Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Psalm 147: 15, 18 & 19
He sends His command to the earth; His word runs swiftly He sends His word and melts them; He stirs up His breezes, and the waters flow. He has revealed His word to Jacob, His laws and decrees to Israel.
Jeremiah 6
"To whom can I speak and give warning? Who will listen to me? Their ears are closed so they cannot hear. The word of the Lord is offensive to them; they find no pleasure in it… They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. 'Peace, peace,' they say, when there is no peace. Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. So they will fall among the fallen; they will be brought down when I punish them," says the Lord.
Galatians 6
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load.
Reflection Questions
Is it important to gather and worship God with others who know Him or is it just legalism? What role do the people, the group, the congregation have in bringing God and His redemption to other people worshiping?
Why does God take pleasure in you? Does He? What does it mean for you and your self-worth that God delights over you? How can you begin to understand this truth? How can you begin to believe and live in this reality of Love?
Life is tough and we all get wounded. Christ wants us to love each other so deeply that we can be honest and seek help. Are you wounded and in need of help? What will you do, will you risk seeking someone? Do you love your friends enough not to fake peace and to begin to carry their burden? Are we carrying each others burdens at Vintage21? There is a lot of need for the Love of Christ in this place, what is your role in redemption?