Pastor Cam Stevens

What do you do when conflict arises in the church? How do we truly forgive from the heart? Jesus lays out a powerful, step-by-step guide to reconciliation, teaching us that true unity in the Kingdom comes through humility, restoration, and unlimited forgiveness.In this life-changing message, we uncover:✅ Jesus' method for resolving conflict—the path to peace in relationships✅ The danger of unforgiveness—why harboring bitterness holds us back✅ God's mercy toward us—how understanding His grace transforms how we treat others✅ The parable of the unforgiving servant—what it teaches about our own heartsAre you holding onto unforgiveness? Do you need to be reconciled with someone today? Watch now and discover the freedom found in forgiveness!

Are You Seeking to Be a Celebrity or a Servant?Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven? The disciples asked, but Jesus flipped the script—pointing to the humility of a child. In this powerful message, we break down Matthew 18:1-14, where Jesus teaches that true greatness comes through humility, servanthood, and caring for others.✅ Be like a child—not in immaturity, but in humility✅ Welcome others in Jesus' name, without seeking personal gain✅ Remove stumbling blocks that hinder your walk with Christ✅ Love the lost—because no one is too far gone for God's graceAre you seeking status or servanthood? This message will challenge your perspective and call you to reflect on your faith journey. Listen now and be transformed!

Welcome to this week's sermon, "The Object of Our Faith," where we explore Matthew 17:14-27 and uncover powerful lessons about faith over doubt, fear, and deficiency.✅ Faith Over Doubt – When the disciples failed to heal the boy, Jesus pointed to their lack of faith. How does our faith in Jesus impact those around us? (Matthew 17:14-18)✅ Faith Over Fear – Even when Jesus foretold His death and resurrection, the disciples struggled with fear and understanding. How often do we let fear override God's promises? (Matthew 17:19-23)✅ Faith Over Deficiency – Jesus provided for the temple tax in a miraculous way, showing that God always provides in ways we may not expect. (Matthew 17:24-27)Faith must be rooted in Jesus, not in ourselves.Prayer and dependence on God are essential for spiritual strength.God's provision is always sufficient for our needs.Drop a comment below and let us know how this message spoke to you. We'd love to pray for you!

We explore the powerful moment of Jesus' Transfiguration, where Peter, James, and John witness His divine radiance, standing alongside Moses and Elijah—a breathtaking revelation of Christ as the fulfillment of both the Law and the Prophets. Through this encounter, we see how God's glory transforms everything. We, as humans, are uniquely created to reflect God's image, to the disciples' awe-struck response on the mountain, we are reminded that true transformation happens when we behold Jesus.How does seeing Christ's glory change the way we live daily?Are we actively listening to Jesus and aligning our choices with His Word?In what ways is God calling us to be transformed by His presence?

What is your soul worth? Jesus challenges His disciples—and us—to consider the true value of our lives. He calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. But what does that really mean?In this powerful sermon, we explore:

Who is Jesus really? We dive into one of the most powerful moments in Scripture—where Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter boldly confesses, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” But just moments later, Peter is rebuked by Jesus with the shocking words: “Get behind me, Satan!”In this eye-opening breakdown, we'll uncover:✅ Why Peter's confession is a game-changer for the Church✅ The meaning of “the rock” and the “keys of the kingdom”✅ How Jesus' prophecy of His suffering and resurrection reveals God's ultimate plan✅ The lesson behind Jesus' harsh rebuke of PeterThis message challenges us to reflect: Who do you say Jesus is? Are we following Him on His terms, or are we trying to fit Him into our expectations?

In today's sermon, we look at a conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees and Sadducees who demand a sign from Jesus, despite already witnessing His miracles. Jesus rebukes their spiritual blindness, declaring that the only sign they will receive is the "sign of Jonah"—a prophecy of His resurrection. He teaches that true faith is not about seeking proof but trusting in God's Word. Later, Jesus warns His disciples about the “leaven” of false teachings, emphasizing that just as a little leaven affects the whole dough, wrong influences can distort faith. The disciples initially misunderstand, focusing on physical needs rather than the spiritual lesson. Jesus reminds them of His miraculous provision, urging them—and us—to trust in Him completely. Faith is built on trust in God's Word, not constant signs. Are you seeking signs, or trusting in Jesus by faith? What influences might be shaping your beliefs? How can you strengthen your spiritual discernment? Faith isn't about waiting for proof—it's about trusting in what God has already revealed. Let's stand firm in His truth and grow in spiritual discernment!

Join us for this inspiring message and explore the theme of perseverance in faith. Through the lens of three profound events—Jesus' encounter with the Canaanite woman, the healing of multitudes, and the feeding of the 4,000—this sermon highlights what it means to trust in God's provision and remain steadfast even when the answers we seek seem delayed. True faith perseveres even in the face of silence or challenges. Faith is not about worthiness but about trusting in God's mercy. Persistent, humble prayers like “Lord, help me” are powerful acts of faith. God's grace is sufficient for every need. Just as the Canaanite woman received crumbs of grace that brought healing, we too can trust that His provision is more than enough for every challenge we face.

In this message, we examine the profound difference between human traditions and God's truth. Jesus challenges the Pharisees for prioritizing man-made rituals—like ceremonial handwashing—over genuine obedience to God's Word. These traditions, which once aimed to interpret and honor God's law, had become hollow practices that overshadowed the true heart of worship. Jesus teaches that true defilement comes not from external actions or rituals but from the condition of the heart. He calls His followers to shift their focus from outward performance to inner transformation through humility, love, and obedience. By allowing God's Spirit and Word to transform our hearts, we move beyond empty traditions and step into authentic faith. Be encouraged and challenged to examine your life, shed practices that conflict with God's Word, and embrace a life led by the Spirit, aligned with God's eternal truth.

In this powerful message, we explore two stories from Matthew 14 where Jesus miraculously feeds over 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish, and then walks on water. What we learn from both stories: ✔ Jesus sees our needs and has compassion on us. ✔ We must look to Him as our provider, not to our own limited resources. ✔ His grace is sufficient, and He calls us to trust in Him fully. ✔ Jesus sees us in our struggles. ✔ He calls us to step out in faith and trust in Him. ✔ When we fix our eyes on Jesus, He calms our fears.

We explore one of the most crucial questions in our faith: “Who do I say Jesus is?” This powerful teaching takes us through Matthew 13:53-14:12, where we witness two pivotal moments—Jesus being rejected in His hometown and the tragic death of John the Baptist. These stories reveal the challenges of faith, the consequences of rejecting truth, and the importance of Kingdom Vision in our lives. ✅ Why did Jesus' own people reject Him despite His wisdom and miracles? ✅ How does Herod's downfall warn us about the dangers of pride and sin? ✅ How do we develop Kingdom Vision and stay committed to Christ? ✅ The ultimate question: Who do YOU say Jesus is?

Join us in this in-depth study of Matthew 13:24-52, where Jesus reveals the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven through parables. We'll explore the parables of the weeds, mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasure, pearl, and fishing net, uncovering their profound meaning and relevance for today. Key topics include: • The growth and transformative power of the Kingdom. • The significance of the leaven and its subtle yet powerful influence. • The joy and sacrifice required to embrace the Kingdom, as seen in the treasure and pearl parables. • The final judgment at the end of the age, highlighted in the parable of the net. • How these teachings challenge us to examine our relationship with God, and ultimately be obedient to God's Word by sharing the treasure that we've been given! Read along and be inspired to uncover the treasures of the Kingdom. Let those who have ears to hear reflect and share! Like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments below.

Join us in this special Christmas message as we dive into the miraculous story of Jesus' birth as recounted in Luke 2:1-20. From the humble beginnings in Bethlehem to the angelic announcements, we explore the profound significance of the Savior's arrival. Jesus, the greatest gift to humanity, symbolizes forgiveness and salvation. His birth and eventual crucifixion showcase God's incredible love for us. The incarnation of God in the flesh is more than a Christmas story; it's the delivery of the gospel. Reflect on the love, peace, and joy that Jesus brings. Like the shepherds, receive the good news with joy and share it with others!

Join us as Pastor Ray continues to explore the hidden gifts of God through an in-depth study of key Bible passages. He unpacks the parables of Jesus, the concept of being chosen, the role of faith, and the spiritual gifts given to believers. Learn how these scriptures reveal God's plan for growth, understanding, and sharing His word. We dive into the deeper meaning behind the parables, uncovering how believers are called to live out their faith. Perfect for anyone seeking spiritual insight and inspiration!

