We all have an idea of what it means to be “Christian.” But what does following Jesus really mean? How do we move past the label and truly live like followers of Christ? What happens when following Jesus leads us out of our comfort zone? What do we do when God’s Word feels challenging? Let’s find out 

Romans 16:26 speaks of a remarkable truth at the heart of the Christmas story - that the good news of Christ's birth is for everyone, without exception. For centuries, the Jewish people had been eagerly awaiting the coming of the Messiah who would restore their nation and people. And yet, as the Apostle Paul declares, this mystery that was once hidden has now been revealed - the gospel is not just for the Jews, but for people of all backgrounds and cultures. The arrival of the baby Jesus in Bethlehem was a pivotal moment in God's plan of redemption, signaling that the boundaries of His kingdom were being thrown wide open. No longer would salvation be confined to a single people group, but would be available and accessible to everyone.

This gospel truth was clearly illustrated through who first received the news of Jesus- it was both the marginalized and the powerful, the humble and the arrogant, the rich and the poor, the foolish and the wise. All received the news of Jesus coming. The Christmas story is a powerful reminder that regardless of how Jesus may be received, Jesus has come for everyone.

The birth of Jesus was a profound mystery, revealed in God’s perfect timing. Amid political turmoil and cultural upheaval, Jesus entered a world longing for a Messiah. Paul reminds us in Romans 16 that this was no accident—God’s hand was at work, preparing the way for the One who would bring hope, peace, and victory over darkness. Even now, His sovereignty continues to unfold in our lives.

As Paul nears the end of his letter, he concludes with one more appeal as he tells the Romans they need to be spiritually alert, watching out for those who create division or obstacles, who give false teaching, or who have a personal agenda that isn’t God’s. We need to spiritually protect ourselves and those in our care, practicing focused awareness and strategic ignorance, so we can be “wise in doing right” and “innocent of any wrong."

Towards the end of his letter, Paul takes a break to express his gratitude to twenty-eight different people by name (and many more by reference). Paul has been travelling everywhere starting churches all over. We might understand if he didn’t remember the names of people, but here we see him sending personal greetings to over forty people.

One of the ways you express gratitude is by taking a real interest in people, asking questions, listening, showing compassion, remembering names and stories, staying in touch with them. Being an everyday disciple is being like Paul in this way, and when we are, we will make a difference in the lives of others.

Guest Speaker, Jack Tsai brought the message to us as we continue our journey through the book of Romans. We are looking at what it look likes to live out our faith between Sundays and Jack reminded us of God's mission. Through Paul's example we are encouraged to partner with God through our going, giving and praying.

Life with Jesus is full of invitations. These invitations serve as reminders of who God is and what He has called us to. It is this calling that should motivate our everyday life and set the focus of our ambitions. Paul’s reminder to us is that pursuing a life of purpose isn’t always easy, but in the end it is always worth it.

For generations, God promised a Savior, a Messiah, to free His people from oppression. They expected a political leader, a king. Then Jesus came, proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Many were excited, but it soon became clear He wasn't a political king, and His kingdom wasn't political. Since Jesus is our King, we don't stress over what is happening around us, instead we tie ourselves to the anchor of Jesus Christ.

We live in a culture where so many people are sure they’re right, are in it for themselves, and love to hear their own voices giving their own opinions. In Romans 15, Paul calls us to something vastly different – humility. He writes that we are “not to please ourselves [rather] each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up”

As we end our Breaking Up With Hate series – we want to embrace this teaching of Paul, calling our people to be humble in all they do, including how they approach the upcoming week and the weeks that follow in a way that honors Jesus.

As Paul continues discussing the issue dividing Christians at the time – whether they could eat meat that had been sacrificed to an idol – he presents an unexpected conclusion - thoughtfulness. Paul was convinced that it was fine to eat such meat, but whether or not he ate it should not be based on his opinion, but on what was best for the person with whom he was eating. How do we today handle the issues that divide us? Not just by being right, but by being thoughtful. Listen as we continue our journey through the book of Romans