Most people recognize 1 Corinthians 13 as “the love chapter.” But Paul wasn’t writing a sentimental poem. He was writing to a divided, messy church that desperately needed to understand what real love actually looks like.
And what is cool to see is that Paul defines love by its activities and boundaries. Because we’re taught that love affirms without limits, love supports whatever the other wants, and love celebrates everything.
“Love is love.”
But Paul gives a richer definition.
Love is more than a feeling. Of course, it includes our affections, but also our allegiance and our actions—our obedience.
That’s where 1 Corinthians 13 takes us.
Love has moral shape. Love has a backbone.
Let’s walk through it.

What Love Is
Paul begins with a simple description of what love us.
Love is patient. Love is kind.
Each of these are verbs, not vibes. Love shows up in real behavior, real conversations, real reactions.
They reflect Jesus’ character and the fruit of the Spirit at work in us.

What Love Is Not
Then Paul tells us what love is not:
Love is not jealous. Love is not arrogant.
Paul defines love just as much by its boundaries as by its actions. Love isn’t only what it does. It’s also what it refuses to become.

What Love Does Not Do
Next, Paul expands the list of what love refuses to do. This is where the passage becomes incredibly practical.
Love does not brag.
Love does not act unbecomingly. So you can feel furious at someone, frustrated, or hurt—and still choose not to respond in a destructive way.
Love doesn’t excuse sin in reaction. It restrains it.
Love does not seek its own. Love doesn’t make everything about me.
And then this phrase:
Love is not provoked. Love doesn’t immediately explode. At a time when unloving reactions are immediately justified, posted, and celebrated, love puts brakes on our sinful reflexes.
Love does not take into account a wrong suffered. Paul borrows an accounting word. Love doesn’t keep a ledger. Love doesn’t keep score. It refuses to stockpile offenses for future battles. Love remembers—but it refuses to weaponize what it remembers.
That’s huge. Because many relationships don’t break down from one big moment—they break down from accumulated records of small ones.
Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness.
Love isn’t morally neutral. Love refuses to celebrate what dishonors God. 
This is where 1 Corinthians 13 pushes back on our cultural instincts.
Love that the Holy Spirit produces isn’t going to affirm unrighteous choices or destructive paths in someone’s life.  
Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness.
Love isn’t morally neutral. Love refuses to celebrate what dishonors God.
This is where 1 Corinthians 13 pushes back on our cultural instincts.
Love that the Holy Spirit produces isn’t going to affirm unrighteous choices or destructive paths in someone’s life.

What Love Does
Finally, Paul tells us what love does:
Love rejoices with the truth.
He doesn’t just tell us what love refuses to celebrate; he tells what love celebrates. Love doesn’t only refuse what is false—it actively celebrates what is true.
In other words, love protects us from two extremes:
To the harsh Christian who says, “I’m just telling the truth.” God says: If it isn’t patient and kind, it isn’t loving truth.
To an affirming culture that says, “If you love me, you’ll celebrate whatever I choose.” Paul tells us that love cannot rejoice in unrighteousness.
Love Is a Mirror, Not a Checklist
And then Paul finishes with one of the most hopeful descriptions in Scripture,
1 Corinthians 13:7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
This isn’t a checklist to measure whether you’re a good Christian. It’s a mirror. God is showing you where His love can still free you.
So if you lose your patience it doesn’t mean you’re a cruel, unloving person. But in that moment when you were impatient, that wasn’t loving. That’s not what the Spirit is doing in you. When you keep score, God’s love isn’t behind that.

Love Speaks to Both Sides of Every Conflict
Notice too, love speaks to both sides of every conflict.
If you’re the one who hurt or offended the other, God says to you: Love is kind. Love isn’t arrogant. Love doesn’t seek its own interests.  
Ask yourself: was I acting kind? Was I being impatient. Was I seeking my own interest? Was I acting ugly? Was I celebrating something God calls evil?
But love also has even more words for the one who was hurt or offended: love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs to use against the person. Love is not provoked to outbursts of anger, jealousy. Love bears all things. Love endures all things. 
Nobody escapes God’s call to love.

The Love We Receive Is the Love We Reflect
We don’t love like this by trying harder.
We love like this because we have been loved like this in Christ.
Jesus bore all things. Jesus endured all things. His love never failed.
No matter what.
And now, through His Spirit, that same love begins to reshape how we live, speak, forgive, and respond to others.

Christians may wonder at times, “If the Holy Spirit lives in me… why don’t I feel different? Why do I still struggle?”
The New Testament gives a reassuring answer: the Holy Spirit’s indwelling is not a feeling to chase. It’s a fact to trust.
When you believed in Jesus, God didn’t merely forgive you, give you eternal life, and send you on your way. He gave you Himself.
The Holy Spirit now lives in you.
Jesus said, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me… from his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.” John tells us: “This He spoke of the Spirit…” (John 7:37–39).
Your standing with God is not measured by how spiritual you feel. Romans 8 says that if you belong to Christ, you have His Spirit. In fact, Paul tells us, “If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him” (Romans 8:9).
And what does the Spirit do?

• He reminds us who we are (Romans 8:16).
• He opens our eyes to understand truth and receive what once seemed foolish (1 Cor. 2:12–14).
• He strengthens us to resist sin and bear fruit (Galatians 5:16–23).
• He helps us pray when we are too weak for words (Romans 8:26–27).

Notice something beautiful: the Spirit does not draw attention to Himself.
Jesus said, “He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you” (John 16:14).
So often the Spirit’s work looks less dramatic than we expect. You begin trusting Jesus more. You become quicker to repent, more patient with people, quicker to forgive, anchored in hope, and convinced that God is your loving Father.
That is the Holy Spirit’s inner presence.
He wants you to know you belong.
The Bible teaches us that believers are united to Jesus and, by His Spirit, into Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 12:13) and are also sealed for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30).
Your salvation and your future are guaranteed. Even in seasons where your heart feels dry, your goal is not to feel close to God so you may have confidence that you belong. Rather, put your confidence in His Word: “Having believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise” (Ephesians 1:13).
Delight in the promises of God and the strength of His presence.

Maturity in the Christian life does not mean trying harder. The New Testament points us somewhere better.
“And do not get drunk with wine… but be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).
Being filled with the Spirit is not about getting more of Him. This is not a feeling; it is a filling, and it’s very relational. The Holy Spirit is not a power or a substance; He is Christ in us. To be filled with the Spirit means making room for Him to influence us. It is increasingly placing ourselves under His influence. It is trusting Him enough to submit to His leading.
This is not a passive thing. It’s not mystical either.
It is supernatural. It is also very personal and relational.
He is with us. We trust. We allow Him to work through our lives. He works.
Paul’s command in Ephesians 5:18 is a daily and ongoing submission of the heart—”keep on being filled with the Spirit.”
How do we carry that out? We are not in charge of God’s Spirit. No, but we can make room for His influence through faith, humility, and submission.
Faith: Believing He is right here, right now, and fully capable of handling your need.
Humility: Admitting you can’t do this and relying on Him instead.
Submission: Putting yourself under His direction and letting Him call the shots.
“… Do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God” (Romans 6:13).
And what does His influence produce?
Love.
The fruit of the Spirit is deeply relational: “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…” (Galatians 5:22–23).
These are not private spiritual achievements; they are ways God loves people through us.
The same is true of spiritual gifts.
The Spirit gives gifts, not for our own gratification, but so we can become useful to others.
“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (1 Peter 4:10).
Teaching.
Encouragement.
Serving.
Giving.
Administration.
Helps.
Whatever gifts He gives, He gives for the good of the body, the church (Romans 12:6–8).
And if you haven’t already discerned your spiritual gift, that discovery usually happens in the church through humble service.
Show up.
Love people.
Meet needs.
Stay connected.
Serve where there is need.
The Spirit often reveals our gifts while our hands are already busy serving. It is often affirmed by those who’ve benefited from your service.
So don’t wait until you feel especially spiritual. Trust that the Spirit of Christ is present in you. Yield to His influence, allow Him to work in your life, and let your faith become visible through love.

