Our Culture and the Cross – 10/12/25

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/our-culture-and-the-cross-10-12-25/

Scripture Reference:
Matthew, Matthew 16:21-28

Teacher:
Peter Hubbard

AI Output:

Sermon Summary:

The sermon focuses on the cultural and personal challenges to following Jesus, using Matthew 16:21-28 as a text. The core message is the need for discernment and a radical reorientation of priorities in light of Christ’s call to discipleship.

Key Points:

  • Current Cultural Conflict: The speaker details several instances of violence connected to individuals identifying as transgender, framing this as a new form of escalating cultural conflict. He argues that opposing “gender-affirming care” is equated with genocide by some, and that a new “progressive religion” is emerging based on self-creation and affirmation.
  • Understanding Gender Dysphoria: While acknowledging the reality of deep suffering experienced by individuals with gender dysphoria, the speaker differentiates it from the broader social phenomenon. He criticizes current approaches to addressing this suffering, questioning the use of chemical and surgical interventions.
  • The Need for Discernment & Response: Christians need to respond to these cultural clashes culturally and politically, but must avoid responding “in the flesh” with fear and anger. He cautions against echo chambers and encourages actively listening to understand opposing viewpoints.
  • Cultural Collisions & Assumptions: The speaker emphasizes that pre-evangelism/cultural apologetics is essential. People come to faith with pre-existing assumptions (American secularism assumes: Christianity is holding us back, history is bad, identity is self-created, morality is subjective, and prosperity is a right) which clash with the gospel, and these must be understood.
  • The Cost of Discipleship: The sermon explains the three-part call to discipleship found in Matthew 16:24–deny self, take up your cross, and follow Jesus.
  • Prioritizing Eternal Values: The speaker addresses the temptation to pursue worldly gain, drawing a contrast between “losing your life to find it” and the futility of pursuing fleeting pleasures or societal approval. He emphasizes that following Jesus ultimately leads to lasting joy and reward.

Action/Application Points:

  • Attend the Lead Class: Encourage participation in the upcoming class with Dr. Rosaria Butterfield, aimed at equipping believers to navigate complex cultural issues.
  • Resist Fear & Anger: Avoid getting caught in cycles of fear and anger fueled by biased news sources.
  • Listen to Understand: Practice active listening, asking questions to understand the perspectives of those with whom you disagree. Don’t assume hostility.
  • Die to Self: Embrace a lifestyle of self-denial, prioritizing Christ’s will over personal desires.
  • Embrace Suffering: Be willing to take up your cross, understanding that hardship can lead to greater spiritual growth and meaning.
  • Seek Eternal Treasures: Focus on prioritizing things that have eternal value over temporary gains.
  • Pray for Guidance: Seek God’s help to navigate challenging cultural moments with wisdom and compassion.