Sanctification is not a word we use in everyday life. In fact, unless we are having a conversation in Family Bible Hour or in some specifically Christian setting, it is not a word that ever comes up in conversations. Yet, it is a concept that is central to our Christian faith, so it is important to know what it means. For a Christian, sanctification has two dimensions. First, it describes a position. Second, it describes a process.

Pastor John explores this topic as he continues our series on Romans.

Why do people so consistently turn from good to evil of all kinds?   The act of Adam that led to our universal state of sin was direct disobedience. He, and he alone, had been commanded by God not to eat of the fruit of the tree standing in the middle of the garden. He chose to disobey God. The results were catastrophic.

But, the actions of one man - Jesus - makes it possible for us to find forgiveness through grace.  Pastor John continues the series on Romans with this powerful topic.

"Since we have been justified by faith." What a powerful and positive proclamation for all who believe! But what does it mean for us, and what does it mean for those who will not believe?  Pastor John continues the series in Romans, and this week explores just what it means for us to have been God's enemies, and how it's possible for us to be His friends.

"Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This is what Paul writes as he begins to describe how Jews and Gentiles have a common connection as it relates to being declared righteous by God.  What does this mean? Is there still a difference between Jews and Gentiles? Pastor John continues the series on Romans.

Paul is thorough in his descriptions of the ways in which people have been steeped in sin.  And he is clear in outlining the deadly and eternal consequences of sin.  We can do nothing on our own to wash even one speck from our lives - we need to be made righteous. But how?  Pastor John delivers the simple truth of what it means for us to put our faith in Jesus Christ.

The Law was given to the Jews to make it plain who God is, what His standards are, and to give a way for people to be forgiven for not attaining those standards.  But, the Law does not and cannot save.  Pastor John explores the implications of this in the continuation of our series on Romans.

Why do we need the Gospel? Surely it should be enough for us to do good things and bring our best effort to being good people, or to follow a religion's rules to the strictest letter.  Good people should be good enough for God...

Pastor John continues the study of Romans, and discusses what Paul says about good works and religiosity when it's separate from the Gospel.

There are five words we can all say that will encourage and empower others: "I am praying for you." The Apostle Paul reminds us that we are able to encourage others by our faith in God, and by living out that faith in our interaction with others.  Pastor John continues the series on Romans to help demonstrate just what Paul has in mind.

Pastor John continues our series on Romans, picking up where we left off in the second verse. What is the Gospel about? What is the Gospel for?  For whom is the Gospel intended?