The Favor of Christ

Bible Readings: Luke 23 - 24

Introduction:

The Lord Jesus Christ is truly a great favor to every mankind especially to every Christian.
Anyone who accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Savior will receive great favor and eternal life.

I. CHRIST DIED ON THE CROSS FOR OUR FAVOR (Luke 23)
a. Judgment to die. (Luke 12:13-25)
(He was judged without sin) Even King Herod and Pilate testified that he has no sin.

b. The crucifixion of the King. (Luke 23:26-49)
He was crucified without blemish and sin.

c. Christ statement on the cross.
1. Father forgives them for they do not know what they are doing. (Luke 23:24)
2. I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:43)

II. CHRIST AROSE FROM THE DEAD FOR OUR FAVOR. (Luke 24)
a. He arises from tomb to proclaim victory and to prove that He is the living God.

b. He appears to His disciples to prove that He is alive and to encourage them in ministry, and to mold their hearts to be strong in faith.

c. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the manifestation of His power and proof that He is the living and mighty God.
The favor of His resurrection is our assurance to receive eternal life and the guarantee that we have a powerful and living God.

Application:
If we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, truly we will enjoy His death and resurrection.

- Bro. Sam T. Batac
Senior Minister
Olongapo Church of Christ

The Church of Christ Chapel, 1998

This is the present chapel that is being used presently. This chapel was built after Mt. Pinutubo erupted and downed the chapel by its ashes.

Forgiveness Brings Favor

Bible Reading: Mark 11:25-26

Introduction:

It is hard to forgive those people who hurt us, but God commanded us to forgive them. We believe that there is a great if we forgive them.

• Everybody has a right to choose what to do in all situations we encountered.

1. We can forgive those who hurts us or
   
2. We can't forgive them.

• But we cannot hide that every decision we make is a big part of our lives.

I. JOSEPH CHOOSE TO FORGIVE HIS BROTHERS (Genesis 37-45)
A. His brothers have hatred feelings to him because of jealousy (Gen. 37:4)
B. His brothers planned to kill him.
C. His brothers sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites at 20.

• After what had happen, Joseph chose to forgive his brothers for the glory of God. And God gave Joseph a great favor in his lives.

II. JESUS CHRIST CHOOSE TO FORGIVE US (Luke 23:34)
A. God so loved the world. (John 3:16)
B. He made himself humble for the sake of His love. (Philippians 2:5-8)

• But the world cannot response to His love
• They choose to crucify Jesus and died on the cross.
• Jesus has an authority to curse and to punish them but He choose to forgive them for the sake of His purpose, that is why God exalted Him to the highest places and gave Him the name that is above every name. (Philippians 2:9)

Application:

• Do we really forgive those persons who hurt us?

Conclusion:

If we want to experience and enjoy the forgiveness of God, we need to forgive our brethren who hurt us. We cannot live a peaceful life if our hearts never learn to bestow forgiveness. Remember GOD FORGIVES US ON THE CROSS!

- Bro. Sam T. Batac
Senior Minister
Olongapo Church of Christ