I’m thinking and praying about preaching a sermon series on Heaven. If I do, I’ll probably kick it off on Easter Sunday. In all of my years as a pastor, I have never preached an entire series on the eternal home of the believer.
Does the topic of Heaven interest you? Do you think others will be interested in the topic? Do you personally have questions about Heaven?
I need your help with the series. What are some questions you think I should address? Thank you in advance for your help.
This Sunday at Shelbyville First Baptist Church I am preaching from Matthew 19:16-30 (see below). The first portion of this passage (vv. 16-22) relays the story about the young wealthy ruler who asked Jesus, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life” (v. 16). Although He had everything his world said that a person needed to be happy, he still sensed that something was missing. His instincts and the Holy Spirit correctly led him to Jesus, but ultimately, he was unwilling to place God’s will above his own. Tragically, the Bible says that “he went away sorrowful” (v. 22).
I have never been rich; I have never been a ruler; I have seen younger days, but I am happy; I am peaceful; and I am full of joy! Everything is not “perfect” in my life, but “He” (Jesus) is perfect in my life. I realize that this all sounds unusual if you are not a Christian. Although I’m a preacher, I’m not preaching here. I’m simply saying that my life changed when I met Jesus! He is my intimate friend and constant companion. He gave His life for me and I am striving to “give” my life for Him.
If you are a Christian. Give a shoutout for Jesus and a brief testimony about your relationship with Him. If you are not a Christian, please consider trusting Him as your personal Savior and following Him as the Lord of your life.
16 And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” 17And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” 18He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, 19Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 20The young man said to him, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” 21Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Matthew 19:16-22 (English Standard Version)
I just reread Bill Bennett’s excellent book called Thirty Minutes to Raise the Dead: How You Can Preach Your Best Sermon Yet — This Sunday. It reminds me of the two preaching books written by Jerry Vines because, like his books, it was well written and practical. It is a very easy read if you are a pastor, but extremely helpful.
In the book, Bennett discusses Faris Whitesell’s 7-part definition of expository preaching. Here are the seven parts:
Expository preaching must….
If you are a pastor and have not read Bennett’s book, find one and read it. It is a little difficult to find, but you can click on the title above and find one at Amazon. The book will be a blessing to you.
Stephen C. Rice 