Scripture Reference: James 5:13-16
If we are going to be a church that is a home, that entails being in transparent, intimate relationships with both Jesus and each other. These kind of life-giving relationships require admitting the truth about our messy selves, but a promise of healing and restoration is on the other side.
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Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:27-12:14
If we are going to be the kind of church that looks and feels like Jesus, then there should be something about our body that is restful. A body of Christ removes burdens rather than heaps on burdens and shame. Jesus interaction with Pharisees on the Sabbath presses home this point, in the person of Jesus, people finally find true Sabbath rest. The One who says “come to me and you will find rest” should shape the way Christ Pres functions with each other and in Oxford.
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Scripture Reference: Psalm 32
David shows us that guilt can actually lead us to a place of joy. It sounds so upside down in today’s world, however, being honest with guilt and turning to the right place brings freedom, forgiveness and joy. Could our guilt actually be a pathway to joy? Let’s follow David.
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Scripture Reference: Psalm 73
Does doubting mean lack of faith? Does doubting mean immaturity? What does a follower of Jesus do with their doubts? Psalm 73 gives us a window into the doubt of a Psalmist named Asaph. Surely this means the Christian life has a place for doubt, and that doubting can actually lead us to a deeper relationship with Jesus and others.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 8
Though our culture looks inward to our feelings or our accomplishments to search for an identity, David sings to a majestic Lord and discovers his purpose and significance in light of Him. Psalm 8 poetically reveals what the rest of Scripture teaches, that we will only find our purpose and identity as we look outside ourselves to the Lord and how He made us and redeems us.
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