The Bible is full of references to life in a city. Over the centuries people generally have sought the support and comfort of living together in a community of some kind. Whether they maintained a farm, or a large household, people of all ages, and economic status lived and worked in concert and towards some greater good. Clearly, the City of God—the New Jerusalem, will have a very different structure and importance than the cities that we’ve seen, read about and experienced. Together we will consider the scriptural basis of the importance of the city structure, and the role it will play in God’s Kingdom.
Frank Bruno
The Only Thing to Fear
Obviously the world has become a much more dangerous place in recent years, and the blessings that we’ve enjoyed from God here in the United States and elsewhere will not endure in the face of outright disobedience of God’s Commands. As we move forward we are admonished to be watchful of the signs, and be spiritually prepared for the return of our savior, Jesus Christ. We are also told clearly not to fear as prophecy unfolds, but to focus on our relationship with God for clarity and comfort. In this Sermonette we will cover some of the scriptural foundation of this guidance so as to have a deeper understanding and appreciation for God’s plan.
Nothing New Under the Sun
While there are people in the world who might bristle at the thought that the Bible has influenced their thinking; either directly or more subtly, the fact is it does indeed. Many of our ideas and conversations and even some of the most passionate public speeches recorded in history have been greatly influenced by biblical verses. This Sermonette will cover several of the most poignant scriptures as well as the impact they had on the world stage.
Walk in the Light
The world that we inhabit today seems to glorify darkness and celebrates things that are inherently evil as being attractive. This may be so in the carnal sense, and it is fleeting and will ultimately lead to spiritual death. As such, these choices cannot stand the light that is found only in Jesus Christ. It has been said that darkness cannot drive away darkness—only the light can do this and for those who have been called to follow and obey God, we can walk in the light of Jesus Christ. Together we will consider several scriptures that can help us to do just that–to honor, obey and glorify God, and walk in His light.
Facing the Pain & Adversities of Life
In this Sermonette we will together consider the scriptures that prove to us that our suffering is a trial that can prepare us for what God requires from us, and what He has in store if we overcome, as Christ overcame.
Do You Have the Time – for God?
Effectively managing and valuing our time each day is a great challenge. Few recognize that the concept of time—either in the moment, or as we think of the future— is actually well beyond our comprehension and control. The acceptance of God’s absolute authority in this regard can help us in understanding His plan for the present and a future. Opening our eyes and ears to God and His words is the best time-management strategy we can have.
Death Not to be Feared
The world we live in encourages fear and a degree of hysteria with respect to human death. Movies create imagery around the ideas of both horrible evil capable of causing suffering and death, and the celebration of eternal existence, again demonically inspired. Believers in the true living God, the Creator indeed understand that everlasting life is possible through Jesus Christ. If we die prior to the return of Jesus Christ we are asleep in Christ much as Lazarus was prior to Jesus raising him up. We have this same opportunity if we believe and follow the commands of God the Father and His Son.
Finding our Way Through Faith
In our daily lives we encounter various forms of technology mapping and signage that attempt to point the way. What about our spiritual path? Are we secure that we are not slowly becoming off-track and lost in our lives? Can we even recognize the signs? This Sermonette is intended to offer several key scriptural citations upon which we may rely to connect or reconnect with God. As is the case in our physical lives, our confidence grows when we know we are heading in the right direction.
FOT 2018: Choosing Resilience
Each day, upon awakening we have a series of choices. One such choice is whether in the next few moments we will succumb to an insidious and all too common enemy. I am referring to the reality that many of us allow our day and our thoughts to be governed by anxiety. We have a choice between anxiety and resilience. The solution is clear; the choice is obvious, though it comes down to a moment by moment correction that we must apply in our reliance on God. Jesus Christ offers the pathway and the opportunities to improve our outlook and our interactions. Together we will look to the scriptures for the guidance we require.