Say Grace

When I was a kid growing up in GA, I attended Solid Rock Academy in Riverdale. It was an amazing experience for many reasons. It was a major part of where and how I “grew up.” It was a space where I engaged in many different things that impacted my life and who I would become. From something as simple as reciting the books of the Bible prior to the pledge of allegiance to remembering Mr. Shepherd’s ham being served every Thursday, there are some things I will simply never forget…and some things I’d rather forget. The “whoopins” we would receive (in love, of course) from ALLL of our teachers stays with me. In particular, our music teacher appeared to enjoy the “sing along” spanking he would give to anyone getting in trouble in his; doing to so to singing sensation Baby Face’s hit song “Whip Appeal” and having the entire class sing along to the lyrics of the chorus as you got what was coming to you.

I’m triggered. Let’s move on shall we?

I will say one of the things I loved most that we did every single day, together in the same space…is say grace. Before breakfast. Before lunch. There was something that always felt satisfying about it (and no. Not just because I was getting ready to exercise fat boy tendencies). I loved the food, yes, but I also loved the time that we spent together, the ability to reflect on our day. I’m surprised at how much those things meant even as a kid. Now, as I look back, I see some similarities on saying grace and how we live our lives as believers. Among these things, I love that saying “Grace” blesses a thing, that it blesses the time together, the hands that prepared it, and how all of it nourishes us. Grace covers a multitude of things in our lives, and likewise it covers a multitude of things in our lives. It would do us some good in figuring out how this applies. So like me doing my best to not be impatient before eating, let’s dive in. Let’s see how this Grace works.

Know That You Are Covered

In a world that often feels uncertain, it's essential to remember that we are covered by grace. This is not just a comforting thought but a powerful truth that shapes how we live our lives. Grace is not merely a concept to understand; it's a reality to embrace and live out daily. When we are in Christ, grace covers us always. This coverage isn't conditional on our behavior or achievements but is rooted in the unchanging love of God. Please remember there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Rom. 8:1 We must continually remind ourselves that our status as children of God means we are securely held by Him, and nothing can separate us from His love. Rom 8:38-39 This truth gives us the confidence to approach God with our needs and desires, knowing that He hears us and will answer according to His will. Heb 4:16 Grace, therefore, is the foundation on which we stand, giving us the assurance that no matter what comes our way, we are covered.

Living Gracefully Starts with Self-Awareness

Living a life marked by grace begins with recognizing our need for it. We must first say grace over ourselves. This means acknowledging our shortcomings, our sins, and our constant need for God’s mercy. It’s not about beating ourselves up but about being honest with ourselves and with God. Self-awareness is key to growth in faith. Just as we bless our food before eating, we must bless our lives with grace before stepping into each day. This practice of self-awareness and self-blessing is not selfish; it's necessary. It allows us to grow, to mature in our faith, and to live in the fullness of what God has for us. We must recognize that grace is not cheap. It calls us to a higher standard of living, one that reflects the love and holiness of God in every aspect of our lives.

Extend Grace to Others

Grace isn't meant to be hoarded; it’s meant to be shared. As recipients of God's grace, we are called to extend that same grace to others. This is often easier said than done, especially when we are wronged or when others fall short of our expectations. I’m convinced that 1 John 5:16-17 might be (at least) one of the most avoided, non-discussed passages in the Bible. I also believe the reason is simple: it doesn’t let our judgmental selves off the hook of GRACE. “16 If you see a fellow believer sinning in a way that does not lead to death, you should pray, and God will give that person life. But there is a sin that leads to death, and I am not saying you should pray for those who commit it. 17 All wicked actions are sin, but not every sin leads to death.” We can unpack the one sin at another time, and let it suffice to say and the record show whatever our preferred sin to condemn is…nine times out of ten it’s probably NOT THAT SIN!! Translation: if we see someone committing a sin our only responsibility is to pray for that person that God will give them life. Period.

Yes, the Bible encourages us to pray for our fellow believers, especially when they are struggling with sin. Grace calls us to lift others up in prayer, to support them in their journey, and to forgive as we have been forgiven. No. Questions. Asked. :-) This practice of extending grace transforms not only our relationships but also our communities. It builds a culture of love, forgiveness, and mutual support, where grace is not just a word but a way of life. In a world that often seeks to condemn and punish, the act of saying grace over others is a radical, countercultural stance that mirrors the heart of God.

Living in Grace Secures Our Future

Finally, living a life marked by grace secures our eternity. Grace is not just about the here and now; it’s about our eternal destiny. The assurance that we belong to God and that we are in fellowship with Him through Jesus Christ gives us a secure future. This grace doesn't just save us; it transforms us, preparing us for eternity with God. It’s a reminder that our life here on earth is just the beginning. As we live out our days, saying grace over our lives and the lives of others, we are participating in something much bigger than ourselves. We are part of God’s eternal plan, and in Him, we have everything we need for life and godliness and our ability to secure the glorious end He desires for all of us. All 2 Pet. 3:9. As we gather together, much like saying grace over a meal, we affirm our shared hope in Christ and our collective journey toward eternity. Or, like when I was a kid at the amazing Solid Rock Academy with the other kids during breakfast and lunch, we say grace together.

This shared grace is what binds us together and what propels us forward in faith. I encourage you…do all you can to live a life that says Grace.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

The Real Measure of Faith

What does it mean to have genuine faith? Is it merely about claiming a set of beliefs, or is it something more profound that shapes our daily lives? True faith is not just a ticket to be cashed in later; it’s a lifelong journey that reflects in our actions, attitudes, and how we live each day. The real test of faith isn't simply about having the right words at the end of our lives, but about how we embody that faith in every moment.

When we examine our lives through the lens of faith, we see that believing in Jesus as the Christ is foundational. This belief isn't just intellectual agreement but a transformative trust that shapes our identity. As believers, our lives should be marked by love—for God and for others. This love isn't an abstract concept; it's the evidence of our faith, visible in our interactions and decisions.

Bearing the Fruit of Love

Love is the hallmark of genuine faith. It’s more than just a feeling or a word; it's an active force that drives us to care for others, to serve, and to act with kindness and compassion. The scripture repeatedly emphasizes that those who truly love God will inevitably love others. This love isn’t optional or secondary—it’s the fruit that naturally grows in the life of someone who is truly connected to God.

This love is not just about being nice or agreeable; it’s about living out God's commands, which include loving others as we love ourselves. It involves making sacrifices, having hard conversations when necessary, and standing up for what is right. True love reflects God's holiness and calls us to a higher standard, where we align our actions with His will.

Becoming More Like Christ

As we deepen in our faith, we should see a transformation in ourselves—we should become more like Christ. This transformation isn't just about being more loving; it's about living a life of obedience to God's commands. Obedience might seem daunting, but scripture assures us that God’s commands are not burdensome. When we truly understand and embrace our identity in Christ, obedience becomes a natural expression of our faith. (see 1 John 5:1-5)

Being like Christ means living a life that honors God in every aspect—how we treat others, how we handle challenges, and how we make decisions. It’s about being intentional in our actions and allowing our faith to influence every part of our lives. This is the real victory that overcomes the world: a life transformed by faith in Jesus.

Victory Through Faith

Life is full of challenges, and sometimes it can feel like we’re in a constant battle against the pressures of the world. But the good news is that, as believers, we are not fighting this battle alone. Our faith in Jesus is the source of our victory. It’s not about trying harder or being perfect; it’s about trusting that Jesus has already overcome the world, and through Him, we can too. (see 1 John 5:4)

This victory isn’t something we achieve by our own strength—it’s a gift from God. When we place our faith in Jesus, we are assured of His help, His strength, and His victory in our lives. No matter the struggles we face, we can have confidence that Jesus will carry us through. It’s this trust in His power and love that enables us to live boldly and faithfully, passing the real test of faith each day.

This journey of faith is not a solitary one. As we walk in obedience and love, we reflect Christ to the world around us, showing that our faith is real, alive, and powerful. Let us strive to live out our faith daily, not just in words but in actions that glorify God and demonstrate His love to all.

