The Grace Message

When should a person remain at a church? When should they leave? How important is good doctrine? I’ve experienced better mental health through an improved physical condition. But now I wonder if I could speed up my recovery with more truth or better faith? What about the New Testament instructions for daily living - are they still important?

Should we invite people to evangelistic events without telling them the hidden purpose? Does the power of sin “live” in believers or only “operate” in our bodies when we allow it? Did Jesus fulfill the Old Testament command to love God with all your strength? I thought we were already holy, so what kind of holiness is Paul talking about in 2 Corinthians 7:1?

How do we navigate the world of movies with so many containing scenes of sex, drugs, and other sinful behavior? Why don’t we cast out demons from Christians? What about deliverance ministries? A pastor recently taught that you must have the gift of tongues to be saved. Is this true? How often do we need to gather together as the church?

Is church membership biblical? How can I possibly love the Lord with all my heart, soul, strength, and mind? Should we draw a line between recurring sin and repentant sin?

It seems like I’m naturally no longer wanting to do the sinful things I used to do. Is that the normal effect of the grace message? What should we think about the so-called spiritual disciplines? Why does Genesis 1 describe both stars and “lights”? How should we interpret the Creation accounts in Genesis 1 and 2?

I’m thrilled to invite you to the latest message in our captivating new series, “The Power of Oneness: Savoring Your Union with Jesus Christ.” Here, we delve into the profound truths found in John 17, where Jesus passionately prayed for you to be one with Him. In a world that often pulls us in different directions, you’ll be reminded that you are not of this world. You’re set apart, called to live in the fullness of your identity in Christ. We’ll also unravel the true meaning of sanctification, a term often misunderstood in the religious world. So, immerse yourself in the heart of Jesus’ prayer in John 17, where He passionately pleaded for your oneness with Him. Embrace the joy and peace that flow from knowing you’re never alone, as Christ Himself dwells in you. My heart is that you’ll celebrate the incredible truth that you are a precious gift from God to Jesus. You are deeply loved, cherished, and valued by Him. Allow this truth to permeate your being, empowering you to live a life that reflects the immeasurable love God poured into your heart. Join me as we delve into these life-changing revelations. Watch this latest message on John 17 and embark on a journey of discovering the power of oneness in Christ. This series is sure to ignite a renewed passion for your union with Jesus Christ and inspire you to live from God’s radiant love and grace. Questions for John 17:14-26: 1. Read verses 14-16. What does it mean to you to be “not of the world”? 2. Read verses 17-19. What does “sanctify” mean? How does believing the truth factor into it? 3. Read verses 20-21. How do we know this prayer includes us? What specifically is Jesus asking for on your behalf? How was His prayer answered? 4. Read verse 22 and react to this statement: Jesus gave you His glory. 5. Read verse 23. How loved are you? 6. How was verse 24 answered through the Gospel? (Hint: See Ephesians 2:6, for example.) 7. Reflect again on verse 24. Have you ever thought about the powerful truth that you're a gift from God the Father to Jesus? What does this mean to you? 8. Read verses 25-26 and react to this statement: Christ is literally in you, and God’s love has been poured within you.

If we are totally forgiven already, should we still repent? What do you think about the word “surrender” being used for our relationship with God? What are your thoughts on politics and the church? If I’m experiencing sinful thoughts, doesn’t that mean I have a sinful heart? What is “the flesh”, and how is it different from our bodies? What does the Bible say about animals on the new Earth? Would you pray for my health? Do you have to be baptized for the forgiveness of sins? What is the role of angels today?

I asked five Christians if we’re under the Law, and I was blown away by their answers! Why didn’t God tell Adam and Eve not to sin and fall? Who are the “wolves” in Matthew 7 that brag on their accomplishments on the Day of Judgment?

Do we need to repent of each sin in order to be restored as children of God? Does Hebrews 10 teach us that God took away our feelings of shame? Jesus told the disciples to teach everything He commanded, so why don’t we see their epistles filled with instruction from the Sermon on the Mount? Should a believer live with another person without marrying them?

Did Paul instruct Gentiles to obey the Law? Could Jesus have actually sinned? Does James 5 tell us that a believer can lose salvation and gain it back again? Why did Paul and the apostles sometimes seem to make compromises regarding Old Testament regulations?