Sure Foundation Lutheran Church

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.