https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem The newest sermons from Grace Baptist Church - Truth with Grace on SermonAudio. Religion & Spirituality Grace Baptist Church - Truth with Grace http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification https://vps.sermonaudio.com/resize_image/sources/podcast/1440/1440/gbcsalem.1649094455.jpg https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem en Mon, 11 May 2026 05:03:42 +0000 30 Pierre Rosa no The newest sermons from Grace Baptist Church - Truth with Grace on SermonAudio. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241933205692 In what might be seen as a review, Peter begins his letter with his usual greeting and a reminder to the Christians in Asia Minor that they have been given great spiritual gifts by God – starting with salvation. These spiritual realities may be hard to spot when you're going through tough times, so Peter is wise to refresh the memories of the early church, and for us to do so as well. In today's message we discover the framework for the Christian life. There are many metaphors we can use, as you'll hear, but the idea of a 7-story building is a favorite. Each floor represents a virtue we must add to our faith if we are to grow into mature Christian. This is a Christ-centered life. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241933205692 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Knowing God https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241935353968 Last week, Pastor introduced the idea of a 7-story building as an illustration of our Christian life. Each floor represents a virtue we must add to our faith if we are to grow into mature Christian. The first floor is moral excellence – our lives must change as we are now morally awake and desire to be more like Christ. To that we add knowledge – which fine tunes this sense of morality. Then, floor 3 is self-control – necessary to prevent legalism and promote humility. And floor 4 is perseverance – because it's not long into the life of Believer that trials come and try to destroy our faith. We'll pick up here and continue on through floor 7 of Christ-centered life. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241935353968 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Knowing God https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241927403977 Pastor Pierre Rosa is preaching from the book of 2 Peter, the second letter from the Apostle Peter to the church in Asia Minor. There's a different theme to this letter, as we'll soon discover. Peter is going to have a lot to say about false teachers prowling around the early church. That's important because now, like always, there are false teachers attacking the Christian faith – often from within. But we'll start today with the opening lines of the letter – the greeting and blessing from Peter that still apply. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241927403977 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 14 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Knowing God https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241930436837 Peter is going to have a lot to say about false teachers prowling around the early church, which is important, even today, since there are certainly false teachers attacking the Christian faith – often from within. But last week we started by exploring the opening lines of the letter – the greeting and blessing from Peter. We were reminded of God's grace to us, and His gift to us. Today we'll pick up where we left off, with Pastor explaining how ancient letters were structured, and then marvel at God's generosity. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241930436837 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 14 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Knowing God https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324196468060 Last week, we learned about the schemes of our enemy, the devil. He is fierce – and extremely dangerous. And he is furious – at humans in general and God's chosen and redeemed people in particular. But he is finite and as a created being, not even remotely the evil equal of God. God in fact, is sovereign, which brings comfort to anyone who is suffering. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324196468060 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 07 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324199392302 Pastor Pierre Rosa is preaching from the book of 1 Peter, and today we're wrapping up chapter five and the book as a whole. As we read the final words of this letter to the Church, we can tell that Peter is anxious to leave a lasting impression and remind us of the character of the God we serve. Last week by learning that God, unlike our enemy Satan, is sovereign. We also learned that He is formidable. That speaks to His power, and Pastor specifically referenced God's power to sanctify us, to save us, and to sustain us. That sustaining power is vital for anyone who is suffering. It brings comfort and a calm assurance of God's perfect promised future. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324199392302 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 07 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/8232419316292 We've reached the final words of this letter to the Church. And while they contain some acknowledgements to conclude the message, they are packed with important information. Peter has used this letter to cover several themes: he's talked about suffering, sanctification, submission, and service. Now he sums it all up with some final warnings and instructions. Realizing that the first century Christians would likely turn against their human accusers and persecutors, in self-defense if nothing else, Peter reminds them that people are not the enemy. Our real adversary is Satan. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/8232419316292 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 24 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241845175424 We've been learning about the way God designed the church. There are leaders and they have both a job description and a responsibility to lead the flock of God as shepherds. But did you know the congregation has a job description too? You probably have a basic understanding that you have a responsibility to attend services, to support the church financially, and to be nice to each other. But there are other specific roles you have - as a member of the flock of God, and they are important – just as important as those of the leaders, as we'll discover. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241845175424 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 17 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324190372752 We've been learning about the way God designed the church. There are leaders and they have both a job description and a responsibility to lead the flock of God as shepherds. And now we know the congregation has a job description too! You have specific roles - as a member of the flock of God, and they are important – just as important as those of the leaders. The first is to submit to the shepherds, the elders God has called to lead His local church. And perhaps the even harder responsibility we are given is to submit to our fellow saints in the church, but humility is the foundation of a health church and that's where we will pick up. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324190372752 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 17 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324184126201 Peter now has some important instructions for the church as a whole. How a church is organized and how it functions matters to God and can determine if a church can truly focus on growing believers to maturity, as designed. Peter starts with the leadership. Last week, we learned a lot about an elder's motivation and his approach to the position. Elders are not corporate CEO's. They are not life coaches; they are not psychotherapists. Elders are called to be shepherds, and that approach really does make a difference. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324184126201 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 10 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/8232418491563 Peter now has some important instructions for the church as a whole. How a church is organized and how it functions matters to God and can determine if a church can truly focus on growing believers to maturity, as designed. He starts with the leadership. Peter affirms that the church is led by a plurality of elders. He also makes it clear that leading a church isn't just a job. It's a calling with detailed qualification and particular gifting that come from God. The qualifications are found in Timothy and Titus, but Peter takes great pains to talk specifically about an elder's motivation and approach to the position. It really does make a difference. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/8232418491563 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 10 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241756332774 eter has introduced the topic of suffering and covered it from several angles. The point, of course, is that Believer should expect suffering – quite a lot of it, actually - and so we will benefit from as much discussion on this subject as possible. So that's what we'll hear today: instructions for the suffering Believer. There are folks that claim the Christian life is only about health and prosperity - I'm sure you've heard them - but once you realize they haven't got a clue what their talking about, it's helpful to get some pointers on how to react to suffering – and how to make the most of it, to grow in our faith and glorify God. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241756332774 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324181131065 Peter has introduced the topic of suffering and covered it from several angles. The point, of course, is that Believer should expect suffering – quite a lot of it, actually - and so we will benefit from as much discussion on this subject as possible. So that's what we'll hear today: instructions for the suffering Believer. We began last week by learning that we must embrace suffering, as part of the life of a faithful believer. Then we learned that we must exult in our suffering – not asking for it, or seeking out suffering, but seeing suffering as the way God grows and mature us. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324181131065 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241747443260 We're in the middle of a mini-series on the disciplines that should accompany suffering. There are 4 virtues we must cultivate and master to make the most of suffering. We began with the discipline of Prayer. This is the foundation of our behavior because it anchors us to God and helps us acknowledge the sovereignty of God, making us more inclined to trust Him and follow His commands. Then we covered the discipline of Love. And love leads to practical outcomes in the life of the Believer. And we conclude today with hospitality and service – both of which are essential for the expression of the transforming work of our salvation. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/823241747443260 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 25 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424199465858 Peter has made it pretty clear that suffering is part of the Christian life. Our ultimate joy and prosperity will come in glory, not here on the earth – though there will be plenty of good things God will bless us with in this life, including hope, peace, and endurance to get us through thick and thin and glorify our Savior. But we now begin a mini-series on the disciplines that should accompany suffering. There are 4 virtues we must cultivate and master to make the most of suffering. We'll begin with the discipline of Prayer and get a start on Love, as we listen to the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424199465858 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 18 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324174703336 We're in the middle of a mini-series on the disciplines that should accompany suffering. There are 4 virtues we must cultivate and master to make the most of suffering. We began with the discipline of Prayer. This is the foundation of our behavior because it anchors us to God and helps us acknowledge the sovereignty of God, making us more inclined to trust Him and follow His commands. Then we pick up today with the discipline of Love – note: Love is a discipline and not a feeling, like the world seems to think. And love leads to practical outcomes in the life of the Believer. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/82324174703336 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 18 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424195464541 Peter continues his teaching on suffering by revealing the hidden opportunities we have in those tough times in life we typically like to avoid. There are good reasons to avoid suffering – the hurt, the stress, the struggles we face – we're built to protect ourselves from that kind of thing, to preserve our life. But in the hands of a good God, suffering can bring unique and fruitful opportunities for growth, and reveal both the goodness and faithfulness of God like prosperity and peace never can. Plus we have the faithful witness of those that have gone before us and the hope of heaven to help get us through, as we'll learn in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424195464541 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 11 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624231334475 I think most Christians would agree things changed when we accepted Christ as our savior. However, asked to give details about that change and some Believers might be hard pressed to come up with an answer. Peter has an answer for us in his letter to the early Church. Among other things, we gained a new identity when we were saved. And that identity is entirely grounded in our Savior. So, we need to know Him, and we need to know more about our own new nature that's we've inherited at our new birth, as we'll discover in the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624231334475 Religion & Spirituality Tue, 06 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241933714 It's one thing to suffer for our mistakes, our bad choices, or even our crimes. Those circumstances make sense to us. But what happens, when after doing the right things, and following God's laws and instructions, we find ourselves enduring suffering? That's hard to comprehend. Our sense of justice cries out! In this passage, Peter unveils the paragon of suffering and takes us on a journey from the crucifixion to the throne room of heaven. On the way, we'll encounter one of the most difficult passages of Scripture, so there's drama from start to finish, as we learn more about suffering, in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241933714 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 04 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224194267752 You know a lot of books have been written and videos produced and seminars given to help us solve basic human problems like anxiety, hurt, and bitterness. Some of those are great because they expound on the Word of God as the foundation for life. Others are just a rehash of the same human-centered, self-centered views that probably got us into trouble in the first place. Peter offers us some practical advice for healthy living – it's all based on transformed thinking. And not thinking that matches the world's patterns, but thinking that matches God's, as we'll discover in the second half of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224194267752 Religion & Spirituality Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424185564958 Peter has spent much of his letter to this point, talking about submission. We've covered that thoroughly and learned we have a long way to go to reach God's standard of righteous submission. Now Peter turns to the topic of suffering. Suffering is something we all grapple with, and it's true: suffering is a part of life. But in reality, our suffering is nothing like what the early Church was about to encounter. Yet the principles are the same. God has a plan and a purpose for suffering, and He's also given us a strategy for suffering, as we'll learn in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424185564958 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/6142419031491 Peter has turned his attention to the topic of suffering. No one likes to suffer, though we often understand that is part of life and we willingly suffer for people and ideas we hold dear. But it's helpful for Believers to know what God asks of us when we suffer. In this passage, we learn about the ABCs of suffering. We started last week with A – Active your Courage. It's where we begin and that makes sense because suffering often requires courage – the kind of courage that can only come from God. But let's continue now with the rest of the ABCs, as we'll listen to the rest of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/6142419031491 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241852445941 What should we, as Christians, pursue? Self-improvement is a popular goal, and there are worthy outcomes in that, to be sure. But much of what we're after is what the Bible calls "striving after the wind," according to Ecclesiastes 2:11. Beginning in verse 8, Peter lists a series of traits worth treasuring. When Christians embrace these traits, with God's help, they mesmerize their society and point the way to Christ. Now, in verses 9-12, we learn about a kind of character that's worth cultivating. It's what makes it possible for joy and suffering to coexist in the life of the Believer, as we'll learn in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241852445941 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 07 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241849404731 What should we, as Christians, pursue? Should we pursue wealth? Personal fulfillment and satisfaction? Perhaps peace? The Bible is clear that Christians prioritize things differently than the world in general. We are countercultural, applying principles that run contrary to our human nature. Our lives should substantiate the claim that we belong to Christ, and not ourselves. Beginning in verse, Peter lists a series of traits worth treasuring. When Christians embrace these traits, with God's help, they mesmerize their society and point the way to Christ, as we'll learn in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241849404731 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424184228108 Having covered the wife's role in the marriage, it's only fair that Peter turns his attention to the husband. And while there's only one verse in this chapter used to address them, Peter still has much to say in those few words. Once again, the fact that our culture sees marriage and the marital relationship very differently, doesn't give men the right to bully their wives or dump them at the first