Skip to main content

The Name of Jesus (Luke 2:16-21) - SPB Sermon Summary

The Name of Jesus (Luke 2:16-21) - SPB Sermon Summary

Understanding the Depth of God's Call Through Names

In a recent sermon at St. Paul's & St. Barnabas, the message focused on the biblical significance of names and God's unique way of calling individuals, irrespective of their social standing or abilities. The sermon highlighted how names in biblical times held profound meanings and often reflected God's purpose for an individual's life. This was evident in instances where God renamed individuals, such as Jacob becoming Israel and Abram transforming into Abraham, signifying a new divine purpose in their lives.

The sermon also delved into the story of the shepherds in the Bible. Contrary to societal expectations, these ordinary individuals were the first to receive the divine announcement of Jesus' birth. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that God's concern transcends earthly notions of power and privilege, emphasizing His inclusive love for all people.

Two central themes were highlighted: first, the Messiah's unexpected appearance contrary to worldly expectations, and second, the varied responses to Jesus' presence, ranging from worship to rejection. The sermon elucidated how encountering Jesus transforms individuals, urging listeners to share their experiences of God's work in their lives, akin to the shepherds sharing the news of Christ's birth.

Mary's reaction to the unfolding events was also explored, showcasing a contemplative approach as she treasured and pondered these revelations in her heart. This diversity in responses to God's call — active sharing like the shepherds or reflective pondering like Mary — was presented as an integral aspect of the Christian faith.

For a more in-depth understanding of this profound message, listeners are encouraged to access the full sermon available on the SPB podcast:

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

SPB Sermons || Sent Like the Son || JOhn 20:19-23

Sent Like the Son – Family Worship at SPB Belfast (Sunday 27th April 2025) On the evening of Easter Sunday, as fear gripped the disciples behind locked doors, Jesus appeared among them and spoke the words they most needed to hear: "Peace be with you." At St Paul’s & St Barnabas this Sunday, we reflected on John 20:19-31 and the incredible transformation that the resurrection brings — not just to history, but to our hearts and lives today. We joined the disciples in their fear and doubt, seeing how even the testimony of Mary Magdalene couldn’t unlock their fear. Yet no locked door could keep out the risen Christ. Jesus appeared, scars and all, speaking peace into their brokenness. His scars weren't signs of defeat, but emblems of the victory won at the Cross — a reminder that by His wounds, we are healed. Jesus did not come to rebuke His followers, but to comfort them with His presence, speak peace into their hearts, and to co...

This Is the Hour – Join Us for Holy Week 2025 at St Paul’s & St Barnabas

This Is the Hour – Join Us for Holy Week 2025 at St Paul’s & St Barnabas, Belfast As we journey toward Easter this year at St Paul’s & St Barnabas in North Belfast, we invite you to take part in our Holy Week services under the theme “This Is the Hour.” This powerful phrase comes from John’s Gospel, where Jesus speaks of the appointed time—the hour—for which He came into the world. From Gethsemane to glory, Jesus moves with divine purpose toward the cross and the empty tomb. We are invited to walk with Him in that hour: to sit in the sorrow of betrayal, to receive the grace of service, to stand at the foot of the cross, and to rejoice at the dawn of resurrection. Our Holy Week reflections will follow the Gospel of John, focusing each evening on a key moment in Jesus’ journey. All services begin at 7:30 pm , and we warmly welcome you to come just as you are. Tuesday 15th April – 6:30pm Easter Community Prayer Walk Meeting at Salv...

SPB Sermons || John 20:24-31 || An Invitation For All To See ||

The Invitation Still Stands John 20:24–31 | Holy Communion | Sunday, 6 May 2025 In this deeply personal and reflective message, Rev. Andrew Irwin explores one of the most well-known and misunderstood figures in the resurrection story — Thomas. Often labelled "doubting," Thomas is shown instead as honest, wounded, and longing for truth. His absence at Jesus' first appearance leaves him reeling in a sea of sorrow, having missed not only the risen Christ but also the peace and power the others received. Still, Jesus returns — not with rebuke, but with compassion. And in that grace-filled encounter, Thomas makes one of the clearest declarations of faith in all Scripture: "My Lord and my God." The sermon challenges the assumptions we carry about doubt, showing us that Jesus is not afraid of our honesty. Like Thomas, we are often shaped by pain, disappointment, and questions, yet we are also invited to bring them to Jesus — whose scar...