Posts with the tag “faith”

In a world where value and acceptance often hinge on performance, Acts 15 challenges us to rethink our reliance on religious customs for salvation. The Jerusalem Council marks a pivotal moment where early church leaders affirmed that faith in Jesus alone suffices for salvation. This groundbreaking decision laid the foundation for understanding that God's grace is a gift, not something to be earned through human efforts. By lifting burdens rather than imposing them, the council reminded believers that salvation is about what God has already accomplished, freeing us from the cycle of proving worth. This echoes through time as a powerful reminder: Christ's work is complete, our faith is received, and we serve out of gratitude, not obligation.  Read More

In exploring Acts 11, we witness a pivotal moment where the early church learns a profound lesson: the gospel is for everyone. Peter's encounter with Cornelius, a Gentile, unveils a divine truth—God's love knows no boundaries, and His grace extends beyond traditional confines. As believers, we are challenged to say "yes" when God opens doors, even when it defies our traditions or comfort zones. The church is called to embrace diversity, extending grace and hospitality to those with different backgrounds, messy pasts, and even differing viewpoints. Our mission reflects a shared conviction that grace has leveled the ground at the cross, inviting all to stand on it equally. Let's ask ourselves, are we cooperating with God's mission, or are we standing in the way? By stepping out in faith, extending forgiveness, and adapting our methods while preserving the unchanging message of the gospel, we can be a beacon of hope. At First Baptist Church Byram, are we ready to say "yes" to God’s plan, just as the early church did? The impact could be transformative, not just for our community, but for the world. Let's unite in this mission, embracing the unexpected places and people God brings into our lives.  Read More

In Wayne's recent sermon, "God's Way is Always Best," we explored Psalm 37, emphasizing the three R's: Relinquishment, Reliance, and Rewards. Relinquishment calls us to abandon worldly distractions and commit our lives entirely to God's path. Reliance reminds us to trust in Christ for strength, as He never fails while worldly structures might. The Rewards of faithfulness manifest both in daily blessings and the eternal promise of life with Him. Ultimately, by embracing these principles, we align ourselves with God's superior plan and experience the profound love He has for each of us. Remember, God's way is always best, and in His love, we find our true purpose.  Read More

In a world that often glorifies grand gestures and monumental achievements, it's easy to overlook the profound impact of small, seemingly insignificant actions. Yet, history and scripture alike remind us that even the tiniest spark can ignite a blazing fire of change. This truth is beautifully illustrated in the story of Peter's journey through Lydda, Sharon, and Joppa, as recounted in Acts 9:32-4...  Read More

Imagine making a New Year's resolution, full of hope and intention, yet as time slips away, the motivation dwindles and the goal seems out of reach. This is the very trap that Israel fell into in Hosea chapters 12 and 13. They thought the day of reckoning was too distant to worry about. But Hosea warned them: judgment isn't a distant event; it's closer than you think. Just like my failed attempts for a summer-ready body, Israel believed they had plenty of time to repent, yet the alarm clock of God's judgment was set, and the time was imminently approaching. Ultimately, their diplomatic maneuvers to avoid God's judgment were futile. They, like many today, relied on worldly wisdom instead of divine guidance. Yet amid judgment, Hosea provides a glimmer of hope: a promise of resurrection and restoration through repentance and faith in God, a message echoed by Paul in 1 Corinthians as he speaks of victory through Jesus Christ. Let us heed the call to hold fast to love and justice, to return to the Lord before time runs out.  Read More

Can a person really change? Saul’s story in Acts 9 answers with a resounding yes. Once a fierce enemy of the church, Saul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus and was radically transformed into one of the faith’s greatest champions. His journey reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and even our weakest moments can become the doorway to powerful ministry. If God could take the church’s greatest persecutor and make him its boldest preacher, imagine what He can do in your life.  Read More