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Christ The Center (8B)
By: Dr. James Earl Massey

When Christ is central we gain the perspective we need for life. ***See outline below.

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Christ The Center (8B)

Speaker: Dr. James Earl Massey

Date: 1/1/1900

References: Colossians 1:15-20

Introduction:

Colossians 1:17
Believing Christ is central makes an immense difference in our experience.

When Christ is central history finds its fulfillment.

Everything would fly apart if Christ were not holding it all together.
Illustration: George Buttrick called Christ the one who split history into before and after.

When Christ is central our faith finds its focus.

The Old Testament point to Christ as a promise and the New Testament points to him as fulfillment.
Illustration: Tertullian and Luther affirmed the tradition that Jesus was the center.
The sermon in which Christ finds no part is one which Christ gives no power.

When Christ is central the church finds its unity.

Illustration: Dr. Howard Thermann testified that race would not keep him from believing in the fellowship of the church.
Illustration: John Wesley did not let denomination divide him from others of God's people.
Jesus is the central figure in our togetherness.

When Christ is central our personality finds its wholeness.

Illustration: Augustine described the tension of holy awe of Christ and longing to be like him.
Illustration: In Plato’s Apology, Socrates tells of his desire to find the proper guide for his two sons.
All growing people need someone over them and Jesus is that one.

Conclusion:

Illustration: In Shakespeare’s King Lear, the Earl of Kent recognizes the authority of the king and desires to serve him.
All authority on heaven and earth is given to Jesus.

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