Introduction

Greetings, beloved. I hope this day finds you in good spirits and ready to receive the Word of the Lord. We gather here today, not out of habit or obligation, but out of a desire to know our God more intimately and to understand His Word more deeply.

Our focus today is on a scripture that is both familiar and challenging, a scripture that speaks to the very core of our Christian faith. It is from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, chapter 1, verse 18:

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

This verse, dear friends, brings us face to face with the stark contrast between the world's view and God's view. The world may see the cross as foolishness, but we know it as the power of God. We know it as the symbol of a love so vast, so deep, and so profound that it transcends human understanding. This love, this divine love, is the very heart of our faith. It is the cornerstone of our Christian walk.

Our sermon today will focus on three main points. The first is the challenging changes in the Church. The second is the controversy of Christ's covering love. The third is the consequences of conforming Christianity.

In the words of the respected Christian author, J.I. Packer, "The life of true holiness is rooted in the soil of awed adoration." It is this awed adoration that we seek to foster today as we delve into the depths of God's Word.

Let us pray.

Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you today with humble hearts and open minds. We ask that you guide us in our understanding of Your Word. Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, our rock and our redeemer. We ask that you open our eyes to see the truth of Your Word, open our ears to hear Your voice, and open our hearts to receive Your love. We pray all these things in the precious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Let’s get started!

Challenging Church Changes

In the ever-evolving landscape of our society, it's no surprise that the Church is also experiencing its share of changes. Some of these changes are easy to navigate, while others present significant challenges. These challenges, however, are not necessarily negative. They can serve as catalysts for growth, pushing us out of our comfort zones and into a deeper understanding of our faith.

The shift in societal norms and values: Our society is becoming increasingly secular, with a growing emphasis on individualism and self-fulfillment. This shift has led to a decrease in church attendance and a general disinterest in organized religion. However, this doesn't mean that people are no longer seeking spiritual fulfillment. Rather, they are seeking it in different ways and in different places. This presents an opportunity for the Church to rethink its approach and find new ways to connect with people.

The advancement of technology: The digital age has transformed every aspect of our lives, including how we worship. Online services, podcasts, and social media are now integral parts of many churches' ministries. While this has made the gospel more accessible to people around the world, it has also raised questions about the nature of community and fellowship. How do we cultivate a sense of belonging and connection in a virtual environment? How do we ensure that our online interactions are as meaningful and impactful as our face-to-face ones?

The changing demographics of our congregations: As the older generation passes on, the Church needs to find ways to engage the younger generation. This is not just about updating our music or our sermons. It's about understanding the unique challenges and struggles that young people face and offering them a faith that speaks to their experiences. It's about creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and valued.

The increasing diversity of our society: Our congregations are becoming more multicultural and multiracial. This diversity enriches our faith community, but it also presents challenges. How do we ensure that our churches are inclusive and welcoming to all? How do we navigate cultural differences and avoid misunderstandings? How do we celebrate our diversity while also maintaining a sense of unity?

The message of the cross remains constant: It is a message of love, sacrifice, and redemption. It is a message that transcends cultural, generational, and technological barriers. It is a message that speaks to the deepest longings of the human heart. And it is this message that we must hold on to, even as we navigate the challenges of change.

These changes are not easy: They require us to let go of our preconceived notions and our comfort zones. They require us to listen, learn, and adapt. But they also offer us an opportunity to grow, to deepen our faith, and to experience the power of God in new and exciting ways. And isn't that what our faith journey is all about?

Christ's Covering Love Controversy

As we turn our attention to the controversy of Christ's covering love, we find ourselves standing at the foot of the cross, gazing up at a love so vast, it covers all ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO