A Love That Continues

At the center of the Christian faith is a profound truth: Jesus Christ gave his life for the church. His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of love—selfless, costly, and complete. As it says in John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." Through his death and resurrection, Jesus redeemed a people for himself, calling them into a new life of grace and relationship with God.

Yet, his love does not end at the cross. His care for the church did not stop when his life was given; it continues even now. In Ephesians 5:29–30, the Apostle Paul writes, "For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body." This reveals that our relationship with Jesus is ongoing. He does not simply save us and step away; he continues to nourish and cherish the church with constant care.

To nourish means to provide what is needed for growth and strength. Jesus sustains his people, guiding them through his Word and Spirit. As Matthew 28:20 reminds us, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." His presence is not temporary; it is continual.

To cherish means to hold something dear, to care for it tenderly. This reflects a deep and abiding love—not based on obligation, but on relationship. This ongoing care is also seen in how Jesus sustains us daily. In Hebrews 13:5, we are given this promise: "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." We are not left to walk alone after being saved; instead, we are continually supported and strengthened by his presence.

Because we are described as "members of his body," our connection to Christ is close and personal. This is not a distant relationship, but one of unity and dependence. As John 15:5 says, "I am the vine; you are the branches... apart from me you can do nothing." Just as branches rely on the vine for life, we rely on Jesus for spiritual strength and growth.

Because we are described as members of his body, our connection to Christ is meant to be close and living, not distant or automatic. Scripture calls us to remain in him. As John 15:5 says, "I am the vine, you're the branches... apart from me you can do nothing." This relationship requires faithfulness—abiding in Christ, walking in his ways, and continually turning our hearts toward him. It is in that faithful walk that we experience his sustaining power and presence in our lives.

At the same time, Scripture gives a sober warning. In Isaiah 59:2, we are told, "Your iniquities have separated you from your God." Sin disrupts fellowship with God and cannot be ignored. Yet, this does not leave us without hope; it calls us back to faithfulness. As we turn away from sin and remain committed to him, God proves himself faithful to us. As 1 John 1:9 teaches, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us... and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

So, the hope of the Christian life is not in our perfection, but in a faithful relationship with a faithful God—one who continues to nourish and cherish his people as they walk with him.

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.oysterbaychurchofchrist.org/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

Knowing that God exists is not the same as knowing God personally.

Many people acknowledge that God exists, yet few truly know him in a personal way. The Bible makes a clear distinction between intellectual awareness of God and an intimate relationship with him. To know about God is not the same as knowing him personally, and scripture calls us beyond simple belief into a living, transformative relationship.

The existence of God is evident to all. Romans 1:19-20 teaches that God's invisible qualities are clearly seen through creation, leaving humanity without excuse. Likewise, Psalm 145:3 proclaims God's greatness as unsearchable. These passages show that knowledge of God's existence is accessible to everyone. However, this awareness alone does not lead to a personal relationship with him.

Because of sin, humanity is separated from God. Romans 3:10-11 explain that none are righteous and that no one truly seeks after God on their own. This separation prevents people from knowing God personally, even if they recognize that he exists.

Additionally, God's nature is so vast that it cannot be fully understood through human reasoning alone. Psalm 139:6 and Romans 11:33 emphasize that his knowledge and ways are beyond human comprehension. Therefore, knowing God requires more than intellectual knowledge and understanding—it requires a relationship.

That relationship is made possible through Jesus Christ. John 3:17 declares that God sent his Son not to condemn the world, but to save it. Through Jesus, we are invited into reconciliation with God. The Apostle Paul expresses the goal of this relationship in Philippians 3:10, saying that he desires to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. The Apostle Paul expresses the goal of this relationship in Philippians 3:10, saying that he desires to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. This kind of knowledge is personal, practical, and ongoing.

A key step in coming to know God personally is being baptized into Jesus Christ. In Romans 6:3-4, Paul explains that through baptism, we are united with Christ in his death and raised to walk in newness of life. This marks the beginning of a true relationship with God, where belief becomes transformation. Baptism is not merely symbolic; it is the point at which a person enters into Christ and begins a new spiritual life.

At this moment, believers also receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 1:13 teaches that those in Christ are sealed with the Holy Spirit who dwells within them. The Spirit enables believers to grow closer to God, guiding them into a deeper understanding of God and a relationship with him.

