Thursday, November 21, 2013

Simple Truths

The Christian life comes down to two words: In ChristIn Christ is the sphere, origin, destination, foundation, and power source for our very existence. This weekend, in wrapping up our ID series, we will explore the depth of those two words.  Until then, enjoy these 10 truths that we live in because when we are “In Christ.” Read slowly and soak in these truths:
  1. In Christ Jesus we were given grace before the world was created. 2 Timothy 1:9 “He gave us grace in Christ Jesus before the ages began.”
  2. In Christ Jesus we were chosen by God before creation. Ephesians 1:4 “God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world.”
  3. In Christ Jesus we are loved by God with an inseparable love. Romans 8:38-38 “I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
  4. In Christ Jesus we were redeemed and forgiven for all our sins. Ephesians 1:7In Christ we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses.”
  5. In Christ Jesus we have eternal life. Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
  6. In Christ Jesus we have become a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 
  7. In Christ Jesus we have been seated in the heavenly places. Ephesians 2:6 “God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”
  8. In Christ Jesus all the promises of God are Yes for us. 2 Corinthians 5:20 All the promises of God find their Yes in Christ.”
  9. In Christ Jesus you are saints. 1 Corinthians 1:2 “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus.”
  10. In Christ Jesus the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds. Philippians 4:7 “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  11. In Christ Jesus we have eternal life. Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
If this list doesn’t cause you to savor Christ, check your pulse friends! I am grateful to Dr. John Piper and his insights, which have aided greatly to this summary. Come Sunday ready to reflect, ready to celebrate and dedicate our reopened bridge, ready to meet guests and worship as a community.   I love being your pastor!