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August 27, 2023 - Matthew 16:13-20

 Living Stones: Our Role in Building the Church

This Sunday I’ll be preaching on Matthew 16:13-20 and the critical importance of the church being built upon the solid rock of faith in Christ. When Jesus asked his disciples “Who do you say that I am?”, Simon Peter confessed “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” This powerful truth - that Jesus is the Christ - serves as the bedrock of our faith and the foundation of the church.

In the sermon, we’ll explore three implications of this passage: 1) Peter’s confession as the cornerstone of belief upon which the church is established, 2) the role and purpose of the gathered community of faith as the body of Christ, and 3) our shared calling as living stones to build up the church. Just as a physical building requires a firm foundation to stand strong, so too the church needs the stability of Christ as our center.

As you read and reflect on this passage this week, here are some questions to consider:

·        How has your life been anchored by the foundation of faith in Christ? What does it mean to you that the church is built upon the rock of Jesus' identity?

·        How have you experienced our church living out its calling to embody the love, justice, and witness of Christ? Where is God inviting you to use your gifts to build up the body?

I look forward to exploring these ideas further together during worship on Sunday. Please join me in seeking the Spirit's guidance as we reflect on Christ our sure foundation and the mission with which we've been entrusted.

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