Last summer, multiple speakers kicked off the year with a series called OTHERS FIRST. Like all of the 2018-2019 series, this one explored 1) what the Bible actually says, and 2) how we, as a congregation, are trying to apply what the Bible says. This year, we are building on that foundation. We will revisit each of our core themes assuming that everyone knows what we're talking about and why it's important, focusing on how, when, and where. Each message this year will primarily offer practical application, with lots of stories, inspiration and deeper insight to fuel the fire. The title of this series is "How To Tell The Story..." and each sermon will complete that sentence with a different scenario.
Speaker: John Pryor, Senior Minister
Notes:
Followers of Christ must not resent, retaliate, or rejoice when an enemy suffers. Romans 12:17-19
Do not allow bitterness and resentment to destroy you. Isaiah 43:25, Philippians 4:8, James 1:22
Joseph faced a lot of pain in his life, but he made wise choices. That's why we still tell his story today. Genesis 37:1-11 & 39:19-40:23
God loves faithfulness, patience, and forgiveness. Romans 2:4, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Choose the relationship, not yourself.*
Within committed relationships, we must honor others and our commitments to them more than our own feelings and desires. Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:31-32
Love your enemies.
We must act on their behalf—meet their needs and treat them well. Luke 6:27-28, Proverbs 24:17-20 & 25:21-22
Pray for those who hurt you.
We must pray humbly and specifically for their good. Luke 6:28, 1 Peter 2:20-21, 23
This week, I will...
*Jesus does NOT endorse abuse, and extreme cases require extreme action. “Turn the other cheek” does NOT mean “never leave an abusive and genuinely dangerous situation.”