Maybe you hear the word repent and your gut tightens. It feels like someone wagging a finger at you.
But a New Testament, grace perspective of repentance views it as a very freeing action in the Christian life.
The Greek word behind repentance is “metanoia”—a change of mind. A second thought. A realization that you’ve been thinking wrong, going your own way, and you change your mind: I want God’s way for me. I want Jesus.
That’s repentance.
It’s not a vow to do better, a promise to change, which is making a promise to God that you cannot keep.
It’s not about proving to God that you feel really, really bad for what you did and attempting to fix things so you and God can be tight again.
Biblical repentance is turning toward Jesus in faith and trusting Him to do what you can’t.
The prayer of repentance isn’t, “God, watch me try harder.” It’s more like: God, I have been making a mess. I want to change, but haven’t been able to. I want your way, but I cannot do it on my own. Lord, help me!
And just because you repent once, doesn’t mean you’re through.
Repentance isn’t meant to be a one-time fix, either. It’s more like a rhythm. A normal part of what it looks like to walk with Jesus day to day.

• You abide in Christ
• You stumble
• You confess
• You turn back. Repeat.

That’s normal. That’s discipleship. That’s how intimacy with Jesus actually deepens over time.
In Revelation 2, Jesus looks at a church that’s drifted, and He tells them: Beloved, you’ve left your first love. Remember the joy, remember Me, and come back. Do the things you did when your heart was filled.
That’s Jesus’ advice. That’s His invitation.  
So if you’ve been carrying something:

• Habits you can’t shake.
• Temptations that own you.
• Areas where you keep failing.
• Something you’re too embarrassed to tell others, or even to bring up with God again.

Bring them to Jesus. Bring your whole being to Him. Not because you’ve finally mustered enough remorse. But because He loves you!
And because, yes, you love Him and you know that you can trust Him with this. So you do.
That’s repentance. Not perfect change—but a real turning toward Jesus. And He is enough.”

Do you lean more toward truth or grace? If you had to choose one, would you side toward justice or mercy?
What about Jesus? When He deals with you, with others, if He had to choose one, would He lean toward justice or mercy?
Today, we’ll see how Jesus treats someone who tries to satisfy her own thirst in a particularly selfish, shameful, and destructive way. It violated the Law. Violated trust. And Jesus is seemingly forced to choose: Justice or mercy.
It’s early morning. The temple court is filling up. People are pressing in—hungry, curious, carrying questions, carrying burdens. And Jesus sat down and began to teach, and for a moment, everything feels at peace… ordered, hopeful. (John 8:2)
And then, it’s like the doors burst open. Everything gets disrupted.
A mixed bag of religious and political leaders, the scribes and the Pharisees, brought a woman caught in adultery! Not presumed to be. Not caught sneaking out the back door… caught in the very act. (v4)
There are witnesses. And real victims. This woman’s husband. The man’s wife. Each of their children.
Adultery isn’t trivial to God. Marriage represents Jesus’ love for the church, and sex is a God-given expression of lifelong, exclusive commitment. One flesh. I belong to you completely, revealing myself in ways no other can ever know me. Sex reflects the oneness and delight of our eternal future with God.
And in that day, this was a cultural taboo. A naughty no-no.
And everyone listening knows that this act was punishable by death according to God’s Law for Israel.
Leviticus 20:10 If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife, the adulterer AND the adulteress shall surely be put to death.
Both shall be put to death. Not just the woman. The Law required equal punishment, equal justice.
But they’re not after justice. They’re after Jesus.
So they persist: “Moses commands us to stone her! What then do YOU say, Jesus?”
They’re trying to trap Him between the Law of Moses (justice) and this woman’s life (mercy). (v6)
They don’t really care about the Law—or about her.
But they know they can use this against Jesus because one thing they’re sure of: He’s not going to condemn her. Not even for cheating on her husband.
Jesus had such a reputation for loving sinners. Jesus had such a reputation for grace that they bet Jesus would go with mercy. That’s what attracted sinners.
They’ve set a brilliant trap.
If Jesus condemns her as God’s Law for Israel commands, He loses the very people He came to save.
But if He goes against God’s command and says, “Don’t stone her,” then He’s not from God. He’s not a good teacher or Messiah, let alone the Son of God.
Jesus said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.”
Wow.
Notice that He did not say, “She didn’t do anything wrong. Nothing worthy of death.”
He did not tell them not to stone her.
He actually says, “Throw a stone at her.” He upholds God’s Law. He upholds justice. What she has done merits punishment. She deserves stones.
But there’s a condition: You must be without sin.
He’s not saying only perfect people can judge others’ actions. No. We can all say that rape is evil. If you cheat on your wife, we can rightly say it’s wrong. If you stomp on a litter of puppies, we will all gasp in horror.
We don’t have to be perfect to judge that an act is wrong. But who has the right to hate, reject, and condemn their person? Who among us could survive if the same standard of perfection were applied to our own lives?
God’s Law, applied fairly, condemns us all. It doesn’t just condemn her kind of sin but our sins, too. Under the Law, we’re all doomed sinners in need of a miracle… or grace.
Not looking anyone in the eye. Allowing the Spirit to work in consciences. Rocks drop.
One by one, they each back out and go home. Beginning with the older ones. Wiser? More self-aware? Until it’s just two people left in the center of the temple court. Just her and Jesus. (v9)
Jesus said to her, “Woman, where are they? Everyone knew what you did. Did no one condemn you?” (v10)
She said, “No one is condemning me, Lord.” (v11)
What a feeling.
And then the words everything has been building toward: Jesus said, “I do not condemn you, either…
Let that sink in. She is guilty—that’s reality. And God does not condemn her—that’s also reality.
How can both be true?
Because not long after this encounter, Jesus himself would stand before another crowd. This time, he wouldn’t stoop down in the dust. He would be lifted up on a cross. The righteous dying for the unrighteous. The judgment that should have fallen on her, the judgment that should fall on you and me—all of it landed squarely on him.
When we believe this, when we trust Jesus for this, God’s Son can say, “I do not condemn you, because I was condemned in your place.”
This is the gospel. We are all guilty—that’s reality. Yet God does not condemn us. He bore our punishment. He deals with our sin on the cross—so He can deal with us in grace.

Jesus dealt with our sin on the cross—so He can deal with us in grace.
The proud walk away from Jesus, bearing the weight of their own guilty consciences.
Yet, those who come to Jesus, without making excuses, but trusting Jesus… He says, “You are forgiven. You are loved. There is no condemnation. Your relationship with God is forever secure—bought with God’s blood and sealed by the Spirit.”
Jesus’ final words to her are huge: “Go, and from now on sin no more.” (v11)
Notice the order. First: “I do not condemn you.” Then: “Sin no more.”
This is the transformative nature of God’s grace. Many people operate on the principle: “If you hurt me, I will condemn you.” More reasonable people might say, “If you change, if you stop hurting me, I won’t condemn you.”
Jesus says something far better: “I do not condemn you. Period. I never will. Now, from now on, sin no more.”
When you receive His love into your hearts through faith, something shifts. You don’t stay neutral. Love responds.
So how do we respond to the love God has given us?
Jesus tells us: Go. From now on, sin no more. Out of your experience of God’s love, sin no more.
For her, that meant leaving a specific relationship. Going home. Loving Jesus and committing to her husband and family. Walking away from what was wounding her and others.
For us, it’s just as concrete. Bringing to Jesus the sins that keep us from God, the ones we excuse, hide, and deny. The ones that hurt us and others.
Because Jesus doesn’t just forgive us. He sets us free… to love Him in the very places where we’ve been living in sin.
 
 
Justice and Mercy Fulfilled
So does Jesus side with justice or mercy?
The answer is both. He doesn’t choose between them—he fulfilled both perfectly. Mercy won because the woman walked away free. Justice won because Jesus gave his life on the cross.
We have a God who has it all wrapped up. Wherever you’re at, whatever you’re struggling with, whatever you’ve done—in Christ, there is no condemnation. Not because what you did was right, but because Jesus took the condemnation upon himself.
And when you believe that, when you trust that, you’re not more prone to sin again. You’re more prone to draw closer to Jesus, to let your sin humble you and drive you to the one who offers not just forgiveness, but life itself.

