When Greek visitors came looking for Jesus during Passover week, they expected to meet a celebrity miracle worker. Instead, Jesus told them his true glory was about to be revealed on a Roman cross. In this Palm Sunday sermon from John 12:20–43, we learn why Jesus called his crucifixion his "hour of glory" and what that means for anyone who claims to follow him.

The sermon points out three dimensions of the cross's glory:

1. it's the burial of a seed that produces an eternal harvest of salvation,
2. it's the courtroom verdict that silences Satan's accusations against the baptized,
3. and it's the force that draws every human being toward the Savior.

Along the way, we encounter a vivid picture of the devil as a prosecuting attorney who's been thrown out of the courtroom—still shouting, but no longer holding any legal claim over those who belong to Christ.

But the sermon doesn't end on a comfortable note. John tells us that many who witnessed Jesus' glory firsthand refused to confess him publicly because they were afraid of the personal cost. The challenge for us is honest and direct: are there places in your life where you're hiding your confession of Christ because the approval of other people feels safer than the approval of God?

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

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