The Jesus Sessions

Last night we began a new series that will take us through the next several weeks.
I believe that what Jesus has to say is very practical for us today. The problem is, we often think that practical means quick and easy, so we go with the quick and easy advise that the world gives not realizing that the outcomes can be destructive.
I believe that Jesus is always practical, but not always quick and easy. But what Jesus has to say is the way to abundant life.
Glen Stassen is an ethics professor at Fuller Seminary, and he proposes that many of Jesus' teachings are in a three-fold format, that is, they begin with some sort of traditional saying of righteousness, then they explain some sort of vicious cycle, and then Jesus gives a transforming initiative or an action we can take to transform our lives and lead us out of the vicious cycle we are in.
Last night we looked at Matthew 7:6-11, and you can see this format in this passage. Jesus starts by telling the people not to give what is holy to the dogs, or throw pearls to swine (that is the traditional saying of righteousness that people would have understood). Then Jesus says that they will trample your pearls and turn and maul you too (this is the vicious cycle, when we give ourselves, our gifts, our talents, our lives to the pigs and dogs, then what we have gets trampled and we get mauled in the process. Maybe some of you feel like you have been mauled by this world). Finally, Jesus gives his transforming initiative when he tells us to turn to God by saying, "Ask...seek...knock."
Jesus gives practical advice that is for our best interest. So over the next several weeks we are going to look at what Jesus has to say, see if we can identify this pattern and the vicious cycles, and learn what Jesus teaches in order to lead us out of those unhealthy patterns into abundant life.

It was great to worship with you this weekend!
God bless you and I will see you next week!
-Tim

Jim Cantelon and Theresa Malila

We had two very special guests last night at the Gathering. Theresa Malila is one of our ministry partners in Malawi working with HIV/AIDS, and she shared a bit with us about her experience with orphaned children.

Jim Cantelon came to share the message last night and spoke of justice. Jim is the president and founder of Visionledd (yes, 2 d's). He founded a church in Jerusalem in 1981, has written books, and hosted an award-winning TV show.

Jim shared about righteousness and justice. They are the same word in Hebrew, but when speaking of our relationship with God, the word is translated as righteousness. When speaking about our relationship with others, the word is translated as justice. Jim's message was challenging and convicting, calling the church to "grow up" and begin to do something about the massive problem of HIV/AIDS in Africa and in the world.

We know that God desires justice in the land. I believe that justice can never be legislated. I believe, based on Micah 6:8, that true justice requires loving-kindness and a humble walk with God. People need an authentic encounter with the resurrected Jesus Christ. The church, as the body of Christ, stands in a unique position to bring true justice into the world, but it must start with us.

If we can't figure out justice within the walls of the church, we will never be able to figure out justice in the world. Therefore, we have opportunities to practice justice within. In the cafe during every service we have the barrel where you can post needs or things you have to offer. Be sure to check the barrel if you have a need, someone might just post something that can fulfill that need.

We also have an amazing outreach department here. Check the links to the side to find outreach at Word of Grace. We partner with a number of different missionaries and organizations to bring true justice into the world and into our community.

I love the heart of this community. You guys are awesome to worship with week in and week out. Many blessings as you continue to seek God passionately for your lives.

See you all next week!

In Him,

-Tim