The CCC Blog
Hezekiah Part 2: The Chronicles of Judah
Have you ever noticed how your phone’s photo rotation feature can feel like a time machine? Every time I unlock mine, I'm greeted with a different snapshot—a cherished memory with my family, a laugh shared with friends, or a breathtaking moment on vacation. Each photo isn’t just a captured moment but a story, reminding me that life is made up of millions of these moments—some small and seemingly insignificant, others monumental.
But here's the thing: moments aren't just memories—they're catalysts of momentum. They can shift the trajectory of our lives, for better or worse. And that’s what I want to explore today as we look at the life of King Hezekiah.
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Day 1 | Isaiah 59-60
Day 2 | Isaiah 61-63
Day 3 | Isaiah 64-66
Day 4 | 2 Kings 20-21
Day 5 | 2 Chronicles 32-33
Day 6 | Hosea 11-14
As you read:
How would the people living in this time have understood these passages?
How do these passages change my view of God’s work in our current time?
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Lord, today can be a hard day for many. Please care for those with heavy or hurting hearts by showing us who is hurting and help us love them well!
Have you ever noticed how your phone’s photo rotation feature can feel like a time machine? Every time I unlock mine, I'm greeted with a different snapshot—a cherished memory with my family, a laugh shared with friends, or a breathtaking moment on vacation. Each photo isn’t just a captured moment but a story, reminding me that life is made up of millions of these moments—some small and seemingly insignificant, others monumental.
But here's the thing: moments aren't just memories—they're catalysts of momentum. They can shift the trajectory of our lives, for better or worse. And that’s what I want to explore today as we look at the life of King Hezekiah.
Momentum Begins with a Moment
Hezekiah's life was filled with pivotal moments. Early on, he made bold decisions that turned the entire nation of Judah back to God. In one decisive moment, he tore down idols and reopened the temple, sparking a revival among God’s people. This was a season where momentum was moving in the right direction—God’s people were returning to Him.
But then, as often happens, when things seemed to be going well, life threw a curveball. King Sennacherib of Assyria, infamous for his brutality, laid siege to Judah. Hezekiah found himself staring down an impossible enemy.
Fear Knocking at the Door
Sennacherib’s invasion wasn't just a military threat—it was psychological warfare. He taunted Hezekiah, ridiculing his faith, and mocking the God of Israel. The enemy's tactic was clear: strike fear into the hearts of God's people.
Let’s be real—fear can paralyze us. It doesn’t always come as a visible enemy outside our walls. Sometimes, it shows up in the whisper of doubt, the weight of anxiety, or the exhaustion of uncertainty. Fear doesn’t have to strike us with a sword; it just needs to plant a seed of doubt in our hearts.
But where there’s an obstacle of fear, there’s an opportunity for faith.
Hezekiah’s Response: Faith in the Face of Fear
Instead of surrendering, Hezekiah took a different route. He laid out his fears before God. He spread Sennacherib's threatening letter in the temple and prayed:
"Lord, the God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth... Deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone, Lord, are God." (2 Kings 19:14-19)
In that act, Hezekiah chose faith over fear. And God responded. In one miraculous night, the angel of the Lord wiped out 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. Sennacherib fled, and God’s people were delivered.
God’s power broke through the impossible.
But the story doesn’t end there. Hezekiah faced another defining moment. This time, it wasn’t an enemy from without, but one from within—his own pride.
The Danger of Pride: When Momentum Falters
In a surprising turn, Hezekiah, after experiencing God’s miraculous deliverance, found himself basking in his own glory. When visitors from Babylon came to see him, he boasted about his treasures, his achievements, and all the wealth he had accumulated. In a moment of pride, he took the credit for everything God had done.
What a missed opportunity! Instead of pointing these curious visitors to the One True God, who had delivered Judah and healed him, Hezekiah made it all about himself. And that moment of pride had devastating consequences. Isaiah warned that because of Hezekiah’s arrogance, future generations would suffer. His sons would be taken as captives, stripped of their heritage, and made eunuchs in a foreign land.
Pride always paves pathways of pain.
The Divine Moment We All Face
The story of Hezekiah is a powerful reminder that every moment matters. Sometimes, the greatest threats aren’t the ones we face on the outside but the battles within our own hearts—fear, doubt, and pride.
Jesus, the King of Kings, came to deal with these very battles. He wasn’t interested in overthrowing political empires or making a name for Himself. Instead, His mission was clear: to sit on the throne of our hearts and transform us from the inside out.
He doesn’t want to compete with our fears, our ambitions, or our pride. He wants to overthrow whatever is sitting on His throne in our lives and replace it with His peace, His love, and His eternal purpose.
A Moment to Choