North Grenville Community Church

Freedom in Christ is often misunderstood. While many claim to be free, true biblical freedom has a deeper meaning that goes beyond political or personal autonomy.

What Does It Mean to Be “Free” in Christ?

Jesus teaches that true freedom comes through knowing and following Him. In John 8:31-32, He states that when we hold to His teachings and know the truth, we will be set free. This freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want – it’s about being liberated from sin’s control over our lives.

How Does Sin Enslave Us?

Many people don’t recognize their need for freedom because they’re blind to their own sin. Just as the people in Jesus’ time claimed they weren’t slaves to anything, people today often don’t see how sin entraps them. This can manifest in:

• Inability to keep commitments
• Struggling to love others
• Destructive patterns of behavior
• Addiction
• Anger and unforgiveness

What Makes the Free Methodist Approach Different?

The Free Methodist church embraces several key principles:

• Freedom from sin through Christ
• Free will in choosing salvation
• Freedom to serve and submit
• Freedom from legalism
• Freedom in worship and spiritual expression

How Should Christians Use Their Freedom?

According to Galatians 5, Christians are called to use their freedom not for self-indulgence but to serve others in love. This creates a balance between two extremes:

Legalism: Using freedom to impose strict rules

Liberalism: Using freedom as an excuse for sin

True Christian freedom means being:

• Free from sin’s control
• Free to choose Christ
• Free to serve others
• Free to submit to authority
• Free to follow the Spirit’s leading

Life Application

This week, consider how you’re using your freedom in Christ:

Are there areas where sin still has a grip on your life?

How can you use your freedom to better serve others?

Are you living in legalism or license rather than true freedom?

Challenge yourself to identify one area where you need to experience more of Christ’s freedom, and take practical steps toward that freedom through prayer, accountability, and active faith.

Remember: True freedom isn’t about doing whatever you want – it’s about being free to become who God created you to be and serving others in love.

Introduction

Welcome to our journey of faith and mission. We are the Ja Eue family—Matthew, Alison, Josiah, and Mikaela. We are excited to share how God has called us to spread the love of Jesus among the unreached Isaan people in Northeast Thailand. Our story is one of divine guidance, prayer, and perseverance, and we hope it inspires you to reflect on your own calling and the power of prayer in your life.

A Journey of Divine Guidance

From War-Torn Myanmar to Missionary Calling

Matthew’s journey began in the midst of conflict in Shan State, Myanmar. Born prematurely during a war, his parents dedicated him to serve the Lord. After fleeing to Thailand to escape the violence, God planted the seed of a missionary calling in his heart. This calling was confirmed when he met an American missionary at his Buddhist boarding school. Matthew’s path led him to complete a Bachelor of Theology in Bangkok and receive mission training at James O. Fraser Center, where he met Alison.

Alison’s Path to Thailand

Alison grew up in a godly home with a passion for missions, instilled by her home church, Chapel Ridge Free Methodist Church. After three mission trips to Africa, God redirected her to Thailand for a university exchange. It quickly became clear that Thailand was where God had been preparing her to serve. After Matthew served as the lead pastor in a Thai church for two years, Alison and Matthew got married and began their mission together.

Miracles and Ministry in Northern Thailand

God’s Power in a Shan Village

After their wedding, Matthew and Alison served in a Shan village, Muang Na on the Thailand-Myanmar border. Despite warnings of the village being hard ground, God showed up powerfully. When Sujira, who had been sick for seven years, was healed after their prayers, it led her relative Mae Tong to become interested in Jesus. This miracle sparked a wave of faith in the village, with many experiencing God’s power firsthand.

Reaching Out to Teenagers

One of their focuses was on teenagers, using music, English, entertainment, and food to reach out. Teenagers experienced answered prayers, and some put their faith in Jesus, which opened doors to reach their families. Dtem, one of the teenagers, experienced God’s power when his motorbike started immediately after a simple prayer. He invited Matthew and Alison to pray for his uncle Lung Nae on his deathbed. Lung Nae believed and was healed by God!

The Burden for the Isaan People

A Call to the Unreached

While serving in Northern Thailand, God placed a burden on their hearts for the Isaan people, an unreached group in Northeast Thailand. The Isaan people, marginalized and overlooked, suffer from persistent poverty and have deeply rooted traditional beliefs. With only 0.01% evangelical believers, the need for the gospel is immense.

Vision Trips and Confirmation

Two vision trips to the Isaan region confirmed their calling. They joined Pioneers, a mission organization focused on making Christ known among unreached people groups. They plan to move back to Thailand in March 2025 for their first four-year term, focusing on evangelism, healing prayer ministry, and home church planting in rural villages.

Lessons from Nehemiah: Responding to God’s Burden

The Power of Prayer

Nehemiah’s story resonates deeply with Matthew and Alison. Nehemiah’s burden for Jerusalem led him to pray and fast for four months before taking action. His reliance on prayer and God’s guidance is a powerful example for all believers. When faced with challenges, Nehemiah prayed and trusted God to open doors, just as Matthew and Alison have experienced in their ministry.

Perseverance Through Trials

Nehemiah faced considerable opposition while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, but he persevered through prayer and practical steps. Similarly, Matthew and Alison have faced spiritual battles and opposition in their ministry. They have seen God’s power overcome obstacles, such as the healing of Sujira and the spiritual battles they encountered in the village.

Life Application

Embrace Your Burden

Reflect on the burdens God has placed on your heart. Whether it’s for children, youth, vulnerable people, or a specific group, turn that burden into action through prayer and practical steps. Just as Nehemiah and the Ja Eue family did, seek God’s guidance and trust Him to open doors.

The Power of Prayer

Commit to a life of prayer. Nehemiah’s story and the experiences of Matthew and Alison show the power of prayer in overcoming obstacles and seeing God’s hand at work. Make prayer a central part of your life and ministry.

Persevere Through Trials

When faced with challenges, remember Nehemiah’s example of perseverance. Trust that God is with you and will fight for you. Take practical steps to address challenges while relying on God’s strength and guidance.

Questions for Reflection

Conclusion

The journey of faith and mission is one of divine guidance, prayer, and perseverance. As you reflect on the story of the Ja Eue family and the lessons from Nehemiah, consider how God is calling you to respond to the burdens on your heart. Embrace the power of prayer, persevere through trials, and trust that God will guide and empower you in your journey. Together, we can bring the hope and love of Jesus to those who need it most.

Introduction

The Visit of the Magi: Recognizing the King

Who Were the Magi?

The Magi, often referred to as wise men, traveled from the East to Jerusalem, guided by a star, in search of the newborn King of the Jews. Their journey symbolizes the recognition of Jesus’ kingship by the Gentiles, emphasizing that Jesus came for all people.

The Significance of Their Gifts

Upon finding Jesus, the Magi presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were not only valuable but also symbolic:
– Gold: Representing Jesus’ kingship.
– Frankincense: Symbolizing His priestly role.
– Myrrh: Foreshadowing His suffering and death.

Herod’s Reaction

Jesus’ Early Ministry: From Baptism to Miracles

The Gap in Time

The sermon highlighted the 30-year gap between Jesus’ birth and the start of His ministry. During this period, Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, preparing for His mission. This gap reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, even when it seems slow to us.

John the Baptist’s Role

John the Baptist played a crucial role in preparing the way for Jesus. Despite his own successful ministry, John recognized that he must decrease so that Jesus could increase. His humility and recognition of Jesus’ superiority are powerful lessons for us.

The First Miracle

Trusting God’s Promises

Holding On to Faith

The sermon emphasized the importance of holding on to God’s promises, even when our plans don’t go as expected. Mary treasured the prophecies about Jesus in her heart, waiting patiently for His time to come.

Dealing with Doubt

The Simple Gospel Message

Belief in the Son

John 3:36 encapsulates the core of the gospel: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” This simple yet profound message is the cornerstone of Christian faith.

The Connection Between Christmas and Easter

Life Application

Embracing Humility and Trust

As we reflect on the sermon, we are challenged to embrace humility and trust in God’s plans. Like John the Baptist, we must recognize that our lives are meant to glorify Jesus, not ourselves.

Questions for Reflection
1. How can I trust God’s timing in my life, especially when my plans don’t go as expected?
2. In what areas of my life do I need to decrease so that Jesus can increase?
3. How can I hold on to God’s promises during times of doubt and uncertainty?

Weekly Challenge

Conclusion

The journey from Jesus’ birth to His ministry teaches us valuable lessons about faith, patience, and humility. By trusting in God’s timing and holding on to His promises, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence. Let us strive to make Jesus greater in our lives, embracing the simple yet profound message of the gospel.

Introduction

As we approach Christmas, it’s fitting to reflect on the story of Mary, a central figure in the nativity narrative. Her journey, filled with unexpected turns and divine encounters, offers profound lessons on faith, trust, and the power of God’s promises. This summary will delve into Mary’s story, exploring how her experiences can inspire and guide us in our own faith journeys.

Who Was Mary in the Bible?

Mary, a young woman from Nazareth, was chosen by God to bear His Son, Jesus. Her story is not just about the miraculous birth but also about her unwavering faith amidst fear and uncertainty. When the angel Gabriel visited her, she was initially troubled, much like many other biblical characters who encountered divine messengers.

How Did Mary React to God’s Plan?

Mary’s initial reaction to the angel’s message was one of fear and confusion. Despite being told she was highly favored, she struggled to understand how she, a virgin, could conceive a child. This reaction is relatable; often, God’s plans for us can seem daunting and beyond our comprehension.

The Role of Fear in Faith

Fear is a common theme in the nativity story. Zechariah, Joseph, the shepherds, and even Herod experienced fear when confronted with God’s plans. Today, we too are often gripped by fear, whether from personal challenges or the overwhelming negativity in the world. Yet, the consistent message from God is “Do not be afraid.”

Trusting in God’s Word

Mary’s story teaches us the importance of trusting in God’s Word. Despite her doubts, she clung to the angel’s message and the promises of God. This trust is crucial, especially when our own plans are disrupted. God’s Word is a steadfast anchor in times of uncertainty.

The Power of Community and Testimony

Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth highlights the importance of community and shared faith. Elizabeth’s own miraculous pregnancy served as a testament to God’s faithfulness, encouraging Mary to trust in God’s promises. Similarly, we need the support and testimonies of our faith community to strengthen our own belief.

Holding on to God’s Promises

Mary’s song of praise, known as the Magnificat, reflects her deep trust in God’s promises. She recognized that God’s mercy and faithfulness extend from generation to generation. This acknowledgment of God’s enduring promises can inspire us to hold on to our faith, even when circumstances are challenging.

Life Application

Applying Mary’s Lessons to Our Lives

Mary’s journey teaches us several key lessons:
1. Embrace God’s Plan: Even when it disrupts our own, trust that God has a greater purpose.
2. Overcome Fear with Faith: Remember that God’s message is one of hope and not fear.
3. Seek Community Support: Lean on your faith community for encouragement and strength.
4. Hold on to God’s Promises: Trust that God’s Word never fails.

Questions for Reflection

1. How do I react when my plans are disrupted?
2. What fears am I holding onto that prevent me from fully trusting God?
3. Who in my faith community can I turn to for support and encouragement?
4. What promises from God’s Word can I hold onto during challenging times?

Conclusion

Mary’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, trust, and community. As we navigate our own journeys, let us draw inspiration from her example, holding onto God’s promises and supporting one another in faith. This week, challenge yourself to trust in God’s plan, seek support from your faith community, and hold onto the promise that God’s Word never fails.

Introduction

During the Advent season, we have been exploring the characters of the Christmas story and how their lives were interrupted by God’s divine plans. From Zechariah and Elizabeth to King Herod, Joseph, and now the shepherds, each story reveals a common theme: life changes unexpectedly, but God’s plans are always greater. This summary will delve into the lessons we can learn from these biblical characters and how we can apply them to our own lives.

Zechariah and Elizabeth: Trusting God’s Timing

Zechariah and Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist, experienced a divine interruption when an angel announced the birth of their son. Despite their old age, they trusted God’s timing and plan. This story reminds us that God’s promises may not align with our timelines, but they are always fulfilled in His perfect timing.

King Herod: The Danger of Resisting God’s Plan

King Herod’s interaction with the wise men highlights the danger of resisting God’s plan. Herod’s fear and desire for control led him to oppose the birth of Jesus. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of trying to thwart God’s will and the importance of surrendering to His greater plan.

Joseph: Embracing Unexpected Changes

Joseph’s life was turned upside down when he learned that Mary was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Despite his initial shock and confusion, Joseph chose to trust God’s plan and embrace the unexpected changes. His story teaches us the importance of faith and obedience, even when our plans are disrupted.

The Shepherds: Worship in the Midst of Fear

The shepherds were ordinary people going about their daily lives when an angel appeared to them, announcing the birth of Jesus. Their initial reaction was fear, but they were reassured with the message, “Do not be afraid.” This encounter led them to worship and spread the good news. The shepherds’ story illustrates that worship can be a powerful response to fear and uncertainty.

Coping with Life’s Interruptions

In today’s world, we often talk about coping mechanisms to deal with stress and unexpected changes. While techniques like deep breathing can be helpful, as believers, we have a unique resource: worship. Worshiping God can provide peace and grounding, even in the midst of life’s chaos. When we declare that Jesus is Lord, we acknowledge His sovereignty over our circumstances, which can bring comfort and joy.

Biblical Examples of Worship in Difficult Times

Job: Worship in Suffering

Job, known for his immense suffering, declared, “The Lord gives and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” Despite his trials, Job chose to worship God, demonstrating that worship can be a source of strength and resilience in difficult times.

The Shepherds: Immediate Worship

The shepherds’ immediate response to the angel’s message was to go and see Jesus. They then spread the word and returned, glorifying and praising God. Their story shows that worship can be a spontaneous and natural reaction to encountering God’s presence.

The Wise Men: Worship Despite Danger

The wise men traveled a great distance and faced potential danger from King Herod to worship Jesus. Their journey and the gifts they brought symbolize the importance of seeking and honoring God, even when it requires sacrifice.

The Disciples: Worship in Doubt

After Jesus’ resurrection, the disciples worshiped Him, even though some doubted. This teaches us that worship is not contingent on having all the answers or being free from doubt. It is an act of faith and trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty.

Life Application

Embrace Worship as a Coping Strategy

When life doesn’t go as planned, turn to worship. Worshiping God can shift our focus from our problems to His greatness, providing peace and perspective.

Reflect on God’s Faithfulness

Consider the times in your life when God has been faithful, even in the midst of fear and uncertainty. Let these memories fuel your worship and trust in Him.

Challenge for the Week

This week, make a conscious effort to worship God daily, especially when you feel stressed or afraid. Whether through prayer, singing, or reading scripture, let worship be your response to life’s interruptions.

Questions to Ponder

1. How do you typically react when your plans are disrupted?
2. What are some ways you can incorporate worship into your daily routine?
3. How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness during challenging times?

Conclusion

The Christmas story is filled with examples of lives interrupted by God’s divine plans. From Zechariah and Elizabeth to the shepherds, each character teaches us valuable lessons about trust, obedience, and worship. As we navigate our own life’s interruptions, let us remember to turn to worship, trusting that God’s plans are always greater than our own.

