David preached last Sunday on 1 John 4:7-12 which is about how we know love because God first loved us by sending His son to die for us, and a call for us to display that love to one another. This morning’s message was so good for me to hear. I was getting to a point that I felt, in a way, that the Lord had taught me all that He wanted to in the last month, but I was certainly wrong. I didn’t think that there was much else that I could learn from my situation. David talked about believers being known by their fruits and I had heard that 100 times. Every time I thought of all the decent things that I had been doing that was fruitful. This was the first time that it felt real though. I could apply it and feel like there is without a doubt fruit in my life. I don’t say this to discredit those times in my past, I still feel like my life was bearing fruit, but for some reason this really hit home. I can’t completely explain it without divulging every detail of my life in the last month so I will spare you, but I can tell you that the Lord is so good. He has been teaching me several things about trusting Him fully and not half-heartedly, fleeing from sin, and recognizing that a bond with another person in Christ is so much stronger than the everyday relationship. The sermon today helped to reinforce these things even more so.
The first point that we focused on was that we are to love one another because it is in God’s nature to love. I realized that I do not trust easily which comes from years of baggage that I have held onto but in the last month the Lord has been revealing this to me. He has been peeling away layers of armor that I used for so long to protect myself so that I could feel truly loved and cared for. He has used many of you (C3) to show me that love as well as other believing friends. I cannot begin to express how much I love my church family. Having brotherly love for each other is something that I can say I feel often from y’all. It is genuine and not selfish and that is so amazing. But what the Lord has been showing me is that the foundation of love is because of the love given to us from God. Love reflects our Creator; it is in His very nature to love. The Lord has been so good to continue teaching this to me because often times I fear rejection and I compare the love I receive now, that is good, to the love that I have received in the past. The difference is that (as David explained) it is the true love that flows from God. That true love has been shown to me through my church family and I am so thankful that the Lord revealed the barrier that I had so that I could feel His love for me. I praise God for this time in my life and I want to share the love of God with others. I want to bring glory to His name. I hope that I would be so filled by His love for me that it would overflow from me to reflect God’s love to others and convey the brotherly love that we are called to.
The second thing that I took away from the message this morning is that since love is God’s nature, and the ultimate form of love ever shown was Christ dying on the cross for sinners, God shows His love to me every day. That seems really simple but for me it was huge. When I consider my trial, and how difficult it is often, I feel God’s love for me. God has used times like this in my life to reveal more of His loving character to me. It is so loving for God to use hard times in our lives to reveal sin and draw us closer to Him. I would not have this any other way because I’ve learned so much. To the world it is strange to be so thankful for hardships, but I am. What the world doesn’t understand is that I have gained so much from it and that is why I wouldn’t have it any other way. I feel like a new person because I want to pursue holiness and flee from sin with a whole new passion that I didn’t have before. I am humbled by looking and seeing what the Lord has done in one month to reveal sin in my life and draw me closer to Him. I want to seek His kingdom and be fruitful with what I have because God loves me and sent His son to die the death that I deserved. I want to live a life that brings glory to God and run as fast as I can away from worldly desires. God uses trials not necessarily as a means for punishment of sin, rather to convey His love for us. How loving is it that God would use these times to bring light to sin so that we don’t continue to walk in sin? Praise God for trials because He shows His love for us.
--C3 Member - Lauren Bullard
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 22:41-46
Last Sunday Pastor David preached over Matthew 22:41-46, to which he tied the question, "who/what is Lord over your life?" Ouch. That question hit me pretty hard. I felt the Lord whispering something similar to that this past week, so thanks, David, for confirming that one!
The area that affected me most is in our view of ourselves, and how He has the last word in who we are. I find myself so wrapped up in what I think others think of me that I lose sight of everything else. Moments that should be sweet fellowship are drowned out by fears of possible rejection. I tend to see myself as the person I was before He took over, and assume that is what others see as well. But if I actually spent time in the Word instead of on Facebook (that's an area that needs lordship as well!), I would be reminded that He does not see the old me anymore. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says that I am a "...new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." Why is that so hard to remember? Because I haven't given Him lordship there.
Romans 12:2 reminds me to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..." This week, I want to focus on renewing my mind and giving God the power when it comes to how I see myself. So, when I am tempted to grab my phone and do a little Facebook stalking, I'll pull up my handy dandy ESV app instead. Susan Gregory, who wrote a book on the Daniel Fast, says to pick five verses to use like the five stones David chose to fight Goliath in order to win the battle for our minds. I'm going to find five verses this week to use to get the Lord back on His throne in my fickle little mind to see myself not as the wretch I once was, but as the clean and whole person He created.
--C3'er - Amanda Barrow
The area that affected me most is in our view of ourselves, and how He has the last word in who we are. I find myself so wrapped up in what I think others think of me that I lose sight of everything else. Moments that should be sweet fellowship are drowned out by fears of possible rejection. I tend to see myself as the person I was before He took over, and assume that is what others see as well. But if I actually spent time in the Word instead of on Facebook (that's an area that needs lordship as well!), I would be reminded that He does not see the old me anymore. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says that I am a "...new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." Why is that so hard to remember? Because I haven't given Him lordship there.
Romans 12:2 reminds me to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..." This week, I want to focus on renewing my mind and giving God the power when it comes to how I see myself. So, when I am tempted to grab my phone and do a little Facebook stalking, I'll pull up my handy dandy ESV app instead. Susan Gregory, who wrote a book on the Daniel Fast, says to pick five verses to use like the five stones David chose to fight Goliath in order to win the battle for our minds. I'm going to find five verses this week to use to get the Lord back on His throne in my fickle little mind to see myself not as the wretch I once was, but as the clean and whole person He created.
--C3'er - Amanda Barrow
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew22:1-14
I found myself a bit surprised as we reached the end of the parable in Matthew 22:1-14. My memory apparently fails me in how I read this parable before, but I wasn’t expecting the ending that came. Jesus talks of a king and a wedding feast. The king sends out servants and invites all the people you would think he would, doctors, lawyers, leaders. But none of them come; there’s too much to do. So the king, angry, has them all killed and invites everybody else from the streets, complete strangers if you will. However, one of the guests is found lacking in wedding garments. He is bound and thrown into the dark place where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. Many are called, says the Christ, but few are chosen. Dreadful it is, I say, to fall into the hands of the living God!
