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 - January 31, 2021
Debtor to None
If earthly riches profit nothing at death, then is there profit in sacrificing them? Can a person secure a heavenly reward by earthly renunciation? On behalf of the disciples, Peter responds to Jesus’ dealings with the rich young man. He boldly asserts that they have done what he would not. But more than this, he inquires about their reward. What is the payoff for leaving everything to follow Jesus? Though Jesus responds gently, the question remains unsettling. At best it exposes Peter’s uncertainty and seems to model misunderstanding. It sounds mercenary. Jesus’ answer both confirms that an immeasurable blessing is promised to those who follow Him and cautions against all deluded forms of self-seeking along with all notions of merit. No one serves their Creator, Lord, and Redeemer simply in order to obtain a reward. Yes, it is costly to follow Jesus. Yet, eternal life is the gift of God at the cost of Christ. His gift is ridiculously disproportionate to our loss. Not to mention that whatever we sacrifice for Christ is but a stewardship—even our life is not our own. God owes us nothing. He is a debtor to none.
Scripture References: Matthew 19:27-30
