The Results of our Justification

Conrad Hilario
Romans 5:1-11

Paul outlines several results of our justification, including peace, hope, perseverance, and the ability to rejoice, even in suffering.

Our Despair in Adam, Our Hope in Christ

Chris Hearty
Romans 5:12-21

Adam was an imperfect earlier type of the perfect type to come later, Jesus Christ. In chapter five of Romans, Paul gives several ways Jesus perfected Adam's errors. Through Adam, many died, but through the grace of Jesus, eternal life is available to all people. Adam brought condemnation , but Christ brought forgiveness. Adam brought a reign of death, but, much more did Christ bring a reign of life. Adam's single act brought death, but Christ's single act brought life, and abundantly.

Friends of God

Chris Hearty
Romans 5:0

Faith is not a blind leap but a trusting in God and His promises. We can boldly enter the throne room of grace if we have been declared righteous by faith in Jesus Christ. While we were still sinners, God made a way for us to be friends with God through faith in Jesus Christ. Now that we are friends with God, we can rejoice and have peace in all circumstances.

Entering God's Rest

Ryan Lowery
Hebrews 4:1-16

The author of Hebrews says we should fear failing to enter God's rest. Contrary to popular opinion, Christians should not fear rejecting God's provision and losing their salvation (for that would be inconsistent with the rest of scripture), but rather, we should fear failing to embrace the fullness of life God has in store for those who trust and rest in him.

The God Who is There in Conflict

Bev DeLashmutt
Romans 2:1-3

Unresolved conflict stirs up many negative emotions, including confusion for how God is involved. God does, however, have a will for conflict, and it is that he seeks to be glorified. He is glorified both through resolution and when even one person obeys his principles for conflict. This means that no matter how the other person may respond, we are responsible for our own response. We are called to withhold judgement, address our own failure first, relate wisely, seek God for our needs, and treat the other as we want to be treated. Through these steps, we can have a more God-centered approach and response to conflict.

Satan Is on Your Leadership Team

Ryan Weingartner
James 4:7-8

While Satan may not be visible to us, we can be sure that he is actively involved on our leadership teams. One of his particular ministries is accusing people to each other, dividing teams of Christians. In order to combat Satan and his attempts to thwart our mission and unity, we must first recognize his presence and identify is common targets. Then in our awareness, our commitment to spend time together, and our focus on positive things we can in turn thwart the evil one.

Joy & Peace

Jim Leffel
Matthew 7:9-11

The peace that we can receive from God can enable us to have peace in our lives regardless of the circumstances or turmoil in our lives. In this way, we can effectively attempt to meet the pressing needs of others. We're taught, here, how to practically cultivate God's peace so that we can better meet these needs.

The Stewardship Approach to Resolving Conflict

Conrad Hilario
1 Corinthians 6:1-8

The Apostle Paul addresses the unhealthy ways the Corinthian church was handling conflicts with one another. Because conflict is inevitable whenever there are close relationships, we, too, will certainly face conflict at times. Eight steps for resolving conflict in a Biblical way can not only save our relationships but allow our lives and churches to bring glory to God in the midst of conflict.

Finding Rest for your Soul

Gary DeLashmutt
Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus tells followers how they can find rest for their souls by following him. What does it mean to take on his yoke? How can we understand being gentle and humble of heart?