Rivercrest Presbyterian Church - Sermons

Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch provide an active parable for Christians today. The eunuch was a man whose life was full of barriers and exclusion, but now he's been brought into transformed life. And Philip helps the eunuch to understand his position and the text of Isaiah. Today, the marks of the church include pursuing the Lord in His Word, responding obedience, and witnessing our faith in Jesus.

The book of Ruth ends in a genealogy. A small family that was faithful had no idea how the Lord would work to bring the lineage of His Son through them. God has, is, and will continue to bring about His covenant promises by ordinary, not meaningless, ways. And by His steadfast love, we will walk faithfully in Christ who is our eternal hope.

Ruth is being redeemed by Boaz in a seal of public display. Redeemed people are claimed people. And from redemption comes an overflow of joy. Christians today are to rejoice in the joy of their salvation and share the hope they have received from their Redeemer to the world.

Ruth and Boaz exhibit faith in courageous action. Going to the threshing floor meant putting everything on the line, yet Ruth goes and makes a proposal to Boaz. In knowing he is a redeemer, they both understand the Lord's provision here, and the matter will be settled in the morning. These two point the greater love story of Christ our Redeemer sheltering us under His wings. However this life plays out, we are to be faithful, knowing that the Lord's faithfulness endures forever.

In ordinary ways, Ruth and Boaz are experiencing God's providential kindness. They both witness to others and to one another of the Lord's faithfulness. The redemption isn't just words or a rescue, but communion. By God's grace we don't glean on the outside but are welcomed to the table and into His family.

In hopelessness, but not rebellion, Naomi urges her daughters-in-law away from her and the Lord, and to return back to their old way of life in Moab. It is evident that this family was close and talked about the Lord. Orpah leaves, but Ruth in faith returns with her mother-in-law and encourages her. God always meets us in the return, and gives us fellow believers to remind us of His great love and care.

The early church devoted themselves to what was most important; to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and the prayers. Their devotion is both personal towards the Lord, within their households, and also as a congregation of faith. The devotion of a believer is both fueled by and encourages the body of Christ. Ultimately our devotion is limited, but God's is not. He's devoted completely and perfectly to Himself, to His mission, and to us.