The Grace Message

It seems like I’m naturally no longer wanting to do the sinful things I used to do. Is that the normal effect of the grace message? What should we think about the so-called spiritual disciplines? Why does Genesis 1 describe both stars and “lights”? How should we interpret the Creation accounts in Genesis 1 and 2?

I’m thrilled to invite you to the latest message in our captivating new series, “The Power of Oneness: Savoring Your Union with Jesus Christ.” Here, we delve into the profound truths found in John 17, where Jesus passionately prayed for you to be one with Him. In a world that often pulls us in different directions, you’ll be reminded that you are not of this world. You’re set apart, called to live in the fullness of your identity in Christ. We’ll also unravel the true meaning of sanctification, a term often misunderstood in the religious world. So, immerse yourself in the heart of Jesus’ prayer in John 17, where He passionately pleaded for your oneness with Him. Embrace the joy and peace that flow from knowing you’re never alone, as Christ Himself dwells in you. My heart is that you’ll celebrate the incredible truth that you are a precious gift from God to Jesus. You are deeply loved, cherished, and valued by Him. Allow this truth to permeate your being, empowering you to live a life that reflects the immeasurable love God poured into your heart. Join me as we delve into these life-changing revelations. Watch this latest message on John 17 and embark on a journey of discovering the power of oneness in Christ. This series is sure to ignite a renewed passion for your union with Jesus Christ and inspire you to live from God’s radiant love and grace. Questions for John 17:14-26: 1. Read verses 14-16. What does it mean to you to be “not of the world”? 2. Read verses 17-19. What does “sanctify” mean? How does believing the truth factor into it? 3. Read verses 20-21. How do we know this prayer includes us? What specifically is Jesus asking for on your behalf? How was His prayer answered? 4. Read verse 22 and react to this statement: Jesus gave you His glory. 5. Read verse 23. How loved are you? 6. How was verse 24 answered through the Gospel? (Hint: See Ephesians 2:6, for example.) 7. Reflect again on verse 24. Have you ever thought about the powerful truth that you're a gift from God the Father to Jesus? What does this mean to you? 8. Read verses 25-26 and react to this statement: Christ is literally in you, and God’s love has been poured within you.

If we are totally forgiven already, should we still repent? What do you think about the word “surrender” being used for our relationship with God? What are your thoughts on politics and the church? If I’m experiencing sinful thoughts, doesn’t that mean I have a sinful heart? What is “the flesh”, and how is it different from our bodies? What does the Bible say about animals on the new Earth? Would you pray for my health? Do you have to be baptized for the forgiveness of sins? What is the role of angels today?

I asked five Christians if we’re under the Law, and I was blown away by their answers! Why didn’t God tell Adam and Eve not to sin and fall? Who are the “wolves” in Matthew 7 that brag on their accomplishments on the Day of Judgment?

Do we need to repent of each sin in order to be restored as children of God? Does Hebrews 10 teach us that God took away our feelings of shame? Jesus told the disciples to teach everything He commanded, so why don’t we see their epistles filled with instruction from the Sermon on the Mount? Should a believer live with another person without marrying them?

Did Paul instruct Gentiles to obey the Law? Could Jesus have actually sinned? Does James 5 tell us that a believer can lose salvation and gain it back again? Why did Paul and the apostles sometimes seem to make compromises regarding Old Testament regulations?

Why does Jesus tell us that some people’s part in the tree of life will be taken away in Revelation 20? Is the teaching of “progressive holiness” accurate? What does anointing with oil signify? What should we do if we’re struggling with hearing God’s voice and feeling His presence?

If we die, do we receive a temporary body in heaven until the rapture? What is fellowship? Why does Jesus say some will be turned away from Heaven? Is it because they didn’t do enough? I’m hearing voices that blaspheme God, and I start feel guilty and doubt my salvation.

We’re now embarking on a profound journey together—a new series, “The Power of Oneness: Savoring Your Union with Jesus Christ.” The first message in this transformative series, focusing on John 15, dives deep into the essence of our oneness with Christ. We’ll ponder questions like, “Does the Father really cut off branches in Christ that aren’t bearing fruit?” This question invites us to explore the nature of God as our caring vinedresser. And here’s another: “How are the disciples ‘already clean’ if the cross hasn’t happened yet?” This question might challenge your current understanding of forgiveness. This message also invites you to unravel the true and confidence-inspiring meaning of “abide in Me,” and how it contrasts with the phrase “apart from Me.” This exploration will be a stepping-stone towards understanding your inseparable union with Jesus Christ. I look forward to sharing this journey with you. And feel free to share this message with friends or family who you think might be encouraged by it. Let’s spread God’s unending love and our union with Christ as far as we can! Discussion Questions for John 15: 1. What does the Father do with branches in Christ that aren’t bearing fruit? What does this say about Him? 2. How are the disciples “already clean” if the cross hasn’t happened yet? 3. What does “abide in Me” really mean? Is it about daily trying to trust Him, or is it evangelistic? How do we know? 4. Why is “abide in Me” contrasted with “apart from Me”? Are believers ever “apart from” Him? Why or why not? 5. What happens to any branch that is not in Christ? How do we know this refers to an unbeliever? 6. How does “ask whatever you wish” balance with “if My words abide in you”? 7. Do you live in God’s love? Do you always think and act that way? 8. How does authentic joy occur in our lives? What inspires it?

Can you be cast away and burned if you don't abide in Christ enough? What does it mean to worship God "in spirit and in truth"? How do you "stay right" with God? How can you be loving but also stand up for the truth of the Gospel? How does God's grace factor into my financial woes? If I keep struggling with a sin, does that mean I'm not repentant enough? Is there an end to the suffering in Hell? What about the flames themselves? Why don't more churches get politically active rather than going passive?