Gateway Fellowship

This continues last week's message from John 15:15 where Jesus said he no longer calls us servants, but friends.

What are we saved from? What are we saved for? What does God get? "I no longer call you servants...I call you friends." (Jn 15:15)

This is a conversation we had about a theme Stan identified in his current relationship with God.

Since Bob Muncy talked about this verse the other night, I've been thinking about it more. I had a question about interpreting a verse written 2,500 years ago and got a little help from a pastor who wrote about five hundred years ago.

We have no greater joy than our children walk in truth (v4) Knowing God leads to holiness (v11) Modes of communication matter (v13-14) Here are my full written thoughts.

"God leaned in and a scroll of remembrance was written regarding the conversation they had."

A teacher's aide responded to a reading report I wrote in seminary.

Part 1. No. Part 2. Yes. Part 3. So what?

This chat is about facing the truth, speaking the truth, and living in the truth.

"If I could just have _____, then I'd be happy," is a common trap. God is calling us to cultivate gratitude and contentment.

Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. (1 Cor 3:1-3a)

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. (Phil 1:1-2 NLT)

We miss home Appetizers and Entrees Manna vs. Matrix Aim Low Trophies Ruin Art Enjoy the Pain/Feel the Burn It ain't easy The difference that makes the difference Construction Worker Jesus (Mark 6:3) Psalm 32 Sin and misery, happiness and holiness

John has been asking me for the opportunity to come sit down and tell his story...

"What is this, a Jesus for ants!?"

When we finally grasp grace...that's when the transformation comes.

God actually loves me, deeply, more than I ever dared hope. I’m completely forgiven because of Jesus’ cross. God is with me and he’s never leaving. God is for me and not against me. I’m under grace, not law, so I can relax and admit the truth about myself — no matter how scary or shameful —  without fear of rejection. God loves to hear what’s on my mind and wants to chat with me about what’s on his.

You can go to Denny's. Wear a hat. Whatever you want. But seriously, this chat is about the wonder of life and the importance of staying awake, aware, and grateful to God for daily existence. We also tell a crazy shipwreck story in this one. Scriptures: Romans 1:21, Deuteronomy 8, Proverbs 30:7-9, Matthew 6:11, Hosea 13:6

Eggs, small dogs, monkeys, a heart attack, jumping out of planes, gross food, miracles, and other topics.

Every human seeks meaning and purpose.