Too good to be true?

 

The truth of Jesus is "Good News"

It is difficult for many people to believe that we are made right with God because of Jesus and what He has done, not because of our good deeds.

There is a strong desire in human beings to believe: a) we’re really not that bad; b) we can do enough good things to correct whatever bad is on our account; and c) even if I am bad you’re probably worse, so I should be okay. (God is likely to be grading on the curve.)

Here are some words from Romans chapter 3, vv. 23-25(a) which provide helpful teaching regarding this matter:

 

^“22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.

²³ For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. ²⁴ Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. ²⁵ For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood….”

 

Salvation is offered to us because of Jesus. This is why the truth of Jesus is recognized as the Good News.

God has initiated everything when it comes to salvation

It’s important to keep in mind, God has already initiated everything when it comes to salvation. We do not make a first move by repenting or seeking His forgiveness. It’s not: First we repent. Then God, in His grace, responds with forgiveness.

He acted first. He loved us first.

Consider this: Jesus died for us while we were still sinners. (See Romans 5:8)

We do not make a first move in the process of establishing forgiveness, redemption and salvation. Our loving, gracious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has already made the first move.

Our repentance, confession and receiving of forgiveness and salvation is a response to God. He is first. Our repentance, confession and receiving of forgiveness and salvation is a response to who God is, to what He has done for us, and the grace He extends to us, in light of our recognition of our sin.

 

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

 

I know this will really come across as “Bible thumper” stuff to some folks. But I’m trying to throw someone a life preserver.

You cannot buy salvation

Should we be talking about sin?

We don't want what we deserve

Preparing for Easter Weekend 2018

What a terrific group of Christ followers. I love them!

These folks have been diligently, joyfully rehearsing and preparing so that we can honor Jesus this weekend. Some of you would be surprised if you knew how many volunteer hours these folks give to serving God’s kingdom. It is a tremendous blessing to my heart.

(If you’re thinking, “How is this Marler guy this fortunate to have wonderful folks like this at his church?!?” …Believe me, I feel the same way! It’s puzzling, lol! I guess God must like me.)

I’m already excited and rejoicing… and the services haven’t even begun, yet! It’s going to be fantastic!

First Church of God

4600 W. 111^th Street

Oak Lawn, IL

Good Friday Service, 7pm

Easter Services: 
Saturday, 5pm

     Sunday, 9am and 11am

Let go of unfair expectations

God Stuff Podcast 205

                                      Click here for podcast!

                                          Click here to listen!

Dan, Lisa and Stephanie talk about some of the early contemporary Christian songs that have had an impact on their lives and factors that have been significant in regard to their spiritual growth.

Listen online or download and listen on the go!
Fun and inspirational! 

Is it legal to have a little fun at church?

Surprising! You are God material, after all!

When we serve we help each other grow.

Where are you putting your hope?

I looked deep down inside and it wasn't good

Incredible news: Perfect love casts out all fear!

God matters in all of life!

It's not the size of the dream that's most important, it's the size of the One who gives the dream.

The Holy Spirit is essential to spiritual growth.

God Stuff audio podcast - Christmas 2017 Episode

                                    Click here for podcast!

                                               Click to listen!

Download and listen on the go!

Really Good News

I have discovered that many people experience a sense of both joy and relief when they come to understand that authentic faith in God is not fundamentally about the legalistic observance and oppressive practice of religious rituals.

At a basic level knowing God is about an actual relationship with a being who knows us, loves us and is alive. And what is even more extraordinary is that this being happens to be the almighty creator and Lord of all things!

(I know this almost sounds too good to be true. That’s why it is referred to as good news! Really good news.)

These realities are what make it possible for us to enter into something much more than the routine exercise of rituals. Rather we can enter into the knowledge, truth and presence of God, himself, through the Lord Jesus Christ.

So… rejoice and be glad!