Aug. 10, 2025

In this sermon, Pastor Chad continues exploring Luke 24, focusing on the disciples on the road to Emmaus who failed to recognize Jesus despite knowing all the facts about his crucifixion and the empty tomb. The pastor highlights the difference between head knowledge and heart knowledge - knowing about Jesus versus truly knowing Him through faith. He emphasizes that many people, even regular churchgoers, can recite the gospel story but miss the transformative power of the resurrection because they haven't personally embraced it by faith.

Key Verses: Luke 24:19-24; Romans 10:10; John 20:27-29

Reflection Questions

The pastor mentioned the disciples knew the facts about Jesus but missed recognizing Him. In what areas of your life might you know the right spiritual answers but struggle to fully believe or apply them?

What's the difference between knowing about Jesus and knowing Jesus personally? How would you explain this distinction to someone else?

What does it mean to have a "partial gospel" as mentioned in the sermon? What parts of the gospel message do people tend to emphasize or neglect?

The pastor mentioned that "everlasting life starts when you accept Him, not when we get to heaven." How does this perspective change how we might live our daily lives?

In the sermon, we heard Molly's testimony about moving from understanding to belief. What was a moment in your life when something moved from your head to your heart?

The sermon emphasized that "facts alone can't bring faith." What role do you think the Holy Spirit plays in moving us from knowledge to belief?

Life Application

This week, take time to reflect on areas where you might have head knowledge about God but haven't fully embraced heart knowledge. Identify one spiritual truth you know intellectually but need to embrace more deeply. Each day, pray specifically about this area, asking God to help your unbelief and move this truth from your head to your heart. Journal about any changes in your perspective or experiences throughout the week. 

Key Takeaways

• You can know the story of Jesus without experiencing the transformative power of His resurrection.
• Faith isn't just understanding facts about God; it requires trusting Him with your heart.
• Many people in church may be "unregenerate" - having the right answers but never experiencing true conversion.
• Testimonies can inspire us, but they cannot replace personal faith.
• Eternal life begins at the moment of salvation, not just when we get to heaven.

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for meeting us where we are on our journey of faith. We acknowledge that sometimes we know all the right answers but still miss seeing You right in front of us. Help us move beyond mere intellectual understanding to a deep, transformative faith that changes how we live. Give us the courage to honestly examine where we are spiritually and to take the next step toward You. May we not just know about You but truly know You and walk in the resurrection power You offer. In Your name we pray, amen.