August 25th, 2025
by Pastor Luke
by Pastor Luke
The Power of Humility and the Importance of Community in Faith
In our journey of faith, we often encounter the temptation to go it alone, to rely on our own strength and talents. However, the true path to spiritual growth and effectiveness in God's kingdom lies in humility and community. This truth is beautifully illustrated in the lives of early Christians, particularly those mentioned in the closing chapter of the book of Romans.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, takes the time to mention 29 individuals by name - a diverse group of men and women who played crucial roles in the spread of the Gospel. This roll call of faith serves as a powerful reminder that God's work is not accomplished by lone rangers, but by a community of believers working together in harmony.
One standout figure mentioned is Phoebe, described as a deaconess and patron. Her profile challenges our modern notions of gender roles in the church. While Scripture clearly outlines specific roles for men and women, it also elevates the importance of women in ministry. Phoebe's example reminds us that God values and uses both men and women in their unique capacities to further His kingdom.
Another couple highlighted is Priscilla and Aquila, known for "risking their necks" for the sake of the Gospel. Their willingness to take risks for God's work serves as an inspiration. As believers, we should have the highest tolerance for risk of any people on earth. Why? Because our faith is rooted in the promises of God, and we can hold fast to His word with unwavering confidence.
The mention of Appenatus, the first convert in Asia, reminds us of the importance of remembering and celebrating spiritual milestones. Just as a restaurant might frame its first dollar earned, we should cherish and remember the "firsts" in our spiritual journey - the first healing, the first profession of faith. These memories serve as touchstones, reminding us of God's faithfulness and His desire to continue working in and through us.
Interestingly, while Paul mentions these 29 individuals, he mentions Christ even more - ten times to be exact. This subtle yet profound emphasis reminds us that while community is crucial, our ultimate focus should always be on Jesus. In a world that often elevates human personalities and influencers, we must be vigilant to keep Christ at the center of our faith and practice.
This brings us to a critical point: God does not anoint proud talent; He anoints humble obedience. The individuals Paul mentions were not necessarily spectacular by the world's standards. They were simply obedient. While NASA might look for the best and brightest, Jesus looks for the most humble and obedient. God doesn't call the gifted; He gifts the called. He's not looking for our amazing ability but for our resigned availability.
In our modern context, it's easy to fall prey to the allure of gifted and talented influential figures. Whether it's intellectual giants, health gurus, political commentators, or even controversial figures, society often elevates these voices as authorities. However, as believers, we must remember that Jesus Christ is our ultimate role model and authority. We claim to follow Jesus, yet often know less about Him than we do about our favorite YouTuber or podcaster.
The call, then, is clear: we must get to know Jesus intimately. This means diving into the Gospels, poring over the "red letters" - the direct words of Christ. As we do so, the Holy Spirit confirms this pursuit, helping us to know the God of the universe more deeply.
Jesus Himself said, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6). The inverse is also true - stunted are those who hunger and thirst for distraction, whether it's branded as entertainment or self-improvement. Our ultimate satisfaction comes from seeking Christ and His righteousness.
Perhaps one of the most challenging yet liberating truths is this: if Jesus is not Lord of your entire life, He is not Lord of any part of your life. Jesus refuses to take second place or to be relegated to just one area of our existence. He must have full control. This might seem daunting, but we can trust Him completely.
As we reflect on these truths, let's consider: Are we truly allowing Jesus to be Lord of our entire lives? Are we cultivating humility and obedience? Are we valuing and participating in Christian community? Are we focusing more on knowing Jesus than on following human influencers?
The invitation is open to all of us - to trust Jesus fully, to make Him Lord of our whole lives, to acknowledge that He is trustworthy and worthy of our praise, worship, and complete devotion. As we do so, we'll find ourselves part of a beautiful tapestry of faith, woven together by the Master's hand, each playing our unique role in His grand design.
May we, like those early believers mentioned by Paul, be known for our humble obedience, our willingness to take risks for the Gospel, and our unwavering focus on Christ. In doing so, we'll discover the true power and joy of a life fully surrendered to Jesus.
stay salty. be bright.
Pastor Luke
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, takes the time to mention 29 individuals by name - a diverse group of men and women who played crucial roles in the spread of the Gospel. This roll call of faith serves as a powerful reminder that God's work is not accomplished by lone rangers, but by a community of believers working together in harmony.
One standout figure mentioned is Phoebe, described as a deaconess and patron. Her profile challenges our modern notions of gender roles in the church. While Scripture clearly outlines specific roles for men and women, it also elevates the importance of women in ministry. Phoebe's example reminds us that God values and uses both men and women in their unique capacities to further His kingdom.
Another couple highlighted is Priscilla and Aquila, known for "risking their necks" for the sake of the Gospel. Their willingness to take risks for God's work serves as an inspiration. As believers, we should have the highest tolerance for risk of any people on earth. Why? Because our faith is rooted in the promises of God, and we can hold fast to His word with unwavering confidence.
The mention of Appenatus, the first convert in Asia, reminds us of the importance of remembering and celebrating spiritual milestones. Just as a restaurant might frame its first dollar earned, we should cherish and remember the "firsts" in our spiritual journey - the first healing, the first profession of faith. These memories serve as touchstones, reminding us of God's faithfulness and His desire to continue working in and through us.
Interestingly, while Paul mentions these 29 individuals, he mentions Christ even more - ten times to be exact. This subtle yet profound emphasis reminds us that while community is crucial, our ultimate focus should always be on Jesus. In a world that often elevates human personalities and influencers, we must be vigilant to keep Christ at the center of our faith and practice.
This brings us to a critical point: God does not anoint proud talent; He anoints humble obedience. The individuals Paul mentions were not necessarily spectacular by the world's standards. They were simply obedient. While NASA might look for the best and brightest, Jesus looks for the most humble and obedient. God doesn't call the gifted; He gifts the called. He's not looking for our amazing ability but for our resigned availability.
In our modern context, it's easy to fall prey to the allure of gifted and talented influential figures. Whether it's intellectual giants, health gurus, political commentators, or even controversial figures, society often elevates these voices as authorities. However, as believers, we must remember that Jesus Christ is our ultimate role model and authority. We claim to follow Jesus, yet often know less about Him than we do about our favorite YouTuber or podcaster.
The call, then, is clear: we must get to know Jesus intimately. This means diving into the Gospels, poring over the "red letters" - the direct words of Christ. As we do so, the Holy Spirit confirms this pursuit, helping us to know the God of the universe more deeply.
Jesus Himself said, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6). The inverse is also true - stunted are those who hunger and thirst for distraction, whether it's branded as entertainment or self-improvement. Our ultimate satisfaction comes from seeking Christ and His righteousness.
Perhaps one of the most challenging yet liberating truths is this: if Jesus is not Lord of your entire life, He is not Lord of any part of your life. Jesus refuses to take second place or to be relegated to just one area of our existence. He must have full control. This might seem daunting, but we can trust Him completely.
As we reflect on these truths, let's consider: Are we truly allowing Jesus to be Lord of our entire lives? Are we cultivating humility and obedience? Are we valuing and participating in Christian community? Are we focusing more on knowing Jesus than on following human influencers?
The invitation is open to all of us - to trust Jesus fully, to make Him Lord of our whole lives, to acknowledge that He is trustworthy and worthy of our praise, worship, and complete devotion. As we do so, we'll find ourselves part of a beautiful tapestry of faith, woven together by the Master's hand, each playing our unique role in His grand design.
May we, like those early believers mentioned by Paul, be known for our humble obedience, our willingness to take risks for the Gospel, and our unwavering focus on Christ. In doing so, we'll discover the true power and joy of a life fully surrendered to Jesus.
stay salty. be bright.
Pastor Luke
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