Sermons by Tim Stephens (Page 5)
Tim Stephens is the senior pastor of Fairview Baptist Church, Calgary, Alberta. Tim grew up on a farm in Eastern Ontario, graduated with a Computer Engineering degree from Queen’s University, a Masters of Divinity degree from Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching from The Masters Seminary. He is happily married to Raquel and they have been blessed with nine children.
Jesus’ Agony in Gethsemane
This sermon explores the profound mystery of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, focusing on two key lessons: the humanity of Christ and the immense cost of salvation. This text shows us the love of Christ””both for the Father and for sinners””as demonstrated in his willingness to endure the cross. We must marvel at the price of our redemption and respond with worship, love for God, and love for one another. Passage: Luke 22:39-46
Praying with Jesus
In this sermon, we explore Jesus’ tender prayer for Peter where he intercedes to protect Peter’s faith as Satan seeks to sift him like wheat. Despite Peter’s bold self-confidence and eventual denial of Christ, Jesus promises restoration and calls him to strengthen others through prayer. This message reveals the sustaining power of Christ’s intercession for believers, emphasizing that while our faith may waver, it will not fail because he prays for us. The sermon challenges us to recognize our weakness,…
Great Leaders
This sermon looks at Luke 22:24-30, where the disciples’ dispute over greatness reveals a timeless truth: true leadership is rooted in humility, service, and faithfulness. From the crisis of selfish and ineffective leaders today to practical applications for government, church, workplace, and home, discover how to lead like Christ. Whether you’re a seasoned leader, a father, or simply aspiring to make a difference, this message will challenge and inspire you to embrace the grace of servant leadership from our Lord…
The Lord’s Supper
In this sermon we consider in detail the institution of the Lord’s Supper. Jesus’ work on the cross stands between the Passover and the consummation of the Kingdom of God, pointing us to both events in salvation history. He invests the bread and the cup with the gift of himself to his people, thus memorializing the cross as our way of salvation. Here is a reminder of the very heart of the Christian faith. Passage: Luke 22:14-20
The Plans of Men and God
In this sermon, we return to the main narrative in the gospel of Luke. Jesus has come to give his life to inaugurate the new covenant and the kingdom of God. This passage considers the various plots against Christ and how God’s intended purposes come to pass. Here is great comfort to the Christian in times of trouble. Passage: Luke 21:37-22:23
The Destruction of Jerusalem Part 4: The Coming of the Son of Man
This sermon considers the “coming of the Son of Man” in the destruction of the temple in 70AD. Jesus uses prophetic and apocalyptic language to describe the coming judgment of Jerusalem that is orchestrated by his own hand. Jesus removes the kingdom from the Jews who rejected him and grants it to all who call upon his name. This passage reminds us of the truthfulness of our Lord and that we must take every thought captive to obey him. Passage:…
The Destruction of Jerusalem Part 3: The Abomination of Desolation and Great Tribulation
In this sermon we continue our exposition of the Olivet Discourse. We take time to consider the phrases “abomination of desolation” and “great tribulation.” When understanding Jewish idioms and historical events, these terms are demystified. This passage demonstrates the faithfulness of Jesus and the greatness of God’s vengeance. Passage: Luke 21:20-24
The Destruction of Jerusalem Part 2: Warning Signs and Persecution
In this second sermon on the Olivet Discourse in Luke 21, we’re reminded of the suffering the apostles faced between the time of Jesus and the temple’s destruction. Jesus’ instruction to prepare them for suffering remains paradigmatic for disciples of Christ today. Passage: Luke 21:10-19
The Destruction of Jerusalem Part 1: Context, Context, Context
This sermon begins an examination of the “Olivet Discourse” in the gospel of Luke where Jesus speaks about the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. This is an important text that requires humility and careful consideration of the context. There are rich treasures in this passage for the church today. Passage: Luke 21:5-9
Understanding Who’s Who
This sermon considers the end of Jesus’ interactions with the scribes. In this interaction Jesus reveals his own identity in Psalm 110 while exposing the true identity of the scribes who are corrupt and wicked. Important lessons about how we regard Jesus and, most importantly, how Jesus regards us, are ones we should constantly remember. Passage: Luke 20:41-21:4
Questioning the Resurrection
This sermon considers the Sadducees’ questioning of the resurrection in an attempt to make Jesus look foolish. Of course their plan is foiled and Jesus masterfully demonstrates the reality of the resurrection. But this is more than just a defense of the resurrection. This is a reminder that not all will attain this eternal life. Jesus is not just wise, he is the way to glory. Passage: Luke 20:27-40
Giving to Caesar and to God
This sermon considers Jesus’ famous saying, “Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” This pithy statement demonstrates the great wisdom of Christ and gives us insight into the disciple’s responsibility to the state and to God. For more detail on the role of the government, see https://www.fairviewbaptistchurch.ca/sermons/resisting-tyrants/ Passage: Luke 20:20-26