Little Faith – 10/26/25

Posted on by Wylan Swets

This AI-generated summary is provided as a helpful tool to review key themes and takeaways from the sermon. While it aims to capture the essence of the message, please remember that AI can sometimes miss nuance or context. This summary is not a substitute for listening to and engaging with the complete sermon.

Watch the sermon and view all sermon resources at https://northhillschurch.com/sermon/little-faith-10-26-25/

Scripture Reference:
Matthew, Matthew 17:14-21

Teacher:
Peter Hubbard

AI Output:

Sermon Summary:

The sermon centers on a period of stalled progress in rebuilding the Temple after the Jewish people’s return from exile, as described in the books of Ezra and Zechariah. The work was halted due to opposition, economic hardship, and spiritual discouragement – a feeling that God wasn’t working as powerfully as in the past.

The prophet Zechariah received visions, specifically the vision of the golden lampstand with two olive trees. This symbolizes God’s faithfulness to Israel and the roles of Joshua the priest and Zerubbabel the governor. The key message from this vision, communicated by God through the angel, is that the work will be completed “not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.” The “great mountain” representing obstacles will become a plain, signifying God’s ability to overcome challenges. This echoes a “day of small things” becoming a completed temple through God’s grace.

The sermon then transitions to a parallel scene in Matthew 17, where Jesus encounters a desperate father whose son is afflicted. The disciples are unable to heal the boy, leading Jesus to rebuke their “little faith.”

The core of the sermon explores the difference between “little faith” and “mustard seed faith”. It’s not necessarily about the size of faith, but its condition. “Little faith” is often hindered by things like anxiety, fear, hesitation, forgetfulness and a pragmatic approach to prayer – treating it as a formula. “Mustard seed faith” is small in size, but expansive, not bound by limitations, and durable. It’s fueled by hearing God’s word, focusing on His promises, and giving God glory.

Action/Application Points:

  • Identify what is ‘cramping’ your faith: Reflect on anxieties, fears, doubts, or a pragmatic approach that might be hindering your faith from growing.
  • Feed your faith: Regularly engage with God’s word (hearing and reading) to nourish your faith.
  • Repent from hindering behaviors: Turn away from behaviors or attitudes that stifle your faith.
  • Focus on God’s promises: Lock your faith onto God’s promises through Jesus.
  • Allow God to work through his Spirit: Recognize that accomplishing God’s work isn’t about personal strength, but relying on the Holy Spirit.