First Christian Church of Otego

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.

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!

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?”

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.

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.

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.

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.

Our lives are filled with constant change that, on the surface, seems to have no clear design. Scripture, on the other hand, shows us that nothing is without meaning or significance when considered as part of God’s grand, immutable purpose and will. Therefore, we as children of God should view all things and circumstances as our allotted portion and as His means for conforming us to the image of His Son.

Our lives are filled with constant change that, on the surface, seems to have no clear design. Scripture, on the other hand, shows us that nothing is without meaning or significance when considered as part of God’s grand, immutable purpose and will. Therefore, we as children of God should view all things and circumstances as our allotted portion and as His means for conforming us to the image of His Son.

Pastor Barclay talks about the importance of church membership