In Life and Death We are the Lords

Here's a 4-paragraph summary of the sermon delivered by Rev. Kent Compton:

In this sermon, Rev. Kent Compton delves into Romans 14:7-9, emphasizing that believers "are the Lord's" in both life and death. He sets this within the context of Christian unity amidst secondary differences, drawing parallels to the early church in Rome where Jewish and Gentile Christians held varying views on practices like eating meat sacrificed to idols or observing certain days. Compton highlights Paul's principle: avoid passing judgment on one another in these secondary issues, recognizing that each individual is ultimately accountable to Christ as their Lord and Governor.

Rev. Compton expands on the idea of being "the Lord's" by referencing the Westminster Shorter Catechism's question about the chief end of man—to glorify God and enjoy Him forever—and the Heidelberg Catechism's question about comfort in life and death, which states, "I am not my own". This concept of divine ownership means that every aspect of a believer's life—hopes, dreams, possessions, time, and choices—should revolve around God's will and purpose. He stresses that this ownership is not restrictive but liberating, as believers are purchased by the precious blood of Jesus, freed from the power of the devil, and preserved by God's providence.

The sermon then explores what it means to "live to the Lord." Compton asserts that living for the Lord involves being informed by God's Word in all areas of life, from morality and marriage to worship and how we spend our money or raise our children. He uses Jesus's response to temptation, "It is written," as an example of living by every word of God. Even in the smallest choices, such as giving thanks for a meal, believers can glorify God. This perspective allows for disagreement on secondary issues with other Christians, as the ultimate focus is on loving God and neighbor, which fulfills the law.

Finally, Rev. Compton addresses dying to the Lord, asserting that even in death, believers remain God's possession. He counters cultural views that emphasize autonomy in death, particularly concerning practices like MAID (Medical Assistance in Dying). He references biblical assurances that God is the God of the living, even for those who have passed on, and that death for a believer is "gain"—a going home to be with the Lord. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that the cross of Christ provides the ultimate context for both living and dying, encouraging listeners to trust in God's love and sovereignty in all circumstance