We delve into the rich biblical narrative of the journey from Abraham to Moses. We explore how God's promises to Abraham were fulfilled through his descendants, Isaac, Jacob, and ultimately, Joseph, who led the Israelites to Egypt. This set the stage for the dramatic story of Moses, whose life was marked by divine intervention and purpose. Join us as we unwrap the profound connections between the Old Testament story of Moses and the New Testament fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Discover how God's plan of rescue is a timeless message of hope and redemption.

Do you get flooded with Christmas memories this time of year? What's the best Christmas present you've ever received? Did you know what it was before it was unwrapped, or were you completely surprised? In this Christmas series, we will explore the joy and excitement of unwrapping presents and draw parallels to the biblical stories of God's promises. As parents, watching our kids open gifts can be as thrilling as opening them ourselves, especially when we know what's inside! In this sermon, we unwrap the story of Abraham and Sarah and discover the wonderful gift of Jesus. This video explores the promises God made, the patience required to see them fulfilled, and the ultimate joy in God's faithfulness. Perfect for families, this journey through Genesis reveals how the anticipation and fulfillment of God's promises can strengthen our faith today.

Jesus addresses the scribes and Pharisees' demand for a sign, pointing to the sign of Jonah as a prophetic foreshadowing of His own death and resurrection. Jesus emphasizes that true faith is rooted in God's Word and not in seeking signs. We discuss the dangers of spiritual emptiness and the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit to withstand evil influences. Additionally, Jesus redefines family as those who do God's will, highlighting the need to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. A 2,000 year old proven formula for growing your faith in God can be found by following these 3 steps: 1) Establish your faith on God's Word. 2) Constantly be filled with the Holy Spirit. 3) Live out God's will through loving Him, loving others, practicing humility, and seeking divine justice.

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday. Granted, it is a day our founding fathers set aside to emphasize the spiritual focus we should have in our lives. However, our perspective as followers of Christ should go way beyond a single day. The church, as the body of Christ, should live in constant thanksgiving for God's mercy, grace, redemption, and salvation. There are three ways we may come to recognize our need for a Savior: 1. Through the realization of our sin. 2. Through trials or suffering. 3. A combination of the first two, leading to faith and surrender to Jesus. Be encouraged to live a lifestyle of thanksgiving and generosity every day, and in every way through your time, talents, and treasures.

We explore the miraculous healing of a demon-oppressed, blind, and mute man by Jesus, as described in Matthew 12:22-37. Witness the crowd's amazement and the Pharisees' hostile response, accusing Jesus of using demonic powers. We delve into Jesus' powerful rebuttal, explaining that a divided kingdom cannot stand and highlighting the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit's work. There is necessity in examining our hearts and the evidence of our faith. Join us for an insightful journey through these impactful biblical passages. Join the Discussion: What are your thoughts on this passage? How do you interpret Jesus' response to the Pharisees? Share your reflections and insights in the comments below. Subscribe for More: If you found this message insightful, please like, share, and subscribe for more content on biblical teachings and spiritual growth.

We explore the profound teachings of Jesus as He confronts the Pharisees and their rigid traditions. We delve into the significance of compassion over legalism and how Jesus emphasizes mercy, love, and meeting human needs above strict adherence to religious rituals. The importance of "Compassion over Law" is highlighted through the examples of King David, the priests, and the prophet Hosea. Jesus' message is clear: mercy, compassion, and meeting human needs should always come before rigid legalism. As followers of Christ, we are called to extend His hope of salvation and justice to all, living out the greater purpose of our High Priest, Prophet, and King of kings.

In this week's study, we dive deep into the teachings of Jesus as He unveils the Kingdom of God and the call to repentance. We explore the crucial role of repentance in entering the Kingdom, the stern warning against indifference, and the beautiful invitation Jesus extends to those burdened by life. Key Topics Covered: 1. The Peril of Indifference: Jesus' warnings to the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum (Matthew 11:20-24) and the consequences of rejecting God's message. 2. Jesus' Invitation: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28-30). 3. The Yoke of Discipleship: What it means to take up Jesus' yoke and find peace and rest in Him. Main Points: The connection between repentance and entry into the Kingdom of God. Why indifference to God's message can be just as harmful as active rejection. How to respond to Jesus' invitation to rest and find peace, even amidst life's struggles. The role of discipleship in the Kingdom: learning, growing, and walking as Jesus did. This is a powerful reminder of God's grace, His invitation to peace, and our responsibility to respond to His call with humility and faith. Whether you're struggling with doubt, guilt, or weariness, Jesus offers rest that is uniquely tailored to you.

