MESSAGES

Scripture: Colossians 3:22–4:1 

Scripture Memory:  Psalm 46:4-5

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
   the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
   God will help her at break of day. 

Journey: This past week as I was reading an article on CNN about a Malaysian “pastor” (who is also a homosexual) I took a look at the posted responses of other readers. It went like this in the main: One reader would post a biblical injunction against homosexuality as a lifestyle. Another reader would parry with something like, “The Bible? Do you believe other fairy tales as well?” This didn’t surprise me, it’s pretty typical blog-banter, but several anti-bible tirades did especially catch my eye. A few responses read similar to, “The bible? Although it condones slavery, you still believe that archaic book?”

I don’t know if you are aware of it or not but this view of the Bible (condoning slavery) is a very popular criticism of Scripture and is the precise reason why we’ll spend today thinking about slavery historically and Scripturally.

Although this is not “usual” Sunday morning fare I hope that it will be profitable us as we see more of the brilliance of God’s plans to redeem humanity from our moral messes.       

Please bring a pen and a piece of paper(!), 

Will (for the pastors)

Scripture: Colossians 3:22–4:1; Ephesians 6:5-9 

Scripture Memory:  Psalm 36:7-9

 How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
   People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
⁸ They feast on the abundance of your house;
   you give them drink from your river of delights.
⁹ For with you is the fountain of life;
   in your light we see light.

Journey: Today and next week we will deal with one of the “hot” passages of Scripture. The apostle Paul, as he continued to address relationships for followers of Christ, spoke to those who had the title of slave and master (and failed to say some things people today would expect). Today we’ll see how Paul’s instruction applies to the relationship of today’s employee and employee. Next week we’ll consider the institution of slavery historically and biblically against the backdrop of God’s redemptive plan in Christ.  

Blessings,  

Will (for the pastors)

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Scripture Memory:  Psalm 28:8-9

 8 The LORD is the strength of his people,
   a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.
9 Save your people and bless your inheritance;
   be their shepherd and carry them forever. 

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