Author: Matthew Ruttan
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What does it mean to carry your cross?
“It’s my cross to bear.” We use it as an expression. But what did Jesus originally mean when he told his followers to take up their cross? This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks Mark 8:31-9:1, answers that question, provides a motivating reminder about sacrifice, and suggests a practical application. Take up your…
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How can our spoken words beat back the powers of darkness?
We’ve devalued words. That’s a mistake. Words can hurt, they can inspire — and they can do even more. They can have actual physical power in certain situations. This sermon on Mark 7:31 – 8:30 (also released as a podcast) centres on Peter’s confession and what this has to do with the fight against the…
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How can I stop my own hypocrisy?
When you picture someone who is hypocritical, a pretender, who do you see? Is it someone else, or someone in the mirror? This isn’t about self-flagellation, but self-evaluation. In this sermon in Mark 7:1-30 I explore the text and take us through practices and perspectives to help address the religious hypocrisy in our own lives.
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![Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid. [Proximity]](https://matthewruttan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/water-walking.png?w=1024)
Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid. [Proximity]
Being in close proximity to the right people in the right situations makes all the difference, including situations of difficulty and danger. This sermon on Mark 6:45-56 (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks Jesus’ words: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” What if these were words specifically for you?
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A serious historical deep dive into the Nativity
We know the story. But do we, really? This episode is a deep dive into the Nativity story. What was Nazareth like, the political landscape, Mary? “Long-looked for is come at last.” Re-release from 2022.
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![For he will save his people from their sins [Sermon]](https://matthewruttan.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/dec15saves.png?w=1024)
For he will save his people from their sins [Sermon]
Jesus saves his people from sin. The angel told that to Joseph before Jesus was even born. Not only does he save from the consequence of sin, but the slavery of sin. This second part is a much-neglected (and misunderstood) part of his work. This sermon unpacks Matthew 1:1-25 and invites us to consider Jesus’…
