Jesus Did It Different

We often hear the phrase "greater works" and wonder how it applies to our ordinary lives. In John 14, Jesus makes a startling promise: those who trust Him will not only do what He did, but even greater things. But this isn't about our own strength or cleverness; it's about the power of the Holy Spirit and a radical shift in how we view the world.

From Law to Mercy In the Old Testament, the law often required judgment and vengeance. But Jesus arrived and "changed the rules," modeling a new way of mercy over sacrifice. He ate with sinners, forgave the woman caught in adultery, and ultimately offered His life for those who were still His enemies.

Pastor Carrie notes that God’s "vengeance plan" was actually mercy. We see this most clearly in the life of Saul. While Saul was "breathing out murderous threats" against the church, Jesus didn't meet him with a lightning bolt of destruction—He met him with an invitation to a new life.

The Spiritual Inventory
How do we know if we are truly aligned with this message of mercy? Pastor Carrie suggests taking a "spiritual inventory" of our lives:

1. A Responsive Relationship: Is your prayer life a dialog where you hear and respond to God's lead?.
2. A Transformed Identity: Can you see the Holy Spirit giving you the power to say "no" to things you used to say "yes" to?.
3. A Visible Witness: Can people see the reflection of Christ in your actions and how you handle your mistakes?.
4. A Surrendered Will: Have you submitted your plans—your finances, your family, your career—to His better plan?.

A New Friendship
The most incredible news of the Gospel is that we, who were once far away and even enemies of God, have been made friends of God through Jesus. Whether you are taking your first step toward Him today or your next step of obedience, know that He is for you and has good things in store for your life