— Daniel mackey

Youth Pastor - [Multiply]Family of Churches

The Radiant Love That Transforms

Growing up, my brother and I had one burning desire: to own a vehicle. We worked tirelessly from a young age, pooling our resources to achieve this dream. Finally, the day arrived, and we had our very own truck.

To us, the truck was amazing with a shiny finish, loud radio, and big tires. It made us feel on top of the world.

Yet, as I reflect on this memory, I realize that the truck wasn’t actually shiny and new. It wasn’t that desirable at all. The true value of the truck was not in its physical attributes but in the love and effort we poured into obtaining it. This story beautifully illustrates the two types of love we encounter in life: a love that values what is already deemed valuable and a love that imparts value to what it cherishes.

The Essence of Divine Love

Understanding the love of God is a profound endeavor. It's not merely about the affection we express or receive in human relationships. God's love transcends human understanding; it is a divine attribute that exudes from His very being. When the scriptures declare, "God is love," they emphasize that love is not just an action or feeling from God but an essential part of His nature. This divine love is not a logical tautology, equating love with God, nor is it merely an emphasis on God's loving nature. Instead, it is a fountain from which all genuine love flows. Just as water from a fountain spreads and nourishes everything around it, so does God's love emanate from Him, reaching and transforming all it touches.

Manifestation of Divine Love

The supreme manifestation of God's love is found in the sending of His only Son, Jesus Christ, into the world. This love was not because we were worthy or valuable, but because God chose to love us. In our unworthiness and sin, God's active love was demonstrated through Christ's sacrificial death, making us valuable and restoring our relationship with Him. Unlike human love, which is often passive and reactive, God's love is proactive and transformative. It seeks out the undeserving and imparts worth and dignity to them. This divine love is a gift that changes lives, not based on our merit but on God's gracious choice.

Active Love in Action

God's love is not a passive feeling but an active force. It moves from the heart to the hands and feet, demonstrating love through action. Jesus' life and ministry exemplify this active love. He didn't merely feel compassion; He acted on it, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and comforting the broken-hearted. This kind of love challenges us to move beyond mere feelings and into tangible expressions of care and kindness. The story of the Good Samaritan illustrates this beautifully, contrasting the passive neglect of the priest and Levite with the active compassion of the Samaritan. True love, as modeled by Jesus, compels us to act, to reach out, and to make a difference in the lives of others.

The Power of Unconditional Love

John’s transformation from a brash "Son of Thunder" to the beloved disciple speaks volumes about the power of God's love. His story is a testament to the fact that God’s love can reshape even the most unlikely of individuals. This love, unlike human affection, doesn’t wait for us to become worthy; it makes us worthy. It’s a love that reaches out to us in our brokenness and transforms us from the inside out. If you’ve ever felt unworthy or questioned your value, understand this: God's love for you is unconditional. It isn’t based on your achievements, your looks, or your ability to maintain a perfect image. It’s rooted in His nature, a divine love that chooses to value and cherish you, flaws and all. God’s love is a gift that renews and restores. It’s not just a concept to understand but a reality to live out. Embrace it fully, let it redefine your sense of self-worth, and share it generously with those around you. In doing so, you become a living testament to the power of God’s unconditional love.

— Nic lombardi

President - [Multiply]Family of Churches

The Danger of False Teachings

Every day, we are constantly bombarded with information and advice from all directions. It's easy to fall prey to bad advice, but there's an even more dangerous threat lurking: false teachings. These aren't just misguided opinions—they are harmful deceptions designed to lead us astray. Understanding how to identify and resist these false teachings is crucial for maintaining a strong, authentic faith.

Recognizing False Teachers

False teachers are not a new phenomenon. Even in the early days of Christianity, they posed a significant threat to the church. These individuals spread teachings that directly contradicted the true gospel, leading many believers astray. The apostle John warned his followers to be vigilant: "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world" (1 John 4:1). In today's digital age, the voices of false teachers are amplified through social media and other platforms. It's essential to test everything we hear against the truth of Scripture. Not everyone who claims to be a Christian truly is, and not every message that sounds spiritual comes from God.

