We are a forgetful people in a land of distractions. Our minds are easily captivated by trivial and temporary inducements. New things quickly become old. In our mind’s eye even glory tends to fade and warnings tend to wane. It is no wonder that we who are invisibly united to Christ and visibly in and not of this world live in constant need of renewal. And what is true for the Christian is true for the church. This is a series that seeks to renew the mind of the church. Not so much by reviewing what she is called to do as much as what she is called. As with the Christian so with church, her God-given identity defines her. We who are the church are a people for God and none other.
Before we return to the book of Romans, we will be looking at the what scripture says about the Church, in its nature, how she expresses herself in song, and how the church cares and equips for its members.
The messages from this series can be found here:
Manny Pereira - May 26, 2019
Only One Foundation
Jesus speaks the finals words of His sermon. They demand a verdict. The only one way to life and the only one gate to the kingdom of God has become the only one foundation for salvation. The scene is remarkable. This poor Jewish carpenter from Nazareth stands before the whole of humanity and in no uncertain terms reduces the wide spectrum of religious and philosophical endeavors to one—grouping all into one—against which He places Himself in a category all His own. Every conceivable way of life and hope of life to come is placed over and against this one Christ. He insists that people neglect His revelation at their own peril. Judgment, like a storm, is coming. Everlasting survival depends upon Him. His words form the foundation of eternal life. But He is not merely a messenger, He is the message! His words are the self-revealing of God. Only those who build their life on Him will stand in the day of judgment. None can dare to walk away from these words unchanged, complacent. His words call for deep-seated discipleship, a holistic embrace and tenacious commitment with nothing less than the whole of one’s life. Jesus proclaims Himself as the only one foundation to eternity and the life that is built upon Him must live to make much of Him.
Scripture References: Matthew 7:24-27
