This sermon expounds on Hebrews 13:13-14, encouraging Christians to forsake worldly pursuits and comforts in exchange for spiritual and eternal rewards in the city of God. Pastor Jim Osman vividly articulates the sacrifices and rejections of aligning oneself with Christ outside the worldly city, drawing parallels to biblical figures who exemplified such faith and endurance. The call is clear: embrace the reproach associated with Christ to secure a place in the everlasting city, highlighting a future that transcends earthly confines and promises.

This sermon focuses on the profound implications of Jesus Christ's crucifixion outside of Jerusalem, symbolizing His ultimate rejection and suffering. We explore the theological significance of Christ's execution outside the city gates, drawing parallels with Old Testament practices where unclean and sinful elements were expelled from the camp. This powerful image emphasizes the alienation and condemnation Christ endured on behalf of humanity, underscoring the cross as a place of ultimate sacrifice and redemption. This message challenges believers to embrace the scandal and folly of the cross, which the world sees as a weakness, recognizing it as the power of God for salvation.

This sermon delves into the interpretation of Hebrews 13:9-10, emphasizing the dangers of false teachings and the importance of adhering to the truth for spiritual growth. Pastor Jim Osman discusses various warnings throughout the New Testament against false doctrines and underscores the necessity of discernment in distinguishing almost-true teachings from the absolute truth. Central to this sermon is the argument that spiritual strength and sanctification come through grace, not adherence to outdated or irrelevant doctrines, particularly dietary laws, which have no bearing on one's spiritual maturity.