Blog Archives

Imitators of Christ

9/25/2024

September 25th – Based on a sermon given September 22nd by Les Kovacs

Christians might have several hesitations when it comes to imitating Christ. Some of His teachings can be very challenging, especially within our modern cultural context. Here are some issues to consider that may challenge you to reflect on your understanding of God’s call to follow Him. Do any apply to you, and if so what practical steps can you take to overcome them?

Fear of Persecution: Following Christ’s example often means standing up for one’s beliefs, which can lead to social, professional, or even physical persecution.
Personal Sacrifice: Imitating Christ involves significant personal sacrifices, such as giving up certain comforts or desires to live a life of service and humility.
Feelings of Unworthiness: Many Christians feel they fall short of Christ’s perfection and may doubt their ability to truly emulate His life and teachings.
Misunderstanding of Christ’s Teachings: Some may struggle with understanding the depth and implications of Christ’s teachings, leading to hesitation in fully committing to them.
Cultural and Societal Pressures: Modern societal values often conflict with Christian teachings, making it challenging to live out one’s faith authentically.

These hesitations are common and can be addressed through church community support, prayer, and continuous learning about Christ’s life and teachings. I hope these questions encourage you to dive into a deeper exploration and understanding of this profound theological concept.

Co-heirs with Christ

9/18/2024

This week's Preacher's Blog is by Kim Salo, based on his sermon of September 15, "Co-heirs with Christ".

1. What is the most significant thing you have inherited?

2. Read Ephesians 1:13-14, and 2 Cor. 1:21-22. How is the Holy Spirit a "down payment", or a deposit that guarantees our full inheritance from God?

3. Read Romans 8:16-18. Why does Paul add after "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ", "if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory"? How do we share in Christ's sufferings?

4. Read 1 Peter 1:3-4. What do you imagine is "an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade - kept in heaven for you"?

Brothers and Sisters

9/11/2024

Read Matthew 12: 46-50:

Who does Jesus consider to be his brothers and sisters?
Does Jesus’ words in this passage help you to grow in appreciation of your brothers and sisters in Christ? Why or why not?
What barriers do you face that prevent you from growing closer with your brothers and sisters of the household of faith?
What are some actions that you can take to overcome these barriers. (See 1 John 3: 11-24).

Children of God

9/4/2024

This blog is a follow-up to the sermon "Children of God", preached on September 1st by Rev. Kim Salo.

1. What are a few of the most important values your parents taught you as a child?

2. Nicodemus in John 3:1-8 is told by Jesus "you must be born again." What did that mean to Nicodemus? To you? Read the passage before you answer.

3. Name areas of Canadian society where Christian influence was once strong but is now weak.

4. What practices have helped you to develop your Christian identity as a child of God over the years?

the Preachers blog

Imitators of Christ

Co-heirs with Christ

Brothers and Sisters

Children of God

Preachers Blog

Archives

Categories