Calvary Bible Church-NH

Biblical principles empower our ability to reap what we sow. Today we'll look at four principles the Bible gives for generosity: giving systematically, proportionally, cheerfully, and generously.

Our stewardship should be a reflection of Christ's Lordship in our lives. Once we establish that the Lord owns it all our role becomes clear: our stewardship was meant to be used to serve Christ, His body, and to show a lost world the joy and contentment we have in owning nothing this world has to offer.

In our first sermon on what the Bible says about giving, we see that generosity is a gift from our generous God, and it's the outward expression of inward affections.

As we close our series in Colossians, we see that those who follow Jesus are called to grow in our communication, fellowship, and ministry.

Jesus' resurrection makes new life possible (get we can an amen on that?), and because of this new life, we're all on a journey together toward spiritual understanding and maturity as we follow Him. Everyone has a Next Step on their spiritual journey...what's yours?

We have Christ-Centered Responsibilities in our family and work life: in Christ we are responsible to have Harmonious Homes, and by offering ourselves to God through our work, we can reach others with the Gospel.

In the bustling rhythm of our lives, it's easy to lose sight of the profound truth that Jesus not only offers us salvation but also invites us into a transformative journey. As we delve into Colossians 3:1-17, we uncover the profound reality that above all, Christ has the power to reshape our lives, infusing them with purpose and meaning.

In this passage, the apostle Paul addresses the Colossian church, warning them against false teachings. These teachings emphasized external rules, rituals, and self-denial as a means to righteousness. However, Paul emphasizes that true transformation comes from a heart changed by the gospel of Jesus Christ, not mere adherence to regulations. To combat deceptive philosophy, we must cling to Christ-Centered convictions.

Christ is all you need to be spiritually alive. Christ is our confirmation, our divine liberator, and our victory.

Last week we were challenged to examine how we have organized our life in light of Jesus’ preeminence. This week, Paul moves into a personal testimony of how he has been changed by this revelation in his own life.

Jesus is above all. Only Jesus can transform us from darkness to light, and apart from Him we are alienated enemies of God. As we study the preeminence of Jesus, we need to ask ourselves....does Jesus have first place in our lives?

As we begin our study in Colossians, we see three responses to Jesus being over all: celebrate, pray, and live as one who is redeemed.

You are responsible to follow Jesus. But what is a disciple of Jesus, why does it matter, how does one live as a disciple, and what is Calvary's role in helping you?

Judgment & Accountability and Forgiveness vs. Accountability can be hard tensions to balance. However, when we recognize our own sin and need for Jesus, judgment yields gracious accountability. When we focus on the forgiveness we've been given, accountability goes from wanting revenge to wanting good for the other person.

The great spiritual battle comes down to two kingdoms in conflict: the Kingdom of God vs the Kingdom of Self. Only a clear view of God's unending grace can make you love God's Kingdom more than yourself.

Sometimes, things don't make sense to us, and we don't understand what God is doing. Today, we are reminded that God desires to shape us (not destroy us), God reserves the right to deal with us His way, and that God can and will deal with rebellion against His sovereignty.

Scripture frequently presents us with tensions. It offers truths that seem to push and pull on one another. Tension is often a negative word, but tension isn't always an indicator that something's wrong. The more God stretches us, the more he can use us, and the more we will delight in Him. Embracing these healthy tensions leads to spiritual wisdom and fulfillment.

Our plans might be motivated by good intentions and appear to be righteous, but they may still not line up with the Lord's will. Our best response to God's "no" is to say "yes" to what he has for us instead.

Christmas is about God fulfilling a promise woven into the Old Testament: He will be with us, and that's what we celebrate.