Did you miss our recent class on eternal security? Or maybe you’ve heard the term but still struggle with that nagging feeling: “Am I really saved? Can I lose my salvation?” You’ve come to the right place.

Eternal Security
Eternal security simply means that once you’ve trusted in Jesus Christ for eternal life, you are saved forever. It’s a done deal. No take-backs. No forfeiture clause.
A lack of assurance can rob you of your joy and create distance in your relationship with God.
Despite those who prefer we remain fearfully unsure, God wants you to feel secure in His love in Christ.
1 John 5:11 … God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.
So, how do we get that rock-solid assurance? It’s as simple as believing God’s promise above.
But it definitely starts with a clear understanding of the Gospel and a firm belief in Jesus’ finished work.
Sorting Out the Confusion: Perseverance, Preservation, and Whose Job Is It Anyway?
This is where things can get tangled, so let’s untangle them:

• Perseverance of the Saints (Reformed View): This view basically says that if you’re truly saved, you will persevere in faith and obedience. If you fall away, well, you were never saved to begin with. The problem? It turns assurance into a constant performance review. Are you “doing” enough to prove you’re worthy? It puts the spotlight on your efforts rather than on Jesus’ sacrifice.
• Arminian View: This says a believer can lose their salvation through serious sin or persistent unbelief. This is not good news either. This also leads to an uncertain destiny and shifts the focus from Jesus’ sacrifice to your efforts.

In each of these views, the believer who seeks assurance of their salvation must give evidence of it through perseverance, good works, and life transformation.

• Preservation of the Saints (Grace View): This view emphasizes that God keeps those who belong to Him. Your eternal security is in God’s unwavering promise, Jesus’ completed work on the cross, and the Holy Spirit’s seal of ownership. Even when we stumble (and let’s face it, we all do!), God preserves us. This view truly presents the good news of eternal life to all who believe.
• 
  

Why Eternal Security Is a Game-Changer
Imagine someone giving you an incredible gift, but then telling you that you have to prove your worth or re-earn it every day. That’s not a gift; that’s a stressful job! Eternal life is a pure gift. It allows us to rest in God’s grace and love, knowing that our salvation is firmly in His hands, not teetering on our own efforts.

Jesus on Eternal Security
What did Jesus have to say about this? Plenty.
John 6:39 “This is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day. 40 For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.”
John 10:27 “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; 28 and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
The apostle Paul said, “Even if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.”
When you believe in Jesus, you receive new, eternal life. You’re born again into God’s family. Once you’re a child, you’re always a child, right? Plus, the Holy Spirit seals us for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30).

Why Some Believers (wrongly) Lack Assurance?
Here are a few common reasons:

• Doubting the Reality of Their “Commitment”: If we’re told to pray some “sinner’s prayer,” we may wonder if we really meant it? If we’re to repent, did we repent the “right” way? If we were told to “make Jesus Lord,” but then we sin, did we really make Him Lord?! But salvation comes through believing in Jesus Christ and His finished work. It’s not about perfect commitment, the right prayer, or a certain feeling; it’s about receiving God’s gift through faith in Jesus.
• Ongoing Sin: Let’s be honest: we all mess up. Sometimes, that sin can make us question our salvation. But if we think our sin unravels God’s grace, Jesus’ work, and His promises, then we’re not trusting Jesus, His finished work, or God’s grace; we still trust ourselves. Remember too, scripture recognizes the reality of sin in believers. Almost every New Testament epistle is a correction for some kind of wrong belief or sinful behavior. See James 3:2.
• Misunderstanding the Gospel: The Gospel is simply believing in Jesus for eternal life. The Gospel is not making Him lord, saying a prayer and really meaning it, inviting Jesus into your heart, confessing every sin, or committing your life to Him. Simply believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved.

It Makes A Difference
So, what does all of this mean for your everyday life?
It means you can live with joy, freedom, and confidence in Christ, knowing that your salvation is secure. This is the basis for freedom, love, and obedience.
The assurance of God’s acceptance does not encourage the believer to sin, but to love and live in the freedom of God’s grace. Love obeys. Love worships. Grace empowers us to live out our joy in Christ. It frees you from the exhausting burden of constantly trying to earn God’s love.

A Word of Caution (and Encouragement): The Bible contains warnings for believers to persevere, avoid hardening their hearts, encourage one another, and repent of sin. These warnings aren’t about losing your salvation, but about protecting your fellowship with God, nurturing your spiritual health, maximizing your eternal reward, and experiencing the abundant life He offers.
Think about the “Judgment Seat of Christ,” where believers will be evaluated for their faithfulness and good works, not for their sins (1 Corinthians 3:15). Good works lead to greater responsibility and intimacy with Christ. Lack of good works may result in a loss of reward, but the believer’s salvation remains reserved for us and protected by God (1 Peter 1:3-5).

Jesus Christ is Lord. He is also the Prince—the Prince of Peace. The King in waiting.
Jesus doesn’t need to be voted in. He doesn’t rise or fall with public opinion. He already has all authority in heaven and on earth. And one day—perhaps sooner than we think—He will return as King of kings. His government will be more righteous and more powerful than any on earth, and His kingdom will have no end.
When Jesus returns, His government will be more righteous and more powerful than any on earth, and His kingdom will have no end.
That truth isn’t just something we believe. It should make us different. More confident. More hopeful…
More free. Free from panic. Free from outrage. Free from living constantly angry, defensive, or afraid.
If anyone had a reason to panic, it was the early church. They lived under real oppression—far more than most of us will ever experience. Their leaders were openly immoral and deeply corrupt. They didn’t have social influence. They didn’t have legal protection.
And yet, they weren’t ruled by anger or fear. They were ruled by Jesus.
Their leaders were openly immoral and deeply corrupt. They didn’t have social influence. They didn’t have legal protection. And yet, they weren’t ruled by anger or fear. They were ruled by Jesus.
They were free.
They didn’t spend their energy jeering at the wrong leaders or waiting for the right ruler to finally “fix” everything. Their bold, dangerous, ill-received declaration was simple: “Jesus Christ is Lord.”
And they lived—and died—believing it.
While we wait for His return, two-thousand years later, we still get to speak. We still get to vote. We still care about this country and its people.
But like the early church, we have a better message than political hope, activism, or change.
When the first Christians said, “Jesus Christ is Lord,” it wasn’t seen as a merely religious statement. It was deeply unpatriotic. It cut straight against the grain of the culture.
When the first Christians said, “Jesus Christ is Lord,” it wasn’t seen as a merely religious statement. It was deeply unpatriotic.
“No,” the crowds insisted. “Caesar is Lord.” Their hope, identity, and loyalty were tied to the nation and its representatives.
For the early Christians to say Jesus was Lord wasn’t just disagreeable—it was threatening. And for that confession, believers were jeered, excluded, and even killed.
Yet they declared it anyway. And lived by it.
And as they did, something far greater than political reform or cultural change began to happen.
Jesus was trusted. Sins were forgiven. Men and women were born again. They were reconciled to God. They were made members of God’s family. Their lives were changed. And they became citizens of heaven, of a just, righteous, and joyful kingdom that cannot be shaken.
Their message had a bit of a future slant. The not-yet kingdom. But that was their message.
Not “Rome can be fixed.”
Not “Caesar will save us.”
But “Jesus Christ is Lord! And He shall return to reign as King of kings, and Lord of lords—and He will make all things new.”
Everything wrong in the world will be made right. No more sin, curse, or pain…
Peace will replace war. Goodness will triumph over evil. Justice will banish injustice.
Love will cast out hatred. Hearts will be renewed. He will make all things new…
God will be with us. His dwelling place will be glorious. And the whole earth will know the LORD!
And that is still our message today. Not fear. Not outrage. Not panic.
But hope. A living hope in a loving God, a sovereign Lord, a future reigning King, and everlasting joy in a matchless kingdom.
May the church believe this—and live like it—that the world may see our hope and receive her King.

