Jesus, Why Do You Ask So Much of Me?
Manage episode 477641921 series 3515952
What if the most challenging parts of Christianity aren't the obscure Old Testament passages, but the direct words of Jesus himself? In this profound conversation, Pastor Mike Burnette, along with Pastors Elmer and Willie, unpack their current sermon series "Jesus, Why?" that examines Christ's most demanding teachings.
Pastor Mike introduces a transformative perspective: "Every word of Jesus is pregnant with the weight of heaven." This isn't merely poetic – it's the theological reality that when Jesus spoke, God spoke. He never "took divinity off" even in his human form. This understanding fundamentally changes how we approach difficult teachings like forgiveness, following Jesus completely, and guarding our hearts.
The conversation explores forgiveness as "an unmasterable issue" that believers will struggle with throughout their lives. One crucial insight: forgiveness is between you and God, while reconciliation involves both parties and often depends on transformation that may never occur. Pastor Mike shares powerful personal examples of forgiveness journeys, including praying blessings over those who've caused harm as a pathway to genuine forgiveness.
Perhaps most thought-provoking is the discussion of what competes for believers' hearts – not just worldly cares, sins, or Satan, but Jesus himself. "He's constantly pursuing us," Pastor Mike explains, "not because it benefits him, but because it's good for us." This reframes spiritual warfare as not just defense against evil, but making room for Christ's active pursuit of our devotion.
As Easter approaches, the pastors invite listeners to consider "Why did Jesus have to die?" – the question at the heart of Christianity. They remind us that Christ died for everyone, even "the worst hellraiser you can imagine." Who will you invite to experience this transformative message?
Chapters
1. Jesus, Why Do You Ask So Much of Me? (00:00:00)
2. Welcome to Worship and Leadership (00:00:30)
3. Introduction to "Jesus, Why?" Series (00:03:14)
4. Every Word of Jesus is Pregnant with Heaven (00:08:32)
5. Forgiveness: Why Jesus Demands It (00:18:04)
6. The Difference Between Forgiveness and Reconciliation (00:30:59)
7. Praying For Those Who Hurt You (00:42:24)
8. Guarding Your Heart From Competing Influences (00:47:10)
9. Why Did Jesus Have to Die? (00:53:39)
53 episodes