Category: Feature Talks
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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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![Can God use me even when I feel unqualified? [Sermon]](https://matthewruttan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/unqualified.png?w=1024)
Can God use me even when I feel unqualified? [Sermon]
If only. If only I had fewer problems or was a better speaker or had more influence, perhaps then God might use me. Hmm. But God’s ability is greater than your inability. This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks Mark 6:30-44 to discover that Jesus is the new and greater Moses, and that…
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2 Tips for Personal Peace in a New Year
You probably like the idea of personal peace. Here are 2 tips to help with just that. The first is obvious. The second might need some explanation.
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The Great Unknown
Think of all the change in the past 100 years… global population, wars, radical advances in technology. If this same rate of change continues, what will the next 100 years be like? We’re headed into the great unknown. How might the arrival of Christ speak into our collective and individual future which can seem uncertain…
