We all want a place to belong. But, to truly find community, it’s going to cost us. Deep community in God’s church means that we’re more than just attenders – we’re members of a rich and vibrant local body of believers. That status comes with great privileges, and great responsibility.

We all want a place to belong. But, to truly find community, it’s going to cost us. Deep community in God’s church means that we’re more than just attenders – we’re members of a rich and vibrant local body of believers. That status comes with great privileges, and great responsibility.

It only takes one person to mess things up for everyone. In any community, one person’s misdeeds can have serious repercussions for the whole group. On the other hand, it only takes one person to improve a relationship, and one person’s actions can help our church become a more welcoming place where people can belong.

We sometimes think that God shows his approval to Christians, churches, or Christian organizations by increasing their wealth or power. The New Testament is pretty clear though – instead of wealth and power being signs of approval, they are a liability and a responsibility. They should be handled with care.

We assume that faith will make life easier and more comfortable. When the opposite happens, our faith can be challenged. Hebrews 11 shows us that our heroes of the faith did not live comfortable lives. Instead, their eyes were fixed on a prize that they never fully realized during their earthly live.

All too often, we become attached to things of this world including our patriotism. When we lose sight of who we are, we become prideful, judgmental, and fearful. 1 Peter will be our guide to help us know we are called out of darkness and made into a spiritual temple. WE are a people who “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.” (1 Peter 2:17)

At one time or another, each of us has firmly believed a lie. When it comes to faith, we also can be confused about the truth. Sometimes we even intentionally seek out falsehoods. In response to this tendency, Paul tells Timothy to keep a clear mind, to not avoid suffering, to proclaim the gospel, and to carry out his ministry.

At one time or another, each of us has firmly believed a lie. When it comes to faith, we also can be confused about the truth. Sometimes we even intentionally seek out falsehoods. In response to this tendency, Paul tells Timothy to keep a clear mind, to not avoid suffering, to proclaim the gospel, and to carry out his ministry.

As we finish our journey with Paul, there are many things Paul that have come to the surface. This week we look at all things Paul and how we put them into our lives. We need to live like Paul did where the gospel was everything!

The Thessalonian church was worried about their saints who had passed away before Christ’s return. Paul encouraged them with words from Jesus himself. When we face loss and grief today, our response should be the same: encourage one another with Scripture.