This sermon was preached on Sunday March 18, 2018 at Center Grove UMC. Jesus is entering the final days of His journey to the cross. He answers a request to from some men who wants to see Him, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” In other words, “Times Up.” These notes were taken by one of the members in attendance Stephanie Cothron Searles.
Notes from Rev. Donald Smith’s sermon, March 18, 2018:
John 12:23-26 and verse 32.
“Time’s Up!”
As we reach the final days of Lent, we draw closer to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Are we willing to die to self? What are we willing to give up? Will we be a 40 Day Wonder or 40 Day Transformation?!
Jesus knew what His ultimate goal was. When we reach a turning point in our lives, which road will we take? Whose report will we believe? You’re either moving toward God or away from Him. Are we serious about God and church?
Time’s Up for playing church. Time’s Up for Religion. Jesus call us to Relationship with Him:Die to Self -Surrender to Jesus -Submit to Jesus -Did I come to church or worship?How much do we trust Jesus?Are you willing to trust Jesus with your life? There are certain places in our personal lives we don’t invite Jesus to (we don’t give Him full access). He might cause us to change. Light will not dwell in darkness, John 12:26 Will we follow Jesus? Will we go where He goes and stays where He stays? Jesus went to Zachaeus’ (chief tax collector’s house). He would go to the gang banger’s house. Time’s Up for being spectators. Jesus is looking for servants, “My servants go where I am”.
John 12:32. Will we lift Jesus Up! Jesus is calling us to something higher than ourselves. Here I am, Lord, send me. Jesus has given each of us “something” so that offers may see Him through us. 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. .. Time’s Up! What will you do? If you Believe, will you Trust Him. If you Trust Him, will you Serve Him. Will you Lift Him Up so others may see Him. Will you die to self!