I love articles that proclaim, “Celebrities are just like us.” They usually involve a celebrity spilling coffee on themselves, changing a baby’s diaper, or some such mundane life activity. The irony, of course, is that celebrities are not just like us. The coffee they are drinking is in Italy. The baby is being changed at a 5 star resort. Their lives are simply more luxurious and exotic than most! But in terms of being human beings with human joys, sorrows, laughter, and sadness, they are just like us. People in the Bible are similar.
We think of people like the Apostle Paul and the Roman church as something different than us. They must have lives that connect them deeper to God. Surely there is a greater godliness and stronger faith. But that is simply not true. They are not “super-faith celebrities.” They are just like us! They have the same human issues of anxiety, lack of faith, and propensity to sin. We see this is the beginning of Romans. Paul is making introductory comments that seem very familiar to us. He hears some gossip. He reveals his hopes and dreams for travel. And he seeks to accomplish his life’s purpose in this world.
This Sunday we will explore the very human drama of Paul and the Roman church. People just like us! I look forward to digging deeper and deeper into Romans in the coming weeks!
“For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you - that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” - Romans 1:11-12
- Pastor Curt
Please take note of ways to gather for Sunday Service at The Rock:
1) We are meeting outside at Manhattan Beach Pre-School for our Sunday Service at 4:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and Bibles!
2) We will also be live on Facebook Live. If you don’t feel comfortable joining us in person, are feeling sick, or have been exposed to someone who is sick stay connected through this live-stream - CLICK HERE at 4:30 Sunday afternoon.
3) Finally we will provide a video link to the sermon on our website.
Theological Word of The Week:
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
All abilities that are empowered by the Holy Spirit and used in any ministry of the church.
Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology
Upcoming Events
Children's Ministry
Children can join Cameron every Sunday for Bible time during the service. They will go through the Bible story by story.
Sermon Topic - May 15
Romans: The Gospel Changes Perspectives
Romans 1:8-15
“Celebrities Are Just Like Us!”
A21-M22 Fiscal YTD