Always Reforming

Grace I.                    Introduction a.      Taking time off from Titus b.      Why are we gathered here today?                                                        i.       Grace—baptism                                                     ii.       Grace—because God has saved u...

    Walking with God is one of the finest summaries of the Christian life.  This concept goes back at least to Genesis 5:24, where we read of Enoch walking with God.  This is not a description of him literally walking beside God, but is instead a metaphorical description of how he took each step in life with God by his side.  Every thought, word, and deed was motivated by this constant relationship.     Such perpetual covenantal dwelling with God is a large theme throughout the Old Testament, but it doesn't end there.  If anything, this idea has been enhanced in the New Testament as we do not simply walk beside God, but we are actually indwelt by Him.  Paul tells us in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ.  It is not long I who live, but Christ who lives in me.  And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."  This is not something that was unique to ...

Psalm 130:5-8/Waiting on Yahweh 1.     Last time we saw a.      The author recognized that he had no right to approach God’s presence b.     He had hope of forgiveness because he knew God is merciful c.      Forgiveness leads to a life of service to God 2.     Verses 5-6: Having been forgiven, he waits on God a.      These verses give us two beautiful metaphors b.     Wait                                                              i.       Qavah 1.     Literally, to twist or weave a cord or rope 2.   ...

Shane’s First Day     Shane rubbed his tired eyes and peered at the clock on the nightstand—4:15. It’s too early for anyone to be awake , he thought.   He was starting a new job though, and he couldn’t afford to be late.      He pulled his 38-year-old frame out of bed and stumbled to the bathroom.  He flipped the lights on and moved to the shower.  He placed one leg in the shower.  As he raised his other leg, he lost his balance, his full weight crashing down on the unforgiving laminate floor.  He let out a disoriented moan as he reached for the back of his head.  Good—no blood.  What a way to start a day!  He slowly rose and climbed into the shower, this time carefully grabbing hold of the railing.  He felt the steam open his pores and thin his blood.  He felt good about this day.     Shane sat down at the kitchen table.  His wife placed a hot plate of bacon and eggs in front...

Titus 1:10-16: The Opposition I.                   Introduction a.      Last time we saw                                                                       i.       How important it is to choose good elders                                                     ...