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The Bible on Broadway: Les Misérables
September 21, 2025
In this third sermon in our The Bible on Broadway series, we draw inspiration from the musical Les Misérables and explore the profound question of identity and the power of God's transformative love. We follow the character Jean Valjean who, after serving 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of brad, is given a second chance by a compassionate bishop. We examine Valjean's internal struggles as he grapples with his past as a convict and his new, hopeful future. Together, we learn the our true identity is not defined by our past sins or mistakes but is shaped by the love and grace we receive and the choices we make to life a transformed life.
Sermon Reflections
- How does bishop's actions towards Jean Valjean exhibit love and grace. When have you experienced a similar moment of unexpected grace or forgiveness that changed your life's trajectory?
- Jean Valjean struggles with his past identity as a convict, even after being offered a new life. What "chains" from your past are you still trying to break free from, and how can you embrace the freedom and new identity that God offers?
- Our identity is not defined by our worst mistakes but by God's unwavering love. How can you remind yourself of this truth in moments of self-doubt or shame?
- Victor Hugo, the author of Les Misérables, paints a "beautiful story" of transformation. What stories, whether from a book, movie, or real life, have inspired you to believe in the possibility of personal change?
- Valjean is presented with a choice: to continue his life as a fugitive or to embrace his new identity. What major choices are you facing right now, and how can you align them with the person you aspire to be in God's eyes?
- What is one concrete step you can take this week to begin living as a new person?
As a reminder: Individual sermon videos will not be published to Youtube and audio will not be published to Spotify or Apple Podcasts during this current worship series. You may watch the livestream of our traditional service on Youtube (on this page) or, if encountering issues like muted audio (from copyright restrictions), view the full service on our Boxcast channel.