"And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell." Colossians 1:18–19
This message focuses on giving Christ complete preeminence (first place) in all areas of life. Pastor explains that while God gave us emotions to serve us, they shouldn't control us - instead, the regenerated spirit infused with Christ should lead from the inside out, ruling over mind, will, and emotions. He emphasizes that believers must look away from negative things (anger, jealousy, envy, sorrow) to look toward Christ.
Using Colossians 1, he explains how Christ contains the fullness of God and should have first place in the church. The message stresses that this isn't about taking away from other spiritual authorities but about properly positioning Christ as supreme. He also discusses how sorrow and grief are natural, but shouldn't trap believers in a cycle of expected behaviors or prevent them from living in Christ's victory.
Under an Unconditional Covenant
October 29, 2024 • Steven Shelley
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live." John 5:25
This message focuses on God's unconditional covenant with believers. It emphasizes that once someone is truly born of God, their salvation is secure despite their struggles or mistakes. Using examples from Scripture and modern life, it discusses how God's covenant, like the one with Abraham, isn't dependent on human performance but on God's faithfulness. Pastor Shelley particularly addresses mental health struggles and suicide, explaining that God judges people based on decisions made in their right mind, not during periods of mental distress. The message aims to provide comfort while still cautioning against deliberately making poor choices.
