Sermon: What Do You See? | Pastor Ben Berteau | First Sunday in Lent

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The sermon slide for this week compelled Pastor Ben to begin by directly addressing the audience to express the somber and unsettling feelings evoked by it. He likens it to the discomfort and grief experienced when reading certain passages of Scripture, specifically Genesis 22. There are a range of emotions elicited by reading the Bible, including the ability of passages to bring comfort, excitement, or introspection.

Diving deeper, we walk through the distressing nature of Genesis 22, focusing on the intense emotional response it provokes, particularly for parents. While reading the chapter, one may experience feelings of disbelief and discomfort with Abraham's actions and God's apparent command to sacrifice Isaac. Pastor Ben challenges the conventional interpretation of the passage, suggesting a nuanced understanding of God's test of faith rather than a literal demand for sacrifice.

The sermon emphasizes the profound love and sacrifice demonstrated by God through Jesus Christ, and we're encouraged to reflect on the true meaning of Lent and to re-direct our focus toward Christ's redemptive work on the cross. It concludes with a prayer for clarity and understanding of God's love during the Lenten season.