 00:32:50.900 I think there are two things. 00:32:50.900 --> 00:32:52.019 That we need to note here. 00:32:53.300 --> 00:32:54.340 The first is. 00:32:54.460 --> 00:32:55.380 That at no point. 00:32:56.000 --> 00:32:57.160 Is there any sign. 00:32:57.200 --> 00:32:57.720 Of repentance. 00:32:59.000 --> 00:32:59.900 At no point. 00:32:59.980 --> 00:33:00.600 Does Esau. 00:33:00.740 --> 00:33:01.160 Acknowledge. 00:33:01.259 --> 00:33:02.080 That he has done wrong. 00:33:03.259 --> 00:33:04.200 All he wants. 00:33:04.240 --> 00:33:04.840 Is the blessing. 00:33:05.660 --> 00:33:06.279 Is the blessing. 00:33:06.279 --> 00:33:07.340 He only wants. 00:33:07.340 --> 00:33:07.840 The good. 00:33:07.840 --> 00:33:08.600 That Isaac. 00:33:08.600 --> 00:33:08.759 Is the blessing. 00:33:08.759 --> 00:33:08.800 Is the blessing. 00:33:08.800 --> 00:33:09.200 Is the blessing. 00:33:09.200 --> 00:33:09.560 Is the blessing. 00:33:09.560 --> 00:33:09.640 Is the blessing. 00:33:09.640 --> 00:33:10.200 Is the blessing. 00:33:10.200 --> 00:33:11.140 Without wanting. 00:33:11.140 --> 00:33:11.740 To repair. 00:33:11.740 --> 00:33:12.540 His relationship. 00:33:14.860 --> 00:33:16.120 The second is. 00:33:16.120 --> 00:33:17.779 That he left it too late. 00:33:19.720 --> 00:33:21.460 It's only at the end. 00:33:21.620 --> 00:33:22.759 Of Isaac's life. 00:33:23.440 --> 00:33:24.900 When the inheritance. 00:33:24.900 --> 00:33:26.620 Has already been divided up. 00:33:27.620 --> 00:33:28.960 That Esau expresses. 00:33:28.960 --> 00:33:29.940 Any desire. 00:33:30.300 --> 00:33:31.519 For what he had lost. 00:33:31.519 --> 00:33:34.240 It seems like. 00:33:34.240 --> 00:33:35.339 There was quite some time. 00:33:35.440 --> 00:33:35.900 In between. 00:33:36.700 --> 00:33:38.039 Possibly decades even. 00:33:39.400 --> 00:33:41.779 And yet Esau never thought about it. 00:33:42.139 --> 00:33:43.940 Until it was too late. 00:33:46.460 --> 00:33:47.339 Be careful. 00:33:47.480 --> 00:33:48.339 You don't leave it. 00:33:48.700 --> 00:33:49.180 Too long. 00:33:50.639 --> 00:33:52.660 You cannot respond to God. 00:33:52.720 --> 00:33:53.500 With indifference. 00:33:54.039 --> 00:33:54.359 Forever. 00:33:54.359 --> 00:33:57.199 One day. 00:33:57.199 --> 00:33:58.359 You will come before him. 00:33:58.799 --> 00:34:00.079 Either in terror. 00:34:01.279 --> 00:34:03.079 Or in joy filled awe. 00:34:03.359 --> 00:34:04.599 Because of what Christ. 00:34:04.599 --> 00:34:05.740 Has done for you. 00:34:08.199 --> 00:34:10.059 As verse 15 says. 00:34:10.380 --> 00:34:11.400 Don't miss out. 00:34:11.699 --> 00:34:12.480 On the grace. 00:34:14.000 --> 00:34:14.679 It is there. 00:34:14.819 --> 00:34:15.460 For the taking. 00:34:16.019 --> 00:34:16.779 It is free. 00:34:17.719 --> 00:34:18.659 You can share. 00:34:18.799 --> 00:34:20.000 In this glorious hope. 00:34:22.099 --> 00:34:23.199 Unlike with Jacob. 00:34:23.199 --> 00:34:23.699 And Esau. 00:34:23.699 --> 00:34:25.019 There is not just one blessing. 00:34:26.219 --> 00:34:27.759 There is more than enough. 00:34:28.039 --> 00:34:28.579 For you. 00:34:28.980 --> 00:34:29.559 And for me. 00:34:32.519 --> 00:34:33.599 And so as we think. 00:34:33.679 --> 00:34:34.559 Back to the start. 00:34:35.919 --> 00:34:37.439 And what we have lived through. 00:34:37.799 --> 00:34:39.239 Over the last six months. 00:34:41.199 --> 00:34:42.639 What is going to keep you going. 00:34:43.199 --> 00:34:44.859 For the next six months. 00:34:46.279 --> 00:34:47.719 Whatever they might bring. 00:34:49.719 --> 00:34:51.319 What about the next six years. 00:34:52.139 --> 00:34:53.639 Or the next six decades. 00:34:53.699 --> 00:34:54.000 Even. 00:34:56.119 --> 00:34:57.379 What are you living for? 00:34:57.379 --> 00:34:59.439 Are you longing. 00:34:59.439 --> 00:35:01.139 For that heavenly city? 00:35:02.079 --> 00:35:04.099 Are you striving towards it. 00:35:04.159 --> 00:35:05.559 In the strength that God gives. 00:35:06.719 --> 00:35:08.379 Or are you trying to. 00:35:08.859 --> 00:35:09.359 Get there. 00:35:09.899 --> 00:35:10.980 On your own efforts. 00:35:12.719 --> 00:35:13.980 Can you come. 00:35:14.439 --> 00:35:15.179 To that mountain. 00:35:15.179 --> 00:35:16.199 Of God's glory. 00:35:16.739 --> 00:35:17.460 With joy. 00:35:18.260 --> 00:35:19.320 Because your life. 00:35:19.320 --> 00:35:20.860 Is in Christ. 00:35:20.860 --> 00:35:21.860 Next.