The Litmus Test of True Teaching

So, how do we discern true teaching from false? John provides a clear test: "By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God" (1 John 4:2-3). The core of Christian belief is the divinity of Jesus Christ. Any teaching that denies this fundamental truth is false. This distinction is crucial because it separates authentic Christianity from other belief systems that may acknowledge Jesus but do not accept His divine nature. For instance, groups like Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses have different views on Jesus that do not align with the biblical portrayal of Him as God incarnate.

The Power of the Holy Spirit

False teachings can be intimidating, but we are not left defenseless. John reminds us that "he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1 John 4:4). As believers, we have the Holy Spirit within us, guiding us into all truth and helping us to overcome deception. This assurance gives us confidence. We don't rely on our own strength or wisdom to discern truth from falsehood; we depend on the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit not only helps us recognize false teachings but also empowers us to live out our faith authentically.

Living in the Light of Truth

Knowing that false teachers are out there and understanding how to identify them is only the beginning. Our daily lives should reflect our commitment to the truth. This means spending regular time in prayer and studying Scripture, which helps us deepen our relationship with Jesus and fortify our understanding of His teachings. Additionally, being part of a community of believers provides support and accountability. We can learn from each other, share insights, and encourage one another to stay true to the gospel. Engaging with true teachers and avoiding those who promote false doctrines is vital for maintaining spiritual health. In a world full of deceptive voices, it’s essential to surround ourselves with those who speak the truth in love.

Anchoring Ourselves in Truth

In the end, resisting false teachings is about more than just intellectual discernment; it’s about fostering a vibrant, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. By anchoring ourselves in the truth of His word and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can navigate the complexities of our world without being led astray. Let’s commit to knowing Jesus deeply and living out His truth boldly, confident that He who is in us is greater than any false teacher we might encounter.

— Louis Fischer

Church Planting Resident - [Multiply]Family of Churches

Oh You a Fan, You a Fan, You a Fan

We live in a world of division, of love and hate. In its most overt form, nothing expresses this love and hate than our fandom. I mean…is it real love? Probably not. More like a really really really strong like but we’re not (but nobody wants to say that over and over again). In the grand scheme of things, if we’re looking at this from a biblical perspective, using the four words for love we see in the original Greek language, well…things just get weird. You don’t love your favorite team like you love your grandma (stourge). Or your brother (fileo)…nope. Or your husband/wife (eros). At least I hope not. And if you love your favorite team in the same unconditional way (agape) that you love Jesus that might be just a little idolatrous. I’ll leave that alone. What does stand true today, however, if you really “love” the one you must also somehow hate the other. And even in the smallest most menial things, this can sometimes carry very catastrophic results.

Dec. 29, 2014, after a Cowboys v. Redskins football game an argument broke out between two fans of the opposing teams which then turned into a brawl. One could almost laugh at the ridiculousness of this, that is until a “freakish accident” occurred when one fans to another’s neck proved fatal. The family of the deceased was beside themselves while the assailant now spends 14 years behind bars…over a football game. Let that sink in.

Now imagine being even more incensed against someone who has a differing view from something you should consider most important. Let’s say…your faith! And let’s take it a step further. What if they have the same faith as you, but they see certain aspects of it differently than you. Does that mean you’re not of the same team and that an offensive against them is necessary to set the record straight? To many believers, some strange reason, it is. And in their efforts, they forget one small thing that, as part of our Christian identity, makes a world of difference.

A Call to Authentic Love

In a world often divided by differences, the call to love one another authentically stands as a beacon of hope and unity. This love, rooted in action rather than mere words, is a powerful testimony to our faith and the truth we hold dear. As we explore the depths of this command, we find that it challenges us to move beyond superficial expressions and into a life marked by genuine care and selflessness.

Love in Action

True love is more than a sentiment; it is a call to action. As 1 John 3:18-24 reminds us, love should be evident through our deeds. "Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." This passage underscores the importance of living out our love in tangible ways. There are many who provide lip service on loving others, but let their actions tell it and they’ve distanced themselves from showing that they care about anyone. If you can’t say amen…say ouch. Our actions reveal the sincerity of our hearts and confirm that we belong to the truth. Even when we falter or feel inadequate, God's greater understanding and omniscience assure us that we can approach Him with confidence. Our obedience to His commandments, particularly to believe in Jesus Christ and love one another, solidifies our relationship with Him and ensures His presence within us through His Spirit. And His Spirit is the only way we truly are able to love Him, love His people, and make disciples.

