You are Invited

The sermon was introduced using the short story “Babette’s Feast” by Isak Dinesen as a picture of the type of a free and satisfying feast: “The kingdom of God is often likened to a party, a banquet” Matthew 22:8-9 “This rich imagery of a table, a feast, a banquet is put before the church whenever we sit around the Lord’s Table. “I want you to notice who is invited here. Individuals” Isaiah 55:1-2 “He meets the needs that nothing else available on the market can meet.” “He comes to satisfy you in your innermost, deepest being. And what are we to do? A three-fold call”

1. The call is free: That is not to say that what is on offer has been cheap or second rate. No, it is costly. You can enjoy the whole evening. For you are not paying the tab at the end of the night.”

2. The call is guaranteed: “Here’s God’s guarantee.‘and I will make with you an everlasting covenant” . Psalm 89 He describes three roles for Jesus: a) as a witness John 18:37, Revelation 1:5 b) firstborn of the dead and the ruler of kings on earth. Psalm 89

3. The call is urgent: “In verse 6 there is a reissuing of the invitation. “Don’t delay because you think you have no problem. God thinks you have a problem, even if you don’t.

“The promise of the consequences – joy and peace. The ultimate result of salvation for individuals is that the curse is lifted. Isaiah 55 “The gospel invitation does not talk about diminishing you one little bit. It is not about taking something from you, but of giving an incredible amount to you. It gives you life in its fullness. Joy in abundance. That’s the gospel invitation.” Also based on: 2 Samuel 7:12-16, Luke 1:30-33, Luke 14:22-24.