Pastor Austin preached from 1 Samuel 18–20 in a sermon titled “Embrace the Anointed One,” calling the church to respond rightly to God’s chosen King. Through the contrasting responses of Jonathan and Saul to David, the message revealed that every person must decide whether they will embrace God’s Anointed with faith and devotion or resist His rightful rule.
The sermon highlighted two ways to embrace the Anointed One. First, embrace the Anointed One with love. Pastor Austin pointed to Jonathan’s deep love for David as an example of wholehearted devotion to God’s chosen king. Rather than viewing David as a rival, Jonathan joyfully supported and honored him, demonstrating the kind of love and loyalty that believers are called to have for Jesus Christ, the true Anointed King.
Second, embrace the Anointed One in covenant. Jonathan’s covenant with David reflected a relationship marked by faithfulness, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. Pastor Austin explained that this covenant points forward to the greater covenant established through Jesus Christ. Those who belong to Christ are called to remain faithful to Him, trusting His promises and living in joyful obedience as citizens of His eternal kingdom.
This message encouraged the church to reject the pride, jealousy, and self-preservation that characterized Saul and instead respond like Jonathan—with love, faithfulness, and covenant commitment to God's Anointed. As believers embrace Jesus Christ as their rightful King, they find the security, hope, and joy that come from living under His gracious rule.