Introduction

In our recent series, we’ve been exploring the characters surrounding the birth of Jesus. We’ve delved into the lives of Zechariah, King Herod, and now, Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. This week, we focus on Joseph’s story as found in Matthew 1:18-25, examining how he navigated the unexpected and challenging news of Mary’s divine pregnancy. This narrative offers profound insights into faith, trust, and the acceptance of God’s plan, even when it disrupts our own.

Who Was Joseph?

Joseph’s Initial Plans

Joseph was a young man engaged to Mary, filled with dreams and plans for their future together. Like many of us, he had a vision of how his life would unfold. However, his plans were dramatically interrupted when he discovered that Mary was pregnant through the Holy Spirit. This revelation would have been incredibly challenging, requiring immense faith and trust in God’s plan.

The Struggle with Divine Intervention

Joseph’s initial reaction was to divorce Mary quietly to avoid public disgrace. This decision highlights his character—he was a righteous man who wanted to do the right thing without causing harm. However, an angel appeared to him in a dream, instructing him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife because her child was conceived by the Holy Spirit. This divine intervention required Joseph to shift his perspective and trust in a plan far greater than his own.

Lessons from Joseph’s Story

Embracing God’s Plan Over Our Own

Joseph’s story teaches us that our plans are often subject to change when God intervenes. We may have a clear vision of our future, but God’s plan can redirect us in ways we never imagined. This redirection is not always easy to accept, but it is essential to trust that God’s ways are higher than our ways.

Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty

Joseph’s faith was tested when he had to accept the angel’s message and take Mary as his wife. This act of faith required him to believe in the supernatural and trust that God was in control, even when the situation seemed impossible. Similarly, our faith is often tested when our plans are disrupted. We must choose to trust in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with our expectations.

The Bigger Picture

Joseph’s acceptance of God’s plan had far-reaching implications. His obedience played a crucial role in the fulfillment of the prophecy of Emmanuel, “God with us.” This reminds us that our lives are part of a larger narrative. God’s plan is not just about us; it encompasses a greater purpose that we may not fully understand.

Life Application

Applying Joseph’s Lessons to Our Lives

Joseph’s story challenges us to trust in God’s plan, even when it disrupts our own. Here are some questions to reflect on this week:

1. How do I react when my plans are disrupted? Do I trust that God has a greater plan, or do I resist the change?
2. Am I willing to embrace uncertainty with faith? How can I strengthen my trust in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense to me?
3. Do I see my life as part of a larger narrative? How can I align my actions with God’s greater purpose?

A Challenge for the Week

This week, challenge yourself to embrace any disruptions in your plans as opportunities to trust in God’s greater plan. Reflect on Joseph’s story and remember that God’s ways are higher than our ways. Seek God’s guidance in prayer and be open to the unexpected paths He may lead you on.

Conclusion

Joseph’s journey teaches us valuable lessons about faith, trust, and the acceptance of God’s plan. When our plans are disrupted, we can find comfort in knowing that God is in control and has a greater purpose for our lives. By embracing uncertainty with faith and seeing our lives as part of a larger narrative, we can navigate the challenges and changes with confidence in God’s plan.

Introduction

As we journey through the Advent season, we reflect on the characters in the Christmas story and how God moves in their lives. This week, we delve into Matthew Chapter 2, exploring the narrative of King Herod and the Magi. This passage reveals the contrast between the darkness of the world and the light of Christ, offering us profound lessons on faith, fear, and divine guidance.

The World in Darkness

Why Do We Light Advent Candles?

The Advent candles symbolize the world’s darkness before the arrival of Jesus, the Light of the World. The darker candles remind us of the spiritual and emotional darkness we often feel. This darkness can stem from our own flesh, the world around us, or spiritual forces. Yet, the anticipation of lighting the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve signifies the hope and light that Jesus brings into our lives.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare

Spiritual warfare is a reality, as evidenced by the experiences of many believers. While some churches emphasize this more than others, it’s crucial to recognize that darkness exists in various forms. Whether it’s our own struggles, the world’s challenges, or spiritual battles, without God, we remain in darkness. However, Jesus came to lead us through this darkness, offering hope and guidance.

