Dec. 10, 2023

The Sermon begins at 10:30 into the video. "Joy to the World", "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem", "Little Drummer Boy", "Good, Good Father"  - CCLI Streaming License: #22024223 "Everlasting Father" Summary:     In Isaiah chapter 9 and Luke chapter 15, Pastor Dave explores the names descriptive of the work of Christ in our lives. One of these names is the "Everlasting Father," which is not commonly attributed to Jesus. However, Jesus himself said that if we have seen Him, we have seen the Father, emphasizing their unity. Christ is both fully God and fully man, a concept difficult to comprehend but affirmed by the Bible.     The term "Everlasting Father" signifies a relational word, highlighting the role of a father in our lives. While some may have had imperfect or absent earthly fathers, Christ serves as the originator and sustainer of our spiritual life. He provides security, safety, and makes provisions for our needs. Additionally, Jesus intercedes for us, praying on our behalf.     Dysfunctional fathers are contrasted with the work of Christ. These dysfunctional types include the never-satisfied father, whose approval is always elusive; the explosive father, whose anger creates an unpredictable atmosphere; the absent father, who is physically or emotionally absent; and the emotionally distant father, lacking affection and support. Christ, on the other hand, is not abusive, neglectful, absent, or dissatisfied. He fully satisfies the righteous standard of God and extends grace to us.     The issue of absent fathers in society is highlighted, revealing the negative impact on children. Research shows that father-absent homes result in increased risks of poverty, behavioral problems, mortality, incarceration, teenage pregnancy, abuse, drug/alcohol abuse, obesity, and school dropouts.     In light of the work of Christ as our Everlasting Father, Pastor Dave encourages us to acknowledge our imperfections as fathers and seek forgiveness from our children. Embracing forgiveness and healing from our earthly fathers and directing our focus to the goodness and perfection of our heavenly Father can bring restoration. This Christmas season provides a fitting opportunity to release resentments and receive healing from the everlasting Father who holds the power to restore and reconcile.Sermon Notes: Everlasting Father, Isaiah 9:6, Luke 15:11-32 Messiah Jesus Christ became flesh to reveal the Father to us. 4 Types of Dysfunctional Fathers:   Never Satisfied   Explosive   Absent   Emotionally Distant The Everlasting Father:   Gracious   Good   Patient   Kind   Ever-present He has made a place in His family for you!!!