Sunday Prayer: Don’t Judge

"Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged. For you will be judged by the same standard with which you judge others, and you will be measured by the same measure you use." — Matthew 7:1-2 (CSB)

Heavenly Father,

You see every heart, and Your judgment is perfect. I come before You asking for help with the words of Jesus in Matthew 7: “Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged.” Lord, I confess it’s easy to point fingers, to measure others by my own flawed standards. Forgive me for the times I’ve condemned instead of loved, for when I’ve been quick to criticize without grace.

Give me wisdom, God, to see people as You do—to judge rightly when I must, with humility and truth, not pride or harshness. Let me remember that the measure I use will come back to me, and soften my heart to reflect Your mercy instead. Help me to leave room for Your justice and to trust You with what I can’t fix.

Thank You for Your forgiveness that covers my failures. Teach me to extend that same forgiveness to others, so I can live free from bitterness and full of Your peace.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Choices that Shape Us

As human beings, our choices shape and form us into the people we are. With every decision, we are not just acting; we are becoming. This is why it is crucial to have high expectations for the younger generation and to encourage them to make choices that lead to maturity and responsibility. For Christians, this is especially significant, as we are called to become a different kind of people—a people who reflect the character of Christ.

The Apostle Paul reminds us of this transformative journey in Colossians 3:1-4, where he urges us to set our minds on heavenly things rather than earthly things. Similarly, in Galatians 5:16-26, he calls us to walk by the Spirit, not by the flesh. This walk involves living humbly, putting others ahead of ourselves, as seen in Philippians 2:1-11. These are not just isolated commands but reflections of the characteristics of Kingdom people—people who embody the values of God’s Kingdom.

Greg Boyd, in his book Satan and the Problem of Evil, offers an insightful perspective on this idea. He writes:

“Moral culpability is not just about people acting certain ways when they could have and should have acted differently. It’s more about people becoming certain kinds of people when they could have and should have become different kinds of people” (p. 122).

This quote challenges us to think beyond actions and behaviors and instead focus on identity and transformation. The Gospel calls us not just to do good but to become good—to be transformed by the renewing of our minds and hearts (Romans 12:2). As Christians, we are called to encourage others to become different kinds of people, ones who are shaped by the power of the Gospel and reflect Christ in all they do.

The Path to Becoming Kingdom People

How do we help others on this journey of becoming people who represent King Jesus in all that we say and do? Here are three key steps:

1. Proclaim the Way of Redemption
   Transformation begins with Jesus. As Paul writes in Romans 5:6-11, it is through God’s love and intervention that we are saved. Without God’s grace, we would have no hope. The message of redemption is central to becoming Kingdom people. By pointing others to Jesus and His sacrifice, we help them understand that real change starts with faith in Him.

2. Pray for Transformation
   The Apostle Paul’s prayer in Colossians 1:9-12 is a model for us. He prays that believers would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will and spiritual wisdom, so they might live lives worthy of the Lord. Our prayers for those we influence can have a powerful impact. Through prayer, we invite God to work in their lives, guiding them to become people who honor Him.

3. Provide Tools for Training in Godliness
   Transformation requires discipline. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 4:7, “Train yourself for godliness.” Spiritual disciplines such as meditation, prayer, worship, service, fasting, solitude, and celebration are tools that help us train our bodies and minds to resist the pull of the flesh and follow the Spirit. Teaching others these disciplines equips them to grow in their faith and character.

A Life of Becoming

Each of us is in the process of becoming. We are either growing more fit for God’s Kingdom or becoming more aligned with the kingdom of darkness. Our choices play a pivotal role in this process. As Christians, we have the responsibility to encourage and guide others toward making choices that reflect the character of Christ. By proclaiming the Gospel, praying for transformation, and teaching spiritual disciplines, we can help others become Kingdom people who shine as lights in the world.

Let us remember that our calling is not just to act differently but to be different—to become the kind of people who embody the love, humility, and holiness of Christ. This is the essence of our faith and the heart of our mission as followers of Jesus.

3 Actions for Making Wise Decisions

Our lives are shaped by the choices we make. Big decisions—like whether to marry or pursue a career—often steal the spotlight, but it’s the small, everyday choices that quietly steer our course. Together, these decisions—grand and mundane—form the map of our existence. Since every choice matters, we need a reliable foundation for making wise ones. Thankfully, Scripture offers exactly that.

Jesus teaches this truth vividly in Matthew 7:24-27 (NLT):

“Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.”

Here, Jesus ties wisdom to a life rooted in His words—a foundation strong enough to weather any storm. This echoes His Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13:1-23, where the “good soil” represents those who hear, understand, and bear fruit from God’s Word. The entire Bible, as the voice of Jesus, provides the wisdom we need for decision-making. But how do we build this foundation? From Jesus’ teachings, we can distill three essential actions: Listen, Believe, and Change.

