A mantra of many Americans is “Work hard, play hard.” Working hard is a virtue if not taken to the extreme. Playing hard can be enjoyable if not done sinfully. The problem with this life philosophy is that it has nothing to do with rest. And rest is what many Americans are woefully lacking! We need more rest physically, mentally, and emotionally. But what we need above all of these is spiritual rest.
God sets the stage for biblical rest in Genesis 2:1-3. This Sunday I will explore what the Bible means by rest. Genesis introduces the idea of rest. The Law in Exodus expands rest to individuals in the 10 commandments. God gives Israel physical rest in the Promised Land. Old Testament rest is based on obedience. And by the end of the Old Testament it is clear that the people have not found or achieved true spiritual rest.
True spiritual rest is found only in Jesus. Jesus is our rest. And when people truly find rest in Jesus it leads to rest in all areas of life. Be encouraged that this kind of rest is available to you! I look forward to joining with you in worship this Sunday to explore this life-changing, life-giving topic of rest!
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28-30
- Pastor Curt
Theological Word of the Week:
Perseverance of the Saints
The doctrine that all those who are truly “born again” will be kept by God’s power and will persevere as Christians until the end of their lives, and that only those who persevere until the end have been truly “born again.”.
Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology
Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology
Upcoming Events
Children's Ministry
This week Rock Kids will be digging into the story of God showing power and sending 10 plagues, found in Exodus 7:14-12:30. The kids will learn the Bible point "God is all-powerful, so we respect him." At times kids can feel powerless. Full of worries, fears, and uncertainties, they may wonder if God's power is actually real for them. We want to help kids see that although the Israelites were powerless slaves, God showed up for them in a big, powerful way. He can do the same for us.
-Cameron
Sermon Topic - June 23
Genesis: Beginnings
Genesis 2:1-3
“Get Some Rest”
Lectionary Readings
Genesis 21:8-21
Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17
Romans 6:1b-11
Matthew 10:24-39
May 2019 YTD