sign of trouble. Men are to submit as well, and serve the needs of their wife. God has designed marriage to demonstrate the power of relationship, forgiveness, grace, and – top of mind for Peter – submission, as we'll learn in the first part of part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424184228108 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 17 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424184452663 Having covered the wife's role in the marriage, it's only fair that Peter turns his attention to the husband, and that was the focus of this two-part message we started last week. Women are to submit to the headship role of the husband, but men have a submission mandate as well. They are to submit to the needs of their wives – with Christ's example as the standard. How husbands can demonstrate this submission is where we left off. It starts by serving her with your presence. And now we'll cover three more ways, as we listen to the second half of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/61424184452663 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 17 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241835373128 Peter has been challenging the New Testament church to understand the kind of submission to authority that God calls for from His followers. He's clarified our level of submission to government, and in the workplace. These have been uncomfortable standards to hear and hard standards to follow. But now Peter turns to the most intimate of human relationships – marriage – and outlines the Biblical blueprint for human flourishing. We'll start today with the wives, which was Peters approach as well, but don't worry; we'll get to the husbands soon enough. God's blueprint is worth following because He's the designer of marriage in the first place – as we'll learn in the first part of part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241835373128 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 10 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241839147559 Last week, we took on the most intimate of human relationships – marriage – and began exploring the Biblical blueprint for human flourishing. Peter started with the wives and urged them to display soul-winning behavior as an act of submission to God. God's blueprint is worth following because He's the designer of marriage in the first place – but it's certainly not what the culture portrays as the ideal. As we pick up from last week, Pastor addresses the natural concern of anyone being asked to submit to another human being: are there boundaries to this submission? There are, as we'll learn in the second part of part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/614241839147559 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 10 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/272420560721 'd be surprised if anyone listening to this program is confused about the evils of slavery. The fact that slavery still exists in parts of the world, though, is a testament to the true sinfulness of man and the enduring nature of certain power dynamics. However, there are some people, that still want to claim the Bible supports the institute of slavery. They argue the passage we'll be studying today is proof that rather than condemn slaveholding, the Bible legitimizes it. That is far from the truth – as we will see. And proving the eternal relevance of the Bible, through Peter's discussion of the slave/master relationship, we'll learn a lot about how God prioritizes things and how we are to behave towards authority -- as we'll listen to the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/272420560721 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/27242051201296 Politics have almost always been a part of the human story. Authorities have risen and fallen, governments have been formed and replaced, for millennia. It should not surprise us then that God has something to do with this. But when we try to put God in the picture, we often get it wrong. We can't imagine how He could be associated with some of the awful, evil, or even just inept governments in history. Today we'll learn more about our relationship with authority and what God expects of His people stationed here as sojourners on the earth - as we'll listen to the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/27242051201296 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 26 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/27242053367377 As Christians, our relationship to government can be tricky – even confusing at times. Depending on where you live, government can be a benign force for good or an oppressive, even deadly force for evil. In the United States, we have the somewhat unique opportunity to influence our government, to speak freely, and to criticize our leaders, but there are limits and boundaries that we must observe. How do we find these boundaries? Well, God makes spells them out in Scripture. And though not always easy to apply, these boundaries are clear – if we pay attention - as we'll learn in the second part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/27242053367377 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 26 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624232371406 Most of us know of someone who has either walked away from the faith or refused to accept the Gospel because of the bad behavior of Christians. That's not a valid excuse for unbelief, but it is interesting that even the harshest critics of Christianity expect high moral standards from Believers. Peter reminds us that our testimony is an essential part of our sharing the Gospel and bringing glory to God – which is our primary reason for remaining here on the earth. We fight the battle for personal righteousness on two fronts: internal and external. It's the internal front we'll learn about today, as we'll listen to the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624232371406 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/26242325433764 Peter reminds us that our testimony is an essential part of our sharing the Gospel and bringing glory to God – which is our primary reason for remaining here on the earth. But what does that mean? As we learned last week, our testimony confirms our Gospel presentation. And we learned that we fight the battle for personal righteousness on two fronts: internal and external. On the internal front, we have our own sin nature to defeat. It requires God's help to do so. Today, after wrapping up that part, we'll learn about the external battle we face and why it matters - as we'll listen to the second part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/26242325433764 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/26242318393500 Peter is telling first century believers about the spiritual life they have gained through their salvation. This life isn't something they've earned or created on their own; it's a work of God. In this portion of his letter, we discover our new ministry as Christians. We have things to do, we're not just left to enjoy the blessings of salvation. We'll start with our four-fold status. Brothers and sisters in Christ share many things, both rights and responsibilities, and we should live proper lives in the light of these blessings, as we'll hear in the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/26242318393500 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 12 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/26242320452535 Peter's been telling first century believers about the spiritual life they've gained through their salvation. This life isn't something they've earned or created on their own; it's a work of God. In this portion of his letter, we discover our new ministry as Christians. We have things to do, we're not just left to enjoy the blessings of salvation. We started with our four-fold status. Brothers and sisters in Christ share many things, both rights and responsibilities. But we also share a primary purpose – a reason for our existence. So if you've ever found yourself asking "why?" Peter explains that in his letter, as we'll hear in the second part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/26242320452535 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 12 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/262423675297 Last week we started investigating the things that changed when we accepted Christ as our savior, at least the ones Peter chooses to highlight in his letter to the churches in Asia Minor. For example, we now share in the nature of Christ. That's truly an incredible thought, given how sin has corrupted our human nature. And our new nature, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is a life lived with hope in spite of our circumstances. Today we'll hear more about our new nature and identity as Christian – particularly the night and day difference between belief and unbelief. One brings blessing and one brings doom, as we'll hear in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/262423675297 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 29 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624233564411 Last week we started investigating the things that changed when we accepted Christ as our savior, at least the ones Peter chooses to highlight in his letter to the churches in Asia Minor. We now share in the nature of Christ – that's pretty incredible when you think about it. We surely are not God, nor will we become gods, as some suggest, but we have some of Christ's spiritual DNA in us, now that we are in Christ and He is in us. Today we'll hear more about our new nature as