God Is Our Protector; Not Our Bully (Pastor Rip’s Message this week)
God is our protector, not our bully. Jesus reveals a Father who loves us unconditionally even when He sees our sin and mistakes. The truth is: we don’t change because of rules or threats, we change because we are known, loved, and accepted. “As Scripture says, ‘Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame’”
Romans 10:11.
I Once Was Lost ( Amazing Grace)
“To accept grace is to admit failure, a step we are hesitant to take. We opt to impress God with how good we are rather than confessing how great he is.” — Max Lucado
But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) Ephesians 2:4–5.
Our Declaration
We must declare it over ourselves and over others... Jesus hasn't left us! No matter the season, you can join Him in declaring the truth. God is our light. He is our strength. He can bring what's dead back to life again. Remember, in any new season of life that God is not done with us, and He will complete the good work that He has started within us. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns –Philippians 1:6
Spoken Gospel
“Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” Ever heard of this saying? Well, there are some serious problems with it. While it’s intended to encourage followers of Jesus to not just profess Him with their lips but to also reveal Him with their live. But there are two contradictions in this piece of advice; 1. The Good News must always be shared with words, and 2.Our actions speak the opposite of the Gospel all the time. What everyone needs is what you needed too – and that is that proclamation of the Good News! “For “Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” But how can they call on Him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” – Romans10:13-15