Conceal Me

The Relentless Love of God: Facing Opposition with Courage

Bible Passage: Lk 13:31–33, Ps 27:1–14

Summary: In Luke 13:31–33, we see how Jesus courageously responds to threats and opposition from the Pharisees as He makes His way to Jerusalem, demonstrating unwavering commitment to God’s plan. Psalm 27 reflects on the Lord as our light and salvation, encouraging believers not to fear even amidst adversities.

Application: This sermon emphasizes that no matter the obstacles we face, we can find courage in God's persistent love and guidance. It encourages believers to trust God during times of fear and to be bold witnesses for Christ, even when facing hostility or danger.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that God's love propels us to confront challenges with faith and strength. Just as Jesus remained focused on His mission in the face of threats, we too can stand firm in our convictions with the assurance of God's presence and protection.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, Christ embodies the steadfast love and courage of God. His journey towards Jerusalem signifies the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan, showcasing His commitment to rescuing humanity, even at great personal cost. Jesus’ fearlessness in the face of opposition mirrors the unfailing nature of God’s love portrayed in the Psalms.

Big Idea: God’s relentless love empowers us to face opposition with courage, reassuring us of His unchanging presence in challenging times.

Recommended Study: As you dive deeper into preparing this sermon using your Logos library, consider exploring the historical context of Luke 13:31–33, such as the cultural implications of the Pharisees’ threats against Jesus. Additionally, review various commentaries on Psalm 27 to grasp the profound trust expressed by the psalmist, and how it correlates with Christian perseverance today. Pay attention to any text-critical notes that may provide insight into the authenticity and authorship of these passages.

1. Courage in Confrontation

Lk 13:31–32

You could consider how Jesus demonstrates courage in the face of opposition. Despite the Pharisees warning Him about Herod’s intentions, He stands firm in His mission. Reflect on how His courage is rooted in God’s unwavering love and purpose. Encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith when faced with threats or intimidation, knowing that God's plan for us remains intact and will ultimately prevail.

2. Commitment to the Cross

Lk 13:33

Perhaps highlight the determination of Jesus to continue His journey to Jerusalem, acknowledging the destiny that awaits Him there. This illustrates His relentless commitment to God’s will despite knowing He will face sacrifice and opposition. Inspire the congregation to pursue God’s call on their lives with similar dedication, trusting in His strength and guidance.

3. Confidence in the Light

Ps 27:1–6

Maybe explore how the psalmist expresses confidence in the Lord as his light and salvation, dispelling fear. Emphasize that no matter the adversities we face, God’s presence illuminates our path and provides safety. Encourage the audience to seek refuge in God, anchoring their confidence in His protection and salvation, which empowers them to withstand trials boldly.

4. Courageous in Waiting

Ps 27:7–14

You could delve into the psalmist’s heartfelt prayer for God’s continued presence and guidance amidst trouble. Highlight the importance of patience and trust in God, reinforcing His relentless love and companionship through life's challenges. Urge the congregation to wait on the Lord with a courageous heart, assured that His steadfast love and faithfulness accompany them throughout their struggles.

Title: The Relentless Love of God: Facing Opposition with Courage

Scripture Passages: Luke 13:31-35, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27:1-14

Introduction

Fear and opposition are ever-present realities in our world. It seems that at every turn, something or someone seeks to stir anxiety within us. But as we examine today’s scriptures, we see a different reality—one where faith, trust, and the relentless love of God cast out fear and empower us to walk with courage.

Jesus, standing firm against threats, reminds us that we are not called to retreat in fear but to stand confidently in God’s plan.

In the middle of a storm, a lighthouse stands tall, guiding ships safely to shore. It faces relentless waves but remains steadfast, embodying strength and purpose. In the same way, Jesus faced the storm of persecution and threats against his life. He was unwavering in his mission, reminding us that we too are called to be lighthouses in our communities, standing firm against life's tempests, confidently trusting in God's broader plan for our lives.

Abram, in Genesis 15, wrestles with uncertainty, yet God affirms His covenant, showing that faith requires trusting even when we do not see. And the psalmist in Psalm 27 declares that God is his light and salvation—whom shall he fear? These texts weave together the theme that when we seek God’s face, we find our courage and confidence.

