Calvary Chapel Sydney

God is gracious to repeat warnings and provide guidance even to people who reject the good by His grace. Those who depart from God will find themselves alone, but the faithful servants who choose the good part by hearing His Word can rest in His love and shall have a glorious future with Him.

A biblical study of faith and depression - Part 4

A biblical study of faith and depression - Part 3

A biblical study of faith and depression- Part 2

A biblical study of faith and depression – Part 1

God allowed the northern kingdom of Israel to suffer great affliction for their sin, but they persisted in what was destroying them. They were likened to a cake unturned, a silly dove, and a deceitful bow, yet God remained faithful to hound them for their healing and restoration.

Whilst Israel placed great emphasis on offering sacrifices to God, their sin and lack of mercy revealed they did not know Him. Obedience is better than sacrifice, yet the sacrifices of a broken heart God will not despise. God has shown us mercy continually, even by sending His Son Jesus Christ as a sacrifice for sin so we can be saved.

God's people thought their sacrifices made them acceptable before God, but because they were in sin without repentance He withdrew Himself from them. God knew in their affliction they would seek Him, and He would patiently wait for them to seek Him in repentance. Jesus stands at the door and knocks, and may we quickly rise and open our hearts to Him

In directing Hosea to show love to Gomer by redeeming her, God illustrated how He purchased His sinning people for Himself. God desired to be known by His beloved people, and we can know God through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

God's epic love for His people is evidenced by judgement not for their destruction but ultimate restoration. God compared Himself to a faithful Husband of Israel who resembled an adulterous wife who would one day repent, return to her first love, and have a fruitful life marked with joy and peace. Instead of a dead end Jesus Christ is a open Door of Hope for all who repent and trust in Him.

This message is the first in a study through the book of Hosea, a prophet of God to the northern kingdom of Israel. His life was a living parable to Israel of their unfaithfulness to Him, coming judgment, and their restoration by His grace.

Our current trials ought to be viewed in context of God's miraculous power and salvation. Jesus sees our struggles and comes to His own, speaks comfort, and works wonders. We are never alone because He is with and in us.

A crisis can lead us into dark places even to despair. The Lord can and wants to help us like no other. He still speaks.

God allows situations in our lives which defy our expectations, like the split of Israel into northern and southern kingdoms. In trying times will we seek the counsel of men, do what we think is best, or seek the LORD?

Though king Solomon had great wisdom provided by God, in his later years his heart turned from God and embraced idolatry. For his sin the kingdom would be divided, but God allowed Judah to be governed by Solomon's son for His servant David's sake. We have received many blessings from God for the sake of Jesus, the Servant of all.

Our relationship with God impacts the way we speak to others and compels us to make the most of all opportunities. God has given every follower of Jesus a ministry for us to fulfil. We are called to make the most of the life God graciously provides, our words seasoned with salt, and walking wisely.

Our relationship with God impacts our perspective and roles in relationships. Unlike employees who clock in and out of shifts, followers of Jesus always are held responsible before God as His beloved children. Our roles or circumstances are never a hindrance to the good works God intends to do in and through us.

The pursuit of happiness doesn't guarantee lasting happiness will be found. In Christ we find far more than good feelings but an abundant life free from the shackles of sin. Christians pursue Jesus in obedience because He already has us, and He is our all and in all.

Paul exhorts Christians to hold fast to Jesus and to avoid self-imposed religion, man's attempts to reach God. The Law of Moses and regulations concerning feasts and the sabbath are shadows of Christ who is the substance, and faith and obedience to Jesus - not slaves to the opinions or approval of others - is our chief aim.

Knowledge is important for life, but there is nothing more critical than knowing God through Jesus Christ. The temptation to think satisfaction and purpose can be discovered in this world apart from Christ is real, even for Christians. Knowing what Jesus accomplished on Calvary and that we are complete in Him radically alters our perspective for good.

The Bible reveals Jesus is the Son of God and God made flesh, the only Way to eternal life. Through faith in Jesus Christ alone people have access to God, forgiveness, and help in time of need. Jesus has been raised in glory, and He is the Hope of Glory in whom we find rest for our souls.

Travelling the road to Emmaus, Jesus reminds us that the Old Testament points to what was to happen to Jesus.

God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, demonstrating His love through being lifted up on a cross to save sinners. The darkest day in the history of the world was the Friday when the the Light of the World was snuffed out on the cross and laid in a dark tomb.

Paul's letter to the Colossians puts the LORD Jesus Christ in central focus for believers. Being born again through faith in Jesus is key to knowing God's will and the Gospel continuing to be fruitful in our lives - even when following Jesus means suffering.

This message concludes the study of Ephesians with practical wisdom. God has given instruction concerning the spiritual battle we face and how to be prepared with the armour provided by the Holy Spirit. With prayer and the grace of God we can be strong in the LORD and stand.