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 8, 2022
The Gospel of God
To a church that he had never met, Paul wrote his longest and most systematic letter. It is a magisterial masterpiece—preeminent among the writings of the apostles. It has been called “the profoundest book in existence,” “the cathedral of the Christian faith,” and “the quintessence and perfection of saving doctrine.” What most centrally distinguishes this letter? That which breaks into its opening words. More than merely introducing himself, relating to his recipients, and identifying his purpose for writing, Paul begins emphatically with the basics of the gospel of God. Here, his chief passion leaps out of his greeting. Indeed, the very heart of this great letter is summarized in the wonderful essentials of the gospel of God.
Scripture References: Romans 1:1-7