1. Listen to Jesus

Listening isn’t passive hearing—it’s an active choice. We all hear the noise of life with functioning ears, but listening means tuning out distractions to focus on what matters. In Matthew 13:9, Jesus urges, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” Reading the Bible isn’t enough; we must approach it eager to grasp God’s intent and apply it to our lives. Like the disciples who sought clarity on the parable (Matthew 13:10), we should dig into Scripture with purpose, asking: What is God saying, and how does it shape my choices today?

2. Believe Jesus

Listening alone doesn’t build the foundation—belief brings it to life. In Matthew 13:18-23, Jesus explains that only the “good soil” truly receives the Word, understanding and trusting it. The foolish hear Jesus but dismiss Him—unconvinced of His identity as God’s Son or the truth of His words. Without belief, His teaching stays theoretical, never touching their decisions. The wise, however, trust Jesus fully. They see Him as the cornerstone of truth, and this faith guides their choices. Belief turns words on a page into a living compass for life’s big and small moments.

3. Change the Way We Live

Belief demands action. In Matthew 7, the wise don’t just hear—they obey. In Matthew 13:23, the good soil “produces a crop”—fruitful change that proves trust in Jesus. This step is where faith gets real: adjusting our lives to align with His will, even when it clashes with the world’s ways. The foolish hear but stay unchanged, like seed choked by thorns (Matthew 13:22)—distracted by worries or wealth. The wise let Jesus’ words reshape their priorities, habits, and decisions. Change shouts our trust louder than words ever could.

Living It Out

Every day, we face a barrage of choices—some snap decisions, others weighty deliberations. In our fast-paced world, we rarely have time to mull every option. That’s why a solid foundation matters. By listening to Jesus, believing His truth, and changing our lives to match it, we root ourselves in God’s Word. This isn’t just theory—it’s practical wisdom for navigating life.

Without this bedrock, we’re tossed by the shifting winds of culture and circumstance. With it, we stand firm, no matter the storm. The Parable of the Sower reminds us that God’s Word is a seed with transformative power—but only if we’re good soil. So, what kind of soil are you? The choice to listen, believe, and change starts today—and it’s a decision that shapes all the rest.

Lessons from the King: Don’t Worry

 

The Struggle Between Earthly and Heavenly Priorities

Imagine sorting your life into three categories: rubber, metal, and glass. Tim Sanders, former chief solutions officer at Yahoo! and author of Love Is the Killer App, uses this analogy to explain how we handle life’s ups and downs. Rubber things—like missing a Seahawks game—bounce back with little fuss. Metal things—like missing an important meeting—clang loudly when dropped, causing temporary chaos but nothing irreparable. Then there’s glass—the irreplaceable treasures like your marriage, family, deepest relationships, and spiritual well-being. When glass shatters, no amount of effort can fully restore it.

The challenge is clear: we all know what’s "glass" in our lives. So, what’s our priority? What’s the one thing we should devote ourselves to, the thing that puts everything else into place? Jesus has been teaching about the heart—our desires, beliefs, thoughts, and will. He’s shown us that the condition of our hearts determines whether we’re citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. At the core of that heart must be faithfulness. Without it, we can’t belong to God’s Kingdom. Today’s text, Matthew 6:19-34, brings this truth into sharp focus.

Last week, we saw how Jesus emphasized motivation over mere actions in spiritual disciplines. If we pray, give, or fast to impress others, we’ve already received our reward. But if we do these things to connect with God and honor Him, He blesses us with answered prayer and a place in His Kingdom. That sets the stage for today’s lesson: trusting God completely. Let’s walk through the text together.

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Storing Up True Treasure (vv. 19-21)

Jesus begins, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” Earthly treasures—money, possessions, status—are temporary. Moths eat them, rust corrodes them, thieves take them. Why spend your life chasing what won’t last? Instead, store up treasures in heaven—love, generosity, kindness, forgiveness—the character traits of Kingdom citizens. These are eternal.

Where your treasure is, Jesus says, there your heart will be. What we value shapes our devotion. Are we truly invested in God’s Kingdom, or are we just paying it lip service? Ask yourself: What’s more important—investments or spiritual maturity?

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A Clear or Clouded Vision (vv. 22-23)

Next, Jesus says, “The eye is the lamp of the body.” Our spiritual perception guides our lives. A healthy eye—one focused generously on God—brings light, helping us see what He values and grow in His character. But an unhealthy eye—stingy and fixated on wealth—plunges us into darkness. Greed blinds us to truth and robs us of the life God intends.

