We have to distinguish between real and fake news in the media. Likewise in the world of religions. There is true religion and fake religion. What is the difference? Anyone looking for real religion, come listen to a pivotal message of James (one of Jesus’ disciples) about this. All who already believe, come, listen and check yourself again: is your faith real? Or fake? Welcome next Sunday.
Reading of scripture: James 1,19-27 en 2,14-26
Pastor Simon
After the service of last Sunday (10.12.17) some people asked for the Power Point slides about the sermon, especially about ‘religion and faith’.
So here is it: The sermon theme was ‘Preparing for the return of the king’ and one of the important points: ‘Discerning religion and faith in our life.’
‘I obey, therefore I am accepted.’
‘I am accepted, therefore I obey.’
Motivation is based on fear and insecurity.
Motivation is based on grateful joy.
‘I obey God in order to get things from God.’
‘I obey God – to delight and to resemble Him.’
When circumstances in my life go wrong, I am angry at God or myself.
When circumstances go wrong, I struggle, but I know that God may allow this for my training.
When I am criticized I am furious or devastated because it is essential for me to think of myself as a ‘good person’.
When I am criticized, I struggle, but it is not essential for me to think of myself as a ‘good person’.
My prayer life consists largely of petition and only heats up when I am in need.
My prayer life consists of generous stretches of praise and adoration. My main purpose is fellowship with God.
More to find in: T. Keller ‘Center Church’, p. 65
Pastor Niek Tramper
Jesus’ alive – impossible to believe?
How is it possible to believe that somebody rises from the dead? Rationally and scientifically it seems impossible. However, there are many reliable witnesses that Jesus, who gave himself into the cruellest death at the cross, was raised from the dead and is alive indeed. You may trust them: He is a real and trustworthy Savior. He is able to change what nobody can change. How can we believe that He is going to establish his reign of peace in this turbulent and violent world? See, hear reasons to be convinced!
Welcome for celebrating Easter, the festival of the risen Lord! Easter Sunday 16 April, Génestetchurch, 12 hrs 15. Welcome also to invite friends and colleagues to join the service.
Pastor Niek Tramper