There are many circumstances in our lives that will cause us to doubt. When life seems to be throwing us curve ball after curve ball, where do we look for hope? On more than a few occasions in scripture, God gives us wonderful examples of men and women who doubted the strength, provision, and promises of God. People like, Abraham, his wife Sarah, Gideon, the disciples of John the Baptist, and yes, even the infamous 'doubting' Thomas. We may ask ourselves where this doubt comes from, and to whom are we placing our hope when the rough circumstances begin to swirl? Jesus is our answer!

In this powerful message we explore the profound truths of faith, fear, and the call to boldly proclaim the gospel. Jesus reminds us that nothing hidden will remain concealed, urging us to share the light of our salvation despite the trials and persecutions we may face. We'll delve into the significance of acknowledging Christ publicly, the spiritual battles we encounter, and the ultimate value God places on each of us—more than the sparrows that He watches over. Discover how our love for Christ must take precedence over all else, even in the face of division within our own families. Join us as we reflect on the importance of self-denial, the call to live out our faith actively, and the eternal rewards awaiting those who serve faithfully. Let's learn together how to shine our light and share the gospel, understanding that every act of kindness, no matter how small, is noticed by God.

Join us in this deep dive into Matthew 10:16-25, where we explore the profound teachings of Jesus on how to navigate a world filled with challenges and opposition. In this message we'll unpack what it means to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" in our witness for Christ. The balance between wisdom and innocence in our interactions. The inevitability of persecution and how to endure it with grace. The significance of shining our light in a dark world and how it may attract both followers and critics. Insights into how our message of hope can challenge cultural and societal norms. We'll also reflect on the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance, the potential costs of discipleship, and the call to protect our mission in the face of adversity.

In this video, we explore the incredible calling of the 12 disciples as outlined in Matthew 10:1-15. Discover how Jesus chose ordinary people for extraordinary purposes, equipping them to expand the Kingdom of God. The significance of the disciples' humble beginnings. Jesus' specific mission for them and its implications for us today. The meaning behind “the lost sheep of Israel”. How this story teaches us about faith, obedience, and service. What does it mean to you to be chosen for a purpose? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Pastor Ray Orozco As Jesus continued His ministry, He went through all the towns and villages bringing the message of the gospel and grace to all who would hear. Through His miraculous touch, He brought healing. Yet, those in leadership over the people were doing the opposite. They were scattering the people with their legalistic judgment and elitism. Jesus shows us what compassion and grace look like. Will we see, truly see others in the same way He sees us?

In salvation, there is new life! Join us as we dive deep into Matthew 9:18-34, where we explore powerful stories of faith, healing, and transformation. In this episode, we witness how Jesus brings new life to those who humbly seek Him—regardless of their status or circumstances. Key themes in this passage include: Faith and Expectation: Discover the importance of coming to Jesus with a heart full of faith. Compassionate Healing: Understand how Jesus values every individual, offering not just physical healing but spiritual restoration. Living Out Our Testimony: Learn the vital role of sharing our experiences of salvation with others. How has your life changed since accepting Jesus? What story of healing or hope can you share with those around you? If you've experienced the transformative power of Jesus, don't keep it to yourself! Spread the good news and encourage others to seek Him. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more uplifting content! Share your thoughts in the comments below!

In this episode, we dive deep into Deuteronomy 6:4-6, also known as the Shema prayer. This ancient text, central to the faith of the Israelites and still a daily prayer in Judaism, holds vital significance for our worship today. Let's explore what it means to "Hear, O Israel" and why this call to listen is crucial for our relationship with God. Discover the depth of the term "Echad" and how it underscores the uniqueness of our Triune God. Learn about the command to love God with all your heart, soul, and might, and how this should influence our daily lives. Reflect on how to integrate this powerful command into your everyday routine, making worship a continuous and heartfelt practice. Join us as we delve into the richness of this prayer and discover how it can transform our approach to worship. Let's engage our hearts, souls, and might in loving and glorifying the one true God. If you find this episode inspiring, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content on deepening your faith and worship.