What dominates your vision: God’s Kingdom or worldly wealth?

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The Danger of Divided Devotion (v. 24)

Here’s the heart of the Sermon on the Mount: “No one can serve two masters.” Jesus pits God against money (or "Mammon"). He’s not saying money itself is evil—only that serving it is idolatry. Devotion to wealth competes with devotion to God. When God is in His rightful place, money and possessions fall into theirs. Jesus forces a choice: we’ll love one and despise the other.

So, who rules your heart—God or materialism?

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Overcoming Worry with Trust (vv. 25-32)

Jesus commands, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink.” Worry stems from a lack of trust in God’s provision—the opposite of “Give us today our daily bread.” This doesn’t mean we ignore responsibilities or stop working hard. It means trusting God to provide.

Look at the birds—they don’t fret over food, yet God feeds them. Consider the lilies—they don’t toil, yet God clothes them beautifully. If God cares for them, how much more will He care for us, His children? Worry is futile—it doesn’t add a day to our lives. Worse, it’s what pagans do. Kingdom citizens trust God instead.

Does your worry reveal a heart not fully trusting Him?

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The Key to True Security: Seeking God’s Kingdom (vv. 33-34)

“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.” That’s the antidote to worry. Prioritize God’s will—live by faith, trust, holiness, and disciple-making—and He’ll meet your needs, often through His people, the church. Align your life with His purposes, and trust Him daily.

Don’t be consumed by tomorrow—God’s got it covered. Shift your focus: seek God first, and let Him handle the rest.

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Who Do You Trust?

Jesus didn’t just teach this—He lived it. He surrendered everything to the Father, even His life on the cross, so we could become Kingdom citizens. We’re called to trust God to mature us, guide us, and provide for us. The Kingdom of Heaven is better than the reality we know now, and God will supply what we need if we stop worrying about the details.

It’s easy to say we trust God, but our focus—what we pursue—and our worries—what we dwell on—reveal the truth. How do we grow in trust? Through spiritual disciplines: prayer, gratitude, and meditating on Scripture.

Here’s the challenge:

Surrender your worries and seek God first. Examine what concerns you, confess it to God, ask Him to build your trust, and then do your part—handle your responsibilities while leaving the rest to Him.

We can’t serve two masters. Citizens of the Kingdom trust God with their treasures, needs, and future because He’s the only Master worth serving.

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Prayer

Thank God for Jesus, who made you part of His Kingdom. Ask Him to teach you to trust Him fully. Commit to following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. If God’s calling you to follow Jesus more closely today, don’t wait—take that next step.

The Parable of the Soils: Hearing and Bearing Fruit

The Parable of the Sower (or more accurately, the Parable of the Soils) in Matthew 13:1-23 is one of Jesus’ most well-known teachings. It not only reveals the different ways people respond to God’s Word but also highlights the importance of having a heart that truly receives the Gospel and bears fruit.

A Familiar Scene for an Agricultural Audience

Jesus often used parables—stories that take common human experiences and compare them with the Kingdom of God—to communicate truth in a way that was both accessible and challenging. The setting of this parable was familiar to His audience: a farmer sowing (planting) seed. In ancient Palestine, sowing was often done before plowing, meaning the seed could fall on various types of soil, each affecting its ability to grow.

Jesus describes four types of soil:

1. The Path – Hard and compacted, where the seed cannot penetrate and is quickly snatched away.

2. Rocky Ground – Shallow soil over limestone, where seeds sprout quickly but lack the depth to sustain growth.

3. Thorny Ground – Soil where thorns and weeds choke out the young plants.

4. Good Soil – Deep, fertile soil that produces a bountiful harvest.

What Is the Seed?

Jesus explains that the seed represents the Word of God—the message of the kingdom (Matt. 13:19). Just as a seed contains the potential for life, the Gospel carries the power to transform lives when it takes root in a receptive heart.

However, just hearing the Word is not enough. A seed must take root, grow, and bear fruit. The effectiveness of the seed is not in question—it is the same for all soils. What determines the outcome is the condition of the soil, or the state of a person’s heart.

Interpreting the Soils: Responses to God’s Word

When Jesus later explains the parable to His disciples (vv. 18-23), He makes it clear that the soils represent different responses to the Gospel:

• The Path (Hardened Hearts) – These are those who hear the word but do not understand it. Like the seed snatched away by birds, Satan steals the truth before it can take root.

• The Rocky Ground (Shallow Commitment) – These people receive the message with joy but have no depth. When trials or persecution come, they quickly fall away.

• The Thorny Ground (Divided Hearts) – Here, the worries of life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke out the word, preventing spiritual fruit.