I must ask myself, in which group do fall?
Am I too busy being the perfect university student? James rebukes me. “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.” And then John comes in behind him. “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” I wonder, who rules the world? Paul answers, Satan. No wonder the king had all those distracted people killed. They were lost in an entertainment they would never snap out of (at least of their own accord). Am I wandering around like a fool keeping myself entertained as I wait for my death?
Am I part of that blessed group saved from destruction on account of those who did not accept the invitation (Romans 11)? If so, how thankful I am! Brought to my knees by grace and kindness, and forever loyal to my King. I cannot boast. It is not my own doing that brought me to the feast, and it is because of others’ rejection that I am here. This has nothing to do with me. “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!...To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”
Am I part of that third group? Am I just pretending to be a child of God? Am I working hard to look like I belong to the Bride of Christ? As a community group leader, this would be a frightening position. John warns against “anti-Christs,” false teachers and prophets. Paul tells us to rid ourselves of them. Shepherds must kill wolves. And rightfully so. God will have His judgement, and I cannot stand before Him naked and expect His mercy. Only the clothing of Christ will save me from the King’s wrath. Blessed is the man who has put on Christ as his Protector, Savior, Lord.
“God is in the heavens. He does what He pleases.”
Sola Gratia
(Sola Scriptura)
Sola Fide
Solus Christus
Soli Deo Gloria!
--C3 Member - Chris Ramos
I must ask myself, in which group do fall?
Am I too busy being the perfect university student? James rebukes me. “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.” And then John comes in behind him. “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” I wonder, who rules the world? Paul answers, Satan. No wonder the king had all those distracted people killed. They were lost in an entertainment they would never snap out of (at least of their own accord). Am I wandering around like a fool keeping myself entertained as I wait for my death?
Am I part of that blessed group saved from destruction on account of those who did not accept the invitation (Romans 11)? If so, how thankful I am! Brought to my knees by grace and kindness, and forever loyal to my King. I cannot boast. It is not my own doing that brought me to the feast, and it is because of others’ rejection that I am here. This has nothing to do with me. “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!...To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”
Am I part of that third group? Am I just pretending to be a child of God? Am I working hard to look like I belong to the Bride of Christ? As a community group leader, this would be a frightening position. John warns against “anti-Christs,” false teachers and prophets. Paul tells us to rid ourselves of them. Shepherds must kill wolves. And rightfully so. God will have His judgement, and I cannot stand before Him naked and expect His mercy. Only the clothing of Christ will save me from the King’s wrath. Blessed is the man who has put on Christ as his Protector, Savior, Lord.
“God is in the heavens. He does what He pleases.”
Sola Gratia
(Sola Scriptura)
Sola Fide
Solus Christus
Soli Deo Gloria!
--C3 Member - Chris Ramos
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 21:33-46
Throughout this narrative, God is patient and slow to pass judgment. But we also see a side of jealousy; Jealous for HIS people, HIS first fruits. Ultimately, while God was patient, the religious leaders underestimated how committed God was to getting what was HIS.
Too often we become like the tenants. We take ownership of things that are not ours, ultimately seeking to steal the glory from God. Even as the first fruits we should not treat God’s grace cheaply. With that, seek out sin in your life that offends God. By continuously divulging in a sin, we are “cheapening” HIS grace in our lives, which is a dangerous way to live.
--C3 Member - Rachel Evans
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 21:12-22
Last Sunday's sermon comes from Matthew 21:12-22 and we are presented with 2 major events:
Jesus cleansing the temple and Jesus cursing the fig tree. In the first section we see Jesus’ righteous anger caused by the manner the temple has been treated. It was no longer a place of worship but had become a bank and shopping mall. David presented us with the question then, “are you a trader (one that gives to God only as much as God “gives” to them), buyer (makes educated purchases and wants the purchase to benefit them in some way), seller (seeking others' praise, they are there not to worship but to be worshiped), or worshiper?” Man, if I really examine my heart, I think it is easy for me to fall into the category of seller, as difficult as that is to admit. I want people to see what I am doing or what and who I know, as opposed to entering with a heart of pure worship. I want to be liked, I am a people pleaser. I think we need to often check our hearts and our intentions in why we are doing things. We must beg that the Lord would remove those stumbling blocks that hinder us from genuinely worshiping our Creator.
In the second section that we studied (Matthew 21:18-22) we see this story of Jesus cursing a fig tree because it did not have fruit. From a distance the tree looked appealing and full of life. In my head I picture this tree with lots of bright vibrant green leaves. When Jesus approached the tree to find fruit to eat, he finds that there isn’t any. The tree that looked so promising from the distance had nothing to offer because there was no fruit. The purpose of the tree was to produce fruit and it had none. So Jesus curses this tree and it withers instantly. The disciples were confused as to why the tree would wither. They did not realize what Jesus was teaching them given what had happened just before at the temple. Jesus was giving the disciples a visual about how our lives must produce fruit. John 15:8 says “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” Like the seemingly thriving tree but lack of fruit, the Jews at the temple looked good from the outside, but when Jesus approached the temple he was able to see what was really going on.
From these verses (Matthew 21:12-22) we see the condition of the temple and can assess what role one might play; trader, buyer, seller, or worshiper. Then we see that Jesus is saying, if there is no fruit, there is no proof of being one of HIS disciples. That is scary. Especially if we can walk in and out being a seller or buyer. A seller or buyer uses the temple for their benefit and self-righteousness not as a place of worship. That is “me” centered. David mentioned that scripture says, if a tree does not bear good fruit it is cut down and thrown into the fire (Matthew 3:10). I remember the first time this concept really started clicking with me. We were at the first iGoglobal.org conference a few years back and it wrecked me. I thought I had understood it before but for some reason that night, it hit me. Our lives must bear fruit in order for it to be known that we are disciples of Christ. It is not about a prayer or an experience one summer, it is a continual process of growing and bearing fruit. I think of friends and close family members that don’t seem to produce any fruit but claim Christ. It is the hardest thing to watch them be so content with their lives when they are dead. Like David said, we need to be praying “God, I want to be more joyful, seeking the good of others, kind, loving toward my co-worker, gentle with a frustrating friend.” We need to pray that the Lord would cut out the diseased parts of our hearts so that we will produce good fruit. Verse 22- “And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
--C3 Member - Lauren Bullard
Friday, September 7, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 21:1-11
We must ask ourselves the same question, “Who is this?” And we cannot underestimate the significance of our answer. Is He a prophet? A savior? A teacher? A friend? Can He be all of these and more? We must think carefully and answer truthfully and completely, for our answer means the difference between life and death.