From this point forward, the Christian life is one of continual growth, as encouraged in 2 Peter 3:18, which calls believers to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

In conclusion, knowing that God exists is only the beginning. True fulfillment comes from knowing him personally through a relationship made possible only by Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:27, John 14:6). This relationship begins in baptism, is sustained by the Holy Spirit, and grows over time. While God's greatness remains beyond full human understanding, we are invited to experience him personally. Therefore, we must move beyond simple belief and seek a deeper, living connection with God.

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.oysterbaychurchofchrist.org/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

Why Truth is Hard to Accept

Throughout history, people have often held firmly to beliefs, even when those beliefs are not true. The Bible explains that this tendency is connected to human nature, spiritual blindness, pride, and the influence of sin. Scripture teaches that while truth comes from God, people sometimes reject or ignore that truth because it challenges their desires, their traditions, or their understanding.

One reason people hold on to false beliefs is spiritual blindness. The Bible teaches that sin can cloud a person's ability to see and accept truth. In 2 Corinthians 4:4, the Apostle Paul writes that "the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ should shine unto them." This verse suggests that spiritual forces and worldly influences can prevent people from recognizing truth, even when it is presented to them clearly. When people are spiritually blinded, they may continue believing ideas that contradict God's Word.

Another reason is that people often prefer beliefs that align with their personal desires rather than the truth. The Bible addresses this directly in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, which says, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." According to this passage, some people reject truth because it challenges their behavior or lifestyle. Instead, they seek out teachings that make them feel comfortable, even if those teachings are false.

Pride and stubbornness also play a major role. Admitting that a belief is wrong can require humility and repentance. However, human pride can make it difficult for people to change their minds. Proverbs 16:18 warns that "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." When pride controls a person's heart, they may cling to their beliefs simply to avoid admitting that they were mistaken.

Tradition and social pressure can reinforce false beliefs as well. In Mark 7:8, Jesus criticized religious leaders who valued tradition over God's commands: "For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men." This passage shows that people sometimes follow beliefs simply because they were taught by family, culture, or religious leaders, even when those beliefs conflict with the truth of Scripture.

The Bible also warns that a lack of knowledge itself can lead people into error. Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." This verse emphasizes that ignorance of God's truth can have serious spiritual consequences. When people do not seek understanding through God's Word, they may unknowingly accept beliefs that lead them away from the truth.

Finally, the Bible teaches that the human heart itself can be deceptive. Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" Because human judgment can be flawed, people may sincerely believe something that is not true. Without seeking God's guidance, they may continue in error.

In conclusion, the Bible explains that people hold on to untrue beliefs for several reasons. Scripture encourages believers to seek truth through God's Word and remain humble and open to correction. As Jesus said in John 8:32, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Jesus also affirmed the source of that truth in John 17:17 when He prayed unto the Father, saying, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth."

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.oysterbaychurchofchrist.org/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

What's new?

2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has gone; the new has come." This powerful truth sets the foundation for understanding what it really means to ask: "What's new?"

The answer is not found in small updates or surface changes, but in a completely transformed life.

But this raises an important question: How does someone become "in Christ"?

Galatians 3:27 gives a clear picture: "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." This shows that entering into Christ is not just an idea, but a real spiritual union—one that is expressed through faith and identified through baptism (Acts 2:38). It is the moment where a person leaves the old identity behind and takes on a new one in Jesus Christ. Our sins were like scarlet, but through baptism, they are white as snow (Isaiah 1:18).

Colossians 3:1–17 expands on this idea by describing what the new life looks like in practice. It begins with a shift in focus: setting our hearts and minds on things above rather than on earthly concerns. When our perspective changes, our priorities begin to change as well. We start to value what is eternal over what is temporary, what is meaningful over what is immediate.

At the center of this new life is love. Love is not presented as just one virtue among many, but as the defining quality that gives meaning to all others. Compassion without love can become duty. Kindness without love can become superficial. Even patience and humility, if not rooted in love, can lose their sincerity. Love is what binds everything together, creating wholeness and unity in a way that nothing else can.

This transformation can be summarized clearly:

New goals (Verse 1)

New thoughts (Verse 2)

New habits (Verses 5–16)

With Christ as our Lord, we live under a new authority (Verse 17). And most important, having been forgiven of the sins that separated us from God, we live with a new hope (Verses 3 and 4).