Jesus says we must be born again, made spiritually alive by God. It’s something we cannot possibly do for ourselves. We can only look to God for it.
To help Nicodemus understand, Jesus drew on one of the stranger stories in Scripture. In the wilderness, the Israelites grumbled against God, and He sent venomous snakes among them. As people were bitten and dying, they cried out for help.
God’s solution was unexpected: He told Moses to forge a bronze serpent, set it on a pole, and lift it high for all to see. Anyone who was bitten and looked at the bronze snake would be healed and live.
Bronze often symbolizes judgment, and the snake was the very thing afflicting them.
Why a bronze snake? Bronze often symbolizes judgment, and the snake was the very thing afflicting them. God didn’t create a bronze vaccination shot—He fashioned an image of the problem itself.
Jesus then made an astounding claim: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that whoever believes will in him have eternal life.”
When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, He became sin for us—He became the very thing killing us. Our selfishness, our brokenness, our separation from God—all of it was placed on Him. And when He was lifted up, God the Father judged Him in our place.
When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, He became sin for us—He became the very thing killing us.
Now the invitation is simple yet profound: look to Him and believe. See your sins placed on Jesus and God judging Him in your place—and live.
Look to Jesus and believe. See your sins placed on Jesus and God judging Him in your place—and live.
Trust that He paid for the sins that are ruining your relationships, stealing your peace, and separating you from God. Believe, and you will have eternal life.

Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus reminds us that entering God’s kingdom isn’t about trying harder or doing more. It’s about trusting Jesus for it.
You don’t need to clean up your life first. (It’ll never be good enough)
You don’t need to prove yourself worthy. (You cannot)
You simply need to look to Jesus—lifted up on that cross—and believe that He died for you, rose from the dead, and offers you eternal life as a free gift.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Notice the universal invitation: “whoever believes.” Not whoever proves good enough. Not whoever completes the religious checklist. Not whoever achieves moral perfection. Whoever believes.
This is available to anyone—whoever! The self-righteous Pharisee, the self-loathing sinner, the hurting, the curious, the convicted, or the happy-go-lucky. The invitation extends to all.
John 3:17 For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.
Jesus didn’t come with a scorecard, shaming sinners, and pronouncing judgment. There’s enough judgment in the world. Jesus came to rescue, to reconcile sinners, and to give us eternal life.
Today is the day of salvation, not condemnation.
When you believe in Jesus, the Spirit of God will make you alive. You will be born again. You will become a child of God, guaranteed His favor forever, experiencing peace with God for the first time—a peace that will last for eternity.
That’s not a religious obligation. That’s grace. And it’s available to you right now.

Many of us assume spiritual growth works the same way as self-improvement: try harder, do better, be more disciplined, be more consistent. But that isn’t how God actually grows people.
Jesus gives us a very different picture.
He tells us to think about a grapevine, or for us in New England, think of an apple tree. A healthy tree doesn’t force fruit into existence. It doesn’t strain, stress, or try harder. It simply stays rooted. It receives sunlight and rain. And over time, fruit appears. The fruit isn’t the result of effort; it’s the result of life.
The fruit isn’t the result of effort; it’s the result of life.
Jesus puts it this way:
John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.
That image helps us to think about our own growth. In the Christian life, real change doesn’t come from trying harder to love or to be more patient or kind. It comes from remaining close to Jesus, loving Him, and receiving life from Him.
Growth Comes From Abiding, Not Striving
We don’t grow by self-determination or willpower. We grow by turning toward Jesus again and again, and learning to trust and value what He says is true about us and about Himself.
When we live that way, the Holy Spirit produces fruit in us.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…
These qualities aren’t something we manufacture. We cannot even control our own self-control!
These acts of love are the Spirit’s work. Our role isn’t to force godly behavior; it’s to stay rooted in Christ—soaking in God’s grace and truth, believing His will is better than ours, and allowing His life to shape ours.
Do Our Efforts Matter?
Yes, they do—but maybe not in the way we often imagine.
The effort that matters most may be the daily choice to turn to Jesus instead of away from Him. It’s to receive His goodness and love into our hearts so that we love and genuinely want to follow Him. It’s to those things that prompt us to choose His way over ours, to say yes to His grace, yes to His wisdom, and yes to His leadership.
You Don’t Transform Yourself—Jesus Does
Here’s the good news many of us need to hear again: you are not asked to transform yourself. In fact, you can’t.
Here’s the good news many of us need to hear again: you are not asked to transform yourself. In fact, you can’t.
Both our salvation and our ongoing growth are gifts of grace. Jesus saves us, and Jesus changes us.
Philippians 1:6 He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
Our role is to continue receiving God’s grace and truth, to receive His love, and to remain in a position of trust. This prepares our hearts to submit to Him, allowing Him to do the work He promises to finish.
So What’s Next?
Stay close to Jesus. Abide in His love. Root yourself in His Word, in a community of believers who love Him, and keep showing up in prayer, even on days when it feels ordinary or dry.
And when the Holy Spirit gently puts His finger on something in your life, agree with Him. Repent where needed. Then walk forward together, doing the things that He’s leading you to do. Even when it’s hard or doesn’t work in your favor. He uses this too.
That’s part of how God grows people—patiently, faithfully, and from the inside out.

John’s Gospel offers perhaps the most compelling answer to the question: Who is Jesus? He started his Gospel with these mind-blowing words:
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. 5 The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not [overtake, overcome] it.
John is talking about Jesus in His ancient glory. This is the prequel to Jesus’ birth.
John calls the Son of God the “Word,” the “Logos” in Greek.
What in the World is “Logos,” and Why Should You Care?
To a Greek ear, “Logos” wasn’t just a word. It meant so much more. Think “logic,” “reason,” “purpose, and “meaning,” the very rationale behind something. It was the deep, underlying significance of everything.
People in John’s time wondered if there was meaning, ultimate truth, or LOGOS? And if there is, can it be known?
It’s the same as when we ask: “What is truth? Is there any meaning to life? Can meaning even be known? Is there a reason for existence, or is everything just random?”
Here’s the thing: if there’s no Logos, no overarching meaning, no clear rationale behind everything, then nothing has lasting purpose. Then there’s no universal truth for anyone. Just a swirling vortex of opinions, preferences, and feelings.
When that happens, we end up resorting to power, pleasure, identity politics, or online manipulation to get what we want. We divide into tribes, fighting over temporary things because there’s no ultimate meaning to unite us. It’s an empty, confusing, and often depressing way to live.
The Game-Changer: “There IS a Logos, and He’s a Person!”
But John drops a bombshell: “There IS a Logos!” And here’s the kicker: He’s not an idea, a philosophy, or a concept. He’s a Person.
John 1:2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.
Think about that for a moment. Before the galaxies glittered, before the planets spun, the Logos already was. He wasn’t created; He’s eternal. He was in perfect, intimate relationship with God, and He was God. Not a lesser god, not god-like, but fully God.
And everything was made through Him, for Him, and to Him. The universe isn’t just a cosmic accident. It’s a divinely orchestrated symphony, with Jesus as its composer and conductor.
Why This Matters for Your Life, Right Now:
Your Life Has a Purpose: Since Jesus is the Logos, the ultimate meaning and reason for everything,  Jesus is not merely part of your life. He is the reason you exist and the meaning behind it all. In other words, He is the whole point of living.
Additionally, your life isn’t random. You have an intentional, divine purpose woven into your very being. You are created in God’s image and redeemed by Christ’s blood for a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, in whom you find your worth, identity, meaning, purpose, hope, and joy.
You are created in God’s image and redeemed by Christ’s blood for a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, in whom you find your worth, identity, meaning, purpose, hope, and joy.
Your Identity Isn’t Something You Have to Invent: In a world obsessed with “finding yourself” and crafting the perfect online persona, this truth is liberating. Your true identity isn’t something you manufacture or maintain. It’s given by your Creator and found in relationship to Jesus Christ. In Christ, you are chosen, holy, eternally loved, and destined for glory.
If we’re not receiving from Him or living for Him, we’re lacking something and are forced to make up our own identities, create our own worth, and find a secondary reason for living.
And that doesn’t work for long.
Whatever you’re hoping in, whatever it is about you that gives you a sense of worth, whatever you base your significance in… if it’s not Jesus, it will let you down.
There IS Unchanging Truth in a “Post-Truth” World: We’re told all truth is relative, and what’s true for me might not be true for you. But if Jesus is the Logos, the ultimate reason and meaning, then He offers a true, unchanging standard. He’s not just a way, but the way to understand God, life, yourself, reality, morality, and what it means to live well. When we walk in His light, Jesus Christ helps us to discern what is genuinely good, real, and beautiful.
He’s the Source of Real Life and Light: John continues:
John 1:4 In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. 
Jesus isn’t just a historical and religious figure; He’s the Source of all life–spiritual life, eternal life, abundant life, purpose in life, and meaning in life. He’s the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Jesus is the “Light of men” that enters the darkness and shines into it with healing truth, purpose, and love. Darkness isn’t just “out there” in the world. It’s also the shadow of anxiety, shame, addiction, and depression that can creep into our own thoughts and hearts. But John reminds us:
John 1:5 The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it [or, cannot overcome it].
Not at the fall, not at the cross, not in your deepest struggles. The Light of Christ shines with grace, truth, and love. He provides hope, healing, and the power to overcome whatever darkness you’re facing.
So, What’s the Invitation?
Since Jesus is the Logos, the very reason and meaning behind all existence, He’s not just someone to admire from a distance. He is someone to listen to, to fully trust, and to follow with your whole life.
Since He is the Life, you are most truly alive when you are receiving from Him and living in Him.
Today, may God grant you, and may you choose to walk in the light of Jesus Christ. Open His Word, listen for His Spirit, and as you trust and know Him, may you say “yes” to Him with your life. Love what He loves, trust Him to lead you, obey Him, and walk in Him. Amen.

