From “Treasure” (Jared Mellinger) August 24
Text: Psalm 16
God has created us to treasure Him, and the Christian life is one of deepening our delight in this treasure. This is our mission as a church.
George Muller: “In what way shall we attain to this settled happiness of soul? How shall we learn to enjoy God? How shall we obtain such an all-sufficient soul-satisfying portion in him as shall enable us to let go of the things of this world as vain and worthless in comparison? I answer, This happiness is to be obtained through the study of the Holy Scriptures. God has therein revealed Himself unto us in the face of Jesus Christ.” (Quoted in John Piper, When I Don’t Desire God, 118)
John Calvin: “If God contains in himself all good things as an inexhaustible fountain, those who aspire to the supreme good and perfect happiness must not long for anything beyond him.” (Institutes, 3.25.10)
From “Proclaim” (Jim Donohue) August 31
Text: 1 Peter 2:1-12
God has made us His people so that we might proclaim His excellencies.
When you comprehend what God has done for you (on the cross) and who you are, you will want to proclaim the greatness of God.
A holy community is one of our most powerful evangelistic weapons. When we comprehend this it will move us to change.
From “Grow” (Andy Farmer) September 7
Text: Ephesians 3:20 – 4:16
The Call to a Church that wants to glorify Christ is to grow up in Christ.
John Piper: “Horizontal relationships matter finally, because the glory of God matters supremely. Our aim in every relationship is ultimately to awaken, strengthen, and deepen a joyful, fruitful passion for God through Jesus Christ.” (“Treasuring Christ Together, JBC Winter 2004, 86)
The world cares not for our religious gatherings and moral stances. But it stands up and takes notice when sinners love each other in a way only the Gospel makes possible.
You can listen to all three of these messages here.
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