In today's episode, we dive deep into the topic of fasting as addressed by Jesus in Matthew 9:14-17 and unravel the profound meanings behind His teachings. Through this teaching: Learn about the Pharisees' traditional fasting practices and how they differed from the true intent of fasting. Discover what the Old Testament teaches about fasting, including key passages from Leviticus and Hebrews. Jesus' Response: Explore Jesus' answer to why His disciples didn't fast as expected, and what this reveals about His new covenant and relationship with His followers. Parables Explained: Unpack the three powerful parables Jesus used to illustrate His message about fasting, renewal, and the new kingdom: The Bridegroom Parable: Why fasting doesn't fit in with the joyous presence of Jesus. The Old vs. New Garment Parable: Understanding the shift from the old covenant to the new. The New Wine in Old Wineskins Parable: The importance of embracing the new life in Christ without blending it with old practices. Practical Insights: Gain clarity on what fasting means today, including its purpose, significance, and how to approach it with the right heart and intention. Don't Forget to Subscribe! For more deep dives into biblical teachings and practical faith applications, hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications.

In this compelling episode, we dive deep into a powerful message to explore the transformative encounter between Jesus and Matthew the tax collector. Key Highlights: Why Matthew? Learn why Jesus chose a despised tax collector and how this choice reveals the heart of God's mission. Pharisees' Objection: Understand the Pharisees' outrage and Jesus' radical response about mercy over ritualistic sacrifice. Old Testament Connections: See how Jesus' actions align with Old Testament teachings and God's enduring message of healing and redemption. A Call to Transformation: Explore what it means to truly follow Jesus and how His call can radically change your life, regardless of your past. Through this teaching, we want to encourage you with practical steps on how to live out Jesus' call to "Follow Me" in your daily life. Whether you're seeking inspiration or a deeper understanding of your faith, this episode offers a rich exploration of Jesus' invitation to follow Him—no matter who you are or where you've been. Dive in to discover how you can embrace this call and experience a life transformed by grace.

In this study, we explore a powerful biblical story that highlights the incredible impact of compassion and faith. Based on passages from Matthew 9, Mark 2, and Luke 5, we dive into the story of a paralyzed man whose friends go to extraordinary lengths to bring him to Jesus. Unable to reach Him through the crowd, they create an opening in the roof and lower their friend down, leading to a profound encounter where Jesus forgives his sins and heals him. In this video, you'll discover: The amazing story of faith and sacrifice as four friends go above and beyond to help their paralyzed friend meet Jesus. How Jesus' response emphasizes the importance of forgiveness over physical healing. The broader message of how our acts of faith and compassion can have eternal significance. Join us as we reflect on the eternal implications of kindness and faith. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more meaningful content!

In today's episode, we explore two profound events from Matthew 8: the calming of the storm and the healing of the demon-possessed men. Join us as we unravel how these stories offer deep insights into our faith journey and God's unshakeable authority.

*Pastor Ray Orozco On quite a few occasions, people would approach Jesus and ask an array of questions. In every occurrence, He would respond with the exact answer that person needed to hear. In our passage of study today, there are a couple questions asked about what it takes to follow Jesus. His answer, which applies to each and every one of us, may sting, but it's what we need to hear. Following Jesus isn't easy, and in all things we must make Him first.

Throughout Jesus' ministry, He brings healing to many people. He uses those circumstances to point to the cross. Jesus did not miraculously heal people simply because He could. He did so to show us a couple things: 1. His authority is God's authority. His words are God's words. 2. Every single individual, regardless of title, culture, social status, or physical well-being is worthy of the salvation He offers. Yet it is up to each individual to humble themselves and draw near to Him.

Guest Teacher: Pastor Kirk Overstreet Scripture makes it crystal clear, our heart is deceitful and wicked. So why do we continue to do the things we ought not do?! God promised us a new heart, yet He leaves it up to us to take good care of what He's given us. We must exercise our spiritual muscles while feeding on the perfect nutrition that satisfies our soul. Be strengthened in God's word, and let your heart pump the way God intended…for His glory.

Guest Teacher: Pastor Terry Zech From the crossing of the Red Sea through their time spent in the wilderness, the Israelites faced multiple trials and temptations. Yet God continued to provide time after time. There is purpose in the trials we face, and often times we miss the crucial point of connection to God. When we get through our trial, it is relatively easy to praise God. Whereas if we can see Him working in the midst of the trial, we'll see and experience something special. Don't miss what He wants to show you.

Following the greatest sermon ever given, Jesus encounters a man with leprosy. A hopeless condition which if inflicted, causes one to have to be separated from everyone. This man was living in isolation and there was only one person who could set him free. This man understood his condition, and by faith approached Jesus to be healed. The question we have to ask ourselves is, “What is separating us from true freedom in Jesus Christ?”

