Sermons by Tim Stephens (Page 6)
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.
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
The Parable of the Tenants
In this sermon we consider Jesus’ parable of the tenants. This allegory is a history of Israel and their rejection of Christ, God’s beloved Son. It demonstrates the absurdity of rejecting Jesus and calls us to see God as gracious, faithful, patient, and just. The modern church must learn from ancient Israel and most importantly, see and embrace Christ as heir of all things. Passage: Luke 20:9-19
Embracing the Authority of Jesus
In this sermon we consider the first attempt by the religious leaders to discredit Jesus as he teaches in the temple. They question Jesus’ authority only to be forced into silence because of their cowardice. We learn in this passage, not only the authority of Jesus, but how not to be like those religious leaders who were blind guides and missed the Lord of life. Passage: Luke 19:47-20:8
Sabbath and Lord’s Day
This sermon considers the Sabbath command and how it is applicable to Christians today. While the Sabbath differs from the Lord’s Day and is no longer commanded among believers, it remains an important signpost for the truths of Christ and the realities of the new creation. Passage: Exodus 20:8-11; Colossians 2:16-17
The Useful Law: The Teaching Use
In this final sermon in the series we consider the law’s usefulness for the believer saved by grace. The law is useful to the Christian in several ways and should be our delight. May this sermon spur us on to regard the law for the treasure that it is. Passage: 2 Timothy 3:15-17
The Useful Law: The Political Use
In this sermon, Pastor Tim presents the political use of the law. The law of God is the standard of morality in every society and is useful to restrain evil and promote the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is an oft-neglected truth that needs to be recovered for today’s church in today’s confused culture. Passage: 1 Timothy 1:8-11
The Useful Law: The Christological Use
In this sermon we consider the first use of the law: an instrument leading us to Christ. The law is a powerful evangelistic tool, driving both believer and non-believer to Jesus Christ. The importance of this truth needs to be remembered or else we minimize the law and obscure the glories of Christ. Passage: Romans 3:19-25