· Pastor Steve · Sermons · 2 min read
The Hope of the Shaking Earth: An Advent Proclamation
Advent isn’t just about a baby in a manger; it’s about a King returning in the clouds. When the world feels like it’s shaking, don't look down in fear—look up! Your redemption is drawing near.
In This Sermon
The Definition of Biblical Hope: [03:44] Pastor Steve distinguishes between “worldly wishing” (like the lottery or your football team winning) and “Biblical hope,” which is a 100% certainty based on God’s promises.
The Purpose of Apocalyptic Language: [12:52] A reflection on why Luke uses “scary” signs in the sun and moon—to break through our busyness and get our undivided attention.
The Mirror of the Law: [16:46] A personal illustration of driving the wrong way serves as a metaphor for our defensiveness when confronted by our sin.
The Gospel in the Midst of Chaos: [20:22] The ultimate assurance that even when the world dissolves, our redemption is drawing near because of Christ’s finished work.
Theological Citations:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” — Ephesians 2:8-9
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1
The Book of Concord: The Augsburg Confession, Article IV on Justification, which states that we cannot be justified before God by our own strength, merits, or works, but are freely justified for Christ’s sake through faith.