Who sold you this land and told you it would be profitable? The views are breathtaking, but the value is worthless. Who told you that you can simply listen to God's word, yet never act on it? We are to be obedient to what God calls us to do. You can't build on what you think is right. You must build on the foundation that has already been laid for you. His name is Jesus Christ.

As Jesus continues to bring his sermon to a close, He speaks of 2 trees & 2 claims. As we follow Christ, we are to produce fruit that proves we belong to God's family. Yet there will be some false teachers who try and dissuade us from following Jesus by presenting a different gospel. We must bear in mind that what we claim, we must live according to the truth of God's word, and nothing else.

Jesus begins His conclusion to the Sermon on the Mount by providing a series of 2 choices we have when it comes to the Kingdom of God. The first of those is by which gate we enter. There are two choices, the easy way or the difficult way. Following Jesus is not easy. The road is narrow, but it leads to everlasting life for those who follow Him. The other way is easy and only leads to destruction. On the road of life, which gate are you going to choose?

Dad's come in all shapes and sizes. They look different, talk different, but the jokes are the same

No one likes to be judged. No one wants to be judged. We feel it infringes upon our right to live as we want. It's a very exposing thing to be told you're doing something wrong according to someone else. So why do we do it? As Christians, Jesus told us not to judge, yet there is something we need to understand regarding the difference between a final judgement, and using God's Word to use discernment and accountability to those around us.

Everyone will deal with anxious thoughts from time to time. Some more than others, yet Jesus gives us the answer to our anxiety, worries, and fears. He doesn't just tell not to be anxious. He gives us the tools to overcome those thoughts. He overcame this world so that we would live an abundant life in peace, free from the bondage of worldly desires and worries about what we have or don't have.

Giving, praying, fasting, confessing, etc… all these things Jesus teaches are things we ought to do. Yet it can be difficult to fall into a disciplined structure of consistent practice. Being spiritually disciplined as a follower of Jesus is not only beneficial to our lives, it can serve as a powerful testimony to those around us of the transforming power of God.

What does it mean to 'fast'? Is it something we are commanded by God to do? If so, how do we do it? For some it's a diet trend that keeps their body and skin healthy. Yet from God's intended meaning, it has spiritual implications that go way beyond the outer layer. Fasting is something that should and can be done in a proper way that honors God.

Prayer is one of the greatest gifts we have at our disposal. As children of God, we have direct access to come before our heavenly Father. Jesus teaches and provides us a model of how we ought to pray. While not a legalistic standard, it is imperative to remember who it is we are praying to. Our reverence for God must come first, with a willingness to yield to His will in all things.

Mothers Day serves as a day to honor the women in our lives who have nurtured, raised, taught, and loved us in fulfilling God's call on their lives. The various roles a mother fulfills can bring on a slew of emotions, all of which are natural. Yet what should motivate a mother is her unreserved love for God because of who He is.

As Jesus just clarified certain laws that had been misconstrued, He now begins to teach proper righteousness. As we live in the grace of God, we ought to practice righteousness according to His Word, not religious tradition. The first way in which we can practice right living is in the way we give to those in need. Too many "sound the alarm" to let others know how good they are by their giving. We don't need to let others know we give. We should seek to honor the Lord, not to receive the praise of those around us.

**This is part 2 of 2 from the same sermon entitled, "Unwelcome Impositions" from Matthew 5:38-48. When others impose upon us in a way we don't appreciate, Jesus calls us in that moment to exert self-control and not retaliate. Yet He also calls us to love those who insult and take advantage of us. We are to love everyone with the same love that God shows towards us: agape/divine love. Our love, regardless of the ill treatment we are given, will display grace upon grace to those who need it. Yet, how are we to get to such a place of spiritual maturity? Jesus give us His instructions on how to be perfect. The question is, are you willing to obey?

**This is part 1 of 2 from the same sermon entitled, "Unwelcome Impositions" from Matthew 5:38-48. Has anyone every imposed circumstances upon you, that you weren't prepared to accept, with or without your approval? In this portion of Jesus' sermon, He gives us one of the most difficult things to do as Christians...exhibit self-control and love in the moment of insult and imposition.

We serve a God who is faithful and true, and always fulfills His promises to His people. Jesus gave us the example of a life that stands on the truth of God's Word. He even made the proclamation that He is Truth! We are to therefore be people who live a life of integrity in all circumstances. In the eyes of God, there is no justification for lies. At all times we are to speak truth, and live truth to be an example to others to the righteousness of God.