Christian – the features of the life we have now as imitators of Christ. And we'll discover the sacrifices required of true Believers, in this second half of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624233564411 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 22 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624225901597 Peter is concerned for the believers of the early church. They are about to experience intense persecution and he wants them to be ready for what is to come. So, in part, he describes a spiritual growth plan for these people. How do you survive difficult times? How do you participate in the spiritual transformation God promises to everyone that is born again? And how do we convert our beliefs into behavior – and demonstrate our commitment to the God that saved us? These were all important questions for the early church and for the church of today, as we'll discover in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624225901597 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 01 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624225619487 Love is a word used everywhere and for everything. We love our dog, we love coffee, we love our family. Ignore, for now, the fact that those are radically different kinds of love. But there's no question we should love. The question you might not have asked recently is why? Believers are taught to love one another from the very start of their faith. In fact, we're told the world will know we are Christians by the love we show each other. But why should we love people? And, also, how should we love people? Well, Peter explains the why and how in his letter to the church, as we'll discover in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624225619487 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 24 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624225338992 Fear can be both good and bad. Cowering in fear or living life afraid of anything and everything is no life at all. But a healthy fear – of danger, of hurting those we love, or of sinning – that's a good thing. Peter concludes chapter one by teaching us four reasons, among many to be found in the Bible, why we should have a healthy fear of the Lord. Some have taken this phrase, fear of the Lord, as an instruction to hide from or be afraid of God. But a biblical fear of the Lord is something much better. It's the kind of healthy respect that recognizes God for who His is, as we'll discover in today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2624225338992 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 17 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241939171052 After setting the stage and reminding believers of the great salvation and the great living hope we have in Christ, Peter switches to instruction for a bit. He wants the readers to do something very important – in response to God's work in our lives. For some, being told what to do is a relief - to have a clear plan and follow it. For few, and you know who you are, being told what to do is the signal for a fight. But really, we should all be eagerly open to doing whatever Peter asks of us, because as Peter wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, it's really God calling us to action and He only wants the best for His children, as we'll discover in the first half of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241939171052 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 10 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/222419345887 The blessed state (or state of blessedness) of the believer is something we eagerly accept as true. We remember, after all, that Jesus Himself told us about this in His Sermon on the Mount. But remembering those blessings, when trials surround you, isn't always our first reaction. In fact, we might see ourselves more as "the abandoned" or "the cursed" when we encounter hardship. We're excellent at self-pity. Today, Peter does his part to remind us of just how truly blessed we are as followers of Christ. We'll suffer at times during our short stay on the earth, but we have something to look forward to that is always much better, as we'll learn from today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/222419345887 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241936211705 Peter has been reminding us of the very blessed state of the believer in this portion of his letter to the church. In spite of our troubles, we have an inheritance that makes this short time on earth just a moment in our eternal life of blessing from God. These demonstrations of God's care help us endure and remind of us the precious nature of our salvation. Last week we covered the fact that prophets promised our salvation, a testimony to God's sovereignty and personal intention to give us this great gift, and the fact that Christ confirmed our redemption, by His personal promise and work done on the cross. Today we'll discover two more blessing as we listen to that second half of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241936211705 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241931447223 If you're struggling in life, facing hardship, disease, heartbreak, or stress, the last thing you want is someone to tell you those are really blessings in disguise. In fact, it might take some measure of self-control to not punch them in the face. But Peter tells the early church that there is a reason we face trial and temptations and it's not all bad. We want to think bad circumstances only accompany bad people, but in life, affliction plagues us all. The good news is that God has a purpose – a good a purpose for hard times in our lives, as we'll learn from today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241931447223 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 20 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224192767871 The Apostle Peter packs a lot of theology into his short letter and this portion in the beginning is no exception. He's concerned about the trials and troubles Believers are about to face, and in some cases, are already facing. So, he quickly turns his focus to the essential truths that make all the difference to Christians. Our salvation is no small thing. It's what regenerates us (Something spiritually dead people desperately need), it's what preserves us (saving us from death and God's righteous judgement), and it's what will lead to our eventual glorification. Understanding our salvation matters, as we'll discover in the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224192767871 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 13 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241929157601 Trouble is part of life. It affects the believer and the unbeliever alike. But believers look at difficulty differently, or at least they should, according to Peter. But why? God's amazing gift of salvation is what makes all the difference. It's what changes our minds and hearts. It's what gives us a new perspective on the events we experience in our lives. And it's what gives us hope – because we have a future that is full of glory and eternal life. The practical affect of our salvation is the ability to endure difficulties and still have hope, as we'll discover in the first part of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241929157601 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 13 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224192147979 Pastor Pierre Rosa begins his preaching through the book of 1 Peter in the New Testament. In some ways, this is a book of practical application of the lessons learned from Esther. The Apostle Peter wrote his letter to the church spread throughout Asia Minor, what now lies mostly in Turkey. Our brothers and sisters in the Lord, the Believers of the first century, faced many challenges that are really quite foreign to us. But we do share some things in common. For example, we all face troubled times. Peter begins with a greeting that demonstrates just how rich the Word of God can be. In just a few sentences establishing his authorship and credentials, he describes 5 glorious realities of our salvation. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224192147979 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 06 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241924187016 The Apostle Peter wrote his letter to the church spread throughout Asia Minor, what now lies mostly in Turkey. Our brothers and sisters in the Lord, the Believers of the first century, faced many challenges that are really quite foreign to us. But we do share some things in common. For example, we all face troubled times. Peter begins with a greeting that demonstrates just how rich the Word of God can be. In just a few sentences, he describes 5 glorious realities of our salvation. We covered the first three last week and today we'll discover two more as we listen to the last half of today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241924187016 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 06 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Truth for Troubled Times https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/72123181324407 The story of Christ's death is often rushed through – so we can get to the good part: the resurrection. But if we move too quickly, we miss important lessons from these events. Today for example, we'll stop and watch the process surrounding the burial of Christ. Far from trivial, we'll see God at work, each step of the way. And God means to show us this, if we'll just pay attention. And when we do, we'll witness a God that not only care about the big stuff, but who also cares about our little, insignificant worries and griefs as well. