FBC E-Blast - April 15, 2019
FBC E-Blast
 |
| What does the cross mean to you? Many people in the world today view it as a symbol of Christianity, but stop and think about what it represented in Christ's day. Nobody wore a miniature cross around the neck or displayed one in a place of worship. The cross was a torturous means of execution, and the mere thought of it was repulsive.
Yet believers throughout the ages have chosen this as the sign of their faith. In fact, to remove the cross from our teaching and theology would leave nothing but an empty, powerless religion. The subjects of death, blood, and sacrifice have become unpopular in many churches because they're unpleasant and uncomfortable topics. We'd prefer to hear about the love of God, not the suffering of Jesus.
But let me ask you this: How could anyone be saved if Christ had not been crucified? Some people think all you have to do to receive God's forgiveness is ask Him for it. But a sinner's request can never be the basis for His forgiveness. He would cease to be holy and just if no penalty was imposed for sin. According to Scripture, there can be no forgiveness without the shedding of blood (Hebrews 9:22). Christ had to bear the punishment for our sin in order for God to grant us forgiveness.
Every time you see a cross, remember what it really was - an instrument of execution. Then thank Jesus that He was willing to be crucified so the Father could forgive you of sin. Though the scene of your redemption was horrendous, Christ turned the cross into a place of great triumph.
|
|
|
Upcoming Sermon Series
Suffering is a part of life. Over the the weeks of this series, we will lay some foundation work on what it means to have a healthy, biblical perspective on suffering and how to respond appropriately as the Lord would have us in the midst of suffering and to do so. We invite you to join us as we look into A Theology of Suffering. This series starts May 19.
Last Week:
There are three things that Jesus took from us when He died on the cross in our place. 1) He took our sin and guilt. 2) He took God's anger that was aimed at us. 3) He took the distance between God and us.
Sunday's message is available for streaming or for download on our
sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes.
Next Week:
Come celebrate Easter with us as we look into what the Resurrection means to us.
|
 |
Upcoming Events
April 17 - Quarterly Business Meeting at 7 PM
April 20 - Midway Community Easter Egg Hunt at noon at 304 Noblestown Road in Midway. Begins at noon.
April 21 - Easter Services
8 AM - Breakfast; 9 AM Breakfast; 10 AM Worship Service
April 28 - Special Speaker Jeff Kipp presenting Jesus in the Passover. This special service starts at 10 AM. There will be no Sunday School service.
May 4 - Ladies' Luncheon at 1 PM at the church. If you are interested in going, please sign up on the sheet in the foyer.
May 5 - Carry-in Fellowship Dinner
May 18 - Free Market at our church from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
May 19 - Deacon's Meeting at 8 AM
May 26 - Lord's Supper & Deacon's Fund Offering following AM Worship service
|
|
|
|