• The Good Soil (Faithful Hearts) – These are those who hear, understand, and bear fruit—showing perseverance and true transformation.

The Call to Listen and Respond

Jesus concludes with a challenge: “He who has ears, let him hear” (v. 9). The parable isn’t just about hearing the word—it’s about truly receiving it in a way that produces a life of faithfulness and fruitfulness.

This parable challenges us to examine our own hearts: Are we receptive to God’s Word? Do we allow trials, distractions, or materialism to hinder our growth? Or are we cultivating a heart that is open, obedient, and fruitful for God’s kingdom?

The harvest is plentiful for those who truly listen.

Growing is Tough

I don’t know about you, but I wish spiritual growth was so difficult. Why can’t it be as easy as gaining weight? 

Gaining weight is a breeze—most of the time, it’s even enjoyable. If I wanted to pack on a few pounds, I’d just indulge in my fast food favorites: burgers and fries. Trust me, I could happily live on that stuff and watch the scale climb in no time.

But spiritual growth—the kind that deepens our faith, that’s a different story. It’s not as simple as piling on more doctrine or soaking up Bible teaching. I know, it almost sounds heretical to say it, but hear me out: knowledge alone doesn’t make us grow. 

Don’t get me wrong—knowledge matters. It’s the foundation we build on. But real growth happens when we take that foundation and live it out. It’s the application that transforms us.

James, Jesus’ half-brother, put it this way:  

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” (James 1:2-4, NLT) 

James teaches us that growth isn’t a classroom exercise—it’s forged in the messiness of life. It’s where theory collides with reality, where the rubber meets the road. According to him, the greatest growth potential lies in trials, temptations, and even tragedies. When life falls apart—when dreams shatter and the future looks bleak—how we respond shapes who we become. Choosing to trust God’s promises, even when they feel distant or unreal, sets us on the path to spiritual maturity.

So what does this mean for us today? It means we should stop chasing the illusion of a perfectly safe, secure life—it doesn’t exist. Instead, we should step boldly into the brokenness of the world. If we’re serious about growing, another Bible study or devotional book isn’t the answer. What is needed is living out what God has  revealed to us, no matter the cost or consequences.

Joy in the midst of trouble doesn’t mean we enjoy the pain. It means we recognize that pushing through it molds us into people who demonstrate the character of Jesus a little bit better. We grow stronger, become more mature, and even move closer to God as we respond by faith the trials of life. This is what brings us joy.

Growing is tough. Change is tough. It won’t happen by passively reading a blog post (sorry!) or sitting through another Sunday sermon. Spiritual formation into the image of Jesus demands hard choices, gritty endurance, and weathering life’s storms. Sure, cracking open a book is easier, but the rewards of standing firm through dark times—with faith intact—are infinitely greater.

Lessons from the King: Spiritual Disciplines

Introduction: Humility That Shows Up

Imagine you’re scrolling through the latest research headlines—something I’m sure we all do on a Saturday night—and you come across this gem from The Journal of Positive Psychology: “Humble persons are more helpful than less humble persons: Evidence from three studies.” At first glance, you might think, “Well, thank you, Captain Obvious!” Humble people are helpful? Groundbreaking stuff, right? But stick with me, because there’s something beautiful—and deeply spiritual—hiding in this not-so-shocking revelation.

The researchers conducted three studies and found that humble people don’t just talk a good game—they show up. In scenarios where helping wasn’t about looking good or gaining something in return, humble folks were the ones rolling up their sleeves. Even when accounting for traits like agreeableness or the tendency to give socially acceptable answers, humility stood out. These weren’t people puffed up with pride, but individuals who quietly, consistently lent a hand. The study even noted that humble people make better bosses and employees—less ego, more teamwork, more care.

Now, the scientists tried to explain this through evolution, suggesting some ancient survival link between humility and helping. Fair enough—they’re doing their job. But as Christians, we don’t need to dig that deep. We’ve got a simpler, richer explanation written across the pages of Scripture: humility flows from Jesus. The One who washed feet, carried a cross, and said, “Whoever wants to be great must be a servant”—He’s the source. When we practice spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, or serving others, we’re not just checking boxes. We’re training our hearts to look a little more like His.

In our sermon series, Lessons from the King, we’ve been journeying through the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus teaches us what it means to be citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven—not through rules and regulations, but through a heart aligned with God’s heart. It’s about representing King Jesus in all we say and do. And the only way to do that is to be faithful. Here’s the takeaway: We can’t be citizens of God’s Kingdom if we aren’t faithful to the King. So, where does your loyalty lie?

