John 3: 1-17
“Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin….For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”
Romans 3:20,23
I. Jesus knew what Nicodemus needed.
It is so hard for people from legalistic religious backgrounds to know, receive and trust the love of God because they do not trust the God of love.
A Core Value at UC: The people of God are inclined to honor and obey God.
II. Jesus knew Nicodemus needed a new start.
“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the way of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions; it is by grace you have been saved.”
Ephesians 2:1-5
III. Jesus knew the relationship was necessary.
Nicodemus
August 9, 2020 • Gregg Parris
Thomas
September 6, 2020 • Glenn Greiner
John 20:19-29 I. Asking Questions 1. Jesus will go to great lengths to answer your questions 2. Know the emotional context for your questions 3. Don’t let your feelings deceive you II. Finding Answers 1. Take your questions to people you trust 2. Take your questions to Jesus 3. Stop questioning yourself in unhealthy ways 4. The ultimate answer to your questions is the Holy Spirit!
The Paralytic
August 23, 2020 • Gregg Parris
Mark 2: 1-12 I. THE STORY II. THE APPLICATION 1. The power of friendship. Who wouldn’t want to have four friends like these? Friends who would do anything to help you. 2. The power of desperation. 3. The power of faith. 4. The power of spiritual healing. The most important place in life is to know our sins are forgiven and our life made right with God.