--C3 Member - Chris Ramos
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 20:1-16
The parable paints the picture of a man who hires laborers to work in his vineyard. The vineyard owner hires laborers throughout the day, resulting in some workers being in the vineyard all day, some half of the day, and others just a few hours. When the day is over and it comes time for all the workers to get paid, they find the vineyard owner paying each one of them equally despite the amount of time they worked. The workers who had labored all day begin complaining, which results in the owner asking, “Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me” and “Do you begrudge my generosity?” At this the parable comes to a close and Jesus states, “So the last will be first, and the first last.”
From this parable David gave two lessons: (1) God always gives his children more than what they deserved, (2) God has the right to do what he wants with what belongs to him. With the first lesson came the question, “Are you happy with what God has given you, or do you feel like you deserve more?” My well formed theological argument says, “Of course I don’t deserve more, I don’t deserve anything. I am totally depraved and everything I’ve received from the Lord, specifically salvation, is by his grace,” and then I trust my knowledge of that will produce gratefulness for what I’ve received from God and absolute contentment. Yet, though I may know one thing in my mind, so often I feel in my heart a different answer. I know I don’t deserve more but I desperately want more. Being content is hard, and fighting for joy in all my circumstances is just that - a fight. I’d be lying to you if I told you it was a fight that I find myself winning more than I do losing, but I trust God will grow me. I can say that as I fight it’s the truth I find in the second lesson that I use for a weapon. God has the right to do what he wants with what belongs to him. I belong to God, and I’m very grateful for that, and because I belong to God I know that what he wants to do with me is for my good, because he’s working all things together for my good. God is infinitely more wise than me, plus he loves me, and it’s knowing and believing this that helps me to fight for joy in God over and above anything else. It also helps to be surrounded by people who are fighting the same fight with the same weapon.
--C3 College Minister - Justin Turner
Monday, August 6, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 19:16-30
While my idol may not be wealth, I have others. The Lord may choose to take away my ability to play music - through arthritis, my ability to run - through accident, or my freedom to travel - through sickness. When He does see fit to "take away", I pray that He'll grant me faith to lose with an open hand, trusting that only to follow him will be my ultimate good.
--C3 Deacon - Lanny Jones
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Acts1:6-8
Sermon Reflection | July 1st, 2012
Our text last week was Acts 1:6-8. This is the last conversation Christ has with his apostles before he ascends back into heaven. They ask him the question, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” (v. 6). Christ’s response is that they shouldn’t be concerned with the timing of kingdom restoration, but rather, the work of kingdom restoration. He then offers a commissioning statement (one that extends to the entire body of believers), telling them that they are to be His witnesses, not by their own power, but by the power of the Spirit. This call goes beyond their hometown of Jerusalem; it reaches to Judea, to Samaria, and even to the ends of the earth. In the same way, we are called to be Christ’s witnesses, not just in Commerce, but also in Hunt County, in Texas, and to the ends of the earth.
At the end of the sermon Justin Turner challenged us with two questions: 1) Are we applying this text by being witnesses for Christ? and 2) How are we applying this text? We are to be witnesses through our words and through our actions. My prayer is that, with the Spirit’s power, we would begin to look outward and see the needs of people around us and that we would also have a boldness to proclaim Christ to our community and to the nations. I encourage you to reflect on these questions with me, that we as a body might begin to see our community and our world in light of Christ’s call on our lives.
C3 Member -- Catherine Canzoneri
Our text last week was Acts 1:6-8. This is the last conversation Christ has with his apostles before he ascends back into heaven. They ask him the question, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” (v. 6). Christ’s response is that they shouldn’t be concerned with the timing of kingdom restoration, but rather, the work of kingdom restoration. He then offers a commissioning statement (one that extends to the entire body of believers), telling them that they are to be His witnesses, not by their own power, but by the power of the Spirit. This call goes beyond their hometown of Jerusalem; it reaches to Judea, to Samaria, and even to the ends of the earth. In the same way, we are called to be Christ’s witnesses, not just in Commerce, but also in Hunt County, in Texas, and to the ends of the earth.
At the end of the sermon Justin Turner challenged us with two questions: 1) Are we applying this text by being witnesses for Christ? and 2) How are we applying this text? We are to be witnesses through our words and through our actions. My prayer is that, with the Spirit’s power, we would begin to look outward and see the needs of people around us and that we would also have a boldness to proclaim Christ to our community and to the nations. I encourage you to reflect on these questions with me, that we as a body might begin to see our community and our world in light of Christ’s call on our lives.
C3 Member -- Catherine Canzoneri
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Sermon Reflection::1Pet 4:12-19
Last Sunday elder Ron Peron walked us through suffering as a Christian (1 Peter 4:12-19). Ron put together a set of questions to challenge ourselves with. Are we being open about our faith? Are we afraid of the reaction? Do we make our beliefs clear through our actions and lives? Peter makes it quite clear that we are utterly dependant on God and that we are called to share his love. All throughout life, suffering has only brought forth the “why oh me” reaction and I wouldn’t see the bigger picture that it is He who provides and that we should be happy to suffer as He did. I look to Romans 8:17 for strength and reassurance during the hardest of times. What I took from the sermon on Sunday is this, to expect suffering, rejoice in suffering, examine ourselves, and to commit to God and rest in him.
-- C3's Kennedy King
-- C3's Kennedy King
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Sermon Reflection::2 Thessalonians
Austin Lambert got to preach this past Sunday. He talked about being worthy of the calling of Christ from a passage in 2 Thessalonians. This is an idea that I have struggled with on and off throughout the years. I am totally depraved. I do not deserve Christ or his gift of salvation, and yet by the grace of God, here I am. And that is really the clincher, isn’t it? By the grace of God! I am made worthy because God makes it so, through his grace! That is such an uplifting thing. We are taught that everyone is a sinner, there is no one perfect but Jesus, we are broken, dirty, and deserve death. What a joy comes to my heart to know that though all of that is true, my God loves me and makes me worthy to bear his name because He says so. And how that pushes me into action is remarkable. It’s as if this is the motivational speech that God strategically placed for those of us who need positive reinforcement. I know that is a crude analogy but still, it makes sense doesn’t it?
