Who is Jesus pt1 (of 2)

In this sermon, recorded in Amsterdam on November 10, 2024 Pastor Joshua begins by acknowledging recent displays of hatred in the city and emphasizes that this is unacceptable. He calls for hope and prayer for Amsterdam. Pastor Joshua enthusiastically talks about the recent growth of the young church, which has only been established for a short time. He mentions team nights, improvements to the facilities, the ministry to children and guests, and the fact that a significant number of people have come to know Jesus. He also mentions an increase in the church's financial resources. The central question of the sermon is: "Who is Jesus?" Pastor Joshua refutes the idea that Jesus was merely a good man or a teacher and quotes a theologian who argued that Jesus would then be either the Son of God, a lunatic, or something worse. Next, Pastor Joshua emphasizes the role of Jesus as our Savior. He refers to a passage in the Gospel where Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Another Gospel passage is also cited where the birth of the Savior is announced. The Hebrew name of Jesus means savior. Jesus saves people from darkness, from spiritual death, and from inner torment. He saves them for relationship with Him, for a God-given purpose, and for freedom. Pastor Joshua notes that many people remain at the understanding of Jesus as only their savior. The sermon continues with the concept of Jesus as our Lord. References are made to letters in the New Testament and another Gospel that highlight Jesus' absolute authority. Recognizing Jesus as Lord means giving Him authority over all aspects of our lives, including things we find difficult to let go of or entrust to Him. Pastor Joshua discusses the story of the rich young ruler from one of the Gospels. This young man called Jesus a "good teacher," which, according to Pastor Joshua, indicates that he did not see Jesus as Lord. In that Gospel, followers typically refer to Jesus as "master," while "teacher" is more often used by outsiders. The fact that the young man honored Jesus with his words but still held his heart to the world serves as a reflection for our own lives. Things like money, relationships, and career can take the place of lord in our lives. Pastor Joshua outlines what it means to have Jesus as Lord using a well-known psalm. Jesus as Lord provides, heals, restores our soul, leads us, comforts us in difficult times, protects us from enemies, and gives a hopeful future. Instead of primarily pursuing our own desires, Pastor Joshua encourages us to seek first the Kingdom of God, with the belief that everything else will then be added to us. At the end of the sermon, an invitation is extended to those who want to accept Jesus as their Savior. Prayers are offered, and attendees are encouraged to connect after the service for further guidance in their faith. The following sermon will focus on Jesus as the healer. A prayer is also offered for those who already know Jesus as Savior but now want to acknowledge Him as Lord of their lives.