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/72123181324407 Religion & Spirituality Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/7212319136242 If you've been a human for any length of time you know we like to see ourselves in the extremes. We're either the best thing since sliced bread and God is lucky to have us on His side – or we (rightly) see the flaws in our character and desires and understand how truly broken we are. From that perspective, we can range from total amazement to that God would save us and use us for His glory, to doubt even God could us someone so messed up. But the story of Esther reminds us that God accomplishes His will in spite of our flaws and not because of them. He turns our disasters into examples of His grace. That should give us all hope. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/7212319136242 Religion & Spirituality Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241852518070 The story of Esther never mentions God by name. But God is there at every twist and turn. And God is using the lives of Esther and Mordecai – and Haman and King Xerxes – to demonstrate His character. How else would we see God's faithfulness if life didn't challenge the promises of God to protect and preserve His people? That means of course, that Believers should expect to face hard times – but never to face them alone. And while the difficulties of life might take our possessions, our loved ones, and even our lives at some point, God's promises and His faithfulness will never leave us https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241852518070 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 25 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241846395164 As the story of Esther is drawing to a close, we see God tying up loose ends. Esther and Mordecai are saved from death and shown great favor from the King. Haman is rewarded for his sinister plotting by losing everything, including his life. And the people of God, the Jews in Persia are given the right to defend themselves from any attack that might come from antisemitic aggressors. There are clear lessons we might gather from this, but then again, there are some lessons that might slip by the casual observer. Today, we'll start to uncover 5 aspects of God's Providence in these last events. They remind us that nothing escapes God's control and that we have a role in God's sovereign plans https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241846395164 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 18 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241849564189 As the story of Esther is drawing to a close, we see God tying up loose ends. Esther and Mordecai are saved from death and shown great favor from the King. Haman is rewarded for his sinister plotting by losing everything, including his life. And the people of God, the Jews in Persia are given the right to defend themselves from any attack that might come from antisemitic aggressors. There are clear lessons we might gather from this, but then again, there are some lessons that might slip by the casual observer. Today, we'll finish uncovering 5 aspects of God's Providence in these last events. They remind us that nothing escapes God's control and that we have a role in God's sovereign plans https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241849564189 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 18 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224184422567 Decisions, active or passive, affect our lives every day. The decisions you make, the decisions others make, they channel our lives towards certain outcomes. That can leave us feeling helpless at times, particularly when the bad decisions of others negatively impact our prosperity or peace. But in the story Esther God reminds us that He is behind the scenes determining human decisions – not making them, but providentially guiding the affairs of creation. And since He is a good God, Believers can take great comfort in knowing human decisions are not arbitrary https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/2224184422567 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 11 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241841176 The antagonist of the story, Haman, the man that set out to destroy the Jews through ruthless genocide, has failed in his mission and in fact, the tables have turned so much now, that he is the target of destruction. He's lost his position and after appearing to attack Queen Esther, he's going to lose his life. God was not surprised by this turn of events. His providence allowed every action to work towards His sovereign plan. It demonstrates God's faithful and the power of His character, and it shows us just how to behave toward and support God's chosen people https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241841176 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 04 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241838262291 The story of Esther is reaching its climax and the plot twists are reversing the fortunes of many key characters. Haman, who appeared to be rising in triumph, is now plummeting to his doom. And Mordecai and the Jews, who were to be the target of ruthless genocide are finding their vindication. But just as important, God's sovereignty is on display. His plans will not be thwarted. This brings us comfort in several ways, but particularly in the fact that God's promises are trustworthy. Even when it appears all is lost and there's no way out, God always comes through and proves Himself to be faithful, as we'll see in today's message from Pastor Pierre. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241838262291 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 28 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241832119 Nobody likes to be overlooked. It makes our indignation boil over and stirs us to demand what rightly belongs to us! We crave the position or prize we have earned – to the point that this outrage can eat us alive and make us bitter beyond belief. Today we'll be reminded that God is the ultimate rewarded and that proper recognition for our actions will come – though not necessarily on this earth. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241832119 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241835345611 We've already noted some unique features in this story. For example, it's surprising that God's name is never mentioned, though He's clearly at work in every detail. And prayer is not specifically mentioned, though the practice of fasting among the Jews is closely tied to prayer. We'll learn about one other person that's not mentioned in this Old Testament book, and we'll be reminded that God's promises are sure. No one will make God a liar. And that should make every believer less anxious, even when we encounter truly anxiety inducing circumstances. God will see us through. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/22241835345611 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231926272223 Throughout this study of Esther, we've come to understand that God is not absent, God is not unaware, God is not distracted while we go through troubles and trials. God is, in fact, very much present and deeply involved in our situations – not just at the macro level, of kings and governments, but personally involved in our lives. Today we'll see again that our God is a tender God that both moves us to action, but also bothers to comfort us – all to accomplish His will. That gives us great assurance that we can rely on God's promises in His Word, as we'll discover as we listen to the first part of today's message from Pastor Pierre. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231926272223 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 14 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231929187379 Understanding God's providence can really change our perspective on life. Instead of dreading the future and worrying about decisions, we can rest in the knowledge that God's will is going to prevail. We still need to make good decisions and live according to biblical principles, but no matter what besets us, we can trust God is at work in all circumstances. Last week we learned how God tames temperaments and alleviates anxiety. We'll discover two more aspects of God behind the scenes in human determination as we listen to the second half of today's message from Pastor Pierre. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231929187379 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 14 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231912567571 No one likes a crisis. They cause us stress, shake our confidence, and often bring heartache and suffering. But crises have been with us since the Fall in the Garden of Eden. Here's the good news: God uses crises to help us grow our spiritual muscles. God uses crises to equip us to help others when they encounter hardship. And God uses crises to remind us that we need Him and His help to survive in this broken world. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231912567571 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 07 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231916147115 We left off last week talking about miracles. A lot of things get called miracles. And a lot of people demand miracles to solve their problems. But, other than salvation – where a spiritually dead person is miraculously brought to life by the Holy Spirit – miracles are very rare occurrences. Instead, God gives us simple rules and principles to live by. And those are often His preferred method to solving our problems. But regardless of what calamity befalls us, God wants to use these trials to build our spiritual muscles, as we'll learn in the second half of today's message from Pastor Pierre. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231916147115 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 07 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/72123194443809 The story of Esther is short and simple, but it drives home the same message: God is in control – even if we can't see Him in action. We've already watched God behind the scenes in human conduct, and human culture. Today we'll see God behind the scenes in human corruption. At every step, the Bible uses irony to emphasize that people's small view of history is no match for God's view from the eternal present. God is not the author of evil, but He will not let evil thwart His will. In fact, He uses it to demonstrate His sovereignty. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/72123194443809 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 23 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231995156 t's pretty clear to everyone, as a matter of conscience, that antisemitism isn't a good thing – or an acceptable position. Yet, antisemitism exists. The source of that bitterness and evil is ancient. It goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden. And the sponsor of that evil is also ancient – it's Satan himself. What foils every plot and wrecks every attempt to annihilate the Jews is one simple promise. That promise comes from the God of the universe, who never lies and never fails to keep His promises. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231995156 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 23 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231857424463 The story of Esther worried the early church and even some more recent theologians. How could a book of the Bible not mention God by name? And also, how can a book of the Bible – God's holy Word – contain such spicy content and negative examples? God inspired this record of real events, and He also inspired the author to write it just as he did to remind us that a silent God is not an absent God. And more importantly, God is faithful at all times, even when we can't see the final outcome. Those fact make life today worth living too. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231857424463 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 12 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/7212318541436 To understand what God is doing in the story of Esther, there's a bit of prologue and a lot of history and setting that needs to be covered. God promised to protect and preserve His chosen people, but thanks to their disobedience, they are now in captivity. What God wants us to know from this story is that He is sovereign, and He keeps His promises. And what's important for us – even today – is to know that a silent God doesn't mean an absent God. His providence will prevail in spite of our circumstances. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/7212318541436 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 05 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231850325387 We start a new book of the Bible today and we're in the first part of the Bible called the Old Testament. Pastor Pierre Rosa is beginning his preaching through the book of Esther. The story of Esther is filled with drama, but it's also filled with hope for believers, who will be reminded that God is sovereign – meaning nothing escapes His control and will. God's name isn't even mentioned in Esther, but we will see - from the very beginning - that He is at work, in the affairs of man and the affairs of state, to accomplish His purposes and prove His faithfulness. Today's message will be filled with context and details to help set the stage for the main story line, but even in the first 9 verses, we learn much about our great God. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231850325387 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 26 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - God Behind the Scenes https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231827353057 If you've ever wondered why you're alive – why you exist – then you're human. God put this sense of eternity in our hearts and that always leads us to wonder about our place in creation. The good news is that the Bible, in fact, Jesus Himself, gives us that answer. And our mission, as believers, is very clear. So, as we'll see, what remains for us is to decide if we're really followers of Christ or just admirers of Christ. Are we obedient servants to the God that saved us, or just sympathetic rebels with no hope of eternal life? https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231827353057 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231832434808 This is where I would usually say, "Pastor Pierre Rosa is continuing his preaching from the book of Matthew" but we reached the end of the Matthew series last week! This is a huge milestone – the product of God's boundless grace, and countless hours of study and preparation by Pastor Pierre. So rather than just rush on to the next book of the Bible, we thought it would be good to pause a bit and savor the moment. Today, we'll look back on the many highlights of the Gospel of Matthew and talk a bit about what God taught us through this study. I think you'll enjoy the conversation. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231832434808 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231823476692 The scene we just left was Jesus, buried in a tomb. Praise God that's not where the story ends. No, if He had remained there, He would have been a martyr, He might have been a wise man to admire, but He wouldn't have been the Son of God. The apostle Paul tells us that God authenticated Jesus as His Son by resurrecting Him from the dead and that's what we'll study today – the scene of the resurrection. It changes everything about how we face today. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/721231823476692 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 12 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/72123189532238 We've reached the crucifixion of Jesus. This bloody and horrific scene is at the center point of history. It's where redemption occurred and humanity – cursed by sin – found hope in God's Son. In this third and final message on this event, we witness the last moments before Christ's death. We are amazed that Jesus is still able to speak. We hear the reaction of doubters nearby. And then we see what appears to be the end of Jesus. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/72123189532238 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 22 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623214587555 We've reached the crucifixion of Jesus. This bloody and horrific scene is at the center point of history. It's where redemption occurred and humanity – cursed by sin – found hope in God's Son. In this second message on this event, we see the unmasked heart of humanity. We see the passersby – that only days earlier had hailed Jesus as their King – now ridiculing Him and mocking Him. And we hear the men of the Sanhedrin, openly questioning His divinity and missing the whole reason Jesus was on the cross. We'll be reminded today that we also have the example of the thieves on the cross and we all must choose which example to follow – as we listen to today's message. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623214587555 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 15 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232140302856 The trials are now over, the betrayals, and the denials are done – we've reached the crucifixion of Jesus. This bloody and horrific scene it the center point of history. It's where redemption occurred and humanity – cursed by sin – found hope in God's Son. But why did it have to happen? Why did Jesus have to suffer like this? What can we learn from these gruesome details? Well, it seems we can learn a lot, since it will take us several weeks to cover this event. But it's worth it, because it's Christ's sacrifice that makes sinners clean and able to avoid the righteous judgement of a holy God, as we'll learn from today's message https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232140302856 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 08 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232136553122 We're following Jesus through the Roman phase of the various trials before the crucifixion. Last week, Pastor examined the first five observations or stages of the trial. This week, we pick up where we left off and learn four more parts of the trial that conclude the Roman process. They reveal God's grace in a way you might not expect. But let's not lose focus of Pilate. Pilate is put is a difficult position, to be sure, but not one that's impossible to sort through. He continues to be an example of how every person must confront the truth about Jesus and he's an example of what NOT to do. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232136553122 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 27 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232133213905 Matthew follows Jesus through the various trials on the night before the crucifixion, starting with the Jewish trial, which was a farce of injustice and fake indignation. Now Jesus is presented to the Romans government, so they can legally pronounce a death sentence on Jesus. This first part of the Roman trial is led by Pilate, though he tries to drag Herod into the mix. Pilate is a man in a precarious position - trying to please everyone and still keep the peace. He's confronted with the obvious truth about Jesus and still he drops the ball. He's an example of how every person must confront the truth about Jesus and he's an example of what NOT to do. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232133213905 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 20 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232129561880 After detailing much about the last hours of Christ before the crucifixion, Matthew takes a moment to tie up one loose end: what about Judas? Judas had been a follower of Christ, and yet he had become His betrayer. What happened to him then? We're learn about that today, but we'll also see God's great love and mercy as He uses Judas and the religious leaders to shout the warning – Don't repeat their mistakes and think that you can reach heaven without saving faith. There's a big difference between saving and failing faith. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232129561880 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 13 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623212443623 We're about to witness one of the more famous scenes from the passion narrative of Christ. It's a scene of failure and denial, that should break our hearts. One of Jesus' closest followers – a man ready to take up arms just hours earlier – now pretends he doesn't even know Jesus. Peter's failure was predicted by Christ and it's the kind of cowardice that should feel familiar, since most Christians have failed Jesus in this very same way. We'll see the triumph and redemption that comes Peter's way later, but we shouldn't miss this opportunity to avoid Peter's mistakes and avoid the downward spiral of sin. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623212443623 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 06 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232127137589 We're witnessing one of the more famous scenes from the passion narrative of Christ. Peter denies Christ in spite of his promise never to do so. Peter's failure was predicted by Christ and it's the kind of cowardice that should feel familiar, since most Christians have failed Jesus in this very same way. We learned last week about the spiral of spiritual pride that starts with the Deception of Self-Confidence. Now we'll see the Defiance of the Self-Sufficient and the Desperation of the Self-Reliant, in hopes we can avoid Peter's mistakes and avoid the downward spiral of sin. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232127137589 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 06 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623212025891 Matthew is describing the last few hours before the crucifixion. After Jesus was arrested, He endured a series of trials – some before Jewish authorities and some before the Romans. The Jewish trial we'll learn about today was especially tragic. These men knew the law concerning trials. They knew the rules that were set up to protect the innocent and punish the guilty. And they knew the prophecies concerning the Messiah – they claimed to be looking for the Messiah. And yet, they skipped over the rules, bypassed justice, and rushed headlong to condemn Jesus to the cross. They will be called to account for this one day, but Believers are the beneficiaries of God's sovereign grace and His permitting this to occur. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623212025891 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 30 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623211782331 Matthew is describing the last few hours before the crucifixion. After leaving the upper room, Jesus and the disciples go to the Garden of Gethsemane. Here, the disciples fail Him. They can't even stay awake while Jesus prays. Then Judas completes his betrayal and hands Jesus over to the authorities. And Peter fails Jesus by trying to save the Savior! And finally, all of the remaining disciples abandon Jesus. But God is not surprised, and God has a plan that makes all of this disappointment a triumph of redemption! https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623211782331 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 23 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623211076955 Matthew is describing the last few hours before the crucifixion. After leaving the upper room, Jesus and the disciples go to the Garden of Gethsemane. The name of the garden literally means "oil press" which is fitting, given that Jesus would show just how much stress He was under at this point. Jesus asks His disciples – His closest friends – to share this time with Him. Even now, Jesus has important lessons to teach the future leaders of His Church. And while they join Him, they do little to comfort Him – if fact, they mostly disappoint. He knew that would happen and still He showed kindness, love, and compassion – just like He does for His followers today. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623211076955 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 16 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232112583910 Matthew is describing the last few hours before the crucifixion. After leaving the upper room, Jesus and the disciples go to the Garden of Gethsemane. The name of the garden literally means "oil press" which is fitting, given that Jesus would show just how much stress He was under at this point. What we also find here are three principles about prayer, lived out by the God who hears our prayers. And we learn about the heart of Christ – the Savior so often disappointed by His disciples but who kept loving them and kept calling them His own. We can draw great comfort from the fact that He still loves His followers that way. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/316232112583910 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 16 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623216532007 Our world has never been more confused about the truth. And the pressures put on people that claim to follow Christ – who is the way, the Truth, and the life – are returning to more like what Christians experienced in the first century. It's worth it then to listen to the reminder from Jesus, that we find in this passage from Matthew's gospel, and remember just how easy it is to become spiritually prideful and assume we will never deny Christ. The fact is, we deny Christ quite often. Even as believers, we need help to be a faithful follower. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623216532007 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 09 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623213181116 Just three verses to cover, but so much to learn. The subject of communion isn't talked about much. The mode and method are settled in most churches and so the matter is left alone with little discussion. We just do it without much thought. But it's worth remembering the origin of this practice. And since Jesus Himself commissioned communion, we can be sure it matters. So why do we celebrate communion? And what does it all mean? https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/31623213181116 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 02 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221944282776 We're on the road to the cross now. There are stops along the way, like the one we're about to study, but at each stop and at every turn, we see Christ – the King of kings and Lord of lords, set the standard for Christian living. He shows love, He's kind to His betrayer, He humbles Himself, and He follows the will of the Father. It is the grace of God on display. The challenge for us is to decide: What will we do with Christ? Is He Savior or just another teacher? Is He Messiah or just another martyr? Your decision will decide your eternity. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221944282776 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 25 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221938571720 We've finished the didactic or teaching portions of the book of Matthew. Now, we'll watch Jesus go to the cross. And on the way, we learn so much more about our great God and Savior. In this passage, we'll grapple with the interaction of two principles: free will, and the sovereignty of God. Standing alone, each idea is pretty easy to explain and accept. But can the two exist together? This question has been hotly debated for centuries, but there's another – even more important question, that we'll find in today's scripture: Where is the best place in life? https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221938571720 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 18 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221935373096 In today's passage, Jesus reveals more about the final judgement, and He offers stark contrasts throughout. This judgement will not be one of degrees. There will be those who are declared righteous, because they have put their trust in Jesus for their salvation, and there will be those who are declared accursed, because they assumed they could earn their way to heaven or be saved by association with the church or other believers. This message should be a wakeup call for everyone – believers and unbelievers alike. We all want to be ready for Christ's return, and He could come at any day. