Hope Alliance Bethlehem

Far too many people give their money out of obligation - because they feel like they have to. The fact is that tithing is no longer an obligation. In its place stands the gospel which is a whole new orientation. We are now asked to form our lives around what Jesus has done for us. In this way, we are truly called to give of what we have based on our opportunity.

The church is not a building. And it isn't a Sunday morning gathering. The church is a dynamic community of people centered on Jesus who care for each other and make the gospel real in each other's lives. Without community, we can't be all that God intends us to be and that's why the Bible is so adamant about Christians living in community.

Making disciples is something everyone who follows Jesus is called to do. And when we're all doing it, it becomes a multiplying reality that results in new followers of Jesus, maturing followers of Jesus, and even new churches.

What does God want from you? Many answer obedience, but that's not correct. The answer is affection. From true affection for God comes obedience. That's why at Hope we are passionate about creating genuine connection to God and each other as we seek to live the life God is calling us to.

It shouldn't be hard to meet Jesus, but it isn't easy to stay with him. These two realities demand that the church and followers of Jesus create atmospheres and relationships that don't create unnecessary boundaries to Jesus while urging people to go deeper in order to solidify their faith in him.

The gospel is not just an entry ticket to the family of God. It's a whole new way of life. So, we need to be constantly saturated in the gospel in order to be all that God intends us to be. In it we find rescue and renewal, as well as a desire to share it with everyone.

There is a statement at the end of the transfiguration in Matthew's gospel that is so profound and so important - "they looked up and saw no one except Jesus." Even though Moses and Elijah made an appearance, when the moment was over it was simply Jesus. For Hope Alliance, we want this to be a way of life. Simply Jesus.

This famous psalm ends with imagery of the shepherd and his flock's difficult journey from their home pasture to the high ground. The journey to the mountaintop is always out of our comfort zone. David reminds us here of why we should take the journey.

This Lord is my shepherd is a statement of pride written by a man (David) who knew what it meant to be a good shepherd. Those who are led by the Lord are marked by contentment, rest, refreshment and restoration. How would you describe your life? And who is your shepherd?

How do we stand strong in the midst of spiritual warfare? It starts with the perfect defense of the armor God has given us - our identity in Christ. And it continues with the right offense of our authority through God's word and our access to God himself.