Message: “The King’s Promised Priest” from Ruth Smith

In tonight’s sermon, Ruth Smith explores Jeremiah 7:1–11 and Gospel of Mark 11, unpacking Jesus’ unexpected actions as he enters Jerusalem as the promised Messiah—prophet, priest, and king. Through the triumphal entry, the cursing of the fig tree, and the cleansing of the temple, Ruth explains how Jesus confronts false religion and exposes the danger of outward appearances without true spiritual fruit. She highlights that the temple, once central to worship, is being replaced by Jesus himself as the true meeting place between God and humanity. The sermon concludes by reframing prayer—not as a transaction to get what we want, but as a relational response of trust, inviting believers to engage deeply with God and allow Him to transform their hearts.5 Questions to Think About: 1. Where might I be relying on outward appearances of faith rather than genuine spiritual fruit? 2. Do I treat my relationship with God as something secure regardless of how I live, like the people in Jeremiah’s time? 3. How do I respond to Jesus as king—do I expect Him to meet my agenda, or do I submit to His? 4. In what ways do I approach prayer: as a transaction to get things, or as a relationship with God? 5. Are there “mountains” in my life—idols or priorities—that God is calling me to surrender?

Scripture References: Jeremiah 7:1-11, Mark 11:1-25

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From Series: "Mark - A King's Ransom"