Harris Franklin Rall delves into the historical context of Christianity, emphasizing the convergence of the Roman, Grecian, and Jewish worlds during the time of Jesus and Paul. The Roman world under Augustus's reign was marked by peace, prosperity, and extensive travel, yet the common people suffered under the weight of slavery and exploitation. The Grecian world contributed language, philosophy, and culture to the Roman empire, providing a fertile ground for the spread of Christianity. Additionally, the mystery religions from the east, with their stories of life, death, and resurrection of gods, emerged as competitors to Christianity, but lacked the ethical salvation and historic foundation that Christianity offered.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the profound influence of the Jewish world on the development of Christianity, emphasizing how Jesus, the early leaders, and the foundation of Christianity were all deeply rooted in Judaism. He explores the historical context of Palestine during Jesus' time, highlighting the diverse influences and the unique position of the Jews within the Roman world. Rall also discusses the significance of the Diaspora, the dispersion of Jews throughout the empire, in preparing the hearts and minds of Gentiles for the message of Christianity.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the profound impact of John the Baptist, a figure in the Bible overshadowed by Jesus but who left a lasting impression on his own age. John's message of repentance and the imminent arrival of the kingdom of God stirred the hearts of many, drawing people from all walks of life to his preaching. His baptism symbolized cleansing, repentance, and consecration to God's rule, preparing the way for Jesus. While John's work was powerful in highlighting sin and judgment, it also revealed the need for a message of deliverance, a void that Jesus would later fulfill.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches about the importance of understanding the beginnings of the Christian religion by studying the life of Jesus, focusing on what he taught, wrought, and his spirit and purpose. The simplicity of Jesus' life, his birth, and the significance of his existence as the turning point of human history are highlighted. The sermon delves into the stories of Jesus' birth as narrated in Matthew and Luke, emphasizing the essential truth and faith depicted in these accounts.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches about the early years of Jesus, highlighting his moral integrity, close fellowship with God, and passion to do God's will. Jesus' baptism marked the beginning of his life's calling as the Messiah, affirmed by God as His beloved Son. Following his baptism, Jesus faced temptations in the wilderness, revealing his spiritual insight, moral victory, and human struggle against the forces of evil, always trusting in and obeying God.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the Gospels, emphasizing that they are not biographies but sermons meant to lead people to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. The Gospels focus on Jesus' ministry, teachings, and the events leading to His death rather than a chronological account of His life. Mark's Gospel outlines five stages in Jesus' life and work, from the beginning of His ministry in Galilee to His final appeal to the people and His crucifixion. Jesus' teaching style, authority, and message of the Kingdom of God are highlighted, showing His unique approach as more than just a prophet.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the contrasting ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus, highlighting Jesus' broad humanity, intense sympathy, and his role as the Messiah bringing forgiveness and healing to sinners. Jesus' ministry encompassed both physical healing, addressing demon possession and sickness, and spiritual healing, offering forgiveness to those in need. Despite performing miraculous healings, Jesus prioritized instilling moral and spiritual faith over attracting followers through signs and wonders, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and insight.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches about Jesus' compassionate ministry towards sinners, including tax collectors and immoral individuals, who were often marginalized and despised by society. Jesus' focus was on forgiveness, healing, and restoring hope to those who were considered outcasts. He challenged the religious leaders of the time by showing that God's love extends to all, regardless of their past disobedience or societal status. Jesus' ministry to the poor and suffering laid the foundation for Christian education, philanthropy, and missions, emphasizing the importance of serving others with humility and compassion.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches about Jesus as a teacher, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to teaching throughout his ministry, from his interactions with crowds to his devoted disciples. Jesus' teaching style is marked by freedom, authority, and occasional yet vital and practical lessons that address the real needs of people. He used common, everyday life situations to convey profound spiritual truths, employing likenesses, examples, and parables to illustrate Christian principles and the nature of God's mercy and forgiveness.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the concept of the Kingdom of God as portrayed in the Gospels, emphasizing the imminent arrival of the expected Kingdom that both John and Jesus proclaimed. While the Jewish belief in the Kingdom centered around God's rule leading to Israel's triumph, Jesus introduced a different perspective, focusing on the reign of righteousness, peace, and goodwill under a loving and compassionate God. Jesus taught that the Kingdom of God is a precious gift, offering forgiveness, eternal life, and the ultimate fulfillment of seeing God. He highlighted the importance of obedience and service to others as essential aspects of entering and living in the Kingdom, challenging his followers to embody the spirit of righteousness and love.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches about Jesus' profound concept of God as the central theme of his message, emphasizing God's nature as the Father, the God of mercy, and the holy God who desires justice and mercy from His people. Jesus reveals God as the living God present in the world, teaching reverence and fear towards Him, and highlighting the importance of a holy life. Through parables, Jesus illustrates God's forgiving and gracious nature, challenging the legalistic views of religion prevalent in his time and emphasizing the value of every human soul in the eyes of the Father.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches about Jesus' conception of religion, emphasizing fellowship with God in the service of men. Jesus taught a righteousness that was inner, social, and ethical, focusing on the heart rather than outward actions. He highlighted the importance of sonship, humility, and a whole-hearted surrender to God, demanding a life of singleness and sincerity. Jesus warned against the perils of wealth and the love or fear of the world, stressing trust in God alone. He encouraged prayer as a natural expression of trust, teaching the disciples the power of faith and fellowship in prayer.

Harris Franklin Rall preaches on the inseparable connection between religion and ethics in Jesus' teachings, contrasting it with the practices of his time. Jesus emphasizes that true religion leads to ethical living, encapsulated in the commandment to love God and love others as oneself. He prioritizes mercy and service over religious rituals, teaching that genuine brotherhood stems from faith in God as Father. Jesus exemplifies a life of sacrificial service, teaching that true greatness lies in serving others selflessly and that the essence of life is found in giving rather than receiving.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the paradoxes in Jesus' life, where despite his message of love and goodwill, he faced conflicts that deepened until his death. These conflicts stemmed from his different approach to religion, focusing on inner spirit and service rather than outward forms and rules. Jesus' teachings clashed with the Pharisees' legalism and hypocrisy, leading to misunderstandings, opposition, and ultimately his crucifixion. His call for supreme allegiance and willingness to break earthly ties for the sake of the kingdom of God is highlighted in his interactions with family and friends.

Harris Franklin Rall delves into the significance of Jesus' special circle of friends and disciples, emphasizing the deep human connection and friendship Jesus shared with them. This inner circle was crucial for Jesus' work, as they were not only companions but also learners who would be sent out to preach. Jesus demanded unwavering devotion, purity, fearlessness, and readiness to sacrifice from his disciples, preparing them for the challenges ahead. Despite the hardships, Jesus' plan to focus on training this inner circle proved successful, with most remaining loyal even after his death, boldly proclaiming his identity as the promised Messiah.