Have you gazed upon the infinity of the heavens, the vastness of the sea, or the beauty of a child and muttered, "Oh, my." It's not just that you don't know the words to say, it's that words can't express what you're feeling. Paul does something like that at the end of Romans 11. He's not done with the letter. We'll benefit from 5 more chapters. But he's done with eleven chapters of describing our lostness, God's goodness, and the Spirit's faithfulness. All that's left to say is, "Oh, my." We’re so glad you’re with us today to come into God’s presence, receive his grace and, we pray, respond with, “Oh, my.”
Do you know any World War II veterans? Probably not—few are left. Maybe you are part of a group that you would call a remnant. It could be original homeowners in your neighborhood. It could be smartphone holdouts. At one point in our world, 100% of the population knew the true God. That makes you part of a remnant. At times, that reality confronts you starkly. What is your response? We’re glad you joined us to study the Spirit’s Word to us in Romans 11. If you have questions or would like to learn more about our God or our church, please contact Pastor Clinton Kreuziger at clinton.kreuziger@st-andrew-online.org.
In church, the word “testimony” makes some people uncomfortable. It conjures up images of a tearful speech, filled with regret and sadness but then ending with happy outcomes and more ups than downs. Fear not, this Sunday is not "Testimony Day." You won't be asked to "give your testimony." Yet, according to Romans 10, every day is testimony day. Plan your testimony. One day someone will ask you about your hope, and you want to be ready. Your testimony may have all kinds of ups and downs and may not even end on an “up.” Just make sure it's more about what Jesus has done than what you have done. When your testimony includes that Good News, God can use it in beautiful ways to work faith in others. Your story may be dramatic (or not) but nothing beats a man rising from the dead. Jesus’ resurrection is your best testimony.
Trying to do too much - Have you heard that phrase? Used that phrase? Maybe the context was "overacting" in a drama setting or refusing to take a break from work. Can we try to do too much in our spiritual lives? In Romans 10, Paul describes a zeal not based on knowledge. It doesn't end well. Let's focus our zeal where it ought to be focused. We’re glad you’re here.
Have you seen a little quiz or game that asks you what road sign most accurately describes you? Maybe those in the throes of raising children can relate best to speed limit – 70 (or 140). Perhaps a series of rejections in life has you feeling like your motto is do not enter. But when Romans 9 describes God, only one response (and road sign) seems appropriate. Find out which one this weekend.