Jesus gives sobering warnings in Mark 9:38–50. Do not hinder those whom God is using. Do not cause little ones to stumble. Do not let anything in this world draw you into sin.

This sermon considers the seriousness of sin, the reality of hell, and the call for God’s people to live as salt in the world.

In contrast to the celebrated scribes, Jesus draws his disciple's attention to the place where people brought their temple offerings. Their attention was naturally drawn to those making large gifts, but Jesus wanted them to witness something greater.

Jesus pointed to the poor widow's offering as a greater offering in the sight of God, not because of worldly value but because of the heart of worship. From the widow's offering and Jesus' teaching, we find the principles that giving is good, must be sacrificial, and is an act of worship.

Using the example of the lamp I want you to see to fundamental truths about following Christ. When you believe in faith on Jesus for salvation you are forever changed – you are irreversibly transformed. The humble oil lamp demonstrates two ways this transformation changes you - transformed nature and transformed obligation.