Full stop.

Overcoming Division

Not for the sake of fandom and the consequences of some fans ‘ actions as we saw above, in today’s Christian culture the message of love is especially pertinent in this time where division is rampant. Galatians 2 provides a vivid account of how early Christians navigated cultural and ideological differences. Paul confronted Peter for his hypocrisy, in doing so highlighting the need to stand firm in the truth of the Gospel without succumbing to societal pressures. This specific narrative also encourages us to embrace diversity within the body of Christ and to reject any form of exclusion or superiority; a major message in the Bible that goes unnoticed by some lower case c churches and their leaders these days…I digress. But I thank God that when I read this text in 1 John 3 I see John’s admonition to love one another transcends cultural, ideological, and political differences, urging us to foster unity and mutual respect.

The Challenge of Tough Love

While the call to love one another is clear, the manner in which we express this love can sometimes be misunderstood. Or maybe it’s not. Maybe some folks just want people to do things the way they want them to or let them suffer the consequences. I’ll leave that alone, and may God be judge on things like that always. That being said, there is a place for "tough love," but it must be grounded in genuine concern and relationship. If you don’t know them and they haven’t asked you for advice on a subject at the least, don’t try it. If today’s culture, such things run the risk of being insensitive and doing the exact opposite of what the desired effect should be. Jesus exemplified how to do this perfectly, showing compassion and truth without condemnation. In John 8, He protected the adulterous woman from her accusers by removing them, He then assured her that He wasn’t there to accuse her either, and finally He gently instructed her to "go and sin no more." This approach contrasts sharply with the Pharisees' judgmental attitudes, and I don’t (but do lol) want to say that we have far too many believers who are satisfied with just saying “go sin no more” forsaking the dismissal of accusation. May this story serve as a reminder that true tough love seeks restoration, not punishment, and is reserved for those within close, trusting relationships.

The Commitment to Follow

The journey of love is not without its challenges. If it were, there would be no reason to discuss why obedience is important. There’s no need to worry about being obedient to things we initially want to do…uh oh. John 6 recounts how many of Jesus' followers abandoned Him because His teachings were difficult to understand; the ever dreaded passage that is John 6…6…6 (it’s there. Check for yourself!). Yet, the Twelve remained, recognizing that Jesus alone had the words of eternal life. This commitment to follow, despite difficulties and misunderstandings, is a testament to the power of authentic love and faith. It calls us to remain steadfast in our devotion to Christ and to each other, even when the path is hard. And footnote: even on our best days it will always be hard.

Living Out Authentic Love

The call to love one another is a profound and transformative mandate that goes beyond all we would ever imagine our world to be. In short, I’ve always said it this way: loving people ain’t for the faint of heart. It challenges us to demonstrate our love through actions, embrace unity amidst diversity, practice restorative tough love, and remain committed to our faith journey in spite of the world around us some…most…almost all the time being unwilling to do the same. As we embody this love, we become living testimonies of God's truth and grace, drawing others into the fullness of His love. Let us, therefore, strive to love authentically, reflecting the heart of Christ in all we do. Amen.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

The defining mark of a christian

The Mark of True Believers

In the world of faith, actions speak louder than words. The essence of being a true believer is not about the outward symbols we carry or the labels we wear. It's not about the size of your Bible, the stickers on your car, or the music you listen to. It's about how we live our lives and, more importantly, how we love others. The Bible teaches us that sacrificial love is the defining characteristic of a child of God.

In 1 John 3:10-15, it is evident who belongs to God and who does not. Those who do not practice righteousness or love their brothers and sisters are not of God. Love is the primary proof of our identity as believers. Jesus emphasized this in John 13:34-35, stating that people will recognize us as His disciples by our love for one another. Love should be our highest priority, our main objective, and our greatest ambition. Without love, all our achievements and possessions are meaningless.

