The Grace Message

How do we “work out our salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2)? How do we give God glory? Do we need to? Does Mark 10 support the prosperity gospel? I was excommunicated from my church for questioning their methodology. How can I find a healthy church?

Someone told me that our guide is the Holy Spirit, not Jesus. What are your thoughts? I want to help my Catholic brother come to know Jesus as his Savior. How can I explain the gospel? If someone is angry at God because their child has died, how can I help them? I feel like I’m constantly being accused of not being surrendered enough to God‘s will. How can I find freedom?

Is the millennial reign a literal thousand years or does it symbolize a lengthy period of time? Why are humans uniquely endowed with the ability to choose relationship with God? What does Romans 4 mean concerning those who are “of the Law” and nullifying the promise?

A believer’s unbroken fellowship with God is at the core of our “Forever in His Presence” series. In this message, we explore the simplicity of salvation to see that it is heartfelt belief, not “magic words” or perfect behavior, that brings us into a saving relationship with God. We also reflect on God’s incredible love for us, which sets us free from fear and gives us confidence for Judgment Day. Contrary to what the religious world might say, knowing the depths of His love also means we can stop trying to love Him more! Furthermore, understanding that “we love because He first loved us” helps us see that loving God and loving others are naturally intertwined. I encourage you to listen to this message and be inspired by the permanent presence of God’s love and grace in your life! Discussion Questions: 1. Read verse 15. How hard is it to be saved? What’s required exactly? Did you think this involves just saying some “magic words” or something more? If so, what? 2. Read verse 16 and react to this statement: I believe the love which God has for me! 3. Read verse 17. What are the two reasons we can be confident on Judgment Day? 4. Read verse 18 and react to this statement: I will never be punished for any of my sins! 5. Read verse 19. Explain why getting this divine order of things right is so important. 6. Read 1 John 4:20-5:1. Why do loving God and loving others go hand in hand? 7. Read verses 2-3 of chapter 5. What are His commandments? (Note: Consider 1 John 3:23 in your answer.) Also, why are His commandments “not burdensome”? And how are these any different from being under the Old Testament law? 8. What does it mean that we now “overcome the world”?

What do Seventh Day Adventists believe? Are women allowed to serve or speak in church? I know you teach that the antichrist is not pretending to be Christ, but who is the “wicked one“ or the “man of lawlessness” in 2 Thessalonians? Are we immediately with God when we die? What about what Jesus teaches in the gospels about being “left behind” upon His return?

What is your take on Christ’s return? Will there be a secret rapture? And will some of us be left behind? Tribulation? Final judgment? End times? How do I totally surrender my life to the Lord?

Why are so many Christians confused about faith and works? What about James 2? What does it mean to “do the will of the Father”? Why does Jesus turn some people away in Matthew 7, saying He never knew them?

Are there two different meanings of “flesh” in Paul’s letters? Are our physical bodies evil? What does it mean to accept Jesus as “your personal Lord and Savior”? There are many different views of the end times. Would you consider those views to be heresy or “false teaching”?

Which commandments do we need to follow in the Bible? Can you explain Ephesians 5 concerning coarse jesting and immorality? What is the “simplicity of Christ” that Paul talks about? How can we avoid straying from it?

If we’re already sanctified, then why does 1 Thessalonians 4 say God’s will is our sanctification? How do we interpret all the New Testament passages that say God will punish those who practice sinful behavior? Does that punishment apply to Christians who struggle with sin? If not, why not? What does it mean to “be alert” or “be ready” for Christ’s return?