The book of Ruth contains one of the most incredible stories of God's masterful redemptive work in the midst of the lowest points of human despair. Not only does God's redemption reach into the individual suffering of Ruth and Naomi in this book, but God also providentially works through this hopeless situation to bring about a great king for Israel and relieve the suffering of the nation. But not even the author of Ruth understood that through Ruth's line God was going to bring about redemption for all of mankind. In this first chapter of Ruth, we will see how God brings hope in our darkest hour, at times through unexpected means

With other religions, man gives to God seeking to be paid back. The God of the Bible needs nothing, and is always giving. Therefore, we are always receiving and always have reason to be grateful.

As we approach church planting, we should 'wear white gloves' recognizing how precious the church is to Jesus

Jesus repeatedly taught that you can't both serve money and God. You are ultimately devoted to one.
The PURSUIT of treasure on Earth leads man to destruction.

Jesus repeatedly taught that you can't both serve money and God. You are ultimately devoted to one.
The PURSUIT of treasure on Earth leads man to destruction.

Jesus had many pointed confrontations with the Pharisees (religious sect of Judaism) during his ministry. In Matthew 23:24 Jesus describes their problem as not paying attention to the “weightier matters” of “justice, mercy, and faithfulness”. Somehow, they managed to be zealous about observance the mosaic law and yet missed the whole purpose at its heart. Are we any different? How can we avoid this type of hypocrisy?

In many people's religious experience, their initial belief in Jesus for salvation is the culmination of their entire faith journey. But Jesus tells us that truly being disciples is more than that. It means doing everything he taught and teaching others to do the same. The initial moment of believing in Christ is not the finish line, but the doorway into a life full of meaning, purpose, and eternal participation in the work of God's kingdom. As we seek to grow as disciples of Jesus, it quickly becomes apparent that we need each other to truly grow in Christ. God's design for us to walk this out together is the local church.

In many people's religious experience, their initial belief in Jesus for salvation is the culmination of their entire faith journey. But Jesus tells us that truly being disciples is more than that. It means doing everything he taught and teaching others to do the same. The initial moment of believing in Christ is not the finish line, but the doorway into a life full of meaning, purpose, and eternal participation in the work of God's kingdom. As we seek to grow as disciples of Jesus, it quickly becomes apparent that we need each other to truly grow in Christ. God's design for us to walk this out together is the local church.