Something I learned when taking graduate classes last fall was that when you delve deep into the Word and you spend a good portion of your day thinking about God, it leaves you feeling just like Paul when he said “I am the worst of sinners.” It really makes you feel that way! And I believe it is meant to. The problem I had was that once I got that feeling of depravity…I mean REALLY got it so deep down that it made me want to be in a constant state of metaphorical ashes and sack cloth, I decided I needed to take a step back from God. If he’s going to make me feel this way, I thought, I’m gonna have to take a break because it’s making me really unhappy. And I think that may be a place where a lot of people end up. It took me a couple of months to realize what I had done was that I had decided that God didn’t make me happy, so I wanted something else. I took a route of idolatry. But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. God pointed me back to Him and showed me that that place where I ended up…that deep depravity that I felt…was exactly the state where God (shown in examples throughout the Bible) comes in, shows you his incredibly marvelous grace, and shows you that He makes you clean. You are truly made free in Christ from the bondage your depravity holds you in. So yes we are unclean because of sin, but God in his wonderful love, makes us worthy to be called Children of the Living God. It is this discovery that has put me in a state of joy so profound that it makes me want to act upon it. That is the goal. That we have such joy in God and his mercy and grace that we act in such a way that it pleases God and glorifies Him. He makes me worthy of His calling…what a joy it is to show the world by building my brothers and sisters in Christ up to love and good deeds. It is a joy that causes me to desire to love my neighbor even when I don’t want to and to seek after my Savior with all of my life. It is a life changing joy that is spurred on by God’s grace…His worthiness.
-- C3 Member - Heather Bowshier
-- C3 Member - Heather Bowshier
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Sermon Reflection::1 Peter 4:1-11
This past Sunday, Ron, one of our elders, walked us through 1 Peter 4:1-11. In this passage Peter gives believers a call to action - to live your new life by the standards set by our Savior, Jesus Christ. These standards teach you to suffer in the flesh, always seeking to please the father. This is in stark contrast to the world's standards - live by passion. While the Lord gives us passions for things in which we are to seek to glorify the father with, the world's passion is different. This kind of passion is unruly, reckless and dangerous. The kind of passion that brought sin and ultimately death into the world. Believers are to continue to live like Christ, constantly looking toward the Day of His return.
Within these packed verses, I found that verses 4-6 touched on something that I rarely talk about, or let myself think about. When I began to live for Christ I lost a lot of friends. Not immediately, but it became pretty obvious that we didn't share the same interests anymore, and our priorities definitely changed. There comes a time in a believer's walk that they realize certain things about the past - the Lord may convict you to apologize to someone for a former wrongdoing, you may be called to witness to them directly, you may even be given the task of 'calling someone out'. Then there is a time that you are supposed to just walk away. All of these are to be done through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Ron told us that we are to pray for the people from our former life, and in my case, the people I don't ever see anymore. I realized I was harboring bitterness about somethings and against people I haven't spoken to in years. As a believer I seek unity with my fellow believers, by why would I not apply this to non-believers as well?
Fellow brothers and sisters, I ask you to pray for the people from your past life. You may come from a rough background, you may not. Either way, ask God to save the people in your former life. Ask him if there is something he would have you do - are you to share the Gospel with a certain person, apologize, forgive, or just walk away and continue to pray for them. Through all of this seek to please the Father, be lead by the Holy Spirit in your actions, and live like Christ. Because in the end, "this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. (1 Peter 4:6 ESV)"
--C3 Member - Rachel Evans
Within these packed verses, I found that verses 4-6 touched on something that I rarely talk about, or let myself think about. When I began to live for Christ I lost a lot of friends. Not immediately, but it became pretty obvious that we didn't share the same interests anymore, and our priorities definitely changed. There comes a time in a believer's walk that they realize certain things about the past - the Lord may convict you to apologize to someone for a former wrongdoing, you may be called to witness to them directly, you may even be given the task of 'calling someone out'. Then there is a time that you are supposed to just walk away. All of these are to be done through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Ron told us that we are to pray for the people from our former life, and in my case, the people I don't ever see anymore. I realized I was harboring bitterness about somethings and against people I haven't spoken to in years. As a believer I seek unity with my fellow believers, by why would I not apply this to non-believers as well?
Fellow brothers and sisters, I ask you to pray for the people from your past life. You may come from a rough background, you may not. Either way, ask God to save the people in your former life. Ask him if there is something he would have you do - are you to share the Gospel with a certain person, apologize, forgive, or just walk away and continue to pray for them. Through all of this seek to please the Father, be lead by the Holy Spirit in your actions, and live like Christ. Because in the end, "this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. (1 Peter 4:6 ESV)"
--C3 Member - Rachel Evans
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Marriage Series
This past Sunday David continued C3’s sermon series on marriage, in which he focused on the importance of beginnings. For marriage, it’s important to spend time where Scripture first introduces the idea of marriage. The beginning of marriage is found in Genesis chapters one through three, and it’s in these chapters that David spent our time unpacking God’s Word.
In his breakdown of Genesis 1-3, David presented two principles that provide us with a foundation for our understanding of marriage. First, in chapter one of Genesis we’re presented with the truth that God created man and woman in His image for His glory. This truth, further broken down, means that humankind, both men and women, were created to resemble and represent God to the world. We were created to resemble God, meaning that everything that we are is like God. In John 14:8 Philip says to Jesus, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us,” in which Jesus responds, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” Jesus was acknowledging the fact that he was “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15 ESV), meaning that he so perfectly resembled God the Father that to look at him was to see God. The bride of Jesus, who is one with Him (Ephesians 5:31-32), was established to do the same. Men and women who follow Jesus are being conformed to His image (Romans 8:29), so that they may reflect the image of God to a broken world. Marriage is such a sweet gift from God, through which men and women are made able by the power of Christ to resemble God with their relationship. Likewise, men and women were created to represent God. Not only do men and women who follow Christ resemble God with their lives like Christ, but their task is also identical to Christ. Like Christ, we are called to be ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) who proclaim the good news of Jesus in which people place their faith in Christ and submit to the sovereign rule of God. This is what it means to usher in God’s kingdom and continue the work that Christ began until His return. In the sermon David mentioned Philippians 2:14-15, in which believers are challenged to do all things without “grumbling or questioning, so that we may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom we shine as lights in the world.” The challenge is clear, that we would so resemble and represent God with our lives that we shine as lights in the midst of darkness. Again, marriage is such a sweet gift from God in which believers are able to do so. As men love their bride as Christ loves the church, and as women willfully submit to their husband as the church does unto Christ, the image of God is on display and the gospel is proclaimed, in which the power and righteousness of God is seen (Romans 1:16-17) both of which provide testimony to His glory. Therefore, this first principle is essential in understanding marriage, man and woman were created in God’s image for His glory.
