First Christian Church of Otego

The Household of God - Qualified Elders

The character of an elder is one of the primary concerns God has when listing the qualifications for those who function in that role. While there are many facets to the role of a Biblical elder, integrity, the ability to teach, and the ability to shepherd and defend the flock of God from attack are the foundation of all other qualities.

The Household of God - Instructions for Worship

There is unity to be found in recognizing and upholding the roles God has designed us to fulfill. When both men and women embrace their God-given assignments, unity and harmony will inevitably flourish within the household of God

The Household of God - The Only Mediator

The gospel must be exclusive to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and must also go forth to all the nations. The riches of these truths and the glorious promise of the gospel highlight the magnificent plan of God, and we are called to be ambassadors of His kingdom.

The Household of God - The Great Intercession

Intercessory prayer for all people, whether Jew or Gentile, is a Biblical mandate that we are called to carry out. When we pray for those who are in authority over us, we are showing ourselves to be submissive to God as well as our civic leaders. This action demonstrates our desire to live a life of peace, dignity, and godliness in the eyes of the world.

The Household of God - Divine Determination: Waging the Good Warfare

Waging the good warfare involves much sacrifice and must begin with a sound understanding of how to defend and deliver truth. As good soldiers of Jesus Christ, we should know the difference between fruitful and unfruitful warfare. To that end, we must endeavor to maintain a sincere faith and good conscience whenever we are called upon to combat falsehoods that threaten the doctrine or unity of the church.

The Household of God - The Fruit of Faithful Ministry

God’s grace and mercy are clearly seen in the lives of those whom He has saved from their previous lives of wickedness and rebellion. Paul is a model of this reality and serves as an example to all those who will ever believe that we (and they) are appointed unto good works for God’s glory. All praise to the King of the ages for his overflowing grace and mercy!

The Household of God: God’s Law & Gospel: A Divine Harmony

Both God’s Law & Gospel together reveal the character of God, the nature of sin, and the means of salvation. True believers, rather than being condemned under the law, are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill the righteous requirements of the Law freely and cheerfully, albeit imperfectly to the praise of God’s glorious grace. 
Discussion Questions:
We understand that the Law of God has many different applications and functions. One of the primary functions of the Law to those outside of Christ is to declare the righteousness of God and the guilt of mankind. Why do men need to be made aware of their sin? What are some responses to this revelation? How do we approach sharing the Law? What are some “unlawful” uses of God’s Law?
The Gospel heralds the abounding love and grace God put on full display in the death of His Son Jesus Christ. Why is this such good news for lawbreakers? How does Christ’s perfect righteousness become our own? What of our sin? How are lives transformed through the proclamation of the Gospel?
The harmony of God’s Law & Gospel is on full display in the pages of Scripture. How does the Gospel enable us to love the Law of God? What are some of the uses of the Law in the life of a believer? How do we come to cherish and delight in the Law of God as “more desirable than gold?”

The Household of God: Courageous Correction

Paul clearly communicates that all forms of false teaching must be opposed with a firm but steady hand. This is seen in expressions like, “correct opponents with gentleness” and “the aim of our charge is love.” We are commanded to correct any errant doctrine, including myths, speculations, vain discussions, and controversies. Courageous correction, rooted in love and sound doctrine, is essential for protecting the church and growing in our faith.

The Household of God: An Introduction to the Pastoral Epistles: The Spire of the Church

As we begin our new series on the pastoral epistles, our goal should be to learn more about how to conduct ourselves in the household of God. In this way, we may strive to remain steadfast and immovable in our commitment to and love for the truth as the Church of the living God.

Pursuing Purpose: Reflections on Ecclesiastes

God’s providence is grounded in His character and should be considered with respect and humility. While we may naturally desire to wrest His authority from Him, we must submit ourselves to His counsel and will, either in great joy or much sorrow. It is the duty of man to acknowledge God for who He is and for all that He carries out with great awe and reverence.