Crossing the Divide
January 4th - February 15th, 2020
Who Is My Neighbor?
January 5, 2020 • Brian Gerard
Our theological, ideological, and political differences are becoming a primary source of brokenness in the world and if we are serious about bringing healing and hope into this particular time and place we have to address these issues head-on. The question is, How do we do that? As part of his message, Brian referred to the summary document created after the church-wide conversations that took place in September 2019. That document can be found at the link provided.
Diverse by Design
January 12, 2020 • Brian Gerard
In a society torn apart by theological, ideological, and political divides, the church is meant to be a reconciling presence. At the core of that ministry is the call of Jesus to build church that is diverse by design. In this message, Brian mentioned a previous sermon that details the concept of bonded and centered communities and why it is so important to First Christian Church of Louisville. You can find that sermon at the link provided.
Relationships Matter
January 19, 2020 • Brian Gerard
The first step in crossing the theological, ideological, and political divides that we face is to follow the example of Jesus and forming relationships with other people - especially those who are not like us. As part of his sermon, Brian mentioned the book, "I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening)" and the podcast "Pantsuit Politics". You can find both at the links provided.
Truth Matters
January 26, 2020 • Brian Gerard
If there is ever any hope for us to cross our theological, ideological, and political divides, we must recognize that the truth matters. During his sermon, Brian mentioned two resources. The first was a TED Talk by Eli Pariser about how online companies shape search results and what we see on social media and other online platforms. The second was a book by John Collins called, "What are Biblical Values". You can find both of them using the links provided.
Words Matter
February 2, 2020 • Brian Gerard
Words matter. They can build-up or they can break down. When it comes to the divides we are facing today, choosing our words carefully is one of the most important things we can do. As part of his message, Brian recommended Justin Lee's book, "Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World." You can find more information at the link provided.
Grace Matters
February 9, 2020 • Brian Gerard
As we seek to cross the divides we face, it is essential that we practice grace toward others - even if that grace has to be gritty. As part of his message, Brian recommended the Bible App, YouVersion. You can find more information about it at the link provided. He also encouraged the viewing of the National Prayer Breakfast speech by Arthur Brooks. That link is also provided. Scriptures used in today's message include John 13 and 1 Peter 3:9.
Hope Matters
February 16, 2020 • Brian Gerard
In the final message in our series exploring how we can cross the theological, ideological, and political divides that we face, we are reminded of something very important - hope matters. During his message, Brian mentioned a radio segment about people from a conservative eastern Kentucky town forming a relationship with people from a progressive town in Massachusetts. That segment can be found using the link provided. The original version of today's musical special, "See the Love" performed by The Brilliance is also available via link.