November 24, 2024, Reign of Christ: "End of Empire"

Jesus's trial before Pilate is more than a mere courtroom scene. It is the portrayal of two realms, one false and one true. Pilate's false realm is that of empire, steered by fear, domination, and exploitation. Jesus is both herald and ruler of a new realm, governed by values of mercy, forgiveness, truth, and love, all of which are foreign to Rome. What does it mean to live in Jesus's realm when we also have a foot in that of empire? How does Jesus free us from the values of empire to live according to the values of his reign? And why are we often so frightened to live according to Jesus's way? Pastor David preaches "Empire's End" based on Daniel 7 and John 18:33-37.