High Desert Church Sermons

446 episodes — Page 3 of 9

Ep 604Let Me Tell You A Story: RSVP's Are Lame | Jackson Arnett

This powerful message delves into the parable of the great banquet in Luke 14, where Jesus illustrates the dangers of assuming a place in God's kingdom without genuine faith and discipleship. We are challenged to examine our own lives and ask: have we made lame assumptions about our salvation based on anything other than a daily 'yes' to following Jesus? The parable warns against letting possessions, work, family, or distractions take priority over our devotion to Christ. We must stay in touch with our spiritual neediness and dependence on God, especially in a culture of wealth and self-sufficiency. The gospel invitation is still open to all, and as disciples, we are called to compel others to come to the great banquet - especially those overlooked by the world. May we give Jesus our wholehearted 'yes' each day and experience the rich, satisfying life found only in Him.00:00 - College Friend’s Surprise Party13:47 - Context and Purpose of Parables27:05 - Lame Excuses for Missing the Banquet40:23 - Modern Distractions vs. Following Jesus53:00 - Final Reflections and Daily Commitment

Apr 30, 202555 min

Ep 603Let Me Tell You A Story: A Fruitless Fig Tree | Kurt Thielen

This sermon delves into the parable of the fig tree, highlighting God's expectation for us to bear spiritual fruit in our lives. Just as a fig tree is expected to produce figs, we are called to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The message emphasizes that our entrance into God's kingdom requires genuine repentance, a change of perspective and direction. It challenges us to examine our lives and ask ourselves if we are truly connected to God, allowing Him to work in and through us to produce abundant fruit. The sermon reminds us that God's patience is immense, but it is not endless. We are encouraged to turn to God and allow Him to cultivate our hearts, so that we may bear fruit that brings glory to His name.00:00 - Introduction and Modern-Day Parable08:01 - What is a Parable?15:41 - Repentance and Entry into God's Kingdom32:31 - The Parable of the Fig Tree and Bearing Fruit40:21 - God's Patience and Expectations

Apr 30, 202545 min

Ep 602Let Me Tell You A Story: Hidden Treasure & Sought After Pearl I Todd Arnett

Welcome to the beginning of our enlightening journey through the teachings of Jesus' parables. In this series, we kick things off with an electrifying anecdote akin to finding treasure, drawing parallels between the thrill of a storage auction win and the profound stories Jesus used to unravel the mysteries of the kingdom of God. Listen in as we embark on an eight-week exploration, offering modern interpretations to these timeless narratives and what it truly means to be a part of this celestial kingdom.Our conversation takes a poignant turn as we honor Mother's Day weekend, delving into the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value from Matthew 13. The question of faith and commitment comes into sharp focus—what does it mean to invest everything in the pursuit of the Kingdom of Heaven? As we navigate these parables, I encourage you to reflect on the joy and readiness to surrender all for this divine cause, and how this choice can resonate with our own life-changing discoveries.Rounding out this thought-provoking episode, we contemplate the cost and the eternal rewards of discipleship. The teachings of Jesus are not shy about the level of commitment required from His followers, and through these parables, we are reminded of the value that comes with this sacrifice. Join me in a moment of prayer as we express gratitude for the wisdom of these parables and consider the transformative power of the gospel. It's an invitation to a life lived with greater purpose, joy, and the promise of rewards that far transcend our earthly existence.00:00 - Jesus' Parables Teaching Series Introduction5:36 - The Value of the Kingdom10:42 - Discovering Valuable Treasures in Life23:53 - Counting the Cost of Following Jesus37:21 - Eternal Rewards of Following Jesus

Apr 30, 202542 min