Christian-ish Part 2 - Self-Denial

In exploring the gap between wearing the label of Christianity and truly following Christ, we can use the geographical context of Jesus' conversation with His disciples at Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16:13-18; Mark 8:31-38). This also highlights how Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him - beyond comfortable Christianity to truly engage with God's kingdom work.

Are we truly living out our faith, or merely wearing the label of 'Christian'? Drawing from Matthew 7:13-27, we're reminded that the path to God's kingdom is narrow, and not everyone who claims to know Christ will enter. The key? Doing the will of the Father.

Matthew 28 paints a vivid picture of that miraculous resurrection morning, challenging us to confront our beliefs and their impact on our lives. The guards, religious leaders, and disciples all faced a paradigm-shifting reality - how do we respond when confronted with new, life-altering information? This narrative urges us to examine our own beliefs, questioning whether they're rooted in fear, manipulation, or genuine truth.

This week we are invited to rethink what truly brings meaning and purpose. We’ll journey together through stories of transformation and challenge the assumptions that keep us from experiencing the abundant life Jesus promises. What if the way to true fulfillment is simpler—and closer—than we ever imagined?

The Zacchaeus story and the parable that follows illustrates Jesus' priority to seek and save the lost, reminding us that no one is beyond redemption. This passage encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, to see others through God's eyes of love and grace, and to be agents of transformation in our communities. It's a call to align our hearts with Jesus' mission.

Jesus returns to Nazareth to declare His messianic mission by reading from Isaiah 61. This pivotal moment reveals the heart of Christ's ministry: bringing good news to the poor, freedom to captives, sight to the blind, and liberation to the oppressed. Jesus calls us to lay down our lives for others, just as He did. 

This message is the conclusion to our exploration through the prophet Nahum. As we unravel truths that challenge our understanding of justice, mercy, and redemption, we unpack how God confronts the horrors of sin with the glory of the cross.

This week, as we unpack Nahum chapter two, we are invited to reflect on where we place our trust in the midst of life's uncertainties. We examine the deeper connection between our relationship with God and our interactions within our communities. This message will encourage you to consider how love for God and others can shape your choices and bring peace to your life.

This message begins a new teaching series through the Old Testament prophet Nahum. From the ancient near east to our modern ears, Nahum provides a rich theology and challenges our understanding of who God is and how He acts in our world. This series will explore the tension between divine love and justice, and explore how ancient truths can provide comfort and guidance in the complexities of life.

We explore the life and impact of Barnabas, known as the "son of encouragement," while focusing on his vital role in welcoming and supporting key figures in early Christianity. We look at the importance of encouragement, inclusivity, and the transformative power of the Gospel in changing lives and building the church.