Pictures From 6/5 Home Group

6/1/2008 Sermon Recap “Peter’s Welcomed Deja Vu”

Peter is restored by His Lord!!! It is interesting to note that Peter’s life seems to be cast with the backdrop of water.

• He was first called by Jesus on water
• He caught a bunch of fish at the Lord’s direction, then declared himself sinful
• He walked on water
• He caught a fish with tax money in it from the water
• He is again directed by His Lord what to do in gaining a huge catch of fish and is subsequently restored on the shore while eating some fish.

Peter “threw” himself into the water and swam to His Lord on the shore. He knew He was forgiven and welcomed by the mere repeat of how he was first called by his Lord.

http://www.sovereigngracefellowship.org/john/JOHN_PART57.mp3

Why Our Church Logo is a Cross

Many newer churches are now being built without crosses and are instead highlighting new innovative logos…many of which have no identifying connection with the Gospel or Church in general. While I am not necessarily opposed to the creation of such logos, I am opposed to those who are intentionally avoiding the cross and attempting to image their church much like the local restaurant or corporation.

Many view the cross as an antiquated symbol and would instead prefer a picture of a sunset and palm trees, or an ocean wave to promote their church. If such a transition is due to shame and embarrassment over the cross or because one feels that the cross doesn’t have enough promotional umph, then shame on them.

Paul said the following about Christ crucified:  1Co 1:22-25

For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, (23) but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, (24) but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. (25) For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

I love the cross because it is there where my sins vanished into the body of Christ…it is there where God’s wrath towards me was satisfied…it is there from which I receive the most marvelous gifts of justification, sanctification, and glorification.

May our eyes and hearts never grow dull from the cross…it is the power and wisdom of God for us who are being saved!!!