Imagine being handed a treasure map—one that tells you exactly who you’re looking for, where the treasure is buried, and when you need to show up to find it.

Christmas is kind of like that.

But the treasure isn’t gold or cash—it’s a Person. The Messiah. The Christ. The promised Savior of the world and King of righteousness.

And the map leading to Him was drawn centuries before Jesus was born. Every detail—His identity, His birthplace, the timing of His arrival—was marked out long before angels filled the sky outside Bethlehem.

Why? Because God wanted us to know exactly who He is. So that when He arrived, we’d know: This is He. The Christ. The Savior-King.

WHO: Before Bethlehem, Before Genesis, Before Time

To understand Christmas, we have to start before the manger—before even the beginning.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” —Genesis 1:1

Before anything existed—angels, galaxies, light, darkness—God already was.
Now listen to John’s Gospel:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” —John 1:1

John takes the very first verse of the Bible (“In the beginning”) and places Jesus in the center of it.  What do we learn about the Word from this single verse?

1. The Word existed before the beginning.
2. The Word was with God.
3. The Word was God

John later tells us that this eternal Word became flesh. His name is Jesus.

Paul makes it unmistakable:

“All things came into being through Him… and in Him all things hold together.” —Colossians 1:16–17

Jesus is the reason for the universe, its goal, and the One holding it all together. If He loosened His grip for one millisecond, atoms would fly apart, and galaxies would collapse.

And yet—this same God chose to enter His own creation as a baby.

Immanuel—God with us.

WHERE: Bethlehem, Egypt, Nazareth—Every Detail Marked Out

God didn’t just tell us who the Messiah would be. He told us where He would appear.

Born in Bethlehem
Micah 5:2, written 700 years before Jesus’ birth, puts a pinpoint on the map:

“But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah… from you One will go forth for Me… whose            goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity.”

Sent to Egypt
God gave another clue:

“Out of Egypt I called My Son.” —Hosea 11:1

Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but Joseph fled to Egypt with Mary and Jesus to escape Herod. Matthew says this was to fulfill Hosea’s prophecy.

Raised in Nazareth
When they returned, they settled in Nazareth:

“He shall be called a Nazarene.” —Matthew 2:23

Bethlehem → Egypt → Nazareth. Nothing about this is random. Nothing is improvised.
Everything is scripted by God.

Christmas is the shockwave of eternity hitting Earth, and God mapped out the Messiah’s movements so the world wouldn’t miss Him.

WHEN: God Even Told Us the Timing

God didn’t stop with the who and the where. He also revealed when the Messiah would arrive.

In Daniel 9, the angel Gabriel tells Daniel there will be “seventy sevens”—a divine timeline. The countdown begins with a decree to rebuild Jerusalem issued by King Artaxerxes of Persia in 444 BC (Nehemiah 2).

From that decree to the arrival of Messiah the Prince would be:

69 “sevens” — 483 years.

When you run the dates using the Jewish prophetic calendar, those 483 years land right at Jesus’ triumphal entry—His public presentation as King.

And Daniel even predicted what would happen after the 69th “seven”:

“The Messiah will be cut off…” —Daniel 9:26
Crucified.

God told the world when the Christ would come.

The Map Points to One Person

Taken together, God leaves us no excuse not to believe. God laid out:

• WHO He is: The eternal Word, God the Son, Creator of all things. Immanuel.
• WHERE He’d be: Born in Bethlehem, sent to Egypt, raised in Nazareth—exactly as foretold.
• WHEN He’d show: Arriving precisely on schedule, just as Daniel prophesied.

The treasure map leads to one Person: Jesus Christ, eternal God, born to a virgin, born in Bethlehem, arriving right on time.

Why This Fills Us With Excitement

If God kept every promise about Jesus’ first coming…

• We can trust Him today.
• We can serve Him with joy.
• We can live with unshakable hope.
• We can look forward to His return with confidence—not fear.

God’s sovereign plan is unstoppable. He used angels, empires, kings, a census, a virgin, and even a madman king to bring about Jesus’ birth. And since He fulfilled every prophecy the first time, we know He will fulfill every promise about His return.

No wonder the angels couldn’t stay silent.

Glory to God in the Highest.

That’s the heartbeat of Christmas—and the joy we get to carry into the world.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, “What comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person.”

Our Words Are a Mirror to Our Hearts

He opens a window into the psychological and spiritual fabric of human nature: when we speak, we reveal what is going on inside. Our words are a mirror to our hearts.

What’s in our hearts? For the believer, love for God and others, but also sin, selfishness, pride, and unresolved wounds.

When our hearts are filled with:

Hurt: Our words come out as anger, shame, or distrust.
Fear: Our words sound like control.
Shame: We make accusations, blame others, and sound defensive.
Anger: Our words lash out and harm others.

These reactions are natural, but they emphasize the need for healing.

The Call for Healing, Not Suppression

Such words don’t call for self-discipline alone. Rather than bite our tongues, we are wise to bring our hearts before Jesus, who can heal us. God’s desire isn’t simply for us to “watch our mouths” but to come closer to Him, where transformation can occur.

Rather than bite our tongues, we are wise to bring our hearts before Jesus, who can heal us.

When we face our inner turmoil, we are invited to trust Jesus with our hurt. He understands our pain and has already paid the price for our sins. His Spirit equips us to embrace God’s justice, understand the humanity of others, and ultimately drop our charges against those who have hurt us.

Healing cannot take place without trust in Jesus. Healing bears fruit when it leads to forgiveness, which opens the process of restoration.

The Path to Restoration

How can we change our speech to be more Christlike? Choose to trust Jesus with it. Spend time in His presence. Let God’s Word and Spirit reveal areas that need His grace. Focus on healing your heart through prayer, scripture, worship, and openness to God’s transformative work.

What should I do if I hurt someone with my words? Confess to God, seek healing, and make amends with the person by acknowledging your hurtful words and welcoming their forgiveness.

