In Christ’s church, he gifts and uses those called to his service but never for their glory. It is not without significance that even the title “minister” is derived from the word meaning “servant.” For, in the body of Christ, we are all called to serve in Christ: “There is one body and one Spirit…one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Eph. 4:4-6).
Category Archives: The Gospel of Matthew
Christ the King
Despite his sinless perfection, he was falsely accused, illegally tried, and executed on a Roman instrument of tortuous death. Yet, it was his heavenly Father’s will that he die, for in death he took upon himself the just penalty for our sin.
Love in Christ
Our love then is a God-glorifying response to his love. Though we do not love God and others perfectly, our love for God and others reveals that we are his child (1 John 4:7). By his grace, the Spirit of Christ in us enables us to love, progressively perfecting our love for God and others and preparing us for an eternity of perfect love.
A Marriage Made in Heaven
We who are Christ’s bride await the final consummation of our union with Christ, a marriage made in heaven. In earthly marriage, we enjoy partnership. But in the new creation, we will enjoy eternal union with him.
Rendered and Redeemed
What does this mean for the Christian? It means that we are not our own, for we have been bought with a price (1 Cor. 6:19-20). All of us, heart, soul, mind, and body is the Lord’s.
The Few and Chosen
If you have heard the free offer of the gospel and received it, believing on the Lord Jesus Christ; if you trust only in the finished work of Christ, looking not to your righteousness but his alone before God; if you know the conviction of the Holy Spirit and see his presence producing fruit through you; you are one of the few, the chosen, not merely an invited guest but a child of the King.
The Master’s Vineyard
By the master’s grace through his Son, let us glorify God through the privileges of his vineyard. Let us with gratitude rejoice in the fruits he produces through us.
What Heaven Reveals
Only those who have received grace from heaven can see the way. Jesus came from heaven in the authority of his Father, but the self-righteous would not submit. Only those who have been conquered by grace can submit to Christ.
Evidence of Purpose
We abide in Christ through faith. We abide in Christ with prayer. And through faith with prayer we evidence our purpose, bearing the fruit of the kingdom of God for his glory.
Out of the Mouth of Babes
No longer spiritually blind and lame, we have been given eyes to see our Savior and to walk in newness of life. We have been healed to worship him, not indignant like those who have no hope, but celebrating the goodness of God’s mercy and grace. Out of the mouth of babes, like you and me, we sing praises to our Lord Jesus Christ, who delights in the praise of God’s children.
Planter, Pastor, Preacher 