This new hope is the foundation that sustains everything else. It reminds us that our lives are anchored in something greater than ourselves. Our past no longer defines us, and our future is no longer uncertain. Instead, we can live with confidence and purpose, knowing that something greater lies ahead.

So, what can be new? Everything: a new way of thinking, a new way of living, a new way of seeing yourself and others. The old has gone, and the new has come. But this transformation is not automatic. It starts with a choice, a step of faith, and a willingness to follow God. It requires action and obedience to God's Word.

What's new with you?

You can have a life washed clean, a heart renewed, and a future with Jesus. Step into that new life through faith and baptism, just as Galatians 3:27 says: "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." Today is your chance to leave the old behind and embrace the new life God is offering.

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.oysterbaychurchofchrist.org/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

Are we merely churchgoers, or are we actively engaged in the spiritual business of making disciples? Continuing the series on "The Second Book Of Acts," Pastor Mike Jenkins reminds believers that the mission of Jesus did not end on the pages of the New Testament. Powered by the Holy Spirit, ordinary and imperfect people are authorized to carry the gospel into everyday encounters, showing radical compassion to those in need.

-- We are called to be active disciple makers who follow Christ, build up the body, and carry out the work Jesus left for us to do.

-- The Holy Spirit serves as our helper, providing the power and spiritual gifts needed to be effective witnesses in our surrounding community.

-- Authentic ministry requires genuine heart compassion for the lost and a willingness to labor outside the four walls of the building.

-- Simple invitations extended by ordinary people can create momentum that draws youth and families into a life-changing relationship with God.

-- Walking in the Spirit grants believers the power to overcome fleshly struggles, anxiety, and fear while displaying Christlike character.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Matthew 9:38

-- Luke 19:10

-- John 14:12

-- John 14:26

-- Acts 1:8

-- Acts 2:1-4

-- Galatians 5:16

-- Galatians 5:22-23

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Find more information on our website: https://www.springsofhopechurch.life/

Unlocking God's Power in the Modern Church

When we read the book of Acts, we see astonishing displays of divine power, where shadows healed the sick and whole cities turned to Christ. But how do we build an atmosphere where those same miracles occur today? In "Class is in Session: The Place of Miracles," Pastor Joseph Davis dives deep into Acts chapter 5 to uncover the foundational principles of a miracle-filled ministry.

True supernatural power is never an accident; it is cultivated in an environment of holy reverence, clean motives, and biblical truth. Through practical insights and firm exhortations, Pastor Davis challenges believers to step out of passive routine and into active spiritual growth.

-- Awe: Miracles flourish where God is reverenced and respected, requiring believers to honor His presence rather than treating holy things casually.

-- Attitude: God demands clean heart postures, warning us never to celebrate or gloat over the downfall of others when God brings judgment or correction.

-- Assemble: Spiritual maturity requires belonging to a local church family and consistently gathering with the saints as an active part of God's army.

-- Aptitude: Believers must grow in biblical knowledge so their agreement with the Word comes from spiritual understanding rather than religious habit.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Acts 5:11-16

-- Proverbs 24:17-18

-- Acts 3:11-14

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Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis

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Have you ever felt used up, cast off, or viewed by society as having little worth? The world constantly tries to evaluate us based on our skills, our money, our physical appearance, or our social standing. But God operates on a completely different system of value. Drawing from Matthew 10 and an extraordinary real-life story of a forgotten motorcycle with a hidden royal imprint, Pastor Steve Dow illustrates how your true worth is entirely defined by who owns you.

-- Value is not determined by external condition or societal approval, but by ownership.

-- Society evaluates worth based on temporal status, whereas God places eternal value on every human soul.

-- Jesus uses simple, everyday examples like sparrows and numbered hairs to show His deep, meticulous care for every detail of your life.

-- Recognizing the mark of the King on your heart transforms how you face trials, aging, and your ultimate future.

-- True freedom and peace come when title ownership of your life transfers from the world to the Living God.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Matthew 10:29-31

-- Luke 12:6

-- 1 Corinthians 6:20

-- Romans 8:31-32

-- Romans 5:8

-- Psalm 27:10

-- 1 Peter 2:9-10

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The life of a prophet can be a very lonely life.

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By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

The book of Jude says that Enoch was a prophet of God.

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By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Enoch heard from God and he walked with God.

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By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X