Approach the person you hurt. Acknowledge your wrongdoing: “What I said was wrong and hurtful. I was feeling hurt/insecure/scared, but that’s no excuse. I am so sorry for hurting you. I look to the day that you forgive me.”

Jesus reminds us that our speech reflects what’s going on in our hearts and encourages us to seek healing rather than control. As we bring our hurts and hearts to Jesus, He heals and softens, enabling us to speak words of grace and truth in love.

At Grace United, we’ve been talking a lot about spiritual maturity—how growing in Christ is more about deepening our trust in Him than trying to be better Christians. One way Christ reveals this is in our speech. Christlike words flow from a heart that trusts in Jesus and experiences His healing grace.

Jesus said, “The things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart” (Matthew 15:18). Today, that truth extends beyond our speech to our screens.

Social media doesn’t have to be a battleground. It’s wise to acknowledge that all of these platforms are designed to provoke emotion and stir outrage—and then, not take the bait.

If Christ is shaping our hearts, our posts and comments should reflect Him—hopeful, humble, and full of grace. Particularly, knowing that all of these platforms are designed to provoke emotion and stir outrage.

Here are a few practical ways to not take the bait and, instead, reflect Jesus Christ online:

1. Protect Your Heart Before You Post
Before typing a post or a response, pause and ask: What’s happening in my heart right now? Am I angry, anxious, or trying to prove something? Outrage may feel righteous, but James reminds us, “The anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” (James 1:20).

Instead of reacting to every issue our algorithms throw at us, we can protect our hearts by spending time with Jesus and bringing them to Him before we spew them online. A heart that trusts Jesus will overflow with His peace, not the world’s provocation.

2. Picture Someone You Love Deeply
When you respond to an idea, action, or point of view that you disagree with, imagine it’s held by someone you love—a friend, your mom, your child, or someone in your church family. How would you write? What words would you edit out if they were sitting across the table from you? This helps us to speak truth in love, which is far more challenging online than in person, without relying on Christ.

3. Run It by Jesus
Before you hit “post,” consider, would Jesus say this? Then go one step further—can you find an example of Him actually doing something like it in Scripture? Who was He speaking with? What was the response?

Jesus was bold, yes—but never reckless. He spoke truth, but always in love, and with a godly purpose.

4. Ask: What’s My Goal Here?
Paul gives a good direction: “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29). That verse applies just as much to our online words as our spoken ones.

Is your goal to give grace and to build others up, as Paul advises, or to make yourself feel righteous, look good, or count up the likes? Ask, Am I trying to help people make an informed decision—or just to show that I am right? Am I speaking to my tribe, or shaming those who view it differently?

5. Be Hopeful, Humble, and Full of Grace
In a world stirred up by algorithms, may our hearts be stirred by God’s grace in Jesus Christ. May our posts bring light into the darkness, grace where there is judgment, and humility rather than offense.

Our world doesn’t need more outrage. May we grow into the kind of people whose words bring hope in Christ, humble self-awareness that we see one side, and bring grace to heal ailing hearts.

Jesus spoke truth to the heart; even hard words were seasoned with grace and combined with love.

In Ephesians 4:15, Paul tells us, “but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ.” A great reminder that our words carry weight, particularly when wrapped in love. Note too, when we combine truth with love, we spark maturity in ourselves and those around us.

Truth-Oriented vs. Love-Oriented

The two together make each other more powerful. Yet, they don’t each come naturally to everyone.
Some of us are truth-oriented. We value honesty, but sometimes the truth comes out more like law than grace. We care about others’ feelings, but we’re convinced that the truth can set them free. We may say things like, “I have to tell you this” or “You need to hear this.” We think we’re speaking the truth in love, but our words hurt. They’re not received. We must realize that truth becomes transformative when wrapped in gentle care.

Truth becomes transformative when wrapped in gentle care.

On the flip side, there are those of us who are love-oriented. We genuinely care about how people feel and want to communicate kindness. But sometimes, we shy away from sharing hard truths that others really need to hear. We want people to feel accepted and know that we’re in their corner, and we fear that being truthful might come across as judgmental. But not speaking the truth? That can actually be unloving and unhelpful.

The Christlike Approach: Merging Truth and Love

So, how do we find that sweet spot? How do we embody Christlike speech that values both truth and love?

Here are a few tips:

Pause and Reflect: Before you speak, take a moment to consider your intention. Ask yourself, “What is my goal in sharing, and is this the most effective way to share?” “Is what I’m saying true? Is this what Jesus would say? This simple pause can make a world of difference.

Ask for Guidance: Pray for wisdom! Knowing your tendency, ask the Lord to give you what you lack—love or truth that needs speaking. The Holy Spirit is our helper, guiding us to communicate effectively. Ask God to show you how to share the truth and love others.
Choose Your Words and Watch Your Tone: It’s not just what you say, but how you say it. Use gentle language and be mindful of your tone. Instead of “You need to change,” try, “I’ve noticed some things, and I care about you. Can we talk about it?”

Reflect on the Impact of Your Words: How did it go? Read their face, their response. While it’s a two-way transaction, did the other person listen to your words, even if they disagreed, or did they feel judged, misunderstood, or attacked?

You can’t control how others react. Focus on speaking truth to their hearts, delivering your message with love, and trust that God will work in His timing.

By the way, if someone doesn’t receive your words, that’s okay. You can’t control how others react. Focus on speaking truth to their hearts, delivering your message with love, and trust that God will work in His timing.

At the end of the day, spiritual maturity isn’t just about knowing the truth; it’s about how we communicate that truth with love. Each may need to be heard for truth to be transformative. May God continue to make us into Jesus’ image, who spoke directly to the heart, constantly merging truth with grace. Together, we can create an environment where Christlike maturity flourishes.

We all want unshakeable faith. But mature faith doesn’t come from a seminary classroom or simply reading about God’s faithfulness. It comes from experiencing it, especially when life gets hard.

What Mature Faith Really Looks Like

Mature faith has tasted and seen that God is good. Despite skeptics, pain, or seemingly hopeless situations, it has learned—often through hardships—that God is worthy of our faith, love, and obedience.

Despite skeptics, pain, or seemingly hopeless situations, mature faith has learned—often through hardships—that God is worthy of our faith, love, and obedience.

You might think, “I already know God’s word is true and God is faithful.” Yea. Good theology matters! But faith reveals itself and matures through crises, not just reading. There’s a difference between knowing about God’s faithfulness and knowing it down into your bones because you’ve walked through the fire with Him.

Abraham’s Growing Faith

Abraham’s story in Hebrews 11 shows how faith grows through increasingly difficult tests.

Test 1: God called Abraham to go to an unknown place. He obeyed without knowing the destination.

Test 2: After arriving in the Promised Land, Abraham lived in tents as a stranger—not the dream life Sarah might have hoped for. Yet his trust in God had grown to accept this.

Test 3: God promised Abraham a son, but decades passed with no pregnancy. The situation shifted from improbable to biologically impossible. Yet Abraham didn’t waver. He grew strong in faith, fully assured that what God promised, He would perform. And Sarah gave birth to Isaac.

Test 4: The ultimate test. God asked Abraham to offer Isaac as a sacrifice—his only son, his promised son, the one he’d waited decades for. Abraham could have cried foul, accused God of going back on his promise, or even of blatant cruelty. Instead, he trusted God’s character and faithfulness. Amazing. Yes, and this is God’s goal for our faith.

The next thing you read, they got up early and set out on the three-day journey. When Isaac asked where the lamb for the sacrifice was, Abraham said, “God will provide.” He didn’t know how, but he trusted God would.

Abraham’s faith was anchored in God’s character. He knew God’s goodness. He knew that God would never break a promise. So he could do whatever God told him to do. That’s not blind trust; it’s mature faith, and that’s what God wants to cultivate in each of us.

Abraham knew that God would never break a promise. So he could do whatever God told him to do. That’s not blind trust; it’s mature faith. This is what God wants to cultivate in each of us.

If you don’t know the story, when Abraham lifted the knife, God stopped him and provided a ram. See, God never wanted Isaac’s blood; He wanted Abraham’s heart.

