This Sunday, RD McClenagan finishes our series "Jesus and" by looking at scripture in both the Old and New Testaments that teach on Justice. Justice is a central theme throughout the Bible, and God commands His followers to care for the vulnerable. However, in today's cultural and religious contexts, justice is often marginalized or misunderstood. It is important to balance personal faith with public action; we need to be aware of the needs around us and respond with practical steps, whether through prayer, talent, or resources. The motivation for doing justice is not guilt but grace, as Christ has first shown mercy to us.
This Sunday, Greg Pinkner continues our series "Jesus &," using Romans 1 to discuss the topic of LGBTQ. Unlike some of the other issues addressed in this series, LGBTQ is clearly addressed in Scripture. Greg acknowledges that these topics are sensitive and central to the current culture war. As believers, we are called to approach these discussions with both grace and truth, reflecting the character of Christ. He warns against the theological mistake of focusing solely on God's love, which can distort a believer's understanding of suffering and God's ultimate purpose to glorify Himself. We are all born sinful and must repent. The glory of God is the foundation of creation and should guide our hearts and actions.
Jesus & Gender
August 25, 2024 • RD McClenagan • Genesis 1:27
This Sunday, RD continues our series "Jesus &," using Genesis 1:27 to discuss the topic of gender. In this series, we have been exploring two opposing realities: the Kingdom of God, where we submit to God's authority, and the competing kingdom of the self, which emphasizes self-autonomy and self-actualization. Modern perspectives on gender and identity reflect this tension, asserting that identity is self-created and internally defined rather than being received from God. In contrast, the biblical view teaches that our identity is given by God and is rooted in a life surrendered to Him. These competing views on identity affect everyone, not just those who identify as transgender, and we all struggle with these conflicting kingdoms in our hearts. It's crucial to approach this topic with both clarity about biblical teachings and compassion for those navigating these challenges.
Jesus & Abortion
August 18, 2024 • Greg Pinkner • Psalm 139:13–16
This Sunday, Greg continues our series "Jesus &," using Psalm 139:13-16 to discuss the sensitive topic of abortion, emphasizing the importance of addressing it from a Christian perspective while avoiding political or policy discussions. Greg stresses that, although the Bible doesn't directly address abortion, principles can be drawn from passages like Psalm 139, which highlights God's intimate involvement in the creation and purpose of each person. He encourages us to approach this complex issue with both compassion and truth, reflecting the character of Christ in our engagement with cultural debates.
Jesus & Politics
August 11, 2024 • RD McClenagan • Mark 12:13–17
This Sunday, RD continues our series "Jesus &," using Mark 12:13-17 to discuss Politics. We must remember that Jesus is King, and the responsibility for governing ultimately rests on His shoulders. Even in the church, there is a great diversity of opinions, and it is important for us to be humble and charitable when discussing politics. RD outlines a "Kingdom manifesto" for Christians, emphasizing that our primary identity as citizens of God's Kingdom should guide our political engagement. We should be captive to God's word, not the words of political leaders, and be faithfully engaged with the world without being consumed by it.
Jesus & The Kingdom of God
August 4, 2024 • RD McClenagan • Acts 17
This Sunday, RD begins our series "Jesus &," teaching from Acts 17. The apostle Paul's preaching brought the revolutionary nature of the gospel into focus, particularly through his assertion that "Jesus is the Christ." This proclamation highlighted how the early Christians' commitment to the Kingdom of God positioned them in opposition to existing political and cultural structures, leading to societal upheaval and transformative discussions about authority and allegiance. This passage reflects the central theme of the early church's mission: to declare the reign of God through Christ. In the same way, we must decide who our king is and what we are seeking first in our lives. May we be a people that says, Lord, your Kingdom come, you are our king.
