Title: The Risen Shepherd, Easter Sunday
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In his sermon "The Risen Shepherd," Jed Gillis delves into Hebrews 13 to explore the profound implications of Christ's resurrection for believers' spiritual growth and sanctification. He begins by emphasizing that every aspect of Christian life, including commands and moral imperatives, hinges on the reality of Christ's death and resurrection. Gillis notes that without Christ's resurrection, His followers would be left with shattered hopes and an incomplete salvation.
Gillis underscores that Jesus is not just a historical figure who died but a living Shepherd who actively guides, protects, and provides for His flock today. He draws attention to how the resurrection transforms believers, enabling them to grow in godliness. Through the resurrection, Jesus equips Christians with everything good to do God's will. This transformation is akin to a new birth, bringing about new desires and instincts aligned with God's purposes.
The preacher highlights the continuity between Old Testament sacrifices and Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, explaining that Christ's blood not only pays for sin but also empowers ongoing spiritual renewal. The blood of Jesus is described as eternally potent, actively working in believers' lives rather than being a mere historical fact.
By drawing parallels between the shepherd imagery in Scripture and Jesus' role as the great Shepherd, Gillis paints a vivid picture of how Christ leads His followers into spiritual maturity. He emphasizes that Christ’s resurrection isn't just a past event but an ongoing source of strength and guidance for believers.
In conclusion, Gillis invites listeners to reflect on their relationship with the living Christ. He encourages those who haven't yet trusted in Jesus to consider the transformative power of His resurrection and urges believers to lean on their risen Shepherd for continual growth and guidance.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
