Functional Faith

calendar_today November 24, 2024
menu_book 2 Samuel 15:1-37 , 
location_on Morning Service
person Rev. John Downs
view_list 2 Samuel , 

2 Samuel 15:1-37

The narrative of Absalom’s conspiracy against David juxtaposes two types of faith.  For Absalom, it’s a perfunctory, pragmatic approach that takes kernels of truth but twists them toward his own agenda, at the risk of great damage to the kingdom.  Such is also the approach of many cults, whose deception can never sustain one in the wilderness.  In contrast, the functional faith of David seeks the Lord’s glory and creates covenant community that is able to carry us through conflict in the midst of the wilderness.  While there is no guarantee that we’ll be insulated from weeping along the way, the role of functional faith in the life of a believer is to direct our gaze toward Christ who promises to complete his purposes in us as he sends us on mission for his glory.

Back to All Sermons