Who is Jesus, really? Drawing on C.S. Lewis’ famous “Trilemma,” this sermon presses the unavoidable question: Jesus cannot simply be a good moral teacher—He is either a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord. From John’s Gospel to the cradle in Bethlehem and the cross outside Jerusalem, we dig deeply into what Scripture reveals about Jesus as both the Son of God and the Son of Man. In this message, we explore the mystery of the Word made flesh: fully God, fully man, eternal yet born in time. We see how Jesus’ true glory is often hidden beneath humility—an infant in a manger, a king on a donkey, a Savior on a cross—and how that “hidden glory” brings real light, life, and victory to the world. Finally, we reflect on why John calls Jesus “the Word,” and what that means for our faith today. Jesus is God’s fullest expression of love for you—revealed not in spectacle, but in sacrifice, and given to you through God’s Word, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper. True glory may not look like we expect, but it is exactly where God has promised to be found. If you are built up by these sermons, hit subscribe and you'll never miss any content from Sure Foundation!

When doubts creep in, where do you look for assurance? In this episode, we walk through a series of powerful miracles from Jesus’ ministry—healing the paralyzed, restoring sight to the blind, opening the ears of the deaf—and ask what these signs truly reveal about who Jesus is. These weren’t random acts of compassion or displays of power for their own sake. They were fulfillments of ancient promises, clear evidence that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah. We also step into the prison cell of John the Baptist, who sends a simple but weighty question to Jesus: “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” Instead of answering with a simple yes, Jesus points John—and us—back to the Scriptures, especially the promises of Isaiah. The blind see. The lame walk. The good news is preached to the poor. The Word of God is being fulfilled before their eyes. Drawing from Isaiah 35, this sermon explores the great reversal the Messiah brings: deserts bursting into bloom, dry ground becoming springs of life, and spiritually dead people being made alive. Jesus walks the path we could not, endures the punishment we deserved, and opens the Way of Holiness that leads to eternal joy. If you find yourself weary, doubting, or fearful—like John—the invitation is the same: return to God’s Word. Be strong. Do not fear. Your God has come, and he will come again. Scripture focus: Mark 2, Mark 8, Isaiah 35, Matthew 11:2–6Theme: Jesus’ miracles, fulfilled prophecy, and confidence in God’s promises

Imagine standing in a forest of giant oaks—all cut down, nothing left but stumps. That’s how God’s people felt when they looked at the once-glorious line of King David. How could anything—let alone God’s promised forever-King—come from what looked completely dead? In this sermon, we explore Isaiah 11 and the powerful promise of the Branch: the Savior who would rise from the stump of Jesse. We walk through the rise and fall of David’s royal line, the crushing pride and idolatry of Judah’s kings, and the way God used discipline to prepare hearts for the coming Messiah. You’ll see how repentance clears the soil of our hearts, how Jesus fulfilled this ancient prophecy at His first coming, and how Isaiah’s words point us forward to Jesus’ second coming—when peace will reign in ways our world has never known. Key Themes in This Sermon: 🌳 Why David’s royal line looked like nothing but stumps 👑 God’s promise of an everlasting kingdom through David 🔥 The devastating pride and idolatry of Judah’s kings 💔 How pride lives in our hearts—and why repentance matters 🌿 Jesus as the Branch who brings new life, righteousness, and peace 🏔 The “prophetic perspective” of Isaiah: one prophecy, two comings 🕊 The peace Jesus won, the peace still to come, and the hope we live in today Whether you're studying Isaiah, preparing for Advent, or longing for God’s promised peace, this sermon will deepen your understanding of the Branch who came… and who is coming again. “In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples… and his resting place will be glorious.” — Isaiah 11:10 Come, Lord Jesus.