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Series Recap: A New Way of Living

Being a citizen of God’s Kingdom means embracing new values, taking on new responsibilities, and living righteous lives—not a righteousness defined by actions alone, but by our character. In Matthew 6:1-18, Jesus continues this theme, focusing on spiritual disciplines—practices like giving, praying, and fasting that mature our faith and deepen our connection with God. But what makes these disciplines meaningful isn’t just doing them; it’s why we do them.

Walking Through the Text

Giving with Humility (Matthew 6:1-4)

Jesus begins, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before others to be seen by them.” For the Jews of His day, giving to the poor was a hallmark of righteousness. Jesus isn’t critiquing the act of giving—He’s probing the motivation. Who are you hoping will notice: people or God?

He contrasts showy giving with true generosity. Givers didn’t literally blow trumpets (that’s hyperbole!), but some made sure their generosity was impossible to miss. If recognition is what they wanted, Jesus says, that’s all they’ll get. He calls them “hypocrites”—play-actors performing a role rather than living authentically. Instead, Jesus calls us to give quietly, not for applause, but because it’s who we are: generous, compassionate people who reflect God’s heart. The solution to insincere giving isn’t to stop—it’s to reorient our hearts toward God’s will, desiring His Kingdom to grow.

Praying with Sincerity (Matthew 6:5-8)

Next, Jesus addresses prayer: “Don’t be like the hypocrites” who love to pray publicly for show. Some would time their prayers to coincide with busy moments, craving attention. That’s their reward, He says—human applause.

To counter this, Jesus urges us to pray in secret. In a culture where private rooms were rare, this might mean a storeroom—again, hyperbole to emphasize praying for God, not people. He also warns against praying like the Gentiles, who piled up words (even “magic” ones) to manipulate their gods. Instead, Jesus reminds us that God is our Father who knows our needs. We don’t need to perform or persuade—just trust and ask.

Sincere prayer isn’t about impressing others or twisting God’s arm. It’s about lifting our hearts to a loving Father, confident in His care.

Praying According to God’s Will (Matthew 6:9-15)

Jesus then offers the Lord’s Prayer as both a model to recite and a framework to guide us. It unfolds in three parts:

1. Our Praise: We honor God for who He is and express our longing for His name to be hallowed worldwide.

2. Our Priorities: We pray for God’s Kingdom to come and His will to be done—not our desires, but His. This reminds us that while God is sovereign, sin still mars His creation, and we yearn for His Kingdom’s fullness.

3. Our Provision: We ask for daily bread (present needs), forgiveness (past needs), and guidance (future needs). God meets us in every season.

The heart of this prayer is alignment with God’s will. That’s why forgiveness is crucial—if we seek God’s Kingdom but refuse to forgive, we’re rejecting its essence. Forgiving others reflects our desire to live as Kingdom citizens.

Fasting with Purity (Matthew 6:16-18)

Finally, Jesus turns to fasting. Hypocrites fasted for attention, making their sacrifice obvious. But Jesus says true fasting isn’t a performance—it’s a private act of seeking God, whether to grieve, repent, or hear His voice. We don’t advertise it; we go about our day, trusting God to meet us.

Fasting is expected, but only when done for the right reasons. When our motives are pure, God responds.

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Conclusion: Why Motivation Matters

Spiritual disciplines—giving, praying, fasting—are practices to worship God, strengthen our faith, and align with His will. But the key is why we do them. Are we seeking human praise or God’s blessing? If it’s the former, that’s all we’ll get. If it’s the latter, we receive forgiveness, maturity, provision, guidance—and the eternal reward of God’s Kingdom.

This echoes what we’ve seen throughout the Sermon on the Mount: it’s about our hearts. We can do the right thing for the wrong reasons—or avoid the wrong thing for the wrong reasons. Our motivation must be faithfulness to God. Citizens of the Kingdom practice spiritual disciplines to receive blessing from God, not to impress people.

So, here’s your challenge: this week, try a spiritual discipline—fasting, meditation, giving—and ask God to help you do it with the right heart. Because being a Kingdom citizen isn’t about blind obedience or empty motions. It’s about becoming people fit for Heaven, with hearts softened and wills aligned to God’s. That’s the goal. Why do you do what you do? Keep that question close.

Why I Still Follow Jesus

Why do I still follow Jesus Christ? 

For me, it comes down to purpose—a call that God has woven into my life. Jesus didn’t just ask His first disciples to drop their nets and believe a set of ideas; He invited them into something bigger: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). That same invitation echoes today. We’re made for good works (Ephesians 2:10), not just to hold to a set of doctrines and beliefs, but to actually live those truths. In other words, following Jesus isn’t about checking off a list of doctrines—it’s about joining a movement that changes the world, through the simplest acts of love (Matthew 25:31-46).

