Posts with the tag “good-news”

Pastor Carrie Erikson discusses the significance of Jesus' actions in Luke 8:26-39, emphasizing that Jesus embodies the gospel and that his actions provide principles for daily life. She highlights Jesus' intentional journey to the Gentile region of the Gerasenes, where he encounters a man possessed by demons. Jesus' presence immediately brings freedom, as the demons recognize his authority and are cast out, leading to the man's healing. However, the townsfolk react with fear and rejection, asking Jesus to leave. Pastor Carrie underscores that the gospel brings freedom, rejection, and a mandate to share one's testimony, urging the congregation to let God heal rejection and to share their testimonies.  Read More

Pastor Carrie discusses the importance of hearing, understanding, and obeying God's word, as exemplified in Luke 8. She highlights Jesus' tour, his teachings, and the significance of parables, particularly the parable of the sower and the seed, which illustrates the varying impacts of God's word. Carrie emphasizes that true faith is revealed in times of storms, urging believers to trust in Jesus' authority over all things. She concludes by encouraging listeners to trust in God's power and not to let fear control them, citing scriptures to support her message.  Read More

Pastor Matt discusses the true essence of the gospel, emphasizing grace and mercy over fear and judgment. He contrasts the spirit of religion, which demands impossible standards and judgment, with the gospel, which offers mercy and transformation. Using John 8, he illustrates how Jesus' response to the woman caught in adultery highlights mercy and forgiveness, challenging the religious leaders' hypocrisy. Pastor Matt encourages repentance, not as a burden but as a transformative act leading to a life free from sin. He calls for a shift from religious practices to a genuine relationship with Jesus, emphasizing that the gospel changes lives and should be evident in daily actions and interactions.  Read More

Pastor Matt introduces a new series titled "Simple Gospel," focusing on the positive aspects of the gospel rather than fear-based teachings. He defines the Gospels as the first four books of the New Testament and emphasizes the Bible's inerrancy. The message centers on Mark 2, where Jesus heals a paralyzed man, illustrating the power of faith and forgiveness. Pastor Matt distinguishes between good friends and godly friends, stressing the importance of fruitfulness in a believer's life. He warns against reducing spirituality to familiarity and encourages pursuing godly friends who embody faith, forgiveness, and the fullness of life.  Read More