Equality and inclusion are important concepts. Equal justice under the law, and inclusion of minority views and opinions are foundational principles in American society. But today, these words have taken on new meanings and they've become wedge issues that seem to be tearing us apart.--In Matthew, Jesus reveals God's perspective on equality and inclusion and reminds us that He is the only one qualified to determine who it is that will be saved. No human notion of fairness or justice counts. So we need to listen to what Jesus says or risk being excluded from the kingdom of God.

Calculated Godliness

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When you look at our world and all that's going on - culturally, politically, and spiritually - Christians have to ask, -Is this it- Is this the end of the world-- The disciples asked that of Jesus 2,000 years ago- And things aren't really any better.--Jesus gives us a disturbing yet strangely calming explanation- God's got this under control, and we aren't to the end yet. There's more evil, and more corruption to come. And when the end does come, it will be like nothing ever seen on the earth. And so we wait and watch for the signs of His coming - five of which Pastor will cover today and two more next week.

The Tribulation of the End Times

The disciples of Jesus had a lot of questions at this point in the narrative. They grew concerned - even nervous - about what was coming next. It wasn't the kingdom they imagined.--What Jesus told them was just enough - just enough detail to assure them that there was a plan, set out by God, and that they had nothing to fear. God's sovereign plans would prevail. We're faced with similar challenges, and we too are asked to trust that God's plans are good, and they will prevail in the end.

A Conversation about the End Times

This portion of the gospel is one long lecture to the religious leaders of Jesus' time. They think they are righteous and destined for heaven, but Jesus clarifies and mourns over their blindness and hypocrisy. They aren't leading anyone to heaven - in fact they are leading their followers to hell.--As He reaches the end of his lament, Jesus reminds us of the crucial truths surrounding God's redemption plan. They are not easy truths at all. But they are the realities that lead to hope and eternal life.

His Reprimand to Merciless Murderers

Last week we learned that one of the themes of the New Testament is becoming more like Christ - we want to be imitators of our Savior's character, love, and fidelity. Jesus had something to say about this in today's passage. He offers practical steps toward a Christ-filled life.--Of utmost importance is possessing true salvation, genuine conversion and authentic devotion. This is just one way to describe the discipleship process, but it's also true discipleship that leads to true Christlikeness. Today we get four more steps that turn woeful wannabees into Christ-like believers.

His Reproof to Woeful Wannabes, Part 2

One of the themes of the New Testament is becoming more like Christ - we want to be imitators of our Savior's character, love, and fidelity. Jesus has something to say about this in today's passage. He offers three steps toward a Christ-filled life.--Of utmost importance is possessing true salvation, because it's from that foundation that you can have genuine conversion and go on to practice authentic devotion. This is just one way to describe the discipleship process, but it's also true discipleship that leads to true Christlikeness.

Calculated Godliness

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