Of course, plenty of Christians fall short of this calling, but that doesn’t make the calling invalid. Rather, it reminds us that we need help in living this calling out in our lives. As followers of Jesus, we’re meant to bring light to our families, communities, and nations. The Church, at its best, is God’s love in action.

The purpose I have as a follower of Jesus depends on two important choices. It depends on my choice to be faithful to King Jesus in every area of my life. I can only live this calling out if I am faithful. The second choice is the choice to love. Jesus taught that the most important commandment is to love: to love God and to love people. If I am not going to love, then it is impossible for me to live out the purpose of my life.

Now, compare that to what I’ll call the “evangelical atheist.” Their message urges people to abandon belief in God—but what’s the replacement? Do they genuinely think a world without God would be better? If so, where’s the proof? History doesn’t exactly back them up. And when they reject the source of goodness and love, what’s left to inspire kindness or sacrifice?

That’s not to say atheists can’t be moral or altruistic—many are. But they lack a foundation to call others to a life that seeks to make this world a better place. Without an absolute moral standard, they rely on shifting personal or cultural ideals, which is shaky ground when human nature often prioritizes self-interest over the suffering of others. Atheism critiques but doesn’t construct; it deconstructs faith yet offers no compelling alternative that can inspire, unite, or transform people and culture.

Faith in Jesus is not just about our self-interest. It calls us to something greater. The New Testament teachings this truth over and over again—Jesus commands us to love God and others (Matthew 22:34-40), Paul urges us to serve selflessly (Romans 12, Galatians 6, Ephesians 2:10), James reminds us that faith without works is dead (James 1:27), Peter exhorts us to bless others (1 Peter 3:9), and John emphasizes love in action (1 John 3:16-18). Disciples of Jesus are not just encouraged to love—we’re expected to. It’s central to our calling.

What’s amazing is how this call to love is for everyone. No one is incapable of loving. If morality were merely a personal construct, we’d have an innumerable number of ideas about what is right and wrong —forcing everyone to champion the causes they believe to be most important, whether climate change, poverty, or global suffering. That’s a recipe for burnout and division, especially since we cannot agree on what’s most important.

Christianity changes that. God sets a moral standard, calls us to love Him and others, and then gives us the freedom to bring our unique gifts to the table. The metaphor of being the Body of Christ nails it (Romans 12:3-5, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31)—we are different parts of the body with distinct roles (Romans 12:6-8, 1 Peter 4:7-11). God’s plan is a Church full of individuals, each equipped to tackle the world’s brokenness in their own way.

 None of us can meet the world’s brokenness on our own, but when we work together we can make a difference.

So, I follow Jesus—doubts and all—because this call isn’t just about my personal relationship with Jesus; it’s about God’s people working together to influence the world. It’s about serving those around me and carrying God’s love into the world, all the while partnering with others. In living it out the calling to love and serve, I discover the life I was made for. And honestly? I want others to find that life too.

Lessons from the King: Loving Your Enemies

 

In his book After You Believe, N.T. Wright shares this thought: “When you’re suddenly put to the test and don’t have time to think about how you’re coming across, your real nature will come out. That’s why character needs to go all the way through: Whatever fills you will spill out.” (p. 28).

This idea captures the heart of Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:38-48. In this section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that there is more than just surface-level obedience—beyond simply avoiding evil. He calls us to live with radical grace and love that reveals the heart of God. Loving our enemies isn’t just an ideal; it’s the evidence of a transformed heart, a life shaped by the character of the King.

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The Call to Grace Over Retaliation

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person.” (Matthew 5:38-39)

The law of retribution—“an eye for an eye”—was meant to prevent personal revenge and promote justice. However, Jesus introduces a new way: the way of grace. Instead of seeking vengeance, He calls us to respond with patience, generosity, and love.

Consider His examples:

• Turning the other cheek (v. 39) – In the ancient world, a slap was an insult more than a physical assault. Kingdom citizens are called to absorb the insult rather than retaliate.

• Giving beyond what is required (v. 40) – The poor had little, yet Jesus tells them to give even their cloak if sued. This radical generosity defies worldly wisdom.

• Going the extra mile (v. 41) – Under Roman law, Jews were required to carry a soldier’s pack for one mile. Jesus challenges them to double it—choosing service over resentment.

• Giving generously (v. 42) – Even in hardship, we are to be open-handed, trusting God’s provision.

Paul echoes this in Romans 12:14-21, urging believers to overcome evil with good. True justice isn’t found in revenge, but in reflecting the goodness of God in a broken world.

