In this series we look to build a strong healthy church by asking the question “What does it mean to be a church member?”

Week 5 – Pastors and teachers are called to serve and work in the gospel ministry on behalf of God’s people. But no one has more impact on the faith of children than their parents and family. As members of the body of Christ, we are also one Christian family. How are you, even if you don’t have kids, modeling what it means to be a Christian? What are you teaching others, family members and friends, concerning priorities in life and what it means to be a member of the church? How do you speak about the church and other members? Parents are God’s representative to your children. Love is caring for each other with compassion, time, and support. True love also involves sharing law and gospel and helping those we love to know they are loved by Jesus. While God’s Word causes division in the world and families, Jesus tells us that faith in him is what will matter when everything else is gone.

We assume people get what they deserve. We assume that what goes around comes around. We assume God helps those who help themselves. Those assumptions are false. God does not operate on the principle of merit but of grace. No one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. God never turns it off. At the entrance of God’s open door is not a Father looking to condemn us, but a Father who has eagerly longed for our return. When we do, he takes us in his loving arms and assures us we are still his child. When the weight of our sin makes us fearful of God’s condemnation, he reveals his grace yet again.

Good News of Great Joy! God Became Man! Christmas Day fills us with wonder–that the Creator God could become flesh and dwell among us. This shows His great love for us. This is the Savior we need! Where we have failed, Jesus was perfect. His sacrifice means the forgiveness of sins! Let us marvel at this good news of great joy!

Children’s Christmas Concert

Sermonette: I’d like to welcome you all here today.  My name is Pastor James Enderle. … read more