In Romans 6:1–5, Paul teaches that when we are baptized into Christ, we are united with Him in His death, burial, and resurrection. Just as Christ was raised from the dead, we are raised to live a new life. Our old selves—bound by sin—are symbolically buried with Christ through baptism. This passage emphasizes that we don’t continue living in sin because our identity has changed; we have been “submerged” into Jesus’ death and now rise with Him to walk in the newness of life.

Jesus tells the Jews who believed in Him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

If you look back at John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way, the TRUTH, and the life'.” This shows that truth isn’t just an idea; it’s a person. Knowing Jesus is knowing the truth that brings true freedom: freedom from guilt, shame, fear, and ultimately eternal separation from God.

Luke 13:22-35 reminds us that Jesus is the only way to salvation, and truly following God means walking in obedience to Him. He calls us to enter through the narrow door, staying faithful even when the path is difficult. Jesus longs to gather us close, but we must be willing to come to Him. Today, let’s reflect on whether we are actively following Jesus, seeking Him daily, and trusting Him as the way, the truth, and the life.

In Luke 17:20-37, the Pharisees asked Jesus when God’s Kingdom would come, expecting a big, visible event. But Jesus told them, “The Kingdom of God is in your midst” (Luke 17:21). He was saying that God’s reign had already begun—through Him!

Jesus then warned His disciples that His return would be sudden, like lightning flashing across the sky. People in Noah’s and Lot’s days went about life as usual—eating, drinking, working—until judgment came unexpectedly. Jesus reminds us not to be so attached to this world that we aren’t ready for His return.

In Matthew 13:31-50, Jesus shares several parables to illustrate the nature of the kingdom of heaven. He compares it to a tiny mustard seed that grows into a great tree and to yeast that spreads through dough, symbolizing its small beginnings and transformative power. He also likens it to a hidden treasure and a pearl of great value, showing that the kingdom is worth sacrificing everything to attain. Finally, He describes it as a fishing net that gathers all kinds of fish, representing the final judgment when the righteous and wicked will be separated. These parables emphasize the kingdom’s growth, immense worth, and the profound importance of the coming judgment.

Thank you to our guest speaker Dr. Hutchinson from Cedarville!

In Matthew 13:31-50, Jesus shares several parables to illustrate the nature of the kingdom of heaven. He compares it to a tiny mustard seed that grows into a great tree and to yeast that spreads through dough, symbolizing its small beginnings and transformative power. He also likens it to a hidden treasure and a pearl of great value, showing that the kingdom is worth sacrificing everything to attain. Finally, He describes it as a fishing net that gathers all kinds of fish, representing the final judgment when the righteous and wicked will be separated. These parables emphasize the kingdom’s growth, immense worth, and the profound importance of the coming judgment.

In Matthew 6:1-18, Jesus reminds us that true righteousness is not about impressing others but seeking God with a sincere heart. Whether in giving, praying, or fasting, our focus should be on pleasing Him,not gaining human approval. When we give in secret, God sees. When we pray with humility, He listens. When we fast with a pure heart, He rewards us. This passage challenges us to examine our motives and pursue a faith that is genuine, not performative. Today, let’s shift our focus from outward recognition to an intimate, unseen walk with God, knowing that He alone is our true reward.

Jesus’ sermon on the Mount begins with a radical idea: true blessing comes not from wealth or power but from humility, mercy, and a heart devoted to God. The Beatitudes remind us that God’s kingdom operates differently from the world’s standards. When we are poor in spirit, we recognize our need for Him. When we show mercy, we reflect His love. Even in persecution, we are not forgotten. God’s reward is greater than any earthly struggle!

Jesus also calls us to be salt and light. Salt preserves and enhances flavor, just as we are to influence the world with Christ’s truth and love. Light drives out darkness, and our actions should shine in a way that points others to God.