The Story of King Herod and the Magi

Who Were the Magi?

The Magi, or wise men from the East, came to Jerusalem seeking the newborn King of the Jews. Their journey was guided by a star, leading them to Jesus. This story highlights the tension between those who seek to worship God and those who oppose Him.

Herod’s Disturbance

King Herod was disturbed by the news of Jesus’ birth, as it threatened his power and pride. This reaction mirrors the world’s resistance to the message of Christ. Many people are uncomfortable with the idea of sin and the need for a Savior, preferring to live in denial of their flaws.

The Magi’s Encounter with Herod

Herod’s secret meeting with the Magi reveals his deceitful intentions. He pretended to want to worship Jesus, but his true motive was to eliminate the threat to his throne. This teaches us to be cautious of those who may appear supportive but have ulterior motives.

Divine Guidance and Protection

The Magi’s Dream

God warned the Magi in a dream not to return to Herod, leading them to take a different route home. This divine intervention shows that God is always watching over us, guiding us away from danger.

Joseph’s Dream

Similarly, Joseph received a warning in a dream to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus to escape Herod’s wrath. This act of obedience protected Jesus from Herod’s decree to kill all boys two years old and under in Bethlehem.

The Return to Israel

After Herod’s death, an angel instructed Joseph to return to Israel. Despite his fear, Joseph followed God’s guidance, eventually settling in Nazareth. This journey illustrates that God provides direction one step at a time, even in the face of fear and uncertainty.

Life Application

Trusting God’s Guidance

The story of the Magi and Joseph teaches us to trust God’s guidance, even when we face darkness and fear. God provides direction and protection, often one step at a time. This week, challenge yourself to seek God’s guidance in your daily life and trust that He will lead you through any trials you face.

Questions for Reflection

1. What areas of your life feel dark or uncertain right now?
2. How can you seek God’s guidance in these areas?
3. Are there any fears or anxieties you need to surrender to God?
4. How can you be a light in the darkness for others this week?

Conclusion

The narrative of Matthew Chapter 2 reminds us that, despite the darkness in the world, God’s light shines through. By trusting in His guidance and protection, we can navigate life’s challenges with hope and faith. As we continue through the Advent season, let us remember that Jesus is the Light of the World, leading us through the darkness and into His marvelous light.

Introduction

As we approach the Advent season, it’s a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ. This week, we delve into the prequel of the Christmas story from the book of Luke, exploring the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth. Their story offers profound lessons on faith, patience, and God’s greater plan for our lives.

The Purpose of Advent

Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time to reflect on the significance of His coming and how it transforms our lives. As we begin this journey, we look at the prelude to the Christmas story, which sets the stage for the miraculous events to come.

Zechariah and Elizabeth: A Story of Faith and Patience

In Luke 1:5-25, we meet Zechariah and Elizabeth, a couple described as righteous and blameless in the sight of God. Despite their faithfulness, they faced the heartache of childlessness. This passage highlights the tension between human plans and God’s divine timing.

The Struggle of Unfulfilled Dreams

Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story resonates with many of us who have experienced unfulfilled dreams and unanswered prayers. They longed for a child, yet remained faithful to God despite their disappointment. This teaches us that our faith should not be contingent on our circumstances but rooted in our trust in God’s greater plan.

God’s Greater Plan

Even when our plans don’t unfold as we expect, God is always at work. Zechariah’s encounter with the angel Gabriel reveals that God had a special plan for their son, John the Baptist. This reminds us that God’s timing and purposes are perfect, even when we don’t understand them.

The Role of John the Baptist

John the Baptist’s mission was to prepare the way for Jesus, turning the hearts of parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous. This mission extends to us today as we prepare our hearts and the hearts of others for the coming of Christ.

Faith Amidst Doubt

Zechariah’s initial doubt and subsequent muteness serve as a reminder that even the faithful can struggle with doubt. However, God’s plan moves forward despite our uncertainties. This encourages us to trust in God’s promises, even when we falter.

