Tyler Willis was recently introduced on October 6, 2019 as an Elder Candidate at our church. Part of the prerequisites for an Elder-Pastor in a church, according to God's Word, is that they are "able to teach." In this first sermon of Tyler's, he walks through Hebrews 12.1, 2, highlighting from this Scripture as well as his own personal journey the importance of casting aside extra weight if we are to run this race well and cross the finish line.
God’s plan for redemption was not a backup plan but something foretold through the prophets. Even so, Zechariah, a priest who knew the stories of old, still doubted the angel Gabriel’s message that he and Elizabeth would have a son. His doubt reveals how our knowledge doesn’t always equal belief. But God’s faithfulness remains even when we waver.
Zechariah’s temporary muteness was a gift of humility, leading him to eventually proclaim God’s goodness and prophesy over his son, John the Baptist. Like him, we must learn to lean not on our own understanding but trust in God's perfect timing and power. When we humble ourselves, God magnifies His power through us, inviting us to proclaim the excellencies of the One who called us out of darkness.