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221935373096 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 11 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221931396762 In today's passage, we encounter the second of three parables Jesus tells to help the disciples understand what it will be like in the end times. The principles here are timeless so we should be paying attention. What we find in this story is the proper way to prioritize our lives and use our resources. Consider how much that covers! If we take this seriously, we'll know what matters and we'll know where to invest our time, energy, and money. Of course, our human nature screams a different plan, but if we can follow the example we'll see today, we'll receive the best reward of all: God's blessing and approval. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221931396762 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 04 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/121622192757957 No one wants to be left out or caught off guard. We all like to be prepared. But being prepared isn't something that happens automatically, so it's not uncommon for us to make choices that make life easier but leave us less than ready for what comes next. As we'll learn from today's parable, when Jesus comes back to the earth, you want to be ready. You must be prepared for that day, because when He arrives, it will be too late to set things right. The Bible says it in both testaments: today is the day of salvation. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/121622192757957 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 28 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221922447430 In today's passage Jesus explains the advantages of being a follower of Christ. It's not just that we have eternal life, we have peace in troubled times. And because the Bible tells us about God and what to expect in the future, we have the advantage of resting in God's promises and being ready for what lies ahead. But Jesus also gives a stern warning to those that would disregard the Bible and the reality of the coming judgement. Those that choose to do so will face dire consequences. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221922447430 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 21 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221918427723 Jesus has been answering the disciples' questions about the end times and we've been allowed to listen in. It matters to us because, given all we see going on around us, we can easily worry about our future, too. But the comfort Jesus gave His disciples – the future leaders of His church – is just as comforting to us. God has a redemption plan for His creation. It's ends in judgement, but it's preceded with grace upon grace upon grace, as He patiently offers us salvation. And once we're a redeemed child of God, nothing can separate us from His love. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221918427723 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 03 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221913351086 We've been learning from Jesus what will happen in the last days. It's not a pretty picture. After the rapture, there will be a time of temporary world-wide peace, but it will be followed by horrible persecution and judgment on the earth. Yet, in all this we find comfort and hope – God's faithfulness remains true and constant. And His compassion remains on display, even when it's accompanied by His holy judgement. So, no matter what we're going through, we can rely on God's promises and know that we have the hope of future glory with Him. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/1216221913351086 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 26 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/12162219985795 We've been learning from Jesus what will happen in the last days – in the end times just before Christ triumphal return to the earth. It's not a pretty picture. And while there are certainly similarities to our current age and what's happening in our country, world and culture, there are even worse times ahead – unprecedented carnage, persecution and destruction. In all this we find comfort – God's compassion remains on display, even when it's accompanied by His holy judgement, and that should encourage us to reflect His compassion and tell others about the good news of salvation. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/12162219985795 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 19 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/121622194177373 Last week we looked at 5 signs of the end times. But there are two more that appear in Jesus' description of the end times. The disciples needed to hear this because their mission – to spread the Gospel to the whole world, was about to commence. They need to know, and we too need to know – that God has a sovereign plan, that He's in control, and that we can trust Him for the end result. That's why Believers can see what's happening around them and even be persecuted and killed for their faith and still find peace. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/121622194177373 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 12 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/10322222944231 When you look at our world and all that's going on – culturally, politically, and spiritually - Christians have to ask, "Is this it? Is this the end of the world?" The disciples asked that of Jesus 2,000 years ago! And things aren't really any better. Jesus gives us a disturbing yet strangely calming explanation: God's got this under control, and we aren't to the end yet. There's more evil, and more corruption to come. And when the end does come, it will be like nothing ever seen on the earth. And so we wait and watch for the signs of His coming – five of which Pastor will cover today and two more next week. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/10322222944231 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 05 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/103222225334354 The disciples of Jesus had a lot of questions at this point in the narrative. They grew concerned – even nervous – about what was coming next. It wasn't the kingdom they imagined. What Jesus told them was just enough – just enough detail to assure them that there was a plan, set out by God, and that they had nothing to fear. God's sovereign plans would prevail. We're faced with similar challenges, and we too are asked to trust that God's plans are good, and they will prevail in the end. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/103222225334354 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 29 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/10322222242110 This portion of the gospel is one long lecture to the religious leaders of Jesus' time. They think they are righteous and destined for heaven, but Jesus clarifies and mourns over their blindness and hypocrisy. They aren't leading anyone to heaven – in fact they are leading their followers to hell. As He reaches the end of his lament, Jesus reminds us of the crucial truths surrounding God's redemption plan. They are not easy truths at all. But they are the realities that lead to hope and eternal life. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/10322222242110 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 22 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/103222218387635 Last week we learned that one of the themes of the New Testament is becoming more like Christ – we want to be imitators of our Savior's character, love, and fidelity. Jesus had something to say about this in today's passage. He offers practical steps toward a Christ-filled life. Of utmost importance is possessing true salvation, genuine conversion and authentic devotion. This is just one way to describe the discipleship process, but it's also true discipleship that leads to true Christlikeness. Today we get four more steps that turn woeful wannabees into Christ-like believers. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/103222218387635 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 15 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/912219333922 One of the themes of the New Testament is becoming more like Christ – we want to be imitators of our Savior's character, love, and fidelity. Jesus has something to say about this in today's passage. He offers three steps toward a Christ-filled life. Of utmost importance is possessing true salvation, because it's from that foundation that you can have genuine conversion and go on to practice authentic devotion. This is just one way to describe the discipleship process, but it's also true discipleship that leads to true Christlikeness. https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/912219333922 Religion & Spirituality Sun, 01 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/42622208531245 We've all be hurt by someone we loved. We've all be caught been surprised when someone we considered an ally turned on us or opposed us. What comes next reveals our human nature – our sin nature – because our natural tendency is to mark down the offense, to tell others about our hurt and nurture it until it's a monument to the occasion. Jesus has a higher standard. We, after all, offended God from the start and we, after all, have been offered forgiveness for a debt we can't pay. So why can't we extend forgiveness like that to others? https://www.sermonaudio.com/solo/gbcsalem/sermons/42622208531245 Religion & Spirituality Tue, 26 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Pierre Rosa 0:26:00 no Pierre Rosa - Our Majestic Savior