Pastor's Perspective: The Grace of God

Dear Church Family,
Few things are dearer to our heart than experiencing the grace of God, God's undeserved favor. God's grace brings life, hope and joy. Legalism, acceptance by performance, brings bondage or encourages hiding behind a religious mask.

In our Acts 11 study on Sunday, we will travel with the early church to Antioch, where revival among the gentiles really takes off, and Jesus followers are first called Christians. When Barnabas arrived, it was said he witnessed the "grace of God". What did the grace of God look like in Antioch? What does the grace of God look like in your life, or our church family at CCF? Can grace be rejected in exchange for Legalism, if so, why would anyone reject grace?
Grace changes everything. Grace requires humility because we must grasp the fact that we do not deserve this abundant goodness.

When Barnabas arrived at Antioch and witnessed grace, he saw people who understood and rejoiced in the reality of God's undeserved favor. May we all prepare to experience grace, even in abundance. Another wonderful nugget from the Acts 11 text is "and the hand of the Lord was with them". When we receive God's grace, and take steps of faith, we are never alone!

Let's also make room for grace in numbers. Beginning this Sunday, we will have the Overflowing Cup open for livestream each week. If it feels to full in the sanctuary, feel free to enjoy the service in there, at least we can still fellowship together before and after the service. We are also preparing another class room for the children. Praise God for all the people God gives us to disciple in Jesus!

See you on Sunday
Pastor Marv