The Rock Church

Jesus Saves

“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13)

With Christmas just a couple weeks away, I’ve been contemplating eternal matters. I’d like to share two different true stories that I experienced a few years ago. They are similar stories but have different endings. Both accounts involve funerals. One involved someone I’d never met, the other a dear friend.

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church

Life Is But A Breath

As you’re probably aware, on July 13, there was an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The bullets fired in this senseless act of violence killed a man; he was shielding his family from harm. They also critically injured two other men while grazing Trump’s ear. The bullet that hit Trump would have been lethal if he hadn’t turned his head immediately before the bullet passed by. Shortly after I heard the news, I started thinking. I thought about the possible retaliation against other political figures and even the divisions that could arise in the Church. 

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You Are Free Indeed

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9

I recently had the privilege of leading a young man to Christ at our citywide “Night of Hope” event. His countenance went from sad, hopeless (and discouraged) to joyful, smiling, and thankful! The transformation happened before my very eyes. He absolutely understood (and believed) that God loved him. Also, he knew Jesus had died for all his sins. God is so good.

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Can A Christian Lose Their Salvation?

I was very stressed before my last teaching. And I’m sure I know why. I was preparing a message from some challenging verses in Hebrews 10:26-39. Not surprisingly, we all know there are some Bible verses that (at first glance) can rattle our faith. Because of this, they may even challenge our understanding of salvation. I was meditating on verses like that.

However, the Lord gave me clarity. Once again, I came to the settled peace that our salvation through Jesus is eternally secure. Even as I considered other options, it was obvious that the atonement of Jesus covers ALL my sins. For that, I am beyond grateful!

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God’s Judgment

When we think of Noah and the Ark, we imagine a coloring book page of a boat (with a happy Noah and happy animals), lots of primary colors and blue skies. However, this is not at all how it would have been. Everything about this event would have been surprising, terrifying and devastating. Most theologians believe this was the first-time rain had ever fallen on the earth. The experience of water coming from the heavens (and bursting forth from the ground) would have been a surprise, to say the least. People never had to seek shelter from rain before that day.

Imagine yourself living during that time. Unstoppable water rushed everywhere. It was terrifying as it consumed everything in its path. Heavy debris and trees crushed and pinned anything and anyone. People screamed for their loved ones as homes and other structures broke apart. As a result, there was no escape, no safe place to go — except the Ark. The giant boat the “crazy” preacher had been building for 120 years. Noah had said it was going to happen. 

Posted in A Word from the Pastor by admin