Are you an instruction follower? Some people measure recipes down to the ounce to make sure it is correct. Others figure “close enough” works. Slight variations in taste might not make a difference, so there is not a lot at stake with not following the instructions. It could even make it taste better! Ultimately, it probably doesn’t matter if you follow recipe instructions perfectly. It does matter in other areas. I would like someone building an airplane engine to follow the instructions perfectly. “Close enough” does not work!

How about the Christian faith? Before you answer too quickly let me add some definitions. If I define the instructions on things like style of worship, liturgy, music style, or how the pastor dresses there is a lot of room to come “close enough.” Meaning, these things are about preference rather than objective truth. But if I define the instructions regarding how one is saved, we must follow the instructions more carefully. It matters. It is crucially important. “Close enough” is not good enough.

One specific issue regarding how one is saved is addressed in Acts 15. The issue is if one needs to obey the Old Testament law in order to be saved. The Christian Jews in Jerusalem bring the issue up to the leaders of the church. They are essentially saying, Jesus plus Old Testament law brings salvation. Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James all disagree. They all affirm that faith only comes through Jesus. The theological term is justification by faith. Not works. Not religion. Not political affiliation. Not anything. Only belief in Jesus. Anything else is not “close enough.”

This ancient controversy is still with us today. This Sunday I will look back at this important meeting in the early church. And I will look at current controversies over how one is saved. Are there false gospels today? Yes, and they are dangerous to our faith. I will look at four that affect us every day. Let’s gather together and affirm our faith in God. Let’s gather together and worship the God who saves!

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 3:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, masks and Bibles! For a complete copy of our guidelines for re-opening CLICK HERE.

2) We will also be live on Facebook Live (NOT ZOOM). 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 3:30 Sunday afternoon.

3) Finally we will provide a video link to the sermon. I will send out an email the week following with the sermon link attached.

“The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.” - Acts 15:6


- Pastor Curt

Theological Word of The Week:

Justification

An instantaneous legal act of God in which he (1) thinks of our sins as forgiven and Christ’s righteousness as belonging to us, and (2) declares us to be righteous in his sight.

Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology

Upcoming Events

Children's Ministry

We are providing live Sunday School!

Here is the plan: Children will be with their parents for the singing portion of the service. Children will be dismissed after singing to meet with Cameron and Courtney outside near the playground outside of the auditorium. Cameron will plan a short lesson, have a group activity, and supervise some free play. At the end of the service, Cameron will walk the children back to where we meet. This is 100% voluntary for parents. Your children are also welcome to be with you during the service. We believe this can be done in a safe and organized way. All activities will be outside. Every child will be encouraged to keep their masks on. We will do the best we can to encourage distance.

-Cameron

Sermon Topic - February 28

Acts: A Holy Spirit Inspired Legacy

Acts 15:1-6

“Houston, We Have a Problem”

2020 Final