What message does God deliver at just the right time? In this sermon from Isaiah 2, we explore how the Lord speaks both law and gospel perfectly into the lives of His people—those in ancient Israel and Judah, and us today. Isaiah ministered in turbulent times. The Assyrians threatened the Northern and Southern Kingdoms, but the real danger wasn’t geopolitical—it was spiritual. God’s people had wandered, worshiped false gods, and hardened their hearts. Through Isaiah, the Lord warned of judgment so that His people might repent and return to Him. Most didn’t listen… but some did. And for those humbled by exile, God preserved a stunning message of hope. In Isaiah 2, God gives a breathtaking vision: A mountain rising above all mountains. Nations streaming upward, drawn to the Lord. Weapons of war transformed into tools for peace. A world marked not by violence, but by the peace only God can give. This mountain is Christ Himself—the true Temple destroyed and rebuilt in three days. In Jesus, God placed the judgment we deserved on His Son, so that we could be restored, forgiven, and brought near. Where sin once drove people away from God, the gospel now draws all nations to Him. In this message, discover: 🔹 Why God’s warnings are an act of love 🔹 How Isaiah’s prophecy points to Jesus alone 🔹 The “great reversal” Christ brings to sinners 🔹 How the gospel turns swords into plowshares 🔹 The peace God gives now through His Word and Sacraments 🔹 The perfect peace believers look forward to when King Jesus returns Whether you feel convicted, comforted, or somewhere in between, God always delivers the perfect message at the perfect time. “Come, let us walk in the light of the LORD.” Come, King Jesus! 📖 Sermon Text: Isaiah 2:1–5 🙏 Closing Blessing: 1 Thessalonians 5:23   All music is covered under our two licenses: One License - A-736105 CCLI License - 21567200

That makes the bread and wine of the Lord’s Supper different than, say, unlimited breadsticks. Jesus comes to communion: a meal from the Lord; Jesus’ body and blood; proclaiming his death until he comes again. Then he says it’s “for you.” That makes this meal not some symbolic story. It’s Father and Son making a deal: “Father, accept my body and blood in place of theirs.” In place of your body and blood. The death owed for your sins.

In this powerful message, we step onto the porch with 30-year-old King David, looking out over Jerusalem as he reflects on two decades of God’s faithfulness. From shepherd boy in Bethlehem… to giant-slayer of Goliath… to fugitive running from King Saul… to anointed king of Israel—David’s story is overflowing with God’s protection, provision, and unfailing promises. As David looks back, he sees how the Lord carried him through fear, danger, uncertainty, and sin. And as he looks forward, he clings to God’s greatest promise of all—a coming King who would reign forever. Jesus, born of David’s line, is the fulfillment of that promise. This sermon invites you to do the same: ✔ Look back with thankfulness. ✔ Look forward with confidence. ✔ Trust that God always keeps His promises, even when life is confusing, painful, or filled with waiting. Just like David, you can say with awe and gratitude: “Who am I, Sovereign LORD, that You have brought me this far?” 🌟 What This Sermon Covers • David’s life story: shepherd, musician, warrior, and king • God’s protection during David’s years fleeing Saul • The return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem • David’s desire to build the Temple—and God’s greater plan • God’s promise of an eternal King from David’s line • How Jesus fulfills God’s covenant with David • How God gives us perspective in suffering • Why Christians can look back and look forward with thankfulness • God’s ongoing promises to strengthen, forgive, and save His people today 🙏 If This Message Encouraged You… Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help others hear the hope of God’s promises! All music is covered under our two licenses: One License - A-736105 CCLI License - 21567200