Saying Yes in Your Real Life

Your journey looks different from Abraham’s, but the core principles remain: trusting God through trials and relying on Him even amid pain and difficulty.

Rather than fixating on your circumstances, fix your eyes on Jesus. Look at His character and the promises in His Word. Consider the cross. Consider His resurrection. Then say yes to Jesus.

In the little tests. When you’re aware of a choice to trust God, to obey His Word, or to ignore Him—say yes. “Lord, I choose You; grant me to obey.”

In the big trials. Perhaps you’re facing a huge decision, struggling with a ceaselessly challenging relationship, dealing with unanswered prayers, unwanted singleness, a stalled career, or a season where God doesn’t seem close and faith isn’t emotionally fulfilling.
Let God use these to draw you closer and deepen your trust, not damage it. Don’t bail on the tests. Trials refine faith; they don’t ruin it. The wall you’re hitting might be a door to deeper trust.

God Is Helping You Trust Him

Here’s the encouraging truth: God isn’t waiting to see if you’ll pass His tests. He’s actively helping you grow in trust. Every challenge is an opportunity for you to trust and taste His faithfulness. He’s with you in every crisis. Meet Him in it. Say yes to God—in the moment of decision, in the choice to follow Him.

Your circumstances may not change overnight, but as you keep saying yes to God, you’ll find your faith maturing. You’ll discover that God really is worthy of your trust, love, and obedience.

So keep trusting. Keep saying yes. Keep looking to Jesus.

If you missed our last Basic Theology class, here’s your recap of our discussion.

Why Jesus’ Resurrection Matters

Jesus didn’t just rise from the dead as a miraculous event — He did so with purpose and fulfillment. His resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith.

Here’s what it accomplished: Jesus’ resurrection…

• Fulfilled long-anticipated prophecies (Psalm 16:10; Isaiah 53:10–12)
• Completed our atonement — our sins are fully paid for and accepted
• Validated His identity and claims (Romans 1:4)
• Justified believers — we are declared righteous before God (Romans 4:25)
• Conquered sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:55–57)
• Gave us new life (Romans 6:4)
• Assured our own resurrection someday

Every one of these truths changes how we live right now.

Evidence That Jesus Really Rose

The resurrection isn’t just a “faith story” — it’s a historical event with solid evidence:

1. The empty tomb – heavily guarded; His enemies couldn’t deny it (Luke 24:3).
2. Many eyewitnesses – 500+ people saw Him alive (1 Corinthians 15:6).
3. The disciples’ brutal deaths– fearful men became fearless martyrs.
4. The Day of Pentecost – the promised Spirit came (Acts 2); the Church is born.
5. The continued existence of His Church — 2,000 years later, it still stands.

A New Prototype Body

When Jesus rose, something incredible happened — He became the prototype for what our future resurrection will be like.

• Jesus’ body was linked to His earthly one — people recognized Him (John 20:20), His wounds remained even after His resurrection (20:25) and ascension (Revelation 5:6).
• Yet, His body was changed, glorified — He appeared and disappeared (Luke 24:31), and even passed through locked doors (John 20:19).
• Luke 24:39 “See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.”

His resurrection body is our preview of what’s to come (1 Corinthians 15:35–41).

Jesus’ Ascension

• After His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven (Acts 1:6–11).
• His work on earth was finished, and His heavenly ministry had begun. (Ephesians 4:10)
• Now, He sits at the Father’s right hand (Hebrews 4:14–16; 1 Timothy 3:16), actively involved in the life of His people.

Jesus’ Present (Post-Ascension) Ministries

Jesus didn’t just ascend to “wait around” in heaven — He’s actively working right now.

Here’s what He’s doing:

• Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22–23)
• Building His Church (Matthew 16:18)
• Sanctifying His people (Ephesians 5:26)
• Empowering us through His Spirit (John 15)
• Giving spiritual gifts (Ephesians 4:7–13)
• Our High Priest, interceding for us (Hebrews 7:25)
• Answering prayer (John 14:13–14). He also abides in us, ministers to us, and works through us.

Jesus’ Future Ministries

The story isn’t over. Jesus is coming back to complete His redemptive work.

1. He will raise the dead.
   • Believers at the rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18)
   • Old Testament saints at His second coming (Daniel 12:2)
   • Unbelievers after the Millennium (Revelation 20:5)

2. He will judge and reward.

• Believers at the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11–15; 2 Corinthians 5:10)
• Unbelievers at the Great White Throne (Revelation 20:11–15)

3. He will rule the world.

• When Jesus returns, He will reign as a righteous, benevolent King (Isaiah 11:1–10; Jeremiah 23:5–6). The world will finally experience:
• Righteousness
• Justice
• True peace
• Spiritual renewal

Question for reflection: If Jesus returned tomorrow to rule the world, what’s the first thing you’d want Him to address?

Most of us said, “Destroy evil,” and “End Satan’s rule in the world.”

And the good news is — He will!

In Summary

Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a past event — it’s the living foundation of our hope, our faith, and our future. He rose, He reigns, and He’s coming again.

“Because I live, you will live also.” — John 14:19

God desires more for us. Not “more” in the sense of doing more or trying harder, but more in the sense of maturing in Christ: expressive in love, united in faith, strong in truth.

When the Bible discusses spiritual maturity, God isn’t referring to age, experience, or achievements. He’s talking about Christlikeness—becoming more like Jesus in how we think, love others, and live.

Paul described this goal in Colossians 1:28-29, saying he proclaimed Christ, admonished, and taught every believer so that he may present every believer mature in Christ.

The Greek word for “mature” is teleios, meaning complete, fully developed, and goal achieved. That’s the target: Christlikeness. Not self-improvement, Christ’s likeness.
 
Three Marks of a Spiritually Mature Life

So what does maturity actually look like? Here are three key signs:

1. Radical Trust in God

Jesus trusted the Father completely, regardless of the circumstances—through joy, suffering, and even death. He trusted God’s sovereignty, believed every promise, delighted in every command, took every promise to heart, and cherished the Father’s love.
Maturity looks like that kind of trust—certainty in God’s love, even when life is uncertain.

2. Deep Love for God and Others

A spiritually mature believer understands the heart of God and loves what and who He loves.

At the center of Jesus’ life was His love for the Father (phileo and agape)—and that’s the life He invites us into. Love serves. Love worships. Love trusts. Love submits. Love obeys. Love sacrifices.

It’s not just affection; it’s action.

The most apparent sign of spiritual maturity is the way we love/treat others—those who love us, those who hurt us, those different from us.

Paul said love is “the greatest” because it’s the most visible evidence of Christlikeness, or spiritual maturity.

3. Reliance on Grace

Here’s what every mature Christian learns: we never outgrow our need for grace.
We learn that God is firstly the One who meets us in our need, our weakness, not our strength. We don’t grow into the hero; we grow in our dependence on God.

Jesus was never impressed by anyone’s righteousness but their faith.

If we believe He is the Savior, we are those who constantly need saving. If He is Lord, Healer, Deliverer, then we are those who need healing and rescue. Seeing our need is what leads to prayer and dependence.

Spiritual maturity, therefore, learns to live in the tension of being perfectly righteous (positionally) before God, yet still imperfect in practice.

We still stumble, but we don’t panic. We don’t hide. We confess, turn to Christ, and rest in His unchanging love.

That’s maturity—knowing that even on our worst days, our standing in Christ doesn’t change.

How We Grow: Practicing the Truth in Love

So, how do we actually mature in Christ?

Paul gives us a clue in Ephesians 4:15: “Speaking the truth in love.”

Growth happens when truth and love meet—in conversations, in community, in correction, in worship.

That’s why church life matters. Whether it’s Sunday mornings, life groups, youth group, or conversations over coffee, we need each other to speak God’s truth with love and humility.
We also grow by putting our beliefs into practice.

Hebrews 5:14 says that maturity comes when our senses are “trained by practice to discern good and evil.”

Like, when our faith in God’s acceptance is tested or accused, and we choose to believe: “I am accepted in Christ, because of Christ. I am justified by faith; that’s God’s promise.”