Jesus: Our Model for Sacrificial Love

Jesus exemplifies the ultimate act of love. 1 John 3:16 tells us that we know love because He laid down His life for us, and we should do the same for our brothers and sisters. This is the essence of sacrificial love—putting others' needs above our own, just as Jesus did. It's not just about grand gestures but also about small, everyday acts of love.

Mother Teresa famously said, "There are not great actions; only small actions done with great love." This means that every act of kindness, no matter how small, is significant. Whether it's making dinner for your family, listening to a friend, or helping a neighbor, these are all acts of love that reflect Jesus' example. The best way to show love is by giving our time, a resource we can never get back, making it a true sacrifice.

Living Out Sacrificial Love

Living a life of sacrificial love requires a change of heart. 1 John 3:17-18 challenges us to see the needs around us and respond with action, not just words. If we have the means to help but close our hearts to those in need, how can God's love be in us? This kind of love is not something we can achieve on our own; it is empowered by the gospel and the example of Jesus.

Jesus didn't just teach about love; He demonstrated it through His actions. His life was a testament to loving others selflessly. To live out this love, we need to receive more of God's love so that we can pour it out to others. It's about allowing God's love to transform us, enabling us to love in ways that go beyond our natural capabilities.

The Importance of Love

At the end of the day, the most important thing we can do is to be a person of love. Our work, hobbies, achievements, and possessions will all fade away, but love endures (See 1 Corinthians 13). Life is not about how much we earn, acquire, or accomplish; it's about how we love. When we focus on loving God and loving others, we fulfill our true purpose.

So, how can you become more loving today? Is there someone in your circle of influence (family, friends, neighbor, co-worker) who needs more of your time and attention?

— Daniel mackey

Youth Pastor - [Multiply]Family of Churches

S.I.N.

No matter how you look at it, this topic is always something to avoid. Either someone is wayyy too heavy handed with the hell, fire, and brimstone or they cheapen the mess out grace and offer a million free passes. Or my favorite of all…they avoid the topic altogether. I, thankfully??, wasn’t given such an opportunity. Let me tell about the life changing “scene” that made it inherently clear sin was something I couldn’t avoid. 

About 12 years back, I was home watching the movie, 127 Hours. I was very curious about it because I knew it was based on a true story. A young man, living life to the fullest, most frequently enjoys bike riding and rock climbing. One day, while climbing, he slips. He falls…and a boulder comes with him! While I’m grateful he wasn’t crushed in the process, he does somehow manage to get his hand caught between a rock wall and that boulder. I’ll save you the details, except to say he “single handedly” did what he could to walk away with just a single hand. I’ll leave that there. Though that was one of the craziest things I’ve ever seen, the revelation I got was even crazier to me. I came to realize that the same way he separated himself from his hand (Sorry! That’s the details. Just sayin.) is what it’s like for us to separate ourselves from sin in our lives. I couldn’t unhear it, and now you can’t. You’re welcome. And with that frame, let us approach the topic at hand.

Understanding the Nature of Sin

So the first thing I feel needs to be done as we approach this topic is to actually really talk about it, and before we go anywhere we need to dispel a major myth. Buckle up! Here we go! *takes deep breath…Sin is more than just a single act of wrongdoing; it is a state of being that separates us from God. According to 1 John 3:4-10, everyone who sins breaks God’s law, and all sin is contrary to the law of God. However, Jesus came to take away our sins, and in Him, there is no sin. Therefore, anyone who lives in Him does not continue to sin. This distinction is crucial: committing a sin and living in sin are different. The former is a momentary lapse, while the latter is a habitual lifestyle that signifies a deeper disconnection from God. These are not the same.

The Bible provides clear examples of this difference. King David, despite his grievous sins, repented and sought God’s heart and didn’t have a continuation of issues concerning one particular sin. Moses, on the other hand (Yeah. That Moses), avoided an anger issue for 39…really 79 years that kept him from entering the promised land. Though he’s still in the Hall of Faith, it’s a major tell that in his faithfulness he was denied the one thing connected to what he was CALLED TO ACCOMPLISH in leading the people. If you can’t say amen…you know.

