What should we do when someone claims we don’t know what we’re talking aboutin that which we condemn? We are often inexperienced in the ways of the world. Young Christians want to glorify Jesus Christ by living a holy life, but unbelieving friends claim sin is fun; “why don’t you try it? Must we smoke for a few years before smokers will listen to us? Should we live a carnal lifestyle so we know what we are talking about when we suggest fornication is wrong? Is it helpful to experiment with sin to really know it’s not a good thing? Continue reading
Thought of the Week
Persistence
On his final journey to Jerusalem, Jesus was warned by some Pharisees that Herod was out to kill Him. (Lk.13:31-33)Whether the warning was motivated by genuine concern or malice, it’s hard to determine. His answer was blunt: “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I reach my goal.’” In other words, He would continue with His mission despite the threat, and would reach his goal as planned. He had no fear of Herod’s threats; nothing would stop Him.
Consider His circumstances: He was weary from full days of work with the multitudes, tired from the journey, aware that arrest and death lay ahead, and now hunted by Herod. Yet he continued to walk toward Jerusalem with tremendous determination. Continue reading
A Taste of What’s to Come
Over the last two weekends we’ve enjoyed some lovely special events. Last week was Young Adult Weekend, with 30-40 energetic guests among us, and a special speaker (Jay Manimtim). There was close fellowship, challenging lessons, enthusiastic singing, and good food. This weekend we witnessed the wedding of two Christians who are very dear to us. Their two families came together with good wishes for the marriage of their children. Many of their friends and brothers and sisters in the Lord were present to make it a special day. And this morning we are very happy to have Shawn Redding preach the sermon. Shawn and Donna, of course, are loved by the entire congregation. Continue reading
Jude’s Advice
We welcome everyone who has come to Barrie for our Young Adult Weekend. It is especially encouraging to have Jay, Linda and Jacob Manimtim among us, and of course Jay is our speaker today. The subject of the weekend is something every Christian needs, “A Closer Walk.”
Jude, who was likely the brother of Jesus Christ, had unique insight into this, as one would expect a brother to have. He didn’t brag about his family connection, nor did he act superior to those who had never met Him. In his short New Testament letter, Jude urged us to draw closer to the Lord, and thus avoid the destructiveness of those who would try to harm Christ’s people. Continue reading
A Work of Hospitality
Nothing warms the soul like hospitality. Yet we often shy away from its work and planning. Yet God urges us to practice it. Next weekend hospitality is essential if our youth event is to be a success. People need food and accommodation.
Hospitality only works well if accompanied with love, sacrifice, generosity, unity, and a high-minded spirit. Jerusalem set this pattern for generations to come. Their love and unity motivated them to be kind to people; “The congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul” (Acts 4:32). The Hebrew writer would later note, “Let love of the brethren continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…” (Heb.13:1). That marvelous unity was threatened in Acts 6:1-6, when some grumbled over the arrangements for hospitality. Special servants were promptly chosen to expedite wisely the serving of meals to the burgeoning crowds of new Christians. These high-minded servants were willing to overlook complaints, and realign hospitality so that it was a blessing, not a problem. This demonstrates the importance of wise, loving hospitality to a healthy church. Continue reading