PATHWAY CITY CHURCH

Sometimes, God pleases to use the very things we believe will hinder us to bring us closer to Him. His providence is evident even in times of suffering. Amidst the panic and uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 virus, we pause our study of the Book of Ruth to survey and remind ourselves of God's faithfulness. As Christians, we are called to be the first responders in times of need, ready to give an answer for the hope that is in us. When multitudes are in distress, we must see an opportunity to heal, redeem, help, and most importantly, shine the light of the Gospel.

The cost of following Christ on earth is nothing compared to the promise of eternal life we have in Him. We witness Ruth as she counts the cost of going to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law. She decides to go despite all the hardships she might encounter. In the same way, Jesus calls us to count the cost of following Him; He requires the same radical trust, devotion, and surrender. Furthermore, we must apply this truth in all areas of our lives as confirmation of what we already know and what has been done for us. This process empties us so that God can fill us up with the perfection of His will and in doing so, demonstrate His unequivocal goodness.

God uses us for the revelation of his glory even when we are poor witnesses of his word, just as he does with Naomi. We begin to see a demonstration of true conversion when Ruth decides to return to Bethlehem despite her mother-in-law's instruction to remain in Moab. Her response displays an unwavering sense of loyalty, devotion, and determination--a response we ought to imitate in our walk with Christ.

As we continue to study the first chapter of the Book of Ruth, we learn that what seemed to be a sin to Naomi was a test of faithfulness to Ruth and Orpha, her widowed daughters-in-law. As God calls Naomi to return to Israel, and therefore, to Him, he demonstrates His providence by giving her an obedient and faithfull companion--Ruth.

This week, we begin a new study in the book of Ruth. Pastor Neb walks us through the historical background of the amazing men and women that make up this beautiful story. As the narrative unfolds, we start to see how obedience despite opposition, corruption, and tribulation takes the shape of true faithfulness--faithfulness that the Lord rewards.

As a continuation of last weeks message, this week, we learn that accountability requires baring of burdens. We are often led to believe that we either have to speak the truth or be loving. However, Ephesians 4:15 tells us that doing both is not only possible, but essential to a healthy church. We ought to practice speaking the truth in love, which is only possible when we strip ourselves of self righteousness and re-examine our definition of love.

The idea that we can travel the road of faith solely is contrary to what the Bible teaches. God created us for community and fellowship with one another. We need our brothers and sisters because God often uses them to correct, guide, and comfort us. In this message Pastor Nebiye Kelile reminds us that Christ did not reconcile us to God alone, but to each-other as well. The love and good works we exhibit within the church is, therefore, evidence of our faith and the catalyst for its growth. 

Hebrews 10:19-22 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

Pastor Nebiye Kelile