Rick explores the astonishing goodness of God, emphasizing how the true gospel continues to reveal this goodness over time. He delves into the parables of Jesus, particularly focusing on the themes of being called and chosen, the significance of the wedding feast, and the importance of being clothed in righteousness. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the grace and love of God, encouraging listeners to embrace their identity as beloved children of God.

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Rick and Judi Manis reflect on the significance of love and relationships, particularly emphasizing the concept of the 'third cord'—a metaphor for the bond of love that includes God. They discuss how this bond can help navigate conflicts, foster understanding, and create a safe space for dialogue. The conversation highlights the importance of acknowledging the good in others, embracing diverse perspectives, and the transformative power of forgiveness. Ultimately, it calls for unity in love as a response to division in the world.

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In this message, Rick Manis explores the concept of a 'God box'—a limited understanding of God based on knowledge and tradition—and how breaking free from this box leads to a deeper, more profound relationship with the divine. Being astonished by God's goodness and His character, as we live out our personal experiences allows us to challenge the preconceived notions of faith. Rick highlights the mystery of God, encouraging listeners to embrace the unknown and continuously seek a greater understanding of His love and grace. 

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Rick Manis explores the significance of the incarnation of Jesus, the different types of life mentioned in the Bible, and the transformative power of Jesus' death and resurrection. He emphasizes the importance of understanding our identity as new creations in Christ and the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to live out their faith. The discussion highlights the depth of God's love for humanity and the gift of eternal life through Jesus.

Takeaways:

• Jesus' incarnation is central to understanding our faith.
• There are three types of life: Bios, Psyche, and Zoe.
• Zoe represents the God kind of life, not just eternal existence.
• Jesus' death was a submission to death, breaking its hold.
• The resurrection of Jesus signifies new life for all believers.
• The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live the Christian life.
• Our identity is rooted in being children of God.
• The old man is dead; we are new creations in Christ.
• God's love for humanity is profound and transformative.

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Forgiveness can be challenging, especially when we feel the pain of the wrong done to us. Our bodies are created with a nervous system designed to protect us and keep us alive. When we hurt, our hearts can close up and we want to keep ourselves safe and away from the hurt. But Jesus came to provide us with the eternal life (quality not just quantity) that gives us the ability to do what only God in us can do. We're invited to participate. We're not required to but we are invited to. It's the way we were always created to live.

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In this message, Rick Manis explores the themes of salvation and transformation, emphasizing the biblical understanding of 'soteria' [greek word for salvation] as a restoration of identity rather than merely a rescue from hell. He discusses the significance of the Holy Spirit in unveiling Christ within us  and how this transformation leads to a deeper understanding of our true identity as children of God. Rick encourages listeners to embrace the joy and fullness of life that comes from recognizing God's love and Grace.

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Rick explores the theme of rethinking our spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding our union with God and the implications of the New Covenant. He discusses the significance of the law, the concept of heaven and earth as it was understood in the time/culture of Israel, and the idea of separation versus union with God. The message highlights the transformative power of Jesus' teachings and the importance of renewing our minds to live in the fullness of God's love and grace.

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We celebrate Jesus' resurrection at Easter. His resurrection brought a verdict on the ruler of this world: death no longer reigns. Death no longer gets the last word. The resurrection says that a judgment has been made against death. It had its reign, beginning with Adam, but now the Life of Jesus reigns in us. God was never going to let death be permanent, nor would He ever let death be the last word on our existence. Jesus would be the last word. In fact, He is the first and the last, our beginning and our end! We are going to live forever. And even if our outward man perishes, our inward man is alive, being renewed day to day.

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"And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world" (John 12:47, NKJV) God’s justice is not retributive, it is redemptive. 

We often see God in light of a court room, a divine judge who is removed and far off, disengaged and solitary The balance of justice hangs in the balance, but we are never quite sure how He will rule. However, God's justice is not like man's idea of justice. It's all about bringing us home to Him where we belong. 

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Why did Jesus tell the three parables in Luke 15 to the Pharisees who were complaining of his association with notorious sinners? In these stories, we see Jesus helping the Pharisees see something about the heart of their Father. Something they were missing in their law/works-driven morality view. The lost sheep, the lost coin, the prodigal son all describe the compassion God has for His children who are lost and don't know who they are or who their Father is. In all the stories, we see a Father who isn't angry at the lost ones, but rather goes after them; who is intentionally gathering them to Himself; who is passionately (over-the-top) loving them/valuing them, and consistently celebrating when they are found.

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