Coats' Sermons: A Guide To Life And Faith

will coats sermons

Will Coats is a pastor whose sermons cover a range of topics, including relationships, marriage, faith, and change. His sermons are often based on biblical passages and stories, such as the life of Joseph and his coat of many colours. Coats offers interpretations of these stories and relates them to modern life, providing guidance and encouragement to his congregation. One of his sermons, Old Coats and New Wine, explores the idea of change and how it relates to faith and tradition. Coats' sermons are available through SermonAudio, where listeners can access his thoughts on a variety of subjects.

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The role of change in faith

Change is an inherent part of life, and faith is no exception to this. While the concept of faith is based on deeply rooted convictions and beliefs, it is not static and unchanging. On the contrary, faith involves perpetual change and evolution. This is evident in the Christian faith, where individuals are called to make decisions about what traditions to uphold and what new practices to embrace. This process of discernment is essential for personal growth and a stronger connection to God.

Embracing Change

Faith is not just about belief in something unseen and untouched; it is a dynamic force that shapes our daily lives. As individuals and communities of faith navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by modernity, they must embrace change. This does not mean abandoning tradition altogether but involves a careful evaluation of what aspects of the past are worth preserving and what new elements can enrich their spiritual lives.

Navigating Change

The Christian faith, in particular, has a long history of adapting to change. From the development of nation-states to scientific and technological revolutions, Christianity has been intimately involved in shaping the world as we know it today. This process of change is not always easy or straightforward. It requires discernment, learning, and a commitment to improving the world around us.

The Impact of Change on Faith

Change can have a profound impact on faith. When core beliefs are challenged, individuals may experience a "deconstruction" or "demolition" of their faith. This can lead to a weakening of their connection to God. However, change can also deepen and solidify faith, as individuals grapple with new ideas and experiences, their faith is tested and strengthened.

The Role of Faith Leaders

Faith leaders play a crucial role in guiding their communities through change. By interpreting sacred texts and offering wisdom, they can help individuals navigate the complexities of modern life while remaining true to their religious values. This involves a delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation.

Change as an Opportunity

Ultimately, change presents an opportunity for individuals to strengthen their faith and have a positive impact on the world around them. By embracing change with openness and discernment, people of faith can contribute to social progress and the betterment of society. This is exemplified by faith-based organizations tackling global challenges, such as human rights, peacemaking, and anti-corruption initiatives.

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The coat of credibility and compensation

The story of Joseph in the Book of Genesis mentions the "coat of credibility and compensation" that he received from God as a reward for his faithfulness and perseverance. This coat served as a symbol of Joseph's integrity and the blessings he received from God.

After being rejected by Potiphar's wife due to his refusal of her advances, Joseph was falsely accused and imprisoned for attempted rape. However, his strong character and humility shone through, and he continued to serve God faithfully during his time in prison.

While in prison, Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream, predicting seven years of great plenty followed by seven years of famine. Impressed by Joseph's wisdom and humility, Pharaoh bestowed upon him a coat of credibility and compensation. Pharaoh recognised Joseph's discretion and wisdom, elevating him to a position of power in Egypt, second only to himself.

Joseph's coat of many colours, given to him by his father, was a symbol of his father's love and favour. However, his brothers' jealousy led to them stripping him of this coat, marking the beginning of his trials and tribulations. Joseph's journey included wearing the coat of a servant and enduring false accusations, imprisonment, and temptation. Yet, through it all, he remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to God, ultimately leading to his elevation to a position of power and influence in Egypt.

In conclusion, the coat of credibility and compensation represents the validation and rewards that come from faithfulness and perseverance. Joseph's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity and trials, maintaining our integrity and faith can lead to redemption and blessings beyond our imagination.

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The coat of a servant

The phrase "coat of a servant" brings to mind the idea of being clothed in service to others. In the Bible, there are several references to coats that hold symbolic significance. For example, in Genesis, God made coats of skins for Adam and Eve after their fall in the Garden of Eden. This act of clothing them represented God's provision and protection for humanity.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul often refers to himself as "a servant of Jesus Christ" in his letters to various churches (Romans 1:1; Colossians 4:12; Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 4:6). Even Jesus' half-brother, Jude, refers to himself as a servant (Jude 1:1). By doing so, they are conveying that they have set aside their own rights to serve Jesus as their master faithfully.