Life Application

As we reflect on Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story, we are challenged to trust in God’s greater plan for our lives. This week, consider the following questions:

1. What unfulfilled dreams or unanswered prayers are you holding onto?
2. How can you remain faithful to God despite your current circumstances?
3. In what ways can you prepare your heart and the hearts of others for the coming of Jesus this Advent season?

Conclusion

Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story teaches us that God’s plans are always greater than our own. As we prepare for Advent, let’s trust in His timing and purposes, knowing that He is always at work in our lives. This week, challenge yourself to deepen your faith and prepare your heart for the miraculous events of Christmas.

 Introduction

As we conclude our journey through the book of Colossians, we reflect on the central theme of the supremacy of Jesus Christ and how it translates into our daily lives. This final chapter emphasizes the importance of community, relationships, and the unique roles each of us plays within the body of Christ.

 The Supremacy of Jesus Christ

 Who is Jesus in Creation?

Colossians begins by highlighting the supremacy of Jesus Christ. Jesus is not just a historical figure; He is the Creator of all things. Everything was made by Him, for Him, and through Him. He holds all things together, including our very existence. This foundational truth sets the stage for understanding our relationship with Him and with each other.

 How Does Jesus’ Supremacy Affect Our Lives?

The supremacy of Christ is not just a theological concept; it has practical implications. Jesus’ centrality in creation and the gospel message calls us to worship Him and recognize His authority in our lives. This recognition should transform how we interact with others, leading us to love our neighbors as ourselves.

 Loving God and Loving Our Neighbor

 What Does It Mean to Love God?

Jesus summarized the entirety of the scriptures by commanding us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. This love for God is the foundation of our faith and should be evident in our worship and daily lives.

 How Do We Love Our Neighbor?

Loving our neighbor is a natural extension of our love for God. In Colossians, Paul emphasizes the importance of Christian relationships. We are called to treat others as we would treat Jesus, recognizing that everyone has the potential for redemption. The story of Onesimus, a runaway slave who was redeemed and accepted back as a brother, illustrates this powerful truth.

 The Importance of Community

 Why is Community Essential in the Church?

Paul’s final greetings in Colossians highlight the importance of community. He mentions various individuals who played significant roles in the early church, emphasizing that the Christian journey is not meant to be walked alone. Relationships within the church are crucial for spiritual growth and support.

 How Can We Foster Community?

Building a strong community involves embracing new members, supporting each other, and recognizing the unique gifts each person brings. Whether it’s through hosting others, praying for one another, or serving in different capacities, every action contributes to the health and growth of the church.

 Our Unique Roles in the Body of Christ

 What is My Role in the Church?

Every believer has a unique role within the body of Christ. Paul encourages us to complete the ministry we have received from the Lord. This could be anything from praying, serving, leading, or using specific talents to bless others. The analogy of the body in 1 Corinthians 12 reminds us that every part is essential, whether seen or unseen.

 How Do We Discover Our Gifts?

Discovering our gifts involves seeking God, being in community, and being open to where He leads us. It’s important to recognize that no role is insignificant. Even the smallest acts of service are valuable in God’s eyes.  A spiritual gifts test could be helpful in determining where your gifts lie, you can find a link to a free test here: https://giftstest.com/

 Life Application

 How Can I Apply This Message to My Life?

This week, reflect on your role within the body of Christ. Ask yourself:

– What unique gifts has God given me?

– How can I use these gifts to serve my church and community?

– Am I treating others as I would treat Jesus?

– How can I foster stronger relationships within my church community?

 Challenge for the Week

Identify one way you can actively contribute to your church community this week. Whether it’s volunteering, praying for someone, or simply reaching out to a new member, take a step to live out the love of Christ in a tangible way.

 Conclusion

Understanding the supremacy of Christ and our role in the church transforms how we live and interact with others. By loving God and our neighbors, fostering community, and embracing our unique roles, we can build a strong, unified body of Christ that reflects His love to the world.