The Grace Message

Is there a new breed of legalism today? Seems like we’re always trying to reinvent legalism and make it more relevant or, conversely, more ceremonial! Why does Paul use the word “if” in Colossians 1:23? It seems like he’s saying we Christians need to hang on for dear life! Is there ever a time when God inspires us to confront a friend about an issue or struggle they’re having? Or is that just being judgmental?

What if the real gospel isn’t about getting closer to God?You’ve probably heard it all – spend “more time” with God, be “intentional,” confess more, surrender more, and then, maybe you’ll end up closer to God. But what if that’s all backward? What if you’re already as close as you’ll ever be? No striving, climbing, or spiritual gymnastics – just IN.If the apostles were here today, they’d set the record straight: Closeness with God isn’t earned, upgraded, or improved over time. You’re either in or out. And if you’re in, you’re in – forever. Baptism won’t seal the deal. More good behavior won’t level you up. And no, you don’t “abide” some days and wander off other days. You’re fully united with Christ right now, no matter what.Progressively getting closer to God is a myth. Watch now and celebrate your “divine entwine” with Him!Discussion Questions:1. What role does baptism play? In water? In the Spirit?2. React to this statement: You are IN the Trinity.3. How close are you to Jesus? Why?4. What does it mean to “abide” in Christ? Are you abiding in Him? Why or why not?5. React to this statement: Christ is your life and you will be revealed with Him in glory.6. Explain the difference between location (in the Spirit) and walking or setting the mind.7. What is God’s will for your life? How is this different from what we often hear?8. What does Philippians 4:13 really mean? How is this different from what the false health-wealth gospel promises?

Did Jesus have siblings? How did the world become populated after the flood? How can I encourage my daughter not to sleep around? What does Paul mean by “law of God” and “law of sin”? Why does God allow evil? How is God‘s will not threatened by the actions of men?

Somebody told me that believing in the Trinity is idolatry. Are they right? My son is currently in jail for the third time for drugs. What should I do? My friend is into witchcraft, and I don’t know how to handle it!

What does it mean to be one with the Trinity? What are your thoughts on the “little gods” theory? What is the best approach to evangelism? I think I may have an unknown sin or unbelief that may be hindering my home sale and move to North Carolina. How should I view the situation?

What is repentance? Are we only forgiven if we repent? Are we only forgiven if we forgive others first? What’s the Matthew 18 parable of the unforgiving servant really about?

Why does 1 John say we need no one to teach us? What does it mean to enter God’s rest? What message did Israel hear and not believe? How is that an example for us today? How do we make sense of a passage in Proverbs that seems contradictory about answering a fool?

What did Herbert Armstrong teach in the Worldwide Church of God? Why didn’t the sheep actively repent in the Luke 15 parable? How can Jesus be “the savior of all mankind” (1 Timothy 4:10) if universalism is not true?

If God has forgotten your sins, why haven’t you? You’ve been forgiven – but do you actually believe it? Or are you still treating forgiveness like a mortgage or car payment, chipping away at it with apologies and requests for cleansing? It’s time to ditch that religious mindset. Jesus didn’t die in installments, so your forgiveness isn’t little by little. The cross actually worked, so God remembers your sins no more! If He’s declared your forgiveness a done deal, why are you still keeping score? Don’t be like some who spend their whole lives in church and still miss the incredible truth of total forgiveness. Watch now and rest in what Jesus accomplished! Discussion Questions: 1. How did the Old Testament people experience forgiveness? Why? 2. How many times did Jesus die? Why is this so important? 3. React to this statement: If God is satisfied with the sacrifice of Jesus, you should be too. 4. What is the significance of standing versus being seated in Hebrews 10? 5. React to this statement: God remembers your sins no more! 6. Why is our forgiveness expressed in past tense so many times? 7. How do judgment and condemnation factor in here? Explain in light of the cross. 8. What about the Lord’s Supper? How can we more fully celebrate it with the right focus?

How do I stop blaming myself for a health issue that may (or may not) be a consequence of my choices? How do I break free from the fear of death? What's the meaning of the parable in Matthew 25 about the virgins, the lamps, and the oil? Who is the cloud of witnesses in Hebrews 12:1? How do I practically "fix my eyes" on Jesus and let go of any sin that entangles me?