While most of us know that fasting is in the bible, not many of us know if Christians should practice it today. Throughout the Old and New testament we find that fasting was a common practice among God’s people. While fasting is not commanded in the New Testament, it is expected, based on Jesus' words in Matthew. Through fasting we seek intimacy with him, humility before him, and eager expectation for his return. Fasting helps us overcome our self-dependence and love of comfort as we learn that our food is to do the will of God.
Rhythms #2 - Hungering for God
Matthew 9:14-17
October 16, 2016 • Darren Dakers
Rhythms #8 - Dwelling in God’s Word
November 27, 2016 • Will Ross
Reading the Word is not an optional additive for the Christian, it must be the cause of our delight! We see in Psalm 1 that the blessed life is found in delighting in the law of the Lord and meditating on it day and night; not to empty the mind, but to fill it with God’s truths. The Rhythm of dwelling in God’s Word is critical for understanding what Jesus has already accomplished for us.
Rhythms #7 - The Shared Life of God’s People
November 20, 2016
The New Testament knows nothing of a ‘personal-Christianity’ that is not also a ‘participational-Christianity.’ While Jesus saves His people from sin, He also saves us into His family. The shared life of God’s people under God’s Word serves as an assault on our self-centredness, a guard against sin’s deceitfulness, a fuel for the long haul, and a demonstration of the gospel.
Rhythms #6 - Living Sent, Making Disciples
November 13, 2016
Christians are a ‘sent’ people. Jesus did not give His followers a ‘Great Suggestion,’ but the Great Commission. Gossiping the gospel and making disciples are the normal rhythms of life for every local church and every follower of Jesus. Because God is a missionary-God, His people share in His missionary-nature.