Tag Archives: Peace

The Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12)

Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount with eight blessings[1] that describe the character of those who have entered the kingdom of God. While it is impossible in this life for any one disciple to perfectly meet these descriptions, they are nonetheless Jesus’ description of a Christian. What does Jesus mean when He says someoneContinueContinue reading “The Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12)”

I Am a Unifying Church Member (Ephesians 4:1-3)

(Pastor’s note: This sermon is part of a series of messages based on the book “I Am a Church Member” by Thom Rainer.) Dysfunctional churches are a poor representation of the body of Christ. Churches become dysfunctional when they stop striving to “maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph 4:3).ContinueContinue reading “I Am a Unifying Church Member (Ephesians 4:1-3)”

4 Helpful Reminders for Living Peaceably (Genesis 21:22-34)

Conflict is inevitable. You can try hard to avoid it, but the Bible says that “all have sinned” (Rom 3:23); therefore, the potential for conflict is always present. This is why the Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:18, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Even though sin isContinueContinue reading “4 Helpful Reminders for Living Peaceably (Genesis 21:22-34)”

Our Values: A Mighty Flowing River

While a lake may be beautiful, a river is powerful. Jesus designed His church to be more like a powerful river rather than a leisurely lake. While many factors contribute to this power, consider that it is the banks of the river that channel energy and momentum. Last week we discussed what we are supposedContinueContinue reading “Our Values: A Mighty Flowing River”

Blessed are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)

Conflict is unavoidable.  The sooner one accepts that fact the better.  Everyone, at some time or another, will be embroiled in conflict and hostility.  Conflict may mean anything from harsh words to loss of property or life.  Jesus was no stranger to conflict.  He experienced conflict and spoke on the subject on many occasions.  InContinueContinue reading “Blessed are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)”

Beware of Cheap Imitations (Luke 13:10-17)

It has been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.  That may or may not be true.  Sometimes imitation can be good.  I am thankful for some imitations such as “generics” (medication, food, etc.) because they usually imitate the real product well for a fraction of the cost.  Sometimes, however, imitation is notContinueContinue reading “Beware of Cheap Imitations (Luke 13:10-17)”

Palm Sunday: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry (Mark 11:1-11)

A remarkable aspect of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem was that He entered Jerusalem on a colt (a young donkey). Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not walk into Jerusalem as He had always done before? With the exception of traveling by boat, this is the only instance recorded in Scripture of Jesus notContinueContinue reading “Palm Sunday: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry (Mark 11:1-11)”

Jesus: The Great Divider (Luke 12:49-53)

Who said the following? I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but ratherContinueContinue reading “Jesus: The Great Divider (Luke 12:49-53)”