What Jesus Taught About Courage and Sacrifice
April 12, 2026
St. Stephen Minister of Music Dr. John Blizzard offers a moving exploration of what it truly means to live with courage. Drawing from the profound words of John 15:9-17, this sermon challenges us to see courage not just as an act of bravery, but as an extension of the sacrificial love Jesus calls us to share with one another. John weaves together biblical teaching, historical reflections, and personal stories to illustrate how love provides the strength to face our greatest fears. Discover how "abiding in love" transforms our perspective and empowers us to stand firm in our faith.
Sermon Reflections:
- Jesus commands us to love one another as he has loved us. How does this Jesus' definition of love require more courage than our standard definition of love?
- John discusses the concept of "abiding." What does it look like practically to "abide in love" when you are currently facing a situation that makes you feel afraid?
- The scripture mentions that the greatest love is to lay down one's life for friends. In what small, daily ways can we "lay down our lives" for others to show Christ-like courage?
- John references Profiles in Courage. Who is a historical or contemporary figure that you believe embodies the type of courage described in this sermon, and why?
- Looking at the personal stories shared in the sermon, how does the legacy of those who came before us give us the courage to face our own modern-day challenges?
- Is courage something we must generate from within ourselves, or is it a gift we receive through our relationship with God?