The Greek word "doulos," translated as "servant," literally means "a slave or bondservant." In ancient times, slaves were those who were purchased or born into slavery and served their masters until death or manumission. Some slaves developed such close relationships with their masters' families that they chose to remain in service even when freedom was an option. This is the type of relationship that Paul and other apostles are alluding to when they call themselves servants of Christ.

Being a servant of Christ means voluntarily surrendering personal rights to love, serve, and obey God's will in Christ Jesus. It entails dying daily to sin and fleshly desires, allowing Christ's life to flow through us (Galatians 2:20). We seek to honor and glorify Christ, our Master, who has bought our freedom from sin (1 Corinthians 6:20, 10:31).

Servants of Christ live their lives on earth as a preparation for eternity, enduring hardships and struggles while keeping their eyes on the glory and reward that await them (2 Corinthians 4:17). They strive to please their benevolent Master humbly and selflessly, without pretension or self-importance (Luke 17:10).

So, when we think of "the coat of a servant," we can envision it as a symbolic garment of humility, dedication, and obedience. It represents a life of service to others, mirroring Christ's example of sacrificing Himself for the sake of humanity.

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The role of doubt in faith

Doubt is an inherent and unavoidable part of faith. It is not the opposite of faith but an element of it. While doubt is often viewed as a lack of faith, it can lead to a broader understanding and even strengthen faith.

Doubt as Part of Faith

Doubt is a normal part of the faith journey. In the Bible, the disciples themselves experienced doubt, yet they continued to worship Jesus. In Matthew 28:16, after Jesus's resurrection, "when [the disciples] saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted". Similarly, in Matthew 14:22-33, Peter began to sink as he walked on water and cried out, "Lord, save me!" Despite his doubt, Jesus rescued him, and Peter worshiped him, proclaiming, "Truly you are the Son of God".

Doubt Leading to a Broader Understanding

Acknowledging doubt can open a window to a broader understanding. It allows believers to examine how their religious convictions fit into a larger worldview. For instance, they may turn to science for further understanding in areas where theology is vague, enriching their appreciation of the natural world and its creator.

Doubt Strengthening Faith

Engaging with doubt can lead to a deeper and more satisfying faith experience. By asking hard questions and seeking answers, believers can strengthen their faith and be equipped to help others struggling with doubt. As Timothy Keller writes in *The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism*, "A faith without some doubts is like a human body without any antibodies in it".

Doubt as Unavoidable

Doubt and uncertainty are inescapable aspects of the human condition. Faith is not about certainty or belief but about trust and stepping into the unknown. By embracing uncertainty, faith becomes enriched and profound. As Paul Tillich said, "Doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is one element of faith".

Doubt as a Journey

Doubt sets us on an unpredictable journey of exploration and discovery. By asking honest questions, we embark on a path of seeking understanding and truth. While this journey may lead to different destinations, including a vastly different version of God or no God at all, it is a necessary part of the faith experience.

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Marriage and relationships

Marriage is a holy institution, created by God. It is a covenant between two people and God, and not just a contract. It is a divine invention, and not a human one.

Marriage is a union of two imperfect people, and often, this is the perfect recipe for conflict. However, if Christ is kept at the centre of a marriage, it can be a blessed and healthy one. Marriage is not easy, and it is often a sanctifying experience. It is a lifelong series of increasing physical delights, and it can also be a captivating romance.

There are many components to a stable, healthy marriage. These include selflessness, forgiveness, and communication. A good marriage needs all three components to be well-balanced and strong. Marriage is also about companionship and prioritisation.

There are many challenges to a healthy marriage. These include sexual sins, cohabitation, no-fault divorce, adultery, and pornography.

However, there are also many blessings in marriage. Married couples live longer, are healthier, and are happier than unmarried people. They also have the blessing of children, who are a heritage of the Lord.

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