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The Call to Love Over Hate

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:43-44)

The Pharisees had twisted the law’s command to love their neighbors into permission to hate their enemies. But Jesus reveals the true intent of God’s heart: love is not limited by borders, race, or even morality. God sends rain on both the righteous and the wicked. His love extends to all—and ours must too.

What does loving an enemy look like?

• Love actively (v. 44) – Show kindness to those who oppose you.

• Pray for them (v. 44) – Intercede for those who mistreat you, asking for God’s mercy on their lives.

• Reflect God’s character (v. 45) – As God’s children, we are called to mirror His indiscriminate grace.

This isn’t easy. It’s much simpler to ignore those who hurt us, to justify our distance by saying we don’t “hate” them. But love calls for more. It requires interaction, kindness, and a willingness to extend mercy even when it isn’t deserved.

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The Call to Christlike Perfection

“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)

Jesus isn’t calling us to sinless perfection, but to completeness—to a maturity that reflects God’s character. True righteousness isn’t about checking the right religious boxes. It’s about a heart transformed by God’s love.

So where do we start?

• Trust God for justice – We don’t have to seek revenge; we can trust Him to make things right.

• Overcome evil with good – Through generosity, kindness, and forgiveness, we push back the darkness.

• Love even when it’s hard – Because that’s what God has done for us.

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The Challenge

This week, take a step toward radical grace:

• Show compassion—make a meal for someone, volunteer, or donate to a charity.

• Pray for someone who has wronged you.

Loving our enemies isn’t just about them—it’s about us. It’s about becoming the kind of people who reflect the heart of God. And when we do, we don’t just avoid sin—we become the light of the world.

May we be a people who overcome evil with good, not because it’s easy, but because it’s who we are in Christ.

Encountering God: The Foundation of Christian Identity and Community

 “As Christians we assert that religious experience — an encounter with the divine — is foundational to our self-identity. According to the biblical tradition, the goal of the human-divine encounter is the establishment of a community of people who stand in covenant with God.”

Stanley Grenz, Theology for the Community of God (p. 7)

Created for Community

God created human beings to be relational and social. This is why the very first thing God declares as "not good" in Creation is the loneliness of man. Adam had a relationship with God and spent time with animals, yet a key part of his life was missing: a relationship with another human. The creation of Eve was not just about marriage; it was about ensuring the presence of people throughout history. You and I were created for community.

A Relational God

The Bible teaches us that God is a relational God. He is not a distant deity who takes no interest in His creation. Rather, He is active and present in the world He has made. This means we are able, on some level, to experience God in our lives. One way we encounter Him is through nature. As Psalm 19:1-6 and Romans 1:20 affirm, when we stand in awe of creation, it is our spirit recognizing the reality of God.

Since we are spiritual beings, we will have moments when the Holy Spirit touches our hearts and minds. Consider the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:32 (NLT):
They said to each other, "Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?"
After encountering Jesus, their hearts burned within them. Our own encounters with God can stir a similar response.

Testing Spiritual Experiences

A word of caution: Not every "burning heart" moment is an experience from God. While we should expect divine encounters, we must also remember the biblical warning to test the spirits (1 John 4:1). People are often led astray when they assume every spiritual experience is from God without measuring it against Scripture. The Bible remains our ultimate standard for discerning truth.

Two Purposes of Divine Encounters

According to Stanley Grenz, there are two primary reasons why God gives us these "burning heart" moments:

1. To Guide Our Self-Identity
   We need divine guidance to understand who we are and why we were created. Our search for truth and purpose is only complete when we allow God to direct us. True self-discovery happens in the light of His revelation.

2. To Form a Covenant People
   We don’t follow Jesus alone. God’s purpose in sending Jesus was not simply to save us from our individual sins but to form us into His people. The Church is built on the foundation of the prophets and apostles (Ephesians 2:20) and is meant to reflect God’s character in the world.

A Question for Reflection

What divine encounter has significantly transformed your life?

Grenz reminds us that these encounters are foundational to our identity as God’s people, and we should expect them. They are not necessarily mystical experiences but moments where God grabs our attention and transforms our lives. Whether through reading Scripture, singing worship songs, hiking a trail, or even watching a movie, God reveals important truths that shape our hearts and guide our lives.

Sharing the Blessing

These divine encounters are not for us alone; they are also for the benefit of God’s people. Since we are created for community, when God blesses us with truth, insight, or transformation, we are to use those blessings to strengthen the Church. We are called to share what God has given us to edify His people.

Conclusion: Transformed for a Purpose

In the end, our encounters with God are not isolated moments meant only for personal inspiration—they are meant to shape us and draw us deeper into community with His people. From the very beginning, God designed us to be relational, and His work in our lives always has a communal purpose. When we experience God—whether through Scripture, worship, nature, or the quiet stirrings of the Holy Spirit—He is not only revealing more of Himself to us but also shaping us into the kind of people who reflect His love and truth in the world.

