January 26th, Sermon & Ministry Resources

"The Proclamation of Jesus' Purpose" Text: Luke 4:14-21

Lectionary Readings — Third Sunday after the Epiphany — January 26, 2025

Nehemiah 8:1-3,5-6,8-10; Psalm 19; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a; Luke 4:14-21

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Call to Worship (based on Luke 4:14-21)

Leader: We gather to hear the words of Jesus,

People: Who came in the power of the Spirit.

Leader: Christ declared: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,"

People: He was anointed to bring good news to the poor.

Leader: Jesus was sent to proclaim freedom for the captives,

People: And to give sight to those who could not see.

Leader: Through him, the oppressed are set free,

People: And God's favor is proclaimed to all.

Leader: Jesus declared, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing,"

People: And we gather now to receive his grace.

Leader: Let us worship the One who fulfills God's promises,

All: Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord!

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Opening Prayer (Nehemiah 8:1-3,5-6,8-10)

Let us pray:

Holy and gracious God,

As we gather before You today, we are reminded of that sacred moment when Your people assembled as one in Jerusalem, united in their hunger to hear Your Word. Like them, we come with open hearts and attentive spirits, eager to receive Your truth.

Lord, just as Ezra opened the Book of the Law in the sight of all the people, open Your Word to us now. As he stood elevated where all could see, may we also lift high Your holy Scripture in our hearts and minds. When Your people bowed their faces to the ground in reverence, they recognized Your majesty – grant us that same spirit of holy awe in Your presence.

We thank You that Your Word is not meant to remain mysterious, but to be understood and embraced. Just as the Levites helped Your people comprehend the Law, give us understanding through Your Holy Spirit. Let Your truth sink deep into our hearts, transforming our minds and guiding our steps.

Father, we remember how Your people wept when they heard Your Word, yet were told to celebrate because the joy of the Lord is their strength. Fill us with that sacred joy today. Let Your Word not bring condemnation, but liberation. May we leave this place strengthened by Your presence, encouraged by Your promises, and ready to share portions with those who have nothing prepared.

We lift this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the living Word made flesh, who dwelt among us full of grace and truth.

Amen.

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Sermon Outline: [NOTE to Paid subscribers — scroll down for the full manuscript sermon].

[Note: All Scripture is taken from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.]

Sermon Outline: "The Proclamation of Jesus’ Purpose" (Luke 4:14-21)

Introduction:

• Set the scene: Jesus returning to his hometown after his baptism and temptation

• This moment marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry in Galilee

• The text reveals Jesus' inaugural address - his mission statement for his ministry

I. The POWER Behind the Purpose (verses 14-15)

1. Filled with the Spirit's power - Returns from wilderness in the power of the Spirit - Demonstrates the essential role of the Holy Spirit - Connects to His baptism experience

2. Focused teaching ministry - Teaching in their synagogues - Building reputation through faithful ministry - Receiving glory from all

3. Foundation of authority - Teaching with divine authority - Establishing His credibility - Setting stage for major announcement

II. The PRACTICE of the Purpose (verses 16-17)

1. Regular worship pattern - "As was his custom" - Models faithful attendance - Demonstrates respect for tradition

2. Ready participation - Stands up to read - Accepts scroll when given - Shows active engagement in worship

3. Reverent handling of Scripture - Unrolls the scroll carefully - Finds the specific passage - Shows respect for God's Word

III. The PROCLAMATION of the Purpose (verses 18-19)

1. Divine appointment - "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me" - Anointed for specific purpose - Chosen for divine mission

2. Defined mission 1. Good news to the poor 2. Release to captives 3. Sight to blind 4. Freedom to oppressed 5. Proclamation of God's favor

3. Deliberate focus - Each aspect addresses human need - Combines spiritual and physical liberation - Presents comprehensive salvation

IV. The PRESENT Reality of the Purpose (verses 20-21)

1. Dramatic pause - Rolls up scroll - Returns it to attendant - Sits down - Eyes of all fixed on him

2. Definitive declaration - "Today this scripture has been fulfilled" - Present reality, not future promise - Personal claim to messianic role

3. Direct application - In their hearing - Immediate fulfillment - Requires response

Conclusion:

1. Jesus clearly understood and declared His purpose

2. His mission continues through His church today

3. We are called to participate in this ongoing ministry

4. Invitation to respond to His proclamation

Full Manuscript Sermon Below for Paid Subscribers