The church is the body of Christ and an organic, living, organism. Pastor Ed talks about five points that should govern how we think and engage with the church.

Our connection to one another is a central part of God's purpose through Christ. And our connection with one another is fundamental to who we are as Christ's followers.

Why Church? The Forgotten Reason, Yet Most Important

Nahum divided into three parts:

1. An introductory hymn praising God's vengeance.

2. Turns His attention to Assyria.

3. Nahum taunts the Assyrians.

4 details about following Jesus:

1. Following Jesus is not about me; it's about God.

2. My blessings are not solely for me.

3. It's not about effort; it's about surrender.

4. It's not about goodness; it's about repentance.

4 vital components to Repentance:

1. clear- eyed recognition of where we really are

2. acknowledgement of God's sovereignity and saving power

3. involves abandonment of all dependencies and values apart from God

4. involves a firm determination to follow the way of the Lord whatever that may be

Disobedience always involves kidding ourselves.

Disobedience causes trouble.

Examples of beautiful story telling in the book of Jonah.