I. Courage in Confrontation (Luke 13:31-32)

The Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod wants to kill Him. Whether their warning is sincere or a ploy to deter Him, Jesus does not waver. Instead, He declares, “Go and tell that fox…” He refuses to be intimidated because He knows His purpose.

In the Bible, when Jesus encountered the threats from the Pharisees about Herod, He responded with steadfast courage. This reminds me of a biblical story where David faced Goliath. Many were intimidated, but David's unwavering faith in God's purpose propelled him to victory. In our own lives, we can face 'giants' and 'foxes' that attempt to undermine our mission, yet like Jesus, we should stand firm, recognizing that we are called for greater things.

We, too, encounter forces—political, social, personal—that seek to instill fear and divert us from our mission. But like Jesus, we are called to stand firm. Fear is not our guide; faith is. We do not live by the ways of the world, dictated by fear, but by the unwavering trust that God’s plan will prevail.

II. Commitment to the Cross (Luke 13:33)

Jesus acknowledges that His journey leads to Jerusalem, the city that kills prophets. He does not turn back. This is not recklessness but commitment. His mission is love, even when that love will cost Him everything.

A parent watches their child compete in a challenging sport. The child gives their all, despite the possibility of not winning, motivated by love for their teammates and the joy of playing. This mirrors Jesus' approach to His mission—He journeyed into the very city that kills prophets, undeterred by the cost because His love for humanity fueled His commitment. His path wasn’t reckless; it was the ultimate display of love and dedication.

Following Christ means embracing His courage. Faith does not mean the absence of hardship, but rather the determination to move forward despite it. In our own lives, we must ask: Are we willing to continue the journey of faith even when it leads through difficulty?

III. Confidence in the Light (Psalm 27:1-6)

David, the psalmist, declares, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Though he faced enemies and betrayals, he learned that strength comes not from himself but from God. He sought shelter not in power, not in armies, but in the presence of the Lord.

Faith does not mean we never feel afraid, but that we do not let fear define us. In a world that thrives on fear—fear of the unknown, fear of the other, fear of failure—our calling is to live differently. We are called to seek God’s face in all circumstances and to let His light guide us.

IV. Courageous in Waiting (Psalm 27:7-14 & Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18)

Waiting on the Lord is one of the hardest acts of faith.

In the Bible, we see the story of Abraham waiting for God’s promise of a son. For years, he and Sarah hoped, prayed, and waited, and sometimes doubt crept in. Yet, during that time, their faith was refined, and their trust in God grew deeper. When Isaac finally came, it was a testament to God’s faithfulness. This story reminds us that waiting is not wasted time; it is the process that often prepares us for the fulfillment of God's promises.

Abram was promised descendants as numerous as the stars, yet he had no child. He was promised a homeland, yet he was still a wanderer. And still, God reaffirmed the covenant.

Psalm 27 echoes this: “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage.” Courage is not just standing firm in the face of threats but also trusting when the answers are not immediate. When life is uncertain, when promises seem delayed, we are called to trust, to wait, and to keep seeking God’s face.

Conclusion: Seeking the Face of God

How do we overcome fear? By seeking God’s face. Not just in moments of prayer, but in the everyday encounters—with the stranger in need, in acts of kindness, in worship, in the beauty of creation. When we fill our lives with searching for God, fear has no space to reside.

A young woman stood at the crossroads of her life, paralyzed by anxiety about the future. One day, she volunteered at a local shelter, helping those in need. In the kindness of those moments, she felt God’s presence and love radiate through her. As she served, her fear faded away, replaced by joy and purpose. Like the psalmist who sought the Lord and found refuge (Psalm 34:4), she discovered that when we search for God in everyday encounters, fear has no room to dwell.

Jesus knew this. That is why He could face opposition with courage. He was hidden in the Father, and the Father was in Him. Just as He longed to gather the people of Jerusalem like a mother hen, He longs to shelter us in His love.

Will we trust in that love? Will we let it cast out fear? Will we embrace the courage that comes from knowing to whom we belong?

May we stand firm in faith, live boldly in love, and seek the face of God in all things.

Amen.