Sermons

Eliezer became not just a servant, not just a rich man—but a son of God, adopted through his Savior, Jesus Christ. Christ’s life, death, and resurrection in the far-distant future meant that Eliezer was blessed already, in his own time—no longer a servant, but a son.

All who trust in Jesus are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to God’s covenant promise. As God’s own people, His holy nation, we are called and set apart to proclaim repentance and forgiveness in Jesus’ Name to all nations.

So, the opening chapters of the Bible could be summarized as follows: our first parents, Adam and Eve—whose names mean “Human” and “Life”—had a son called “Acquired.” Separated from God, Human and Life brought forth Acquired. And what they Acquired stole their Breath away

And we may be flattered! It’s hard to say no to somebody who is treating you like the fount of all wisdom. “Surely she would listen to you,” they say. Or they may phrase it this way: “You’re the first person I thought of for the job. You know how badly we need help. Can we count on you?”

I call this a ridiculous question because, of course, our faith is real. It is true that God became a human being, lived among us, cared for people, was arrested, suffered, and died on a cross for our sake. I

The writer of Ecclesiastes is traditionally believed to be King Solomon. If this is true, Solomon was right to worry. His son Rehoboam was the next king—and he was a man so foolish that he split his country in two.

Sheep are useful creatures, providing meat, milk, and wool. Yet even with these useful qualities, sheep do not always enjoy a good reputation. However undeserved these unflattering descriptions may be, sheep can wander off and become lost.

There is no security in this mortal life, but only in true life, when Jesus comes again to raise the dead and restore all things. Until then, take this life for what it is. It’s a sieve, not a stock pot.

God is far better than we are. We can pray with confidence, knowing that God will give us the good thing we ask for—or do something that is better in the long run.