Matthew Ruttan

Category: Sermons

  • I can smell the hands of fishermen [Sermon]

    I can smell the hands of fishermen [Sermon]

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    Over time Jesus’ people can lose (a) our sense of connection to those who have gone before, and (b) focus. In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus provides a collective focus and unity for his people no matter their century. This sermon explores Luke 8:4-15 and eight specific takeaways for a time that is starting…

  • How does the peace of Christ rule in our hearts? [Sermon]

    How does the peace of Christ rule in our hearts? [Sermon]

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in , ,

    “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” It sounds like a very, very good thing. But what specifically is “the peace of Christ”? What about the reference to our “hearts”? (Clearly, it’s not just a muscle in your chest.) And how can that peace “rule”? If this idea is one of the…

  • Mesus, McJesus and the Rise of Fear [Sermon]

    Mesus, McJesus and the Rise of Fear [Sermon]

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    “Mesus” is a temptation for all of us; it’s self-projection. “McJesus” is consumerism gone bad, even with our faith–picking and choosing beliefs, even drawing from other religions. When these things happen, fear and anxiety can increase. They love a vacuum. This sermon is on Colossians 2:6-23 and unpacks the Lordship of Jesus; because of him,…

  • God meets you where you’re at [Sermon]

    God meets you where you’re at [Sermon]

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    There’s an old saying: “God meets you where you’re at, not where you should be at.” It was true for the Colossians, Saul, and Johnny Cash in Nickajack cave. This sermon explores the powerful mystery of “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” even for imperfect people. I explore Colossians 1:24-2:5 and take us through…

  • The Supremacy, Sufficiency and Security of Christ [Sermon]

    The Supremacy, Sufficiency and Security of Christ [Sermon]

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    The supremacy of Jesus sounds like a lofty idea. It might even sound like playground posturing: ‘My brother is bigger and stronger than your brother…’ But Paul teaches this because (a) it’s true, (b) he cares about them, and (c) their mixed-up thinking is resulting in mixed-up living. The world will say Jesus is not…

  • What People on the Narrow Path Need [Sermon]

    What People on the Narrow Path Need [Sermon]

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    They knew Jesus, but were swerving from the narrow path. That’s when a more mature Christian stepped in to help. If the path was wide, they wouldn’t have needed help. But they did. (And so do we.) John Climacus said, “Demons fear concentration as thieves fear dogs.” Ah yes. Clarity is the enemy of the…