The Deceptive Nature of Pride

Now that that’s out the way, let’s focus on the basics of what sin actually is. There’s a Bible verse that lays out the basics well. Proverbs 21:4 states, "Haughty eyes, a proud heart, and evil actions are all sin." Pride manifests in various forms: haughtiness or considering oneself above others, a prideful heart which tends to boast in both one’s abilities and inabilities (people really aren’t trying to talk about that…I digress), and evil actions which are ultimately  resisting God’s transformative power. Pride deceives us into thinking we are self-sufficient, and it blinds us to our need for God’s grace.

Scripture repeatedly warns against pride. It leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18), breeds quarrels (Proverbs 13:10), and deceives the heart (Jeremiah 49:16). The antidote to pride is humility. James 4:6 says, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Therefore, embracing humility allows us to receive God’s grace and fosters a genuine transformation in our hearts. If we don’t choose to do this, there’s only one other option: humiliation. They sound similar, but trust you choose which one and the former is much better than the latter.

The Complexity of Sin and Human Nature

Sin is multifaceted and deeply rooted in human nature. Romans 7:14-25 vividly describes the internal struggle against sin. Even the apostle Paul acknowledged his battle with sin, stating, "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate, I do." See that Paul said this. Paul. No, seriously!! Righteous, world changing, church planting, ⅔ of the whole New Testament writing Paul! Be encouraged by this. If he struggled, we may still be doing something right. But yeah. This passage indeed underscores the ongoing conflict between our sinful nature and our desire to live righteously. Stay the course.

Understanding this complexity also helps us avoid judgment and extend grace to others. We are all on a journey of sanctification, gradually becoming more like Christ. This process requires perseverance and community support. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who hold us accountable and encourage us is essential for spiritual growth. It’s not easy, but with all the resources He gives us it can be done.

Living a Righteous Life

Living a righteous life involves more than avoiding sin; it requires actively pursuing a relationship with God and loving others. 1 John 3:10 states, "Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God." Righteous living is marked by obedience to God’s commands and genuine love for others.

The Bible emphasizes that our actions should reflect our faith. It’s not enough to merely profess belief; our lives must demonstrate it. This involves daily choices to resist sin, seek God’s guidance, and show love and kindness to those around us. By doing so, we reflect the transformative power of Christ in our lives.

True transformation begins with understanding the nature of sin and recognizing our need for God’s grace and mercy. If you don’t start there, then please do yourself the favor of not passing go. We don’t have the cross without the understanding of grace and mercy for us. We have to have it for others. By confronting our pride, embracing humility, and committing to a life of righteousness, we can experience genuine spiritual growth. The journey of faith is ongoing, and we must support one another in our pursuit of living out God’s will. Let us strive to be like Jesus, reflecting His love and grace in all we do.

Stay the course. Championing you!!

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Beyond Age: Living God's Will

Hot take that I’m willing to bet is rather undisputed:
I’ve seen believers as young as their 10’s and teens that have more faith, wisdom…dare I say maturity than a believer in their 70’s and 80’s. And it’s not even up for discussion! 

If this offends anyone, I’d encourage them to consider why…nevermind. I digress. I bring up this mildly disrespectful statement to make a primary point we’ll dive into in a bit, but let’s start with some unpacking. 

Keeping it simple, it’s hopefully easy to understand that our relationship with God begins with embracing the fundamental truth that our sins are forgiven. Amen! And this isn’t  just a message for children but for all believers, regardless of age or spiritual maturity. In 1 John 2:12, we are reminded that our sins are forgiven for His name's sake. This forgiveness is not a mere formality; it is the bedrock of our relationship with God. It allows us to approach Him with confidence, knowing that we are cleansed and accepted.

Knowing the Father goes beyond a surface-level acknowledgment. It’s not just believing. Many who don’t believe in “God” still believe there’s something out there. Also, remember the Bible says even demons believe! Jam. 2:19 It is an intimate understanding that shapes our entire being. This profound knowledge is what distinguishes mere belief from genuine faith. As believers, we must do all we can to know God. This depth of our knowing, our relationship is reflected in our actions, decisions, and the way we live our lives daily.

