God is not impressed with our acts of piety. What moves the heart of God is loving our neighbor as ourselves, living by the code of unconditional love both as recipient from Jesus and by giving it to others, and walking humbly with God- not trumpeting our own goodness but knowing that we are saved by grace alone and not by works.
Radically Made in God's Image
November 14, 2021 • Eric Laverentz • Genesis 9:1–7
Because everyone is made in the image of God, everyone, from womb to tomb, is worthy of dignity and respect. We are held responsible, in the highest form, for how we regard others- particularly in safeguarding their lives especially the lives of the weak and vulnerable who cannot defend themselves.
Race and Repentance
November 7, 2021 • Eric Laverentz, Rob Clay • Acts 17:24–31
The great distinction in this world is between people created in the image of God and everything else. All humanity comes from one blood, the blood of Adam. Although we are all made differently and God has appointed us to different nations, tribes and tongues, we are all fearfully and wonderfully made and share a common humanity with Jesus Christ. The Lord calls everyone to repent and live by faith in Christ.
Poverty, Power, and Privilege
October 31, 2021 • Eric Laverentz
The Bible calls us to show no partiality when it comes to using our gifts and resources to serve others. We are to reach across man-made borders and boundaries and love our neighbors as ourselves. In this sermon, Pastor Eric explores God's call for us to tear down man-made barriers and love others.
Who's Responsible
October 17, 2021 • Eric Laverentz • Ezekiel 18:1–13
God's Word is clear that we are not responsible for the sins of others. However, this does not mean that we should be unconcerned by the sins of others. Instead, we should be looking out for and actively resisting sin patterns and legacies. In this sermon, Pastor Eric examines what the Bible has to say about generational sin and how we can live in right relationship with others
The Kingdom - Our Blueprint
October 10, 2021
We are given a picture of the Kingdom of God throughout Scripture and that picture always looks similar. It is a place of peace, without sickness or death, all needs are met and people from every nation, tongue and tribe are present. The church is intended to be a representation of that Kingdom in this broken world and the Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses for the coming Kingdom.
What is Justice?
October 3, 2021 • Eric Laverentz
Justice and Righteousness are two major Biblical ideas that are often paired. Righteousness is a right relationship with God, Justice is right relationship with others. Both ideas are grounded in the Great Commandment: "you shall love the Lord God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and your neighbor as yourself." In this sermon series, Pastor Eric explores what the Bible says about justice and righteousness.
