The Body of Christ (Part 2)

Dennis McCallum

Acts 2:44-47

Following Pentecost and the arrival of the Holy Spirit's permanent indwelling of believers, we see the dynamic Body of Christ at work. The early church was dynamic for several reasons, including: 1) generosity and sacrificing for others needs; 2) having a corporate unity of heart and mind; 3) interacting in both small and large groups, where large groups were dynamic and exciting and small groups allowed for deep intimacy and relational involvement; 4) authentic community that was sincere about the time spent with one another; 5) active gratitude, praising God regularly; 6) integrated with the culture around them; and 7) outreaching to others with the message of Jesus' forgiveness. These qualities have disappeared throughout the majority of the Western Church because of materialism and different priorities. This type of ethos within the church is powerful in demonstrating God's power and love to others.

A New Community! (Part 1)

Scott Risley

Matthew 18:19-20

What does this community of new believers in Acts look like, and how does it compare to us today? There is a uniqueness of a community that is united in the Holy Spirit and under the truth of God.

The Body of Christ (Part 1)

Dennis McCallum

Acts 2:41-43

Following the day of Pentecost and arrival of the Holy Spirit, the period where God uses the church or the Body of Christ, the culmination of all believers in Jesus, begins. This was the most dynamic and spiritual period in the history of the followers of Jesus. From the beginning of this new period in God's plan, we see many vital qualities in the Body of Christ: 1) contentment, as Christian community is grounded in truth; 2) relational, as there is now a basis for real closeness with one another; 3) reflective, being quick to remember God's work and purposes; 4) God-centered, taking part in corporate prayer; and 5) amazement, as they were in awe of what God was doing in their midst. A healthy Christian community that reflects these qualities is a supernatural act of God.

Spiritual Dynamics of Holiness

Gary DeLashmutt

1 Peter 1:22-2:3

Peter encourages believers to be holy. Holiness means living every aspect of life in the way God designed it. Peter discusses two key dynamics of holiness:1) holiness begins when we experience spiritual rebirth; and 2) holiness grows through loving community and craving God's Word.\r\n

Paul's Last Will and Testament

Ryan Lowery

2 Timothy 1:1-6

Paul and Timothy have an intimate friendship with one another that challenges our culture's standard for male friendships today. Their relationship is characterized by a few key components: their bond through their relationships with Christ, the bond of a common goal, and mutual support. Through the example of their friendship, we can learn the importance of encouraging one another, as well as challenging one another to re-kindle our zeal for God. We have a role in the lives of our friends to spur them on to persevere in the fight.

Solomon Building

Dennis McCallum

Ephesians 2:20

The language in the New Testament about the temple and comparisons of the body of Christ is based on this Old Testament temple that was built by Solomon. Solomons' temple is not just a dwelling, but it was a statement of our position with God that before we could not enter His presence because of our very nature. Then Christ died for our sins and the veil in the temple that separated the people from God was torn down. This shows that anyone can now approach God and receive forgiveness from Him based on what Christ did on the cross.\r\n

Conflict

Dennis McCallum

Colossians 3:14

God calls believers to be unified to all people. When conflict arises we can use the opportunity to enhance communication, build continuity, and demonstrate God's love through relationship. There are many practical steps we can take to preserve unity while experiencing conflict. We can change our orientation to glorify God, recognize our own fault, consider a unilateral resolution, and clarify issues within the conflict.

Farewell Ephesus

Ryan Lowery

Acts 20:18-38

Paul's farewell to Ephesus contains a unique look into his relationships. It demonstrates how serving God is relational, dynamic, and unpredictable. It requires endurance and care for those one is serving. It is also about entrusting yourself to Him in order to give to others with integrity. Ultimately, a life of serving God results in real friendship.

The Law of Love

Scott Risley

Romans 13:7-10

Paul echoes the words of Jesus, that the entire Old Testament is summed up in loving God and loving others, and that love should be the central characteristic of the church. This message is just as important for us today, as we continue to see declining relationships and an epidemic of loneliness; a relationship with Jesus and community within the church offers hope for deep, fulfilling friendship.\r\n