All Sunday teaching sermons

As they sat with the Lord on the Mount of Olives overlooking the golden side of the temple, four disciples asked about the end of the world, and He told them about the imminent end of the temple, and also of His own later return.

In this passage, the first step for advancing in communion with Christ is a full appreciation of His person. The second is the mortifying of self-love. The third is to see everything we possess as His, entrusted to us for godly management.

During the Lord's final week, He answered a series of hostile questions. His answers are often seen as remarkable 'tactical' ways of confounding His critics, but they were, in fact, completely relevant to the questions, leaving principles for all ages.

Christ's last days on earth show His divine nature, redeeming purpose and power to end the Jewish era and bring in the Gospel age. He also teaches the crucial elements of true worship, and the way to experience God's power in fruitfulness.

Beginning the final journey to Jerusalem, where He would die at Calvary, Christ spoke of His death and resurrection. Then James and John revealed their earthly ambitions. The snare of pride in God's people, how it is stimulated, its consequences and its curbs.

What it means for husbands and wives to 'cleave' to each other - listing the aspects of responsibility that honour God and cement the marriage union. The tragedy of divorce and its causes. Also the real nature of headship, contrary to today's common idea.

'And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.'

The Lord calls His disciples to live modestly, without substance and eminence, and requires humility and approachability. He prepares them for the founding of autonomous churches, and commands them to give up any activity, pursuit or desire that spoils spiritual life and service.

First we review seven purposes of the transfiguration; secondly, we ask how three disciples merited such privileged communion, setting an example to us; thirdly, we define the 'secrets' of the kingdom. Finally we find the special key in the transfiguration to Old Testament prophecy.

The Lord's call to denial of ourselves and cross bearing has been used to teach salvation by works. It has also been used to insist on embracing His Lordship as a condition of salvation. Should it be added to repentance and faith? We answer from the Word.