Second, David presented us with the principle that while men and women were created equal they were also created distinct. There is no doubt that men and women equally share in their identity in Christ (Galatians 3:28), and therefore are equals through Christ in resembling and representing God for His glory. However, God purposefully created man and woman with equal but distinct roles in which to do so. There is little doubt that this truth, specifically in the context of willful submission by wives, is under attack in our culture today, but the cultural attack should not change our understanding of God’s truth. There seems to be a heavy amount of shame and disdain attached to the thought of submission in our world today, but for us there should be no shame in identifying with Christ. Jesus willfully submitted to His Father’s will by making himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, and being born in the likeness of men (Philippians 2:6-7), and Christ so willingly submitted to His Father’s will and the hands of men that He allowed Himself to be crucified. There is no shame in submitting; there is only the opportunity to further identify with Christ. Marriage is a sweet opportunity for both men and women to further identify with Christ, as men love their bride as Christ loves the church and women willfully submit to their husbands. Therefore, the second principle is essential in understanding marriage, men and women were created equal but distinct.
For me, in personally reflecting upon the sermon, it can be challenging seeing as though the message was speaking to marriage and David spent a lot of time addressing the woman’s distinct role. It can be challenging, because as many may not know this about me, I am both single and a man. Nevertheless, the truth that all believers, whether man or woman/ single or married, were created in God’s image with distinct roles to both resemble and represent Him stands true. I was created in God’s image, an image that is being restored in Christ, and is an image that I am called to reflect to the world around me. This is a truth that has shaped everything about who I am and how I live, and it is a truth that I love. Also, although being single, I am not quick to overlook the fact that God has used married men and women to train, equip, and transform me. I love the marriages that I see all around me, because it is from these marriages that I have learned what it truly means to be a man of God and what a woman truly pursuing an identity in Christ looks like. For me this marriage series is sweet, because as I listen to David preach and look around at the marriages all around me, I am reminded that marriage is such an amazing gift from God when rooted in Scripture and pursued through Christ.
--C3 College Minister - JT
In his breakdown of Genesis 1-3, David presented two principles that provide us with a foundation for our understanding of marriage. First, in chapter one of Genesis we’re presented with the truth that God created man and woman in His image for His glory. This truth, further broken down, means that humankind, both men and women, were created to resemble and represent God to the world. We were created to resemble God, meaning that everything that we are is like God. In John 14:8 Philip says to Jesus, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us,” in which Jesus responds, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” Jesus was acknowledging the fact that he was “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15 ESV), meaning that he so perfectly resembled God the Father that to look at him was to see God. The bride of Jesus, who is one with Him (Ephesians 5:31-32), was established to do the same. Men and women who follow Jesus are being conformed to His image (Romans 8:29), so that they may reflect the image of God to a broken world. Marriage is such a sweet gift from God, through which men and women are made able by the power of Christ to resemble God with their relationship. Likewise, men and women were created to represent God. Not only do men and women who follow Christ resemble God with their lives like Christ, but their task is also identical to Christ. Like Christ, we are called to be ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) who proclaim the good news of Jesus in which people place their faith in Christ and submit to the sovereign rule of God. This is what it means to usher in God’s kingdom and continue the work that Christ began until His return. In the sermon David mentioned Philippians 2:14-15, in which believers are challenged to do all things without “grumbling or questioning, so that we may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom we shine as lights in the world.” The challenge is clear, that we would so resemble and represent God with our lives that we shine as lights in the midst of darkness. Again, marriage is such a sweet gift from God in which believers are able to do so. As men love their bride as Christ loves the church, and as women willfully submit to their husband as the church does unto Christ, the image of God is on display and the gospel is proclaimed, in which the power and righteousness of God is seen (Romans 1:16-17) both of which provide testimony to His glory. Therefore, this first principle is essential in understanding marriage, man and woman were created in God’s image for His glory.
Second, David presented us with the principle that while men and women were created equal they were also created distinct. There is no doubt that men and women equally share in their identity in Christ (Galatians 3:28), and therefore are equals through Christ in resembling and representing God for His glory. However, God purposefully created man and woman with equal but distinct roles in which to do so. There is little doubt that this truth, specifically in the context of willful submission by wives, is under attack in our culture today, but the cultural attack should not change our understanding of God’s truth. There seems to be a heavy amount of shame and disdain attached to the thought of submission in our world today, but for us there should be no shame in identifying with Christ. Jesus willfully submitted to His Father’s will by making himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, and being born in the likeness of men (Philippians 2:6-7), and Christ so willingly submitted to His Father’s will and the hands of men that He allowed Himself to be crucified. There is no shame in submitting; there is only the opportunity to further identify with Christ. Marriage is a sweet opportunity for both men and women to further identify with Christ, as men love their bride as Christ loves the church and women willfully submit to their husbands. Therefore, the second principle is essential in understanding marriage, men and women were created equal but distinct.
For me, in personally reflecting upon the sermon, it can be challenging seeing as though the message was speaking to marriage and David spent a lot of time addressing the woman’s distinct role. It can be challenging, because as many may not know this about me, I am both single and a man. Nevertheless, the truth that all believers, whether man or woman/ single or married, were created in God’s image with distinct roles to both resemble and represent Him stands true. I was created in God’s image, an image that is being restored in Christ, and is an image that I am called to reflect to the world around me. This is a truth that has shaped everything about who I am and how I live, and it is a truth that I love. Also, although being single, I am not quick to overlook the fact that God has used married men and women to train, equip, and transform me. I love the marriages that I see all around me, because it is from these marriages that I have learned what it truly means to be a man of God and what a woman truly pursuing an identity in Christ looks like. For me this marriage series is sweet, because as I listen to David preach and look around at the marriages all around me, I am reminded that marriage is such an amazing gift from God when rooted in Scripture and pursued through Christ.