 Through these tests, God’s Spirit embeds it. And instead of striving, virtue signaling, and just “acting” righteous to be accepted, we learn through experience to live in the truth of our righteousness in Christ.

Knowledge is knowing the Bible; maturity is living it—responding like Jesus would in real life.

Simple Practices That Cultivate Growth

Let’s be clear: spiritual practices or so-called disciplines don’t make us mature. But they position us where God can shape us.

Here are some ways to stay open to His transforming work:

• Prayer: Talk honestly with God, not just formally.
• Scripture: Read, meditate, and apply what you believe and value to real life.
• Community: Spend time with believers who encourage and challenge you.
• Service: Serving others and meeting needs in love.
• Rest: Slow down. Let God renew your mind and body. (Unplug. Take a walk. Turn off your phone.)

These aren’t boxes to check; they’re spaces to encounter Jesus.

Becoming a Church That Looks Like Jesus

God’s goal for His people has never changed:

“Until we all attain… the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13)

That’s what He wants for every church—to be a people known for Christlike love, truth, and unity.

And here’s the beauty of it: Christ’s likeness is never something we can create—it’s something Christ does in us. He takes our fearful, flawed, imperfect selves and transforms us over time into vessels of His love.

Slowly. Gently. But truly.

Their brother, Lazarus, was sick. So, Martha and Mary sent word to Jesus:

John 11:3 “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.”

God loves the whole world. Grace levels the field. Nobody is more or less deserving. And yet, Jesus also had a deep, personal bond with certain friends.

Jesus, Savior, Lord, and Friend

Think about it: Jesus had an inner circle–Peter, James, and John. Four times, John referred to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” Here, Lazarus is referred to as “the one whom Jesus loves.”  

Why these special relationships? Because Jesus values friendship. He delights in open hearts, mutual trust, understanding, and love.

This isn’t favoritism; it’s friendship. And it’s an invitation for us. Jesus doesn’t only want to save you; He wants to befriend you. He wants you to value His word. He wants mutual trust, humility, honesty, and love. In Christ, you are fully loved, entirely accepted, and always welcomed into more.

So, the news is brought to Jesus that his friend’s health is failing.

Jesus delayed (John 11:6). It seemed like neglect, but it was love at work (11:5). Even when we’re waiting on Jesus, even when it feels like He’s late, we can trust that His timing is perfect. He’s deepening our relationship with Him, increasing our understanding and awe of His glory (11:4).

The Gospel: A Promise to Believe

When Jesus finally arrived, Martha, though grieving, still held onto her faith:

John 11:21 Martha then said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.”

Jesus tells her,

John 11:25-26 “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?”

He wasn’t just talking about a future event; He was revealing Himself as the source of resurrection and eternal life. So, when Jesus asks, “Do you believe this?” He’s not just asking if you believe in the doctrine of resurrection. He’s asking if you believe in Him for eternal life.

Jesus makes incredible promises: that whoever believes in Him will live, even if they die, and that whoever lives and believes in Him will never die. He offers everlasting life in God’s favor, as His child, in His love–starting now. And what’s the condition? Belief. Trust. Taking Him at His word.

He offers everlasting life in God’s favor, as His child, in His love–starting now. And what’s the condition? Belief. Trust. Taking Him at His word.

John 5:24 He who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.

Do you believe this?

What Does It Mean to Believe?

The Gospel of John was written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have eternal life in His name. To believe that Jesus is the Christ is to trust Him for eternal life.

Some argue that faith in Jesus isn’t enough, for even “the demons believe that God is one and shudder” (James 2:19). But that’s no argument. God doesn’t promise eternal life to demons, nor to anyone who simply believes that God is one, God is true, or God exists. Besides, Jesus didn’t become a demon to pay for their sins. He became a man, paid for our sins, and promises eternal life to whosoever believes.

Jesus didn’t become a demon to pay for their sins. He became a man, paid for our sins, and promises eternal life to whosoever believes.

This isn’t just about believing basic facts about God. It’s about believing that Jesus gives you eternal life. It’s about trusting Jesus to do what He promises.

Eternal Life and Daily Life

This question isn’t just for salvation. Jesus makes many other great promises. And His question always remains: Do you believe Me?

Depression whispers, “You’re worthless.” The Father says, “You are worth My Son to Me?” “You are My future inheritance.” Do you believe this?

To those fighting despair, Jesus says, He’s “near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Ps. 34:18). Do you believe this?

Not just for eternal life after death, but you can trust Him to bring you through every struggle (depression, fear, aging, marital woes) right now.

To those struggling to be better Christians, to be good enough for God, good enough, Jesus says, “It is finished.” Do you believe Him? He says,

Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart…” Do you believe Him?

To those who fear aging or dying alone, God says, “Even to your old age I will be the same, and even to your graying years I will bear you” (Isa. 46:4). Do you believe this?

For those whose challenges are too difficult, you can’t produce what life requires of you. Jesus promises, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). Do you believe Him?

Not—are you strong enough? Not—have you figured everything out? But—Do you believe this? Do you take Him at His word, trusting His promise?

Sharing The Gospel

Interestingly, Jesus didn’t give a “Gospel Invitation” in the way we often think of it. He never once led a person in a “sinner’s prayer.” Instead, He declared that He is the Christ, who guarantees eternal life to those who believe His promise.

Remember, the Gospel isn’t something someone must do; it’s good news for them to believe–it’s God’s promise to trust. So, instead of asking people to make a commitment or say a prayer, tell them Jesus Christ forgives their sins and grants eternal life freely to those who trust Him. Then ask, “Do you believe this? Do you trust Jesus to give you eternal life?”

That’s the invitation. Do you believe?

Voltaire famously said, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” I might not go that far, but I get his point. Freedom of speech and religion is vital. Yet it’s been under pressure for years now, from both sides of the political aisle.

Under the Biden administration, mandates were enforced, churches closed, and dissenting voices were pushed to the margins. Social media and college campuses “canceled” comedians, conservatives, and even a former president. Conservatives cried foul, while many liberals stayed quiet.

Under the Trump administration, we’ve seen new accusations of overreach, such as the FCC pressuring late-night hosts like Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert. Now it’s liberals who protest loudly, while conservatives are awkwardly silent.

The pattern is clear: when “our side” feels targeted, we demand freedom. When the “other side” is silenced, we kind of like it. But freedom of speech and religion isn’t just for views or beliefs we agree with.

The pattern is clear: when “our side” feels targeted, we demand freedom. When the “other side” is silenced, we kind of like it.

It rarely ends well when the government decides which opinions count as “fake news.”

It’s far better to meet an opposing argument with a better one and to cast a better vision.

That’s the way of Jesus. He didn’t shut down dissent. Nor did Paul silence opposing voices. Each was committed to open dialogue and persuasion with their opponents, trusting in God’s Word and Spirit, rather than coercion and cancellation.

It’s far better to meet an opposing argument with a better one and to cast a better vision.

In Acts 17, Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead” (Acts 17:2–3). He didn’t silence anyone—he engaged them.

Until his assassination, Charlie Kirk’s unique approach of handing a microphone to his opponents and saying, “Let the best argument win,” demonstrated the same confidence that the truth is convincing and ultimately liberating. He truly believed in freedom of speech and the truth of the Gospel.

Our greater goal isn’t to promote a political system or protect our rights, but to help people see the glory of Christ, trust Him for eternal life, and be reconciled to God. We want to see lives transformed, not just opinions changed.

Our goal isn’t to promote a political system or protect our rights, but to help people see the glory of Christ, trust Him for eternal life, and be reconciled to God.

So let’s not rejoice when “the other side” is silenced. Let’s love and respect those who hold different views, listen to their hearts and perspectives, and engage in reasoned discussion with them based on the truth.

That means listening more (to God and them) and shouting less (less capital letters). Speaking boldly yet kindly. And loving people, even when it’s hard. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

Bold truth. Gentle love. Real hope. Not in political victories, but in the gospel, which is the power of God to save everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).