Riverside Christian Church Message Podcast

Jesus Loves the Misfits

In First Corinthians 1:27-29, Paul writes, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things - and the things that are not - to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before Him." In this message, Pastor Regan Clem reminds us that God doesn't need superheroes. He wants us. Perfection is not required. In Him, all us misfits can find our hope, our value, our place, and our meaning.

Christians Only

Lead Pastor Regan Clem takes us on a brief journey through history back to our non-denominational roots, which surprisingly include a variety of leaders from multiple denominations. Revelation 2:2-7 warns all churches to simultaneously be aware of false apostles and to remember our first love. If we will return to Him, if we will place Jesus first in our lives and in our churches, if we will base our lives on the Scripture, if we will be led by the Holy Spirit -- we may then experience the glorious future (and the Biblical unity) which God desires.

Be Love

"Hurt people hurt people, but loved people love people," Associate Pastor Betsy Carter asserts. We may fail constantly, we may get mired in sin, we may need constant forgiveness, but God's love never fails. Romans 5:8 says, "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 8:38 tells us that *nothing* can separate us from the love of God. Scripture after scripture confirms that God LOVES us, and there's nothing that can stand between. So let's live like loved people, loving God and loving each other.

The Case for Unity

Special guest speaker Larry Carter, president of Great Lakes Christian College, presents a compelling case for unity among Christians. He contends that we don't all have to think exactly alike, but we can remain united in purpose, Spirit, love, and most of all, a common faith in Christ Jesus. Not just for our own good, but as a poweful witness to the world. As Galatians 5:6 tells us, "...the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."

Count it All Joy

Pastor Clem reminds us that joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, and it is far more than mere circumstantial happiness. Though God doesn't promise to "poof" our problems away, he grants us grace and joy to meet the challenges we face from day to day. And to those who will persevere, there is an eternity of joy waiting just ahead.