From the Pews – September 2018 – East Alton First United Methodist Church

Some excerpts from: Sermon Notes, InTouch Ministries (2017)
The blood of Christ is not something we hear about much, but it affected each one of us– how we live and how we die. Yes, we take communion, but some denominations remove mentioning the necessity of Christ’s blood for our salvation.
In 1 Peter 1:18,19, we are reminded that we were redeemed with the blood of the Lamb– not with perishable, precious things like silver or gold. SIN is serious. If we are not saved, we face God’s judgment. We must not take it lightly, joke about it, rationalize or excuse it. Disobedience separates us from God. There are consequences.
The Nature of Sin:
* It deceives– I am not the exception to sin’s consequences.
* It disappoints– sin’s pleasures are temporary.
* It disables– if I live in sin, I cannot become who God desires.
* It’s depressing– sin zaps the life and vitality from me.
* It’s demonic– the devil will try to trap me.
* It’s destructive– sin leads to failed life situations.
* It brings death– those who sin, will die.
According to 1 John 1:7, “the blood of Jesus, cleanses us from all sin; and in verse 9… “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” This does not mean we can continue to live in sin as we please.
To pray or to ponder: Have you taken your sin seriously, recognizing it for what it is? What excuses, jokes, and rationalizations have you used to downplay that sin? Do you trust the blood of Christ for the forgiveness of your sins? If not, whom (or what) will you rely on when you stand before God?
See You in Church!
Sue Keasler
Laity Leader