--C3 College Minister - JT
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Sermon Reflection::1Peter2:9-12
Let the Neighbors Be Glad - (Listen Online).
As the last sermon in this series, Pastor David reiterated the call to make disciples and the arguments about reaching “neighbors” from the previous weeks. But what about the method of actually making disciples? It is wrapped up in verses 1 Peter 2:9-10 about our identity, followed by the simple strategy in verses 1 Peter 2:11-12.
First, our Identity will drive our focus. We are a chosen people, making reference to Israel in Ex 19:5-6. A special and treasured possession(1 Pet 2:4-5). We are set apart to be radically different from the World, in our allegiance, beliefs and actions. We are called priests, ones who intercede and sacrifice for a people, as well as pray to and praise the Lord. The goal is Praise to God.
The Strategy is REALLY easy and simple to memorize – Fight Sin, do Good Deeds, Trust God!
How do we fight sin? We could run away and live in a cloister, but then we would never have a personal outreach. We could be stealthy and relate to World by living and looking like it; and the World would say that we are NO different than them. We are called to renounce the World system (Phil 3:7-8, Eph 3:8) counting Worldly gain as “loss”; and seeking a heavenly reward.
Doing Good Deeds means we do the things of God and Speak of him to others. The Good Samaritan did the first part. The Lord commended that as an example of love, preaching without words. Lest any think we are just NICE folks we need to also tell of the change that Christ is working in us and can do in them.
Trusting God - David mentioned the Theology of Sleep (a bedrock principle for farmers). Work hard and do all you can, then don't worry, but trust God for the increase. This works for farm crops and spiritual “fields” too. Live like a Child of God (life preaching), Speak of Him (verbal preaching), Trust Him (to work His will). Doing ALL for the glory of God.
--C3 Member - Steve Barrett
Check out our C3forChrist.org website and learn more about our families, Community, beliefs and joys as we embrace all our callings in Biblical faith together.
As the last sermon in this series, Pastor David reiterated the call to make disciples and the arguments about reaching “neighbors” from the previous weeks. But what about the method of actually making disciples? It is wrapped up in verses 1 Peter 2:9-10 about our identity, followed by the simple strategy in verses 1 Peter 2:11-12.
First, our Identity will drive our focus. We are a chosen people, making reference to Israel in Ex 19:5-6. A special and treasured possession(1 Pet 2:4-5). We are set apart to be radically different from the World, in our allegiance, beliefs and actions. We are called priests, ones who intercede and sacrifice for a people, as well as pray to and praise the Lord. The goal is Praise to God.
The Strategy is REALLY easy and simple to memorize – Fight Sin, do Good Deeds, Trust God!
How do we fight sin? We could run away and live in a cloister, but then we would never have a personal outreach. We could be stealthy and relate to World by living and looking like it; and the World would say that we are NO different than them. We are called to renounce the World system (Phil 3:7-8, Eph 3:8) counting Worldly gain as “loss”; and seeking a heavenly reward.
Doing Good Deeds means we do the things of God and Speak of him to others. The Good Samaritan did the first part. The Lord commended that as an example of love, preaching without words. Lest any think we are just NICE folks we need to also tell of the change that Christ is working in us and can do in them.
Trusting God - David mentioned the Theology of Sleep (a bedrock principle for farmers). Work hard and do all you can, then don't worry, but trust God for the increase. This works for farm crops and spiritual “fields” too. Live like a Child of God (life preaching), Speak of Him (verbal preaching), Trust Him (to work His will). Doing ALL for the glory of God.
--C3 Member - Steve Barrett
Check out our C3forChrist.org website and learn more about our families, Community, beliefs and joys as we embrace all our callings in Biblical faith together.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Luke10:25-37
The importance of the message is found in the context of the narrative. In it the question is raised: who is our neighbor? In this text the lawyer’s question to Jesus is not far from our own lips. Who is our neighbor? In addition, a deeper question we might seek to gain from the answer is: who is not our neighbor? To me this is such a normal and relatable question. Who should I be investing in? Who should I not be? Who should I be loving? Who do I have permission not to? Who should I be pouring myself out to, and who shouldn’t I? The truth presented in this text is one which wrecks me. Jesus’ response to the lawyer is one which calls us to take our judgment off of those we try to assess and place our judgment rather on ourselves. Our question to God as to who is our neighbor, is sovereignly overturned with His question and calling to us which screams WHO are you? Is our affection, heart, mind, motive, and method anchored in Him or a legalistic morality of dos and don'ts? That is the question.
The method is the messenger. As the messengers, may we reflect the glory and likeness of the First Messenger… Jesus Christ our Lord.
--C3 Member - Austin Lambert
Check out our C3forChrist.org website and learn more about our families, Community, beliefs and joys as we embrace all our callings in Biblical faith together.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matthew 24:14
At C3, we are a church that is about the Word. We stay true to the Scriptures and fight for each person to have a clear understanding of God’s redemptive plan. We are about Family and Community and creating Relationships that become unbreakable bonds. You can ask anyone, from our Elders down to Brady, Lily or Drew – “What is your purpose?”, and the answer [in one form or another] is – “To Bring Glory To God”. These things are all Great things that give me confidence about our body and the direction God has set before us.
In my opinion, David laid into one of the heaviest texts in the Bible last Sunday (listen online). God Demands for us to proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom of Christ to ALL Nations. Sometimes I think we forget this truth in the light of our beliefs in election and predestination. It becomes relatively easy to dismiss evangelism if you justify it with: God has already written that person’s fate. However, we are charged to proclaim the Gospel; to endure hate and hardship for the name of Christ (Mark 13:13); to declare throughout the Earth as a Testimony [as Proof, as Evidence, as a Witness] to every Nation.
