Dominion in tge new year sermon

Here's a possible sermon on the theme of "Dominion" for the New Year:

Title: "Dominion in the New Year: A Call to Stewardship"

Text: Genesis 1:26-28, Psalm 8:6-8, Matthew 28:18-20

Introduction:

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, we are reminded of the promise of a fresh start, a chance to leave the past behind and forge a new path forward. But as we look out at the world around us, we are also confronted with the reality of the challenges that lie ahead. How can we, as followers of Jesus, make a positive impact on the world? How can we exercise dominion over the earth, as God has called us to do?

The Biblical Concept of Dominion:

In Genesis 1:26-28, we read that God created humanity in His own image and gave us dominion over the earth. This is not a license to exploit and dominate the earth, but rather a call to stewardship and care for the creation. As Psalm 8:6-8 says, "You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet... You have put all things under his feet." This dominion is not a power trip, but rather a responsibility to care for and protect the earth and all its inhabitants.

The Example of Jesus:

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives us a model for exercising dominion. He commands us to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." This is not a call to dominate or control others, but rather a call to serve and love them. Jesus shows us that true dominion is not about power or authority, but about humility and sacrifice.

The Challenge of Dominion in the New Year:

As we enter the new year, we are faced with the challenge of exercising dominion in a world that often seems to be spinning out of control. We are called to be good stewards of the earth, to care for the poor and the marginalized, and to make disciples of all nations. This is not a task for the faint of heart, but rather a call to faith and obedience.

The Power of Dominion:

But we do not have to face this challenge alone. We have the power of the Holy Spirit living within us, guiding and empowering us to exercise dominion in a way that is pleasing to God. We have the example of Jesus, who showed us that true dominion is not about power or authority, but about humility and sacrifice. And we have the promise of God's presence with us, as we seek to make a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion:

As we enter the new year, let us remember that dominion is not a power trip, but rather a call to stewardship and care for the earth and all its inhabitants. Let us seek to exercise dominion in a way that is pleasing to God, by serving and loving others, and by making disciples of all nations. And let us remember that we do not have to face this challenge alone, but rather with the power of the Holy Spirit living within us, guiding and empowering us to make a positive impact on the world.