Messages by Brian Martin
Pledging Allegiance…to which kingdom? A two-kingdom perspective
Allegiances in Jesus’ day were as real as we face today–same competing loyalties, just a different empire. While in the midst of mixed allegiances, Jesus asks a profound question. Consider how authentic allegiance must square with daily living. Text: Matthew 16:13-20
The church visible or invisible? A contrast and radical witness
What makes a visible witness-visible? The answer may surprise us. Early Anabaptist’s were called “radicals” as result of a faithful and visible witness. In this spiritual identity series #3, consider a key teaching of Jesus which differentiates visibility from invisibility. Text: Mathew 25:31-46
Says who? The authority of Scripture
To honor God’s Word is one thing. Inviting the Word to speak with authority to shape everyday life is quite another. In launching this series on Anabaptist identity, we begin with a foundational faith value– the authority of Scripture. Text: 2 Timothy 3:1-4:5
What’s in a Name? – Week 5 – King of Kings
The story of the wise men, who came with the question, “Where is he who has been born King of the Jews?” Who is this King? How do we see ourselves in light of who he is? What is our response to this King? Text:Matthew 2:1-12
What’s in a Name? – Week 4 – Emmanuel
The Christmas story is often romanticized and the images we hold may be far from a first century reality. A name of Christ in this story is “God with us” which carries significant meaning one must consider. Text: Matthew 1:18-25
What’s in a Name? Week 1 – The Word
ekJohn’s Gospel begins with a beautiful poetic declaration of Christ, ascribing Him the name “Word.” This is much more than flowery poetry to grace our Christmas cards. Consider the weight ascribed to the “Word” becoming flesh and making His dwelling among us. Text: John 1: 1-18
Mudpies & Millstones
Jesus continually re-centered his disciples by bringing a child into their midst. Consider the “mudpie and millstone” warning Jesus exhorts revealing His value of children and their safety. Text: Matthew 18:1-14
The Reset
How easy it is to get caught up in ourselves and totally miss the mark. As this text reveals, sometimes the Lord gently presses our reset button to reveal how far we are off. Text: Luke 19:37-41