Persecuted
The Bible clearly states that Christians will be persecuted. It still happens today in many different forms, from as simple as being mocked to as serious as suffering death. Be that as it may, we do not let persecution discourage us. In fact, we embrace it. Persecution is an indication that we are "on the right track," since the enemy is always opposing the work of Christ. Last week, after professing their faith, our confirmation students were asked this question: "Do you intend to continue steadfast in this confession ... and to suffer all, even death, rather than fall away from it?" Recognizing that Christ is the creator and sustainer of your very life, and that He holds your eternity in His hands ... How would
you
answer that question?
WatchNotesDownloadDateTitle
- May 29, 2016PersecutedPersecuted
The Bible clearly states that Christians will be persecuted. It still happens today in many different forms, from as simple as being mocked to as serious as suffering death. Be that as it may, we do not let persecution discourage us. In fact, we embrace it. Persecution is an indication that we are "on the right track," since the enemy is always opposing the work of Christ. Last week, after professing their faith, our confirmation students were asked this question: "Do you intend to continue steadfast in this confession ... and to suffer all, even death, rather than fall away from it?" Recognizing that Christ is the creator and sustainer of your very life, and that He holds your eternity in His hands ... How wouldyouanswer that question?
- May 22, 2016PeacemakersPeacemakers
Have you noticed how uncivil our culture has become? People can be just flat out rude. Polite manners seem to be a thing of the past. Especially when it comes to the news media; whatever is the most divisive gets the most press and therefore fills the hearts and minds of the people - that is, us and our neighbors! More and more people are ready for an argument. But what about Christians? How do we respond when provoked? What does Jesus mean when he says, "Blessed are the peacemakers ..."(Matthew 5:9). Does that mean peace at all costs? Does that mean not caring? Just how do we make peace? For that, we must look to Christ Himself. - May 15, 2016Pure in HeartPure in HeartBlessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matthew 5:8) The first thing we learn from this beatitude is that Jesus is concerned with our heart. It is not enough to clean up our act on the outside. The aim of Jesus Christ is not to reform the manners of society, but to change the hearts of sinners like us. Considering the gift of the Holy Spirit given to us at Pentecost, we can see how Go
d intends to change us from the inside out.
- May 8, 2016Hunger and Thirst for RighteousnessHunger and Thirst for Righteousness“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
(Matthew 5:6, ESV) This one short verse of Scripture brings to us an incredible message of hope, and a message that should spark a deep sense of joy in all of us who are believers and those who may be seeking Christ. Satisfaction is available, but only through Christ.