Christ Church Fareham Sermons Christ Church Fareham

This sermon begins by briefly introducing some guiding principles that are important in understanding the book of Revelation. These principles include this books purpose & meaning in revealing Jesus Christ in all his glory, and the promise of a blessing for everyone who reads & heeds its message. 

The rest of this sermon focuses on answering the question of who is God? The resounding answer is that God is Trinity. The Father, Spirit, and Son eternally existing in perfect union, glory, and power. However, Revelation unashamedly focuses on the person of Jesus Christ, and thus the seven things we are told about Jesus in verses 4-8 are expounded. 

It is no coincidence that John starts with this majestic and unparalleled description of God. For, in in the coming chapters his audience are going to face challenge, trial, and suffering. For the original audience and us today knowing who God is in the midst of these difficulties is fundamental for persevering. 

Jesus Christ was and is the great prophet. He alone perfectly fulfils the three fold requirement of, being filled with the Spirit, proclaiming God's Word, and doing signs & wonders.

But what about his prophetic work today now that he has ascended?

This prophetic work continues through his Church today until he returns. As his followers we find our purpose and aims in Christ. Therefore, because he is victorious and worthy we can continue his work. So, we must be filled with the Spirit, proclaim God's Word, and see signs & wonders amongst us.

This sermon reflects on the unique and unparalleled service of Jesus Christ. He who was and is God incarnate, lowered himself across his life, culminating in his death on the cross. This loving act of service meets the greatest needs of his followers, freedom from sin and death.

God calls his beloved followers to use their freedom to imitate his perfect example. This isn't because God has a need that our service fulfils. Instead, it is befitting that as followers of Christ, we would obediently seek to imitate him. Furthermore, as we do, the promise is that we will received blessedness either in this life or in eternity. 

Thus, it is a privilege for a follower of Christ, to use their gifts/skills/capabilities to joyfully serve inside and outside of the Church wherever possible. 

This sermon encourages us to see all children as they truly are, a blessing and heritage from God. They are created by God, for a Godly purpose, and sent by him to us.

All children will come under attack from the devil. He will seek to steal their time and that of their parents, grandparents, and role models. He will also seek to normalise harmful behaviours and practices in their lives.

However, we need not fear, because the grace of God teaches us & our children to say no. So, we must cry out for this grace to be poured lavishly on us and them. We must also take our responsibility seriously to teach them about God and his perfect ways.

This sermon is a timely encouragement to lay hold of the glorious and certain hope that believers have with Jesus' second coming. 

For, as scripture makes clear Jesus will surely come again. He will return in majesty and glory when he does. And his return will effect everything and every part of life as we know it.

Therefore, we should long for Jesus' return, as his return will usher in the best that is yet to come! 

This sermon unpacking these verses answers two important questions, Who is Jesus? and What does Jesus command us to do?

So, Who is Jesus? Jesus is truly God as his victorious resurrection testifies. He is also King reigning in power and authority now. Jesus is also with his disciples and all his followers until the end of the age through the Holy Spirit.

What does Jesus command us to do? With the confidence of King Jesus being with us we are commanded to make disciples of all nations. We who have been taught the ways of Jesus and been baptised are commanded to go & do likewise. This is a command for all followers of Jesus done in his strength, power, and authority. 

It is a great joy to co-labour with Jesus in this exciting commission!