Victory in Confusing Times
The sermon opened with a reflection on this verse, reminding the congregation that God’s Word speaks clearly about His covenant promises and the blessing connected with those who stand with His people. This message was linked to the example of Esther, who was called to take a stand in a critical moment and not remain silent when God’s people were under threat. In the same way, believers today are challenged to prayerfully consider where they stand and what action they will take.
A strong emphasis was placed on the responsibility of the church to teach and equip God’s people with truth. Once truth has been heard, each person must decide how they will respond. Prayer is vital, but prayer must be accompanied by action. Faith must be lived out practically. The congregation was encouraged to consider what they are known for in their daily lives and on social platforms: are they known for standing for truth, for supporting what is right, and for being bold in their witness?
The sermon also warned against blindly accepting mainstream narratives and hearsay. Believers were urged to seek discernment, to be rooted in God’s Word, and to avoid being swept along by confusion and misinformation. In times of turmoil, the church must remain steadfast in truth and not be silent.
Matthew 28:16–20 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
The message highlighted how Jesus had prepared a specific meeting place for His followers. Even after His resurrection, when the women came to the tomb in distress, God had already prepared a messenger to direct them. This beautifully illustrates that Jesus knows the troubles of every individual and never leaves His people in confusion.
Particular attention was given to the fact that Jesus called His disciples to a specific mountain. This was not an accidental place, but an appointed place that required effort and obedience to reach. The mountain symbolised the place of commitment, sacrifice, and focused obedience. While many prefer to remain on the “plains” where distractions, criticism, and gossip abound, Jesus calls His people higher.
The congregation was encouraged to identify the “mountain” to which Jesus is calling them personally—a clear place of obedience, spiritual growth, and encounter with Him. Victory in confusing times belongs to those who keep their eyes fixed on where Jesus has called them, refusing to be distracted by doubt or opposing voices.
Finally, the sermon returned to the heart of the Great Commission. At that appointed place, Jesus declared that all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to Him. This same authority extends over every challenge, burden, and struggle in the believer’s life. From that place of encounter, Jesus sends His people out to make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey His commands.
The closing challenge to the congregation was clear: Are we growing spiritually, obeying what we have been taught, and responding to Jesus’ call to meet Him at the mountain He has appointed for us?