If you were to ask me how I spend a regular day, [what things consume my time], I would probably answer: Life. On a day to day basis, a large portion of my time is consumed with work…pursuing the top of the corporate ladder. This is not “Life”. 1 John 2:15-17 hit it home for me. The desires of the flesh are not of the Father and will pass away. We have to be in the world because that is where/how we declare the Kingdom. However, our purpose should be to live for Him! My daily fight [because it is a fight] is to remember what is important, put away my fleshly desires, and do the will of God. I, a sinner saved by Grace, need to be constantly on my guard, waiting patiently and doing the work [Proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom throughout the Whole World] that GOD CHARGES TO US.
--C3 Member - Wade Boggs
Check out our C3forChrist.org website and learn more about our families, Community, beliefs and joys as we embrace all our callings in Biblical faith together.
In my opinion, David laid into one of the heaviest texts in the Bible last Sunday (listen online). God Demands for us to proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom of Christ to ALL Nations. Sometimes I think we forget this truth in the light of our beliefs in election and predestination. It becomes relatively easy to dismiss evangelism if you justify it with: God has already written that person’s fate. However, we are charged to proclaim the Gospel; to endure hate and hardship for the name of Christ (Mark 13:13); to declare throughout the Earth as a Testimony [as Proof, as Evidence, as a Witness] to every Nation.
If you were to ask me how I spend a regular day, [what things consume my time], I would probably answer: Life. On a day to day basis, a large portion of my time is consumed with work…pursuing the top of the corporate ladder. This is not “Life”. 1 John 2:15-17 hit it home for me. The desires of the flesh are not of the Father and will pass away. We have to be in the world because that is where/how we declare the Kingdom. However, our purpose should be to live for Him! My daily fight [because it is a fight] is to remember what is important, put away my fleshly desires, and do the will of God. I, a sinner saved by Grace, need to be constantly on my guard, waiting patiently and doing the work [Proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom throughout the Whole World] that GOD CHARGES TO US.
--C3 Member - Wade Boggs
Check out our C3forChrist.org website and learn more about our families, Community, beliefs and joys as we embrace all our callings in Biblical faith together.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Sermon Reflection::Matt28:16-20
(promoting desiring god's arabic site launch)
David broke the Matthew passage into 4 truths:
1) The disciples' mission is our mission (Matt 28:19) The command is for the 11 and their disciples (and repeat) to make disciples “as they are going”. Christ said this would continue to the end of the age (not the end of their life). Matt 24:14 states that the world WILL hear and then the end will come. The law of Supply and Demand was stated – if God demands our actions he will supply the power to do it (Acts 2 confirms this)
2) How do we reproduce followers of Christ? (Matt 28:20) Shine the Light of Christ and The Word in a VERY dark world. We must be seen to be Christ's followers, with godly lives (in word and deed) that are markedly different from our previous worldly life. 6000 people groups have less than 2% of their population who have even HEARD of Christ. They are statistically unreached. We must be ready TO GO and teach them about Christ.
3) By what authority do you do these things? (Matt 28:18)
In verse 18 we see that all authority is given to Christ (also Philippians 2:8-11). No authority is withheld. Who can stand against God's will to reach the world??? NO ONE! (Authorities of Darkness – governments, religions, demons may oppose the gospel to varying degrees). Matt 16:18 says even Hell can NOT prevail against his Church.
4) Christ promises to be there as we go. Just as the disciples lived and walked with Christ for 3 years, that fellowship would continue with the presence of the Holy Spirit. We have the command and the promise to go in power and authority to reach the lost. Now the BIG QUESTION – Will we go?
Paul, in 2 Tim 2:3-5, references the suffering of soldiers (a universal truth!) to achieve a great and special task. When I was (much) younger I enlisted in the US Air Force. I traded the comforts of home, family and friends to serve as an airman. I gave up rights – I was a “slave” to my Air Force masters. If they wanted me to work 12 hour days, 7 days a week, I could not say no. If they wanted to ship me to another country at a moment's notice, I was gone. Inconvenience did not weigh into the decision. I was ordered where my superiors thought I was needed at the time. Sulking or complaining only brought a reprimand. I could have run away, but there were penalties for that. I was a servant and I HAD to serve.
Paul uses the imagery of a runner in 1 Cor 9:24-27, with the eye on the prize, which is only available for those who finish the race. He disciplines his body to run the race of sanctification and not be disqualified (by cheating or stopping). Soldiers who go AWOL or runners who quit do not receive praise (and may be vilified).
If humans can work so hard at exercise programs, climbing corporate ladders, and other earthly pursuits that have no gain for the kingdom, can't we work even harder to serve the Heavenly Master who gave His life for us??? Let us all strive to serve Christ well, so that one day we can all hear Him say “Well done, good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of your master.”
--C3 Member - Steve Barrett
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Sermon Reflection::2Thess1:3-12
We focused on three points of why we must ask for his power to fulfill his good resolve (found in 2 Thess. 1:11-12)
1. This is how God will make us worthy of his calling: Are we worthy of God's calling? No, but God is sufficient and He is Sanctifying us to His Calling. Verse 11 says "...that our God may make you worthy of his calling…" we cannot make ourselves worthy for the calling. We cannot live morally upright lives to live up to God's calling, Morality DOES NOT EQUAL Christianity. The end goal is giving Christ the glory not living a socially acceptable/philanthropic life - though that may be a fruit of Christianity, it is not the end goal.
2. We Glorify Him by asking for His power to fulfill His good resolve. For many of us, if we really step back and are honest with ourselves, when we put ourselves in the balance with God, He outweighs us in importance only by a small amount in our mind. David gave a good analogy that we are like the moon, we think we are so bright and shine down over all of the earth, but in reality we are only a small speck of dirt in the sky that only can reflect light from the sun or in this case God's Glory.
3. He will Glorify us in Jesus' name when we ask for His power to fulfill His good resolve. In Romans 8:30 it says "…those whom He called, He also justified; those whom He justified, He also glorified." When He calls us he will make us worthy of His calling, by justifying, then sanctifying, and when we go home to Him we will be glorified in His name. I look forward to this day that I can go home and share with Christ in Glory.
