Dianella Church of the Nazarene

Have you ever had to obey a rule and you wondered why the rule existed in the first place? Some may ask themselves: "What's the story behind the rule? What's the point of the rule anyway?" Paul is teaching the church in Galatia a very important lesson on what the Gospel is about. It's easy to lose track of the core message of the Good News when it's embedded in rules and regulations, even though the intentions may be good. Paul uses story-telling as a powerful tool to share the bottom-line of the Gospel to a community that was in danger of missing the point. For today that is important as well. It's not about "anything goes" nor is is it just about rules alone.

Reconciliation. It's what the world desperately needs. But what will it take? How does it affect our relationship with God? With others? Based on 2 Corinthians we'll explore what reconciliation looks like and how it affects all our relationships.

There is a battle and it's on 24/7. But that battle is not against you. So, don't take it personal even though you are the target. Based on the metaphor of a Roman Soldier, Paul draws his conclusions of his letter to the Ephesian church with an important reminder that we need to live by; our identity in Christ.

Holiness is not a goal in itself, rather, it is a means to something else. But what?The bigger picture is a relationship with God that is not based on just following rules nor 'cutting corners'. Using different analogies from the kitchen, this message focuses on what ultimately matters most; obedience out of love and within the context of a relationship with God.

When the busyness of life takes a radical shift for many, the inner voices of worthiness and purpose start calling for more attention. Based on Psalm 62 and the Exodus story, we learn from David, Moses and ultimately from Jesus what it means to come to terms with those voices.

In a restless and always busy world of running people, where can we find rest for ourselves? Jesus said that He wants to give us His rest as we lean into Him and learn to walk with Him. Are you tired? Worn out? Desiring a change that is real? His rest is real and readily available for those who want it.