Media, Philippians, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

If there was ever a letter written to stir Jesus’ people to joy, hope and confidence – even amidst the worst of circumstances – it is Philippians. Paul writes to show us that the gospel, and all of its implications, not only transcends human divisions but also our circumstances. That is what makes this letter a favorite for many. Yet, at the very same time, Paul’s words here are deeply challenging. How is it possible for Paul to be so positive amidst such dire circumstances? How is it possible for him to write with such warmth, joy and sincerity from prison? Is he being real? What does he have that we, too often, don’t seem to have? We get an answer to that in the first two lines of his letter.

Media, Philippians, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

The first week of our series in Philippians, we go back to Acts 16:11-34 and look at the beginnings of the church that Paul will later express great affection for. The church in Philippi began with a few significant interactions between Paul and three very different people. Through the stories of Lydia, the wealthy seller of purple goods, a demonized slave girl, and an average Roman jailer, we see that the church then and now is built of people such as ourselves that are centered on the person and work of Jesus.

Mark, Media, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Even though many reject Christianity and/or the church, there are few who reject Jesus himself. There’s a certain draw to him that is almost inexplicable. The matter of supreme importance in Jesus’ life is his resurrection. Why? Well, if Jesus didn’t rise from the dead we’re wasting our time. If he remained in the tomb he is no different than every other inspiring figure in human history – exceptional, but dead nonetheless. But, if he did rise (and he did) from the dead that changes everything about everything. The truth of the resurrection is of massive importance – it is the hinge upon which the story of the world pivots.

Mark, Media, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Today in Mark 15:16-47 we reach the cross. Mark's entire gospel account has been rushing forward to this point. The cross is the climax, the ultimate fulfillment of Jesus' life and ministry. It is why He came. The cross is the great declaration of God's love for sinners. As we walk through the final hours of Jesus' crucifixion and death the gospel narrative focuses on the purpose of Christ's suffering. On the cross Jesus took on our darkness so that we might become sons and daughters of the light, a people ransomed and awarded a new identity as redeemed and reconciled to God.

Mark, Media, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Today, in Mark 14:53-15:15, we read about Jesus's (false) trial. The scene is dark, Jesus is alone, and the outlook is grim. His friends have abandoned him. The religious leaders are out to trap him. False witnesses spew lies about him. The government is not sure what to do with him. Roman soldiers abuse him. In a word, Jesus is completely abandoned. From this point on, what Jesus has come to do, he has to do it by himself.

Mark, Media, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

We are in the final weeks of our study of the Gospel of Mark. Today we reach the famous scene that takes place in the garden of Gethsemane in Mark 14:27-52. If the storm clouds were forming over Jesus during His last supper with the disciples, the plot turns completely dark here. Due to our familiarity with this story it is easy to miss how much of a thematic shift takes place in the garden.

Mark, Media, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

In Mark 14:1-26 there is a noticeably dramatic transition in the story of Jesus. The story turns to Jesus' end as the crucifixion is approaching and He spends His last meals with disciples and followers. Mark begins this section with asking the reader to examine their hearts through the recounting of a woman who gives her most treasured and valuable possession to anoint Jesus' feet. He then tells of the last Passover meal where Jesus declares through the symbols of bread and wine that all prior acts of deliverance, sacrifice, and salvation of Israel point to Him, and the blood He would pour out for many. We will see that the constant portrayal of discipleship is of those who will go all in for the love of their Lord, and are asked if we will actively receive Jesus for relationship with Him and become a new family.