In this sermon, we explore the heavy reality of guilt, the relief of confession, and the freedom found only in Christ. Using the real-life story of Brian Keith Hawkins—who carried the weight of guilt for 25 years before finally confessing—we see how the conscience refuses to remain silent. His story mirrors the spiritual struggle King David describes in Psalm 32: when we hide our sin, our bones waste away and God’s hand feels heavy upon us. But Scripture also reveals the hope that guilt is not the end of the story. Through Christ, God declares us justified, saved, and reconciled. In this message, we dig deep into these three powerful truths: ✅ Justified by His blood — In Christ, you are declared “not guilty.”✅ Saved from God’s wrath — Jesus absorbed the punishment you deserved.✅ Reconciled to God — Your relationship with God is restored through the cross. We also confront the difference between the feeling of guilt and actual guilt. Sometimes your conscience correctly alarms you. Other times the “fire alarm” rings after your sin has already been forgiven. In both cases, the answer is the same: return to the cross of Jesus, where peace for the conscience is found and the gospel reigns. This sermon walks through Psalm 32, penitence, confession, grace, and the joy of forgiveness. David moves from crushed bones to rejoicing in the Lord—and that joy is ours too through Christ. 🔹 Key passages: Psalm 32; Romans 5:6–8 If you’ve ever carried guilt… if you’ve ever wondered whether God could forgive you… if you need peace for your heart and assurance for your soul—this message points you back to the only place where true peace is found: the cross of Jesus Christ.  

This message explores one of the most important writings of the Reformation — Martin Luther’s The Bondage of the Will. Written 500 years ago, this work helped clarify what Scripture teaches about human will, sin, and God’s saving grace through Jesus Christ. Because of sin, our wills are bound — we cannot choose or desire God on our own. But through Christ, God has set us free! Luther’s words remind us that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone — never by our works. Join us as we look at passages like Psalm 51:5, Romans 8:7-8, Galatians 5:17, and Romans 1:16-17 to see the freeing truth of the gospel: you have been redeemed, adopted, and made righteous in Christ. Sermon Highlights 500th anniversary of The Bondage of the Will What "bound will" means in Scripture Why grace cannot be earned How Christ frees us from the law's condemnation The joy of wearing Christ's righteousness

What does it mean to wrestle with God? In this powerful sermon, we explore the life of Jacob—the “grabber,” the deceiver, the runaway—and how God transformed him into Israel, a man of faith. From stealing his brother’s birthright to physically wrestling with God, Jacob’s story shows us what it looks like to hold onto God’s promises even when life feels uncertain. Discover how God meets us in our struggles, how prayer becomes our wrestling mat, and how He changes our hearts through His grace. Whether you’re facing fear, doubt, or waiting on God’s promises, this message reminds you that God is real, personal, and faithful—and that He blesses those who cling to Him. 📖 Genesis 32:22–32

What was your first word? Maybe it was “Mama” or “Dada.” But today we are speaking about another set of words that you learn pretty early in life, “Thank you.” In this message based on Luke 17:11–19, we look at the story of the ten lepers and how Jesus’ mercy changed their lives forever. True gratitude goes deeper than good manners—it flows from understanding mercy. When we realize that we don’t deserve God’s blessings and yet He gives them freely, our hearts overflow with thanksgiving. Entitlement kills gratitude, but recognizing God’s mercy gives birth to worship. Discover:🙏 Why gratitude is more than just saying “thanks.”💔 How sin isolates us like leprosy once did.💡 What it means to live in the place of mercy.❤️ How Jesus’ generosity leads us to true worship. Join us as we explore how Jesus heals, forgives, and restores, giving us every reason to say—“Thank you, Jesus!” 📖 Bible Text: Luke 17:11–19

In this sermon from Luke 17:1–10, we explore Jesus’ powerful teaching on temptation, faith, and forgiveness. Within the context of Luke 15–17, Jesus reminds His disciples that forgiveness is not optional—it’s central to our identity as followers of Christ. Jesus uses the striking image of a millstone to show the seriousness of leading others into sin, especially those new in faith. He commands us to forgive—again and again—just as He forgives us. Even when forgiveness feels impossible, faith gives us the strength to uproot bitterness and cast it into the sea. Through this message, you’ll be reminded that:✅ Forgiveness is a decision, not a feeling.✅ Faith, even the size of a mustard seed, is powerful enough to heal relationships.✅ Your identity in Christ means you are both forgiven and a forgiver.✅ Humility protects us from pride even when we forgive. As we live out our faith, Jesus calls us to remember: “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” 📖 Main Text: Luke 17:1–10🙏 Key Themes: Forgiveness, Faith, Grace, Humility, Discipleship, Identity in Christ🕊️ Application: Decide ahead of time to forgive—because you have been forgiven.

