First Baptist Church of Midway - FBC E-Blast

FBC E-Blast

November 2, 2015

Our Growth as Christians - Galatians 3

There's a goal to the Christian life, which God expresses this way: "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son" (Romans 8:29). This refining process is called sanctification. And there are several identifiable stages en route to this goal, but sadly, most believers are unfamiliar with them. Let me offer some definitions so you can identify where you are on the journey and understand what to expect.

Salvation is the first stage of the Christian life. This describes our redemption from sinfulness through Jesus' atoning sacrifice. What results is forgiveness of sin, which lets us have a relationship with Almighty God.

Next, God gives us opportunity to serve (Ephesians 2:10). We were created to do good works in Jesus' name.

But at some point, we notice something isn't working. This is the start to stage three: frustrated inadequacy. This unpleasant but necessary part of the journey can last varying amounts of time. Without it, we'd undoubtedly experience self-sufficiency and pride. But we should recognize this difficult phase as beautiful because it leads us into the best part of our spiritual lives: total dependency upon Jesus as Lord of our life. And we will be fulfilling our ultimate goal: becoming a reflection of Christ.

Sadly, many Christians don't reach a point of complete reliance on the Lord. Pride, discouragement, and distraction can ruin focus and perseverance. Paul reminds us to fix our eyes on the goal of maturity in Christ (Philippians 3:14). Learning to die to self is painful, but ironically, it's the only true way to life.

Current Sermon Series
Last year, as well as earlier this year we studied In The Beginning..., how this world began. We covered the topics of God, Creation, the fall of Satan, the fall of mankind, and the promise of redemption. We briefly covered the first 3 chapters of Genesis. Join us as we continue this series, as we cover the next few chapters in Genesis. Lord willing, we will look at Cain and Abel, Generations of Adam, Noah, and other topics.

Last Week:
We saw what the Lord saw, felt, said, and gave. He said that He would destroy the world. He did as he said He would do. Also, He gave grace and favor to Noah for his faith in the Lord.
Sunday's message is available for streaming or for download on our sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes.

Next Week:
We will continue our study in Genesis by looking at Noah's Ark of Faith

Upcoming Events

November 8 - Cantata Practice at the church at 5 PM

November 20-22 - Missions Conference. We will be having the families of the Hopkins to Peru and the Greens to Taiwan.

November 20 - Service at 7 PM
November 21 - International Carrin Fellowship Dinner at 4:30 PM
Service at 6 PM
November 22 - Services starting at 9:45 AM

November 22 - Operation Christmas Child - Shoeboxes are to be turned in on this day.

November 24 - Thanksgiving Service at 7 PM.

December 24 - Christmas Eve Service at 5 PM. We will be having the Christmas Cantata Hope Has Hands.

210 Front Street
Midway, PA 15060
www.fbcmidway.com
(724) 796-3381

Unsubscribe me | Subscribe me