The First Measure

the Church of Etna & Hanover Center

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The First Measure

October 13, 2024 • Chris Green • 1 Kings 19

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Today we're challenged to embrace God's call with unwavering commitment, just as Elisha did when he followed Elijah. The story from 1 Kings 19 reminds us that true influence in God's kingdom often requires letting go of our past securities and burning bridges to fully pursue His purpose. We're encouraged to cultivate passion and enthusiasm in our faith journey, understanding that God's call always comes with His presence. This message urges us to view our entire lives as belonging to Christ, finding security in Him rather than worldly comforts. It's a call to live each day as an adventure for God, even in mundane moments, offering everything to Him. As we reflect on this, we're invited to consider: What is God calling us to let go of in order to move forward in faith?

Do as Jesus Did

November 17, 2024 • Chris Green • John 14:12

In a world of constant change, we find ourselves in need of spiritual recalibration. This message reminds us of our core calling as apprentices of Jesus: to be with Him, become like Him, and crucially, to do as He did. John 14:12 challenges us with Jesus' words: 'Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do, and greater works than these.' This isn't just about belief, but about action. We're called to move beyond being mere 'hearers of the word' to become 'doers,' as James exhorts. By asking 'What Would Jesus Do?' in every situation and acting on it, we can participate in continuing Christ's work on earth, empowered by the same Holy Spirit that raised Him from the dead. This recalibration invites us to live out our faith boldly, trusting that God has equipped us for greater things than we might imagine.

Become Like Jesus

November 10, 2024 • Chris Green • Galatians 4:19

In our spiritual journey, we're called to become like Jesus, not just to find our 'true selves.' This countercultural message challenges us to look upward rather than inward. The apostle Paul's words in Galatians 4:19 remind us that our goal is to have 'Christ formed in us.' This isn't about self-improvement, but about a profound transformation where we're reshaped into Jesus' likeness. We're invited to consider: are we actively participating in this formation process? The path of Jesus is presented as the way to become fully human, reversing the curse of Adam's fall. By 'putting on Christ,' we're not losing ourselves, but uncovering who we truly are meant to be. This journey of becoming like Jesus isn't about perfection, but about allowing God's Spirit to chip away at what doesn't belong, revealing the masterpiece He created us to be.

Be With Jesus (Practicing the Way)

November 3, 2024 • Chris Green • John 15:1–8, Galatians 5:22–23

Chris explores the concept of "Practicing the Way" of Jesus, emphasizing that being a Christian is not just about holding beliefs, but about a way of living and being with Jesus. The focus is on the importance of abiding in Christ, which is made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit. He discusses the challenges of staying connected to Jesus in a world full of distractions and highlights the importance of spiritual habits or rhythms as means of resistance against worldly influences. Key Points: - Being a Christian is about a way of living, not just holding beliefs - Abiding in Christ is essential and made possible through the Holy Spirit - Spiritual habits and rhythms are crucial for maintaining connection with God - The enemy of abiding is hurry, busyness, and distraction - Spiritual dry seasons are normal and can be opportunities for growth - The fruits of the Spirit are evidence of abiding in Christ Scripture Reference: - John 15:1-5 (The Vine and the Branches) - Galatians 5:22-23 (The Fruit of the Spirit)