In this sermon, we travel back to Pompeii, a city that once felt untouchable in its wealth and comfort—until Mt. Vesuvius erupted and exposed just how fragile that sense of security really was. This is similar to the sense of the security that the Jewish people felt at the time of the prophet Amos. Amos’ sobering words indicate this, “Woe to you who are complacent…”, this sermon challenges us to examine where we place our confidence today. Just like ancient Israel, we too can be lulled into spiritual complacency by wealth, comfort, and the illusion of control. Yet God, in His mercy, refuses to leave us asleep in that false security. Through His Word, He calls us to repentance, wakes us from spiritual slumber, and points us to the only true safety and security—Jesus Christ. Join us as we reflect on the dangers of misplaced trust, the urgency of repentance, and the unshakable hope we have in the Savior who never grew complacent in rescuing us.

What if you could see life through Solomon’s perspective? He had power, pleasure, and riches beyond imagination—yet in the book of Ecclesiastes, he declared it all meaningless when pursued for its own sake. Even modern voices like Jim Carrey echo this truth: wealth and fame cannot deliver lasting joy or peace. In this sermon, we explore Solomon’s wisdom and God’s perspective on money: ✅ Why loving wealth always leaves us wanting more ✅ How money can become a source of anxiety, division, and compromise ✅ God’s warning against greed—and his invitation to generosity ✅ The secret to true contentment, found not in riches, but in Christ At the heart of the Gospel is God’s outrageous generosity. He gave us his Son—not to gain, but to give us everything: forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life. When we see money through that lens, our perspective shifts from greed to gratitude, from hoarding to contentment. All music is covered under our two licenses: One License - A-736105 CCLI License - 21567200

“He’s lost.” We use that term not only to refer to someone who is bewildered about where they are but also to refer to someone who is in a helpless, hopeless state. Mankind’s natural state is one of complete spiritual helplessness, a profound lostness. It manifests itself in countless ways. The one who simply wants God to leave him alone: lost. The one who feels she can handle life on her own: lost. The one who thinks he has the right to repent of his sins on his own timetable and terms: lost. The one who thinks God owes her in some way: lost. Wandering around physically lost can lead to winding up in bad places. Jesus’ wounding words this week teach that wandering around spiritually lost puts you in the worst place of all. Fortunately, Jesus does not leave us in our lostness. He relentlessly seeks us. He involves the rest of the Christian community in seeking the lost and rejoicing over the found. All music is covered under our two licenses: One License - A-736105 CCLI License - 21567200

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? In this sermon, we look at striking examples like the unfinished Ryugyong Hotel in North Korea and the failed Argentinian invasion of the Falkland Islands—modern reminders of what happens when someone doesn’t “count the cost.” Jesus was very upfront with his followers: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” (Matthew 24). He calls us to place him above family, career, finances, and even our own lives. Not because he wants to burden us, but because he carried the cross for us, giving us complete victory through his death and resurrection. If you’ve ever felt like the half-finished tower, the unwise army commander, or salt that has lost its flavor—this message is for you. The Spirit of the Lord makes you complete and empowers you to follow Christ fully.

We’ve all been there—you finally carve out time to rest and recharge, only to have your peace interrupted by demands and distractions. Jesus experienced something similar when He sought solitude after hearing about John the Baptist’s death. Instead of turning people away, Jesus healed, taught, and fed a crowd of more than 5,000. In this message, we reflect on the extraordinary humility of Christ: ✅Born in lowly circumstances ✅Ministering to the outcasts and marginalized ✅Performing miracles for others, never Himself ✅Forgiving His enemies—even from the cross ✅Submitting perfectly to the Father’s will Jesus’ humility not only amazes us—it convicts us. Our natural pride and selfishness constantly get in the way, yet Jesus bore all of that on the cross, giving us forgiveness and a transformed heart through the gospel. Discover how gospel-produced humility reshapes every part of life—marriage, friendships, work, and contentment in God’s care. And be encouraged by God’s promise: though we live humbly now, we will one day be exalted with Christ. 📖 Scripture: Luke 14 | Proverbs 25:6-7 🙌 If this sermon encouraged you, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more Christ-centered messages. All music is covered under our two licenses: One License - A-736105 CCLI License - 21567200

