August 20, 2023 - Romans 11:1-2, 29-32

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 Pruned for Purpose: How God Grows the Global Church

This Sunday I'll be preaching from Romans 11:1-2, 29-32. Paul wrestles with a crisis of faith, as many Jews rejected Christ. Though God's chosen people, they were leaving the early church. Paul wonders - has God now rejected Israel for her stubborn unbelief? Yet he concludes God's gifts and call are irrevocable. Despite faithlessness, God is faithful.

Today Christianity is declining in America, yet growing globally. God prunes and disciplines God's people, stirring us toward renewal.

As we reflect:

·        Do you focus on faith's decline in America or growth globally? What is God doing amidst shifting landscapes?

·        When have you felt spiritually pruned or disciplined? How did it lead to growth?

Let's cling to Paul's confidence - despite human faithlessness, God's gifts remain irrevocable. Our hope rests in Christ's eternal Kingdom.

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