Francis Chan: The Resurrection: So What?

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message is about the importance of truly wanting to know God's truth, even if it's difficult or uncomfortable. The speaker challenges listeners to consider whether they want to believe what they desire rather than seeking absolute truth. Jesus' statement in John 8:32, "You shall know the truth," is emphasized as a promise that knowing the truth will set us free.

Key Scripture References

• Luke 8:4-15 - This passage describes Jesus teaching in parables to the crowds, but explaining the meaning to his disciples. The speaker notes how Jesus' method is counterintuitive, as he doesn't try to make things easy for everyone to understand.
• Matthew 13:1-23 - This parable of the sower is used by Jesus to explain why he speaks in parables, so that those who truly want to know will come after him and seek understanding.
• John 8:32 - This verse emphasizes Jesus' promise that knowing the truth will set us free. The speaker highlights how this contrasts with many people's desire to believe what they want rather than seeking absolute truth.
• Matthew 13:18-23 - This passage explains the parable of the sower in more detail, highlighting how Jesus is concerned with those who have good soil and are willing to clear their lives of distractions so that they can receive the seed of truth.
• John 8:31-32 - The speaker references this passage as an example of Jesus' promise that knowing the truth will set us free. He notes how this is a stark contrast to many people's desire to believe what they want rather than seeking absolute truth.

Main Points

• The importance of truly wanting to know God's truth, even if it's difficult or uncomfortable.
• The need to distinguish between desiring what we want to believe and seeking absolute truth.
• Jesus' promise in John 8:32 that knowing the truth will set us free.

Implications for the Listener

• Consider whether you're more interested in believing what you desire rather than seeking absolute truth.
• Reflect on Jesus' statement in John 8:32 and consider how it applies to your life.
• Ask yourself if you truly want to know God's truth, even if it challenges your current beliefs.

Conclusion

The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking absolute truth, rather than just believing what we desire. He encourages listeners to consider whether they truly want to know God's truth and to reflect on Jesus' promise in John 8:32 that knowing the truth will set us free.