Three life-changing trajectories are revealed in today’s story: first, the disciples’ continued trajectory of selfish ambition; second, the opposite trajectory of the Lord’s compassion; and third, the trajectory of Jesus as He sets His face to make the journey to Jerusalem to lay His life down for you and me.

Let’s take a closer look at these three trajectories:

“And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done.” (v10a)

Disclaimer: I’m directing today’s message primarily toward the men of the church, young and old, because many of the ladies are still at our women’s retreat. For the ladies who are here today, I would like to humbly ask two things: first, your indulgence. I don’t get the chance to speak directly to the men like this very often, and I want to take advantage of this opportunity! Second, I would ask you to remain open to what God might say to you through this message.

No Mere Good Teacher

Today’s passage paints a disturbing and very harsh picture. The separation of the sheep and goats, the saved and the damned, into two groups -- one destined for eternal glory and the other for eternal fire in the company of demons -- is meant to be a frightening and troubling scene.

Ugly Exposed

Jesus just exposed the Pharisees’ ignorance of God’s word. Now he exposes their ignorance of God’s heart.

The Danger Zone: Self-Confidence

Smug self-confidence builds a wall around our own ignorance. Only the humble can enter into God’s kingdom. (This goes for the righteous and the unrighteous alike.)

Losing My Religion

How to ruin your inner Pharisee.