Spiritual Maturity and Overcoming Evil

Spiritual maturity is a key theme in the Christian journey. John addresses different groups within the faith—those who are God’s children, and they who are either mature and young in the faith—highlighting their unique roles and stages of them. Those who are mature in faith are recognized for their deep knowledge of Christ, who existed from the beginning. This maturity is not just about age but about the depth of their relationship with God and their understanding of His eternal nature.

For the young in faith, John commends their strength and victory over the evil one. This strength is not their own but comes from God's Word living in their hearts. Overcoming evil is a significant milestone in the journey of faith, and it demonstrates the power of God's Word and the resilience it builds within us. This victory is a testament to the transformative power of God's presence in our lives.

But wait…we didn’t say anything about the children…hold that thought. We’ll get there. For now, let’s talk about that good ol’ world.

Loving the Father, Not the World

John’s message is clear: do not love the world or the things in the world. The world, with its fleeting desires and temporary pleasures, cannot offer what the Father gives. The desires of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life are all traps that lead us away from God. These are not from the Father but are from the world, which is passing away along with its desires.

The call to love the Father and not the world is a call to discernment. It is about recognizing what truly matters and choosing to invest in what is eternal. Don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing wrong with “things.” God created them. He created money which can serve us well. Remember it’s the love  of money that’s the root of all evil. Likewise, having things isn’t in and of itself wrong. The passage makes clear it’s when you add words like pride and craving that things begin to change. That’s when a little something called idolatry can, and will, manifest fam.

Doing the will of God ensures that we live forever, as opposed to the temporary satisfaction the world offers. This perspective shift is crucial for living a life that is pleasing to God and impactful in the kingdom.

Living Out God’s Will

Living out God's will is the ultimate expression of our faith. It goes beyond avoiding sin and encompasses actively doing what pleases God. Listen, I’m not saying avoiding sin is impossible but I find it interesting that no one save Jesus was able to do IN THE BIBLE!! And even if someone was, congrats!!! Way to go!! What else you got? That just can’t be it. If it was, then why did Jesus not stop at telling someone “go forth and sin no more?” Why did He then give us the commandment to go forth and make disciples?! Make it make sense. I’ll wait…I’m willing bet you didn’t waste your time. Thank you for that. Real spiritual maturity involves love, obedience, and a commitment to His commands. Deut. 30 is excellent for laying this out, and John emphasizes that knowing God and having our sins forgiven should lead to a transformed life as well—a life that reflects His love and grace.

In practical terms, doing God's will might look different for each of us, depending on our unique callings and circumstances. However, the underlying principle remains the same: our lives should be a testament to God's love and a reflection of His character. By living out His will, we not only secure eternal life for ourselves but also become conduits of His love and grace to others.

Now allow me to help us understand how we can access a proper mind and heart set to know God better and be our most obedient and committed selves. Let’s revisit the verses on children. Going back, a little deep dive reveals we miss a very key element. The “children” we read in v. 12 and 14 aren’t even the same word! Bible nerd, ACTIVATE!! v. 12 is the Greek word teknion- little child – a small child…endearing. John uses this one throughout the letter. (except in v. 18). However, the word used in v. 14 is paidion. This also means little child, but Helps Word Studies shows us when used properly it means a child under training; its root (pais) being a word that means young male/female slave/servant; thus, symbolically a servant of God. The ultimate here is found when you connect each word to its identifying sentence in the passage. Recall the first one, the endeared little children, are connected to those who’ve been forgiven on account of the name of Jesus. But the second, the child who’s in training…they are the one whom the passage says knows God. This is a comforting, yet awkward moment. It’s great to know as children of God that we are “endeared” because we’ve been forgiven, but to know Him we have to continuously be children willing to train?? I’ll give you a moment to reflect as we realize the answer is yes that our commitment to seeking Him is the only thing that expedites our call and purpose. Is it easy? No. Can it be done? Absolutely.

in CLosing

The journey of faith is marked by an ever-deepening knowledge of God, overcoming the challenges posed by the world, and living out His will with unwavering commitment. Age is indeed just a number when it comes to spiritual maturity and the pursuit of God's purposes. Whether we are young or old in the faith, our call is to grow in our relationship with God, reject the fleeting desires of the world, and live lives that glorify Him.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church