The Shortest Sermon Ever
Jesus’ inaugural sermon in the Synagogue at Nazareth was a profound revelation that left the audience in awe. His simple reading from the Prophet Isaiah's scroll was astonishing and undeniably thought-provoking, resonating deeply with the listeners and stirring a sense of wonder.
The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.
Luke 4:18-19 and Isaiah 61:1-2
Since Jesus is the living embodiment of this Old Testament passage, the audience became spellbound, questioning the legitimacy of His claim based on their familiarity with His family. Today, when we read the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit reveals a similar prophecy, how do we react? Do we become speechless and doubtful? Remember, Jesus fulfills this Old Testament prophesy during His ministry. So if we apply the concept that Jesus fulfilled this prophecy 2000 years ago, then we who are believers must claim this statement by the Apostle John as follows:
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he (Jesus) shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. (I John 3:2).
If we are sons of God, then our lives must align with the same mission that Jesus undertook during His ministry on Earth. This alignment is not merely a choice but a transformative path to spiritual understanding. We may often find ourselves pursuing a different path that primarily benefits us rather than contributing to the fulfillment of Jesus’ mission. However, when we align our lives with Jesus' mission, we discover true fulfillment by tapping into a deeper sense of love as empowered by the Holy Spirit. Yet, some may argue that Jesus' mission allowed us to enjoy material wealth, akin to Abraham, by freeing us from natural poverty. Yet, these individuals tend to align with worldly views by focusing outwardly instead of inwardly. According to Jesus, His mission was not to provide external wealth but to bestow internal blessings and liberate the soul from sin.
Remember His words: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10
In essence, we have the potential to live fulfilled lives right now rather than waiting for our eternal life when we transition. Therefore, we must adopt the mindset that we are sons of God, not sons of self. As sons of God, our purpose must align with His mission, nothing more and nothing less. So, I urge you to reflect deeply on your mission alignment today.
Click below to watch this week's Sunday School Lesson entitled Jesus’ Mission on Earth.