Easter at The Father's House | I Call Him ____ . | My Messiah - Tim Bittle

·39 min·3 clips

In city interviews, only one woman called Jesus the Messiah—what does that reveal about modern perceptions?

The episode begins with a welcome and prayer, emphasizing the hope for a transformative experience with Jesus. Tim Bittle introduces the unconventional decision to start a nine-week series on Easter, aiming to cultivate curiosity and encourage regular attendance among guests. He explains the series 'I Call Him,' which focuses on personalizing biblical names for Jesus based on individual encounters. The key text is Mark chapter 8, where Jesus asks his disciples who they say he is, and Peter responds that he is the Messiah. Bittle discusses the meaning of 'Messiah' as 'the anointed one,' a kingly term with prophetic significance from Old Testament scriptures. He shares insights from social media interviews conducted by the church, where only one person out of many called Jesus the Messiah, highlighting a disconnect in modern perceptions. The sermon delves into Peter's flawed assumptions about the Messiah, expecting a political or military leader, which leads Jesus to rebuke him sharply. Bittle contrasts these cultural expectations with Jesus's actual mission of suffering, death, and resurrection to save souls. He applies this to listeners, questioning their own views of Jesus—whether as a problem-solver, political ally, or cosmic vending machine. The message emphasizes that Jesus is a king who demands followers to give up their own ways, take up their cross, and find true life through salvation. Bittle explains the Greek word 'sozo' for salvation, stressing its eternal significance over temporary circumstances. The sermon concludes with a prayer of commitment, inviting those unsure of their salvation to confess Jesus as Lord, and several individuals respond by raising their hands. The episode ends with a call to prayer and a blessing for listeners.

As heard by us

An Easter sermon weighs admiration for Jesus against the deeper claim of Messiah.

The Father's House opens Easter with the first entry in a nine-week series, using Messiah as its central title for Jesus. The episode moves from San Francisco street interviews, where people describe Jesus as a teacher, prophet, or morally admirable figure, into Peter's…

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Why you'd press play

Press play if Easter has made Jesus familiar, but the word Messiah still feels unfinished.

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