Are you just “around” Jesus, or are you truly following Him? In this sermon, we explore a crucial question Jesus faced: “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” Instead of satisfying curiosity, Jesus redirects to what truly matters—Are YOU saved? Too often, we settle for mere association with Jesus—church attendance, Christian activities, or a cultural connection—while neglecting real faith, repentance, and trust in Him. Jesus’ warning is clear: casual connection isn’t enough. The door to eternal life is narrow, and that door is Him alone. Discover what it means to “strain every nerve” to stay connected to Christ, why complacency is so dangerous, and how to live a daily life of repentance and faith. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly messages of hope and truth in Christ ✝ Stay connected, stay repentant, stay rooted in Jesus—the narrow door to eternal life. All music is covered under our two licenses: One License - A-736105 CCLI License - 21567200

Welcome to Sure Foundation Lutheran Church's podcast. This sermon was preached August 17, 2025, from Luke 12:49–53. Unity sounds like a beautiful goal, but is unity always good? In this sermon, we wrestle with a difficult truth: the world has been most united not in righteousness, but in wickedness. From the days before the flood to the times of empires and wars, humanity’s unity has often stood in opposition to God. Jesus himself said, “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.” The cross of Christ draws a dividing line—between those who walk in unbelief and those who trust in him for salvation. Division isn’t comfortable, but it is necessary, because without Jesus, the whole world would remain united on the path to destruction. In this message we’ll explore: Why unity without God leads to wickedness How the cross of Christ creates division, but also life and salvation The tension Christians live with: God desires all to be saved, yet many reject him Practical encouragement for believers facing division in families, friendships, and the world Rejoice in Jesus, who bore the weight of sin, brought us forgiveness, and opened the path to heaven. And take heart—division in this world means you belong to Christ, and in him we look forward to the perfect unity of heaven.

Life in the waiting isn’t easy—just ask Abraham. He left everything behind to follow God’s promise, yet faced famine, battles, and family drama before ever seeing its fulfillment. In this message, we explore the tension of living between God’s promises and their fulfillment—both for Abraham and for us today. From the struggles of daily life to the deeper heart issue of worry, we’ll hear Jesus’ call to trust the Father who has already given us His Kingdom through Christ. Discover why God’s past faithfulness is the foundation for your present trust, and how to seek the heavenly things first, knowing He will take care of the rest.

Frederick Douglass once wrote, “A new world had opened upon me” when he escaped slavery. That same joy—deeper, eternal, and soul-changing—is what the Apostle Paul proclaims in Galatians 5. Not freedom from earthly chains, but from the far greater bondage of sin, death, and the devil. In this sermon, we reflect on the life of Frederick Douglass as a powerful illustration of the kind of freedom Paul writes about. We’re reminded that Christ didn’t set us free so we could return to slavery—but to live in joyful, Spirit-filled freedom. We’re not under the burden of proving ourselves to God. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are declared enough. We are good with God. We are at peace. We also witness a baptism—Dawson being called into that same freedom. A visible, powerful reminder that God keeps His promises and frees even the youngest soul through water and the Word. So what is your freedom for? Not to indulge the flesh—but to love. To serve. To walk by the Spirit. The good news of Jesus not only frees you, it transforms you. Let the gospel be your guide, your rest, and your strength. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” — Galatians 5:1 🙏 Subscribe for more gospel-centered messages 📖 Explore Galatians 5 with us 💧 Celebrate the beauty of baptism ❤️ Live the freedom Christ died to give you