Summary of this week's sermon
Every week we want to have a 5 day devotional recapping our previous sermon so we can grow deeper together.
This past Sunday we concluded our series on Apologetics, entitled: "Tell Me Why?" Week 5 was on, "Why Should I Believe Jesus is the Only Way?" Pastor Colt wraps up our series this week.
To Rewatch, please go to our YouTube Channel, linked below.
Day 1: The Exclusive Way
Devotional
In our world of endless options and choices, we often hear that there are many paths to God. But Jesus made a bold, unprecedented claim - He declared Himself to be the only way. This wasn't just one teaching among many; it was the cornerstone of His message. When we look at Jesus' claims, we're faced with a crucial decision. He didn't leave room for being just a good teacher or wise philosopher. His claims were absolute and exclusive. This might feel uncomfortable in our inclusive culture, but consider this: what if this exclusivity actually points to something profound about God's love? What if having one clear path is actually God's gift to humanity - a way to eliminate confusion and provide certainty in our spiritual journey?
Bible Verse
'Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."' - John 14:6
Reflection Question
If Jesus is truly the only way to God, how does this change the way you view your spiritual journey and your relationships with others who believe differently?
Quote
Just because another route appears to go the same direction, it appears to be the right way does not make it the correct way.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me understand and embrace the truth of who You are. Give me courage to follow Your exclusive path, and wisdom to share this truth with others in love. Amen.
Day 2: Beyond Reasonable Doubt
Devotional
The resurrection of Jesus isn't just a nice story - it's a historical event supported by compelling evidence. Over 500 eyewitnesses saw the risen Christ. The tomb was empty, and even Roman and Jewish historians documented Jesus' impact. But perhaps the most convincing evidence is the transformation of Jesus' disciples. These were ordinary people who became extraordinary witnesses, willing to die for what they knew to be true. They weren't following a philosophy; they were testifying to events they had personally witnessed. Their courage in the face of persecution speaks volumes about the reality of what they saw.
Bible Verse
'For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.' - 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Reflection Question
What impact does the historical evidence for Jesus' resurrection have on your faith? How does it strengthen your conviction in following Him?
Quote
If Jesus resurrection was a lie, why did all but one of the disciples die a martyr's death?
Prayer
Father, thank You for providing such strong evidence for our faith. Help me stand firm in my conviction and share this truth with confidence. Amen.
Day 3: Grace Over Works
Devotional
One of the most beautiful aspects of Christianity is that it's not about what we do for God, but what He has already done for us. While other religious systems often focus on human achievement and earning divine favor, Jesus offers something radically different - salvation by grace. This means we don't have to clean ourselves up before coming to Him. We don't have to achieve a certain level of goodness. We simply need to accept His gift of grace. This truth liberates us from the exhausting cycle of trying to earn God's love and acceptance.
Bible Verse
'But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.' - Romans 5:8
Reflection Question
How does understanding salvation as a gift of grace rather than a reward for good works change your approach to your relationship with God?
Quote
Unlike other religious systems based on human achievement or merit, Christianity is founded on God's initiative to rescue us through Christ sacrifice.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your amazing grace. Help me rest in Your love and live from a place of acceptance rather than striving to earn Your favor. Amen.
Day 4: Community of Grace
Devotional
Following Jesus isn't meant to be a solo journey. He calls us to be part of a community where we can grow, serve, and support one another. This community isn't meant to be an exclusive club, but a welcoming family where people can belong before they believe. It's a place where authentic relationships flourish, where questions are welcomed, and where grace is experienced. When we isolate ourselves, we miss out on the beautiful tapestry of community that Jesus intended for His church.
Bible Verse
'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.' - John 3:16
Reflection Question
How can you help create a more welcoming and authentic community in your church where people feel safe to explore their faith?
Quote
The early church got this. I mean, they had a community created where people can belong before they believe and where they can explore why Jesus matters in an atmosphere of authenticity and love.
Prayer
Lord, help me be a bridge-builder in my faith community. Show me how to create spaces where others can experience Your love and grace. Amen.
Day 5: Life's Ultimate Priority
Devotional
In a world full of competing priorities - career, relationships, personal goals - Jesus calls us to recognize that our relationship with Him matters more than anything else. This isn't about adding religion to our list of priorities; it's about understanding that our relationship with Jesus fundamentally shapes every aspect of our lives. He transforms our identity, purpose, and destiny. When we truly grasp who Jesus is and what He's done for us, everything else falls into proper perspective.
Bible Verse
'If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.' - Romans 10:9
Reflection Question
What areas of your life need to be realigned with the priority of your relationship with Jesus?
Quote
Where you stand with Jesus matters more than anything else in our lives.
Prayer
Jesus, help me keep You at the center of my life. Show me where I need to adjust my priorities to align with Your will. Amen.