The Grace Message

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?

Are you ready to dive deep where others merely wade? In this next message in our “Forever in His Presence” series, we’re slicing through the fog of misinformation and reclaiming the truth about Jesus – His divinity, His humanity, His everything! In a culture that often prizes openness to the point of absurdity, we stand firm. Are you prepared to be labeled “close-minded”? Good. Because when it comes to the truth about Jesus, we believers are as immovable as mountains. Plus, you’ll discover what it truly means to “live through Him.” It’s all about His scandalous love for us, not our feeble attempts at “loving Him more.” And when we love each other the way He loves us? That’s when God becomes visible. Tune in to this latest message and arm yourself with truth! Discussion Questions: 1. Read verses 1-3. What is the “antichrist” teaching that John mentions? And why is the truth important in this regard? 2. Read verses 4-6 and react to this statement: There is absolute truth about Jesus, and we can be “close minded” about it if we know Him. 3. Read verses 7-8. What is the main mark of knowing God? Why is this the case? 4. Read verse 9. What does it mean to “live through Him”? 5. Read verse 10. Why is “not that we loved God” so important here? What does “propitiation” mean and how does it factor in? 6. Read verses 11-12. How do we help people “see God”? 7. Read verse 13. In what way does this help to clarify the meaning of “abide”? Can you know that you abide in Him? If so, how? 8. Read verse 14. How do verses like this (and John 3:16) show the fallacy of “limited atonement” – the false idea that Jesus only died for individuals pre-selected by God?

What is the best way to study the Bible? How can I respond to “red letter Christians” who essentially discredit or ignore the teachings of Paul? Are certain New Testament letters just for pastors? Was the disciple Simon a Gentile? When exactly was Paul saved? Did water baptism play a role? Did any works factor in?

What does it mean to set your mind on things above? Why aren’t we required to keep the Sabbath? Should we be praying to the Holy Spirit, asking Him to give the Word power?

My roommate is controlling and jealous in the ways she treats me. I’m wondering what to do. How do you view church tradition versus Scripture when they seem to contradict sometimes? What about the Orthodox church?

Why didn’t God give us the new covenant from the start? What is the unpardonable sin? What about Christians who just continue in sin? What was Jesus trying to say in Luke 11 about demon possession? How can we effectively witness to those who don’t believe in the Bible? Is it wrong for me to confess my sins? To ask God for forgiveness daily?

Is the Hebrews 4 rest a physical or spiritual rest? What about keeping the Sabbath? Why does 1 Corinthians 15 mention two kinds of bodies? Are we going to have two bodies? A pastor taught me the return of Christ might go unnoticed by many who are left behind. Could this be true?