Posts with the tag “mercy”

God called Jonah to preach to Nineveh, but when the city repented and God showed mercy, Jonah became furious. His anger reveals a common human struggle: what happens when God's mercy offends our sense of justice? The story teaches us three key truths about mercy: it's for everyone, it can be offensive to our sense of fairness, and it's available to all who seek it. We cannot live in the 'mercy for me, but not for them' mindset. True relationship with God requires us to both receive and extend mercy.  Read More

Life brings consequences, but God's mercy follows us even when we run from Him. The story of Jonah reveals that what appears to be punishment is often God's protection, creating space for us to hear Him again. God doesn't abandon us in our messes—His presence finds us in our darkness. When we're at our lowest, God still hears our prayers and responds. Even after detours of our own making, God's purpose for our lives remains intact, offering us fresh starts because of His unchanging character of mercy and faithfulness.  Read More

God will go to the ends of the earth for you, no matter how far you've run. The story of Jonah illustrates God's relentless pursuit of His people, even when they flee in the opposite direction. Jonah ran from God's call to preach to Nineveh because he wanted judgment for them rather than mercy. Through storms and a great fish, God pursued Jonah not out of wrath but mercy. What appears as punishment in our lives is often God's rescue mission, reminding us that rebellion always triggers God's pursuit.  Read More

Pastor Matt introduces a new series titled "Simple Gospel," focusing on the positive aspects of the gospel rather than fear-based teachings. He defines the Gospels as the first four books of the New Testament and emphasizes the Bible's inerrancy. The message centers on Mark 2, where Jesus heals a paralyzed man, illustrating the power of faith and forgiveness. Pastor Matt distinguishes between good friends and godly friends, stressing the importance of fruitfulness in a believer's life. He warns against reducing spirituality to familiarity and encourages pursuing godly friends who embody faith, forgiveness, and the fullness of life.  Read More