Welcome to New Covenant Church!

We are so glad you have joined us to celebrate the Risen Lord! This week we will hear a lesson from Fr. Christopher Caudle called "A Gospel That Grows: Favorable Conditions."  Here are the scriptures for this week:

Scriptures
Acts 1:1-11
Psalm 97
Colossians 3:17-4:6
John 17:20-26

We look forward to seeing you online with us!

Hear the sermon now, "A Gospel That Grows: Favorable Conditions" - Fr. Christopher Caudle

Summary

Fr. Christopher focuses on the growing gospel theme derived from the book of Colossians. It emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel in individual lives and communities, particularly in challenging circumstances.

Overview of the Gospel's Growth

Fr. Christopher discusses how Jesus's resurrection signifies a new creation's beginning, bringing believers hope and life. Apostles, including Paul, spread the gospel to places like Ephesus and Colossae, where it began to bear fruit and grow. Paul highlights the transition from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of the Son, emphasizing redemption and forgiveness.

Living a Life Worthy of the Lord

The sermon stresses that believers are called to live lives that please the Lord by bearing fruit in good works. Paul aims for believers to be presented as fully mature in Christ, indicating that the growing gospel leads to spiritual maturity. Furthermore, believers are rooted and built up in Christ, strengthening their faith and leading to a life free from worldly vices.

Practical Applications of the Gospel

Fr. Christopher asks whether Christ's truths are only applicable in church settings or if they extend to daily life. He refers to Paul's exhortation for believers to do everything in the name of the Lord, which includes various relationships in life, such as family, work, and interactions with others.

Relationships in the Roman Context

The sermon outlines Paul's five key relationships: marriage, parenting, slavery, work, and interactions with outsiders. Paul writes these instructions from prison, which adds depth to his message about living out faith in difficult circumstances.

• Marriage: Wives and husbands are called to relate to each other in a way fitting of the Lord.
• Parenting: Children are instructed to obey their parents, and parents are encouraged to foster a loving environment.
• Slavery: Paul addresses slaves and masters, emphasizing that both are under the Lord's authority, which transforms their interactions.

The Transformative Power of Christ

Fr. Christopher emphasizes that Christ should be present in all relationships, reordering and reshaping them. This inclusion of Christ allows for a new understanding of dignity and respect in traditionally exploitative relationships.

Living Out Faith in Daily Life

The call to live as a new creation in Christ is highlighted, encouraging believers to bring the Lord into every aspect of their lives. Fr. Christopher urges the congregation to devote themselves to prayer and act wisely in their interactions.

Conclusion

Fr. Christopher concludes with a reminder that the gospel's transformative power is not limited to historical contexts but is relevant today. Believers are encouraged to invite Christ into their relationships and circumstances, ensuring that their lives reflect the hope and renewal found in the gospel. Fr. Christopher encourages the congregation to pray for freedom from burdens and to anticipate the Holy Spirit's work in their lives as they prepare for Pentecost.

Prayer
Kids

Youth

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