8.25.13 Crucible of Conversion, Part 3 of 3: Meeting The Living God-Eph 2:1-10

Salem United Methodist Church, Pastor Justin Collett

There should be no surprise regarding mainline church decline. Why not? Because most mainline churches no longer preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Preaching "half" of the gospel (grace, love and forgiveness) is no gospel at all. It's well-intended, of course, but the consequences are devastating, as we end up worshipping a god in our own image. In sum, the source of mainline decline is not the style of worship or approach to ministry or a need to "rethink church." It's idolatry. And as we know, God abhors idolatry. (See Commandment #1) Hear Pastor Justin argue the point above and more in this sermon, the last in a series called, "The Crucible of Conversion." We've been hammering home the entire scope of the Gospel—including not just the good news of the Gospel but also the bad news, which is part and parcel of the Good News, as well. For example, the Good News reveals the problem of humanity as sin and the solution to this problem as salvation. And it reveals the extraordinary character of God, who is holy, righteous and, yes, even wrathful, yet also merciful, gracious and loving. And that's not a contradiction. It's the Living God. And it's very good news indeed.