-- Phillip Slaughter
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Sermon Reflection::James1:5-8
Last week we learned that trials are a part of God’s design to produce steadfastness and endurance (James 1:2-4). This week we learned the response that God desires from us when we face those trials (James 1:5-8). When you approach the Lord, do so with the understanding of his character. He is the creator, the author, the beginning, and the end. He is full of love and of wrath. He created you with a single purpose: to glorify Him. Pray with a pure heart and the single intent of receiving wisdom in this trial. If your heart is not in the right place, return to your knees and plead for a faith that is consistent and pleasing to Him.
While I am no stranger to trials, my responses have not always been glorifying to Him. There are so many other ways I have addressed and dealt with these hard times. I recently read something that convicted me, and screams this text: “Have you prayed about it as much as you’ve talked about it.” Wow. While seeking the counsel of friends, elders, and mentors is not bad – It should not take the place of wrestling over the issue with the Lord.
My friends, pray for a consistent and pleasing faith that only the Lord can provide. The Lord gives generously and without reproach – face your trials, do not run from them, and see them as opportunities to show God’s glory!
--C3 Member - Rachel Evans
While I am no stranger to trials, my responses have not always been glorifying to Him. There are so many other ways I have addressed and dealt with these hard times. I recently read something that convicted me, and screams this text: “Have you prayed about it as much as you’ve talked about it.” Wow. While seeking the counsel of friends, elders, and mentors is not bad – It should not take the place of wrestling over the issue with the Lord.
My friends, pray for a consistent and pleasing faith that only the Lord can provide. The Lord gives generously and without reproach – face your trials, do not run from them, and see them as opportunities to show God’s glory!
--C3 Member - Rachel Evans
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Sermon Reflection::James 1:2-8
Count it joy, brothers and sisters.
Count it all, the meadows and the bogs,
the jogs through sun, rain, and pollen,
the laughter, and then the frogs
stuck in your throat because of the pain.
Count it joy, brothers and sisters.
Why? Because you're a Christian.
You hail from a legacy of martyrs,
and the glory of God is your mission,
the mission of the ages, nothing to be taken lightly.
Because when you're tried,
when you're placed very carefully into the crucible
of trial, the heat burns intensely, and the walls expand,
and you are purified, strengthened, made durable
under the pain, under the joy of a broken body redeemed.
This is the calling, that affliction
introduces a man to himself, and that for His purpose
of sanctity (though some call it insanity)
we find our strength outside of ourselves, in the poise
of the One who drew the boundaries of the Earth.
When you bruise a flower,
it rewards you with its perfume.
This is the joy of the saints, an unshakeable gift
we need only to ask for, to only presume
that the God of love is giving, and is working all for good.
What an idea, that the most evil of powers
is even unable to design the trials of steadfastness!
That such tests, designed by the perfect designer,
are the means of SANCTIFICATION, REDEMPTION, and MADNESS
for the GLORY OF OUR SAVIOR, our BRIDEGROOM of ETERNITY!
This is love; this is glory; this is perfect;
created by our Father in heaven.
Run well the race of your life,
run it with endurance, straight into the haven
of our Father's steady arms.
Run through the meadows, through the dark forests,
across the snow-capped peaks, and across the valley of dry bones.
Run it with the confidence in a Savior who is so capable
to catch you when you stumble over the stones
who will never forsake you
because you are His child.
And even those stones shout in exultation
for the GLORY of He who is redeeming them,
redeeming us, this broken nation.
We must only ask for Christ, Christ, Christ.
Messiah, Immanuel, Counselor, King.
--Chris Ramos - C3 Member
Count it all, the meadows and the bogs,
the jogs through sun, rain, and pollen,
the laughter, and then the frogs
stuck in your throat because of the pain.
Count it joy, brothers and sisters.
Why? Because you're a Christian.
You hail from a legacy of martyrs,
and the glory of God is your mission,
the mission of the ages, nothing to be taken lightly.
Because when you're tried,
when you're placed very carefully into the crucible
of trial, the heat burns intensely, and the walls expand,
and you are purified, strengthened, made durable
under the pain, under the joy of a broken body redeemed.
This is the calling, that affliction
introduces a man to himself, and that for His purpose
of sanctity (though some call it insanity)
we find our strength outside of ourselves, in the poise
of the One who drew the boundaries of the Earth.
When you bruise a flower,
it rewards you with its perfume.
This is the joy of the saints, an unshakeable gift
we need only to ask for, to only presume
that the God of love is giving, and is working all for good.
What an idea, that the most evil of powers
is even unable to design the trials of steadfastness!
That such tests, designed by the perfect designer,
are the means of SANCTIFICATION, REDEMPTION, and MADNESS
for the GLORY OF OUR SAVIOR, our BRIDEGROOM of ETERNITY!
This is love; this is glory; this is perfect;
created by our Father in heaven.
Run well the race of your life,
run it with endurance, straight into the haven
of our Father's steady arms.
Run through the meadows, through the dark forests,
across the snow-capped peaks, and across the valley of dry bones.
Run it with the confidence in a Savior who is so capable
to catch you when you stumble over the stones
who will never forsake you
because you are His child.
And even those stones shout in exultation
for the GLORY of He who is redeeming them,
redeeming us, this broken nation.
We must only ask for Christ, Christ, Christ.
Messiah, Immanuel, Counselor, King.
--Chris Ramos - C3 Member
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Sermon Reflection::2Cor 5:14-17
A new beginning- we are a new creation because we are in Christ. Christ died and rose again to bring death to our old selves and death to lives that were bound to hell. In His resurrection, we get to truly experience a new beginning by having a new life in hope.
A new identity- because we are in Christ we are a new creation therefore we have a new identity. We were once enemies of God, but now we are children of God through Christ.
A new way of life- Christ died so we can live for Him. May the love that was displayed on the cross control our lifestyles and the way we love our brothers and sisters in Christ. To love Christ is to love His people.
I am so thankful that God used Justin in bringing a message that I needed to hear. This past season has been a hard one for me in the fact that I couldn't be joyful in my circumstances. I wanted to live a self-glorying lifestyle, a lifestyle that was all about me and my wants, my needs and my desires. But praise God it's not about me and it's all about His Son and the love that was displayed on the cross.
My prayer for myself and this church body this year is not to pursue ourselves but to love Christ and His people. May our desires die daily and may we fully live in Him as if it's our last year to live.
--Mary Calderilla::God is love - C3 Member
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