As we journey in faith, may we remain open to these divine encounters, always testing them against Scripture and seeking God’s wisdom in how they shape our identity and calling. And most importantly, may we use what God teaches us not just for our own growth but to encourage, strengthen, and build up the Church.

So let’s return to the question: What divine encounter has significantly transformed your life?

Whatever it may be, may you embrace it as part of God’s greater plan—not just for you, but for His people. Let us be faithful stewards of what He reveals, sharing His love, wisdom, and grace with those around us so that together, we may stand as a covenant people, reflecting His glory in the world.

Theology and Our Relationship with God

"Hence, the reality of faith itself — our commitment to the God revealed in Christ — calls forth theological reflection." — Stanley Grenz, Theology for the Community of God (p. 1)

As a parent of school-aged children, I frequently confront the reality that, while assisting them with their homework, I struggle to remember what they are learning. More often than I’d like to admit, I find myself turning to Google in search of the correct answers.

This experience illustrates a crucial truth: our knowledge of the world is limited. It is constrained by what we have learned, what we can recall, and the information available to us. There is no one person who possesses comprehensive knowledge about everything. Indeed, even specialists in a given field have gaps in their understanding. These gaps encourage us to engage in deeper inquiry and study.

This is true for the most important of all areas of inquiry: God.

The Need for Theological Reflection

Too often, because our contemporary culture emphasizes the “relationship” aspect of God, we feel like the study of God makes that relationship all about intellectual knowledge. We figure that because it is like a relationship, we will learn what we need along the way, through our experience. Unfortunately, this reality has contributed to the American Church not fully understanding who God is and how He expects us to live.

In a typical interpersonal relationship, we come to know another person through shared experiences. These moments reveal their character and provide us ample opportunities to engage in conversation and ask questions. However, our relationship with God operates differently. The experiences we have with Him must be interpreted through the lens of Scripture. The Bible serves as our primary source for understanding both who God is and His will for the world. Part of nurturing our relationship with God involves dedicating time to study and meditate on the Bible, which helps us in truly knowing Him.

We Are All Theologians

Many of us do not identify as theologians. For much of my life, I viewed myself simply as a Bible student, with the academic discipline of theology seeming distant and inaccessible. We often perceive theology through an academic lens, characterized by complex terminology and intricate ideas. This perception can lead to the conclusion that theology is irrelevant to our relationship with God.

It is true that theology can feel out of reach and not practical to following Jesus, but that is not all theology is. At its core, the work of theology is the work of thinking well about God. Understanding that God is the Creator is the work of theology. Knowing that God is Trinity is also the work of theology. As we think through what the Bible says about God, we are engaged in the task of theology.

Since theology is thinking well about God, then we engage in theology whenever we ponder His nature, His works, or His will for our lives. It is important for us to remember that theology is not merely an academic pursuit for scholars in seminaries; it is a necessary discipline for every believer who desires to grow in their faith. To follow Jesus faithfully requires that we take time to deepen our understanding of God through study, reflection, and application.

The Foundation of Theology

The foundation for theology is always Scripture. While it is true that nature reflects the glory of God, it is Scripture alone that provides us with the information that we need to truly understand who God is. Reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible are important parts of theology; they provide the correct input we need to think well about God. Without a solid grounding in Scripture, our thoughts about God can easily be shaped by cultural assumptions, personal experiences, or misconceptions rather than by biblical truth.

Yet, theology is not merely an individual endeavor. The Church, both historically and presently, plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of God. Throughout history, faithful believers have wrestled with Scripture, created doctrines, and provided insights that help us think rightly about God. Engaging with the teachings of the Church helps guard against error and deepens our understanding by connecting us with the wisdom of the faithful people who have gone before us.

Theology Leads to Transformation

The goal of theology is not merely learning more information but fostering a deeper love for God and maturing our faith. Jesus taught that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). Loving God with our mind implies engaging in the work of theology—seeking to know Him rightly so that we may worship Him more fully and live in obedience to His will.

When we neglect theology, we risk distorting our understanding of God and living according to a false perception of Him. A faith that is not grounded in truth is susceptible to error, doubt, and instability. However, when we commit ourselves to theological reflection, we equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to discern truth and to stand firm in our faith.

Ultimately, theology is a pursuit that leads to transformation. As we grow in our knowledge of God, our hearts are strengthened in commitment, our lives better reflect the character of Jesus, and our purpose aligns with God’s heart. Theology is not just about thinking well; it is also about living well. It is about knowing God so that we might love Him more deeply and follow Him more faithfully.