Today we continue to celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the writing of the Nicene Creed. We continue with the fourth stanza that focuses us on the events of Holy Week: the cross and the resurrection. In other words, this week we will be talking about the literal 'crux' of our faith in Christ: the cross and resurrection. More than that, we will be talking about why the cross and resurrection of Christ contain both bad news and good news...in fact it is the gospel message'. The following questions can help you or a trusted spiritual friend dialogue with today's message:

1. Read the beginning of the sermon on the mount: Matthew 5:1-11. Notice how the things that the world often calls 'weakness' are called 'blessed' by Jesus. This is the story of the cross. Jesus' death could be seen as loss, failure, and defeat but God uses it to bring salvation. How does this flip from weakness to strength speak to your life circumstances right now.

2. Many times we don't recognize a 'defeat' as a 'win' until much later when we look back at our lives (cue Garth Brooks song: Thank God for unanswered prayers). Was there a time in your life when a failure or defeat gave way to an ultimate blessing or 'win'.

3. How does the 'cross' and 'resurrection' of Christ appeal to the de-churched people of our world?

Pastor Rob

June 8, 2025

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