Sermons from Ascension Lutheran Church, RPV

Scott Hawkins
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This channel will bring you the sermons from Ascension Lutheran Church in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Pastor Scott Hawkins is the pastor of the church and the regular preacher/teacher. Ascension Lutheran is an LCMC congregation who would love to see you in person on Sunday mornings at 8:30 or 10:30 am.

  1. 4h ago

    July 19, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 43

    In this week’s message, we explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah to discover that God’s kingdom is built not through individual heroes, but through generations of faithful people serving together. As Jesus calls us away from the world’s pursuit of power and toward a life of humility, service, and mutual submission, we’re reminded that we each have a unique role in God’s greater story.  Specific Scripture Passages Ezra 3:10–13 — Quoted at length: The laying of the Temple foundation.  Priests and Levites praising God.  Older generations weeping while younger generations rejoice.  The sound of weeping and celebration mingling together. This passage serves as the sermon's central illustration of generations serving God together. Numbers 8:23–26 — Levites begin serving at age 25 and retire from regular service at age 50 while continuing to assist younger workers. Used to illustrate passing leadership from one generation to the next. Deuteronomy 4:9–10 — "Teach them to your children and to their children after them." This passage emphasizes passing the faith from generation to generation. The Gospel According to Mark 10:42–45 — Jesus teaches: "Not so with you."  Whoever wants to be great must become a servant.  "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve." This is the sermon's primary New Testament text, contrasting worldly power with Christlike service. The Letter of Paul to the Philippians 2:5–11 — The Christ hymn: Christ emptied Himself.  Took the form of a servant.  Was obedient unto death.  Therefore God highly exalted Him. Used as the supreme example of humble service. The Letter of Paul to the Ephesians 5:21 — "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." Pastor Scott argues this verse establishes mutual submission as the Christian posture before discussing marriage. The Letter of Paul to the Ephesians 5:22–25 — Mentioned in discussing husbands and wives, emphasizing that husbands are called to love sacrificially as Christ loved the Church. The Letter of Paul to the Ephesians 6:5–9 — Referenced in discussing slaves and masters, highlighting Paul's call for those in authority to exercise love rather than domination.This sermon referenced several non-biblical books and literary works, along with one film adaptation: The Odyssey — This was the primary non-biblical work discussed. Pastor Scott compared Odysseus' individual "hero's journey" home with the communal, generational return of God's people in Ezra and Nehemiah. He used the contrast to show that Christianity rejects the world's model of the lone hero in favor of a community of humble servants.The Odyssey — The newly released film adaptation directed by Christopher Nolan was mentioned as the starting point for the sermon, though the discussion focused primarily on Homer's original story.

  2. Jul 14

    July 12, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 42

    In this week’s message, guest pastor Jodi Swee explores the story of Esther and we discover that while God’s name is never mentioned, His faithful hand is at work on every page. Rather than calling us to be the hero of our own story, Esther reminds us that God is the one carrying His plan of redemption, inviting us to trust Him and faithfully participate in the work He has placed before us, one step at a time.  Primary Text Esther Entire Book — The sermon centers on the whole narrative of Esther, especially God's hidden providence, Esther's faithfulness, and God's preservation of His covenant people.  Key Passages from Esther Esther 4:13–14 — Mordecai's message to Esther:"If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place...""...Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?"This passage forms the theological center of the sermon, emphasizing that God—not Esther—is carrying the story of redemption. Esther 4:15–16 — Esther's response:  Calling the Jews to fast. "If I perish, I perish."Old Testament References The First Book of Samuel 15 — Haman is identified as an Agagite, connecting him to King Agag and Israel's ancient conflict with the Amalekites. This was mentioned in the Bible Project summary to explain Haman's lineage.  BibleProject overview video on Esther:  https://youtu.be/JydNSlufRIs?si=UM3fcCQDuyXqqEW9

  3. Jul 9

    July 5, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 41

    In this week’s message, we wrestle with one of life’s hardest questions: Why do we suffer? Through the story of Job, we’re reminded that suffering isn’t always the result of something we’ve done, but that God meets us in our pain, invites us to trust His wisdom, and ultimately points us to the cross and the empty tomb, where Christ entered our suffering to bring lasting hope and victory.  Primary Text Job 1–42 — The overall story of Job serves as the foundation for the sermon, with particular emphasis on Job’s suffering, his friends’ speeches, God’s response, and Job’s trust amid suffering.  Key Passages from Job Job 1:20–22 — Job’s response to tragedy: he falls down and worships God. Job 2:9 — Job’s wife: “Curse God and die.”Job 4:7–8 — Eliphaz argues that the innocent do not perish and suffering comes from wrongdoing. Job 8:3–6 — Bildad insists God is just and Job’s children must have sinned. Job 11:13–15 — Zophar urges Job to repent so God will restore him. Job 38:1–7 — God answers Job out of the whirlwind: “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” This is the sermon’s climactic passage.  Old Testament References Psalms 22:1 — “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Referenced both in Job’s suffering and as Jesus’ cry from the cross.  New Testament Themes While not quoted directly, the sermon repeatedly referenced:  Jesus’ crucifixion as God entering into human suffering.  Jesus’ resurrection (the empty tomb) as the ultimate answer to suffering and death.  Additional Biblical Allusions The sermon also referenced several broader biblical events without quoting specific verses:  The Exodus and crossing of the Red Sea, noting that Job never mentions these events, suggesting the story may predate Israel’s national history.  Israel’s Babylonian exile, as the likely period when Job may have been written down.

  4. Jun 30

    June 28, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 40

    In this week’s message, we step into the mysterious opening chapters of Job and explore the reality of the spiritual world, the presence of evil, and the three great enemies of the Christian life: the devil, the world, and our own sinful nature. Yet amid the struggle, we’re reminded of the good news of the resurrection—that Christ has already won the victory, crushing sin, death, and the powers of darkness under His feet. Join us as we learn what it means to live with our eyes fixed on Jesus, standing confidently in His victory even in the midst of life’s battles.  Primary Text Job 1–2 — The opening dialogue between God and Satan, introducing the role of the accuser and Job’s suffering. This is the sermon’s central text.  The Divine Council and Spiritual Realm Psalms 82:1 — “God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment.” Used to discuss the spiritual realm and the divine council. The First Book of Kings 22:19–23 — The prophet Micaiah’s vision of the heavenly court and the deceiving spirit sent to Ahab’s prophets. Daniel 7:9–10 — The Ancient of Days seated on His throne with thousands upon thousands attending Him.  Satan and Spiritual Evil Genesis 3 — The serpent in the garden and the temptation of Adam and Eve. Referenced extensively in discussing Satan and the accuser, though the name “Satan” is not used in the text itself. Philemon — Mentioned in passing because every Pauline epistle except Philemon references spiritual powers and evil.  The Three Great Enemies and Baptism  The baptismal renunciations (“the devil… the powers of this world… the ways of sin”) were discussed thematically, though no specific biblical citation was given.  Christ’s Victory Genesis 3:15 — “He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” A key verse used to describe Christ’s victory over Satan in the resurrection.  Additional References  The resurrection narratives from the Gospels were referenced thematically through the image of Jesus stepping out of the tomb and defeating sin, death, and the devil, though no specific Gospel passage was cited.  This sermon referenced two notable non-biblical books/resources: The Screwtape Letters — Pastor Scott quoted Lewis’s famous observation that there are “two equal and opposite errors” regarding demons: disbelieving in them entirely or becoming overly fascinated with them. This was used to frame a balanced Christian understanding of spiritual evil. New Dictionary of Biblical Theology — A quotation from this theological reference work was read to explain the Old Testament and New Testament development of the concept of Satan and the role of the accuser.  The sermon also alluded to: The Passion of the Christ — specifically the opening scene of Jesus crushing the serpent in the garden, used as an illustration of Genesis 3:15 and Christ’s victory over Satan

  5. Jun 23

    June 21, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 39

    In this week’s message, we explore the surprising ways God has been pointing to Jesus from the very beginning of Scripture. Through prophecies, promises, and the story of the road to Emmaus, we’re reminded that Christ is the center of God’s plan and the fulfillment of every breadcrumb laid throughout history. Join us as we rediscover the beautiful story of a God who has always been pursuing His people and inviting us into a kingdom built on love, humility, and hope.  Primary Old Testament Texts Genesis 45:5–8 — Joseph explaining that God sent him to Egypt to preserve life during the famine. Used to show God working through nations and rulers for His purposes. Jeremiah 25:9 — “I will summon… my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…” Used to illustrate God using foreign empires to discipline Israel. Isaiah 45:1 — God calling Cyrus “his anointed” and using him to subdue nations. Referenced to show God working through rulers outside Israel. Isaiah 21:2 — “Elam, attack! Media, lay siege!” Used in the context of empires rising and falling under God’s sovereignty. Isaiah 49:6 — “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles…” A key verse explaining Israel’s role in bringing salvation to the nations through the Messiah. Daniel 2:44 — God establishing a kingdom that “will never be destroyed.” Central to the sermon’s contrast between earthly empires and God’s eternal kingdom. New Testament References The Gospel According to John 18:36 — Jesus: “My kingdom is not of this world.” Used to explain the radically different nature of Christ’s kingdom. The Gospel According to Matthew 28:19–20 — The Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” Framed as the mission of God’s new kingdom after Christ’s resurrection. Acts of the Apostles 2:1–41 — Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit, speaking in many languages, Peter’s sermon, and the baptism of 3,000 people. This is one of the sermon’s central texts. Acts of the Apostles 8:26–39 — Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, especially the eunuch’s question: “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” Used to emphasize the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom. Psalms 46:1–7 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble…” Used to reinforce the permanence and safety of God’s kingdom.

  6. Jun 16

    June 14, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 38

    In this week’s message, we explore the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms—and the surprising promise of a kingdom that will never end. From the Babylonian exile to Pentecost, we’re reminded that God is building something new through Christ: a people united not by nation or power, but by grace, baptism, and the Holy Spirit. Join us as we reflect on the powerful truth that no matter what kingdoms rise or fall, God is with us, God is for us, and His kingdom stands forever.  Primary Old Testament Texts Genesis 45: 5–8 — Joseph explaining that God sent him to Egypt to preserve life during the famine. Used to show God working through nations and rulers for His purposes. Jeremiah 25: 9 — “I will summon… my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…” Used to illustrate God using foreign empires to discipline Israel. Isaiah 45: 1 — God calling Cyrus “his anointed” and using him to subdue nations. Referenced to show God working through rulers outside Israel. Isaiah 21: 2 — “Elam, attack! Media, lay siege!” Used in the context of empires rising and falling under God’s sovereignty. Isaiah 49: 6 — “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles…” A key verse explaining Israel’s role in bringing salvation to the nations through the Messiah. Daniel 2: 44 — God establishing a kingdom that “will never be destroyed.” Central to the sermon’s contrast between earthly empires and God’s eternal kingdom. New Testament References The Gospel According to John 18: 36 — Jesus: “My kingdom is not of this world.” Used to explain the radically different nature of Christ’s kingdom. The Gospel According to Matthew 28: 19–20 — The Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” Framed as the mission of God’s new kingdom after Christ’s resurrection. Acts of the Apostles 2:1 –41 — Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit, speaking in many languages, Peter’s sermon, and the baptism of 3,000 people. This is one of the sermon’s central texts. Acts of the Apostles 8: 26–39 — Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, especially the eunuch’s question: “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” Used to emphasize the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom. Psalms 46:1 –7 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble…” Used to reinforce the permanence and safety of God’s kingdom.

  7. Jun 9

    June 7, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 37

    In this week’s message, we journey through the story of Jacob and Esau, the prophecy of Obadiah, and the parable of the Good Samaritan to discover a surprising truth: God continually works through the unexpected. As we wrestle with boundaries, favoritism, and who deserves our love, we’re challenged to trust a God who constantly extends grace farther than we imagine. Join us as we explore how God shows up in surprising places—and calls us to love beyond our comfort zones.  Primary Sermon Texts Obadiah 1: 18 — “Jacob will be a fire and Joseph a flame; Esau will be stubble…” This verse anchors the sermon’s discussion of the Edomites (descendants of Esau) and God’s judgment on those who rejoiced over Israel’s downfall. Genesis 25: 21–26 — Rebecca’s pregnancy with Jacob and Esau, including the prophecy that “the older will serve the younger.” Used to frame the recurring biblical theme of God choosing the unexpected.  Genesis Narrative References (discussed, not fully quoted) Genesis 25: 29–34 — Esau selling his birthright for stew. Genesis 27 — Jacob deceiving Isaac and stealing Esau’s blessing. Genesis 32–33 — Jacob wrestling with God, being renamed Israel, and reconciling with Esau.  New Testament Gospel Text The Gospel According to Luke 10: 25–37 — The parable of the Good Samaritan, including: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”“Love the Lord your God…” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (quoting the law) “Who is my neighbor?” and Jesus’ parable of radical mercy across boundaries. “Go and do likewise.” Additional Biblical Themes / Allusions Genesis Cain and Abel (Genesis 4) — briefly referenced in relation to God repeatedly choosing the “lesser” or unexpected person. The Gospel According to Matthew 2: 1–18 — King Herod and the massacre of infants, connected to Herod’s Edomite lineage. The sermon’s main biblical arc was: Obadiah → Jacob & Esau (Genesis) → the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), all pointing to the idea that God continually works through the unexpected and calls us to love beyond our boundaries. Pastor Scott also referenced: Maccabean history / the Maccabean Revolt (167 BC) — historical background explaining the lead-up to Roman rule and the rise of Herod. King Herod’s Edomite (Idumean) lineage — historical context tying Matthew’s nativity story back to Esau and Edom.

  8. Jun 4

    May 31, 2026 - Bible in a Year - Week 36

    In this week’s message, we step into the raw honesty of Lamentations and explore what it means to grieve, complain, and wrestle honestly with pain before God. Through reflections on revenge, forgiveness, and the surprising freedom of lament, we’re reminded that while hurt can tempt us toward bitterness, God invites us to bring every grievance to Him and rediscover His faithfulness. Join us as we learn how honest lament can become a pathway to healing, hope, and grace. Primary Sermon Texts Lamentations 3: 10–20 — The vivid imagery of suffering and lament (“like a bear lying in wait,” “broken my teeth with gravel,” “my splendor is gone”). This is the sermon’s main emotional anchor.Lamentations 3: 21–26 — “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope… because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed… great is your faithfulness.” The sermon’s movement from lament to hope centers on this passage.New Testament References Romans 12: 19 — “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath… ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” Used to frame the discussion on revenge, grievance, and surrendering vengeance to God.Hebrews 4: 14–16 — Jesus as the High Priest who sympathizes with our weakness and invites us to approach the throne of grace with confidence. Used to emphasize that Christ understands suffering and lament personally.Main Book Reference The Science of Revenge (https://a.co/d/00OLEf1q) — discussed extensively as a framework for understanding revenge and grievance as a kind of addiction driven by dopamine and repetitive mental “trials” against those who hurt us. Pastor Scott used it to connect the themes of lament, vengeance, and forgiveness in Lamentations to modern psychology.Additional Resource Mentioned The Miracle Court (app/resource by James Kimmel Jr.: https://www.miraclecourt.com/app-1) — mentioned near the end of the sermon as a practical tool to work through grievances, forgiveness, and the temptation toward revenge by reframing how we process conflict.

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This channel will bring you the sermons from Ascension Lutheran Church in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Pastor Scott Hawkins is the pastor of the church and the regular preacher/teacher. Ascension Lutheran is an LCMC congregation who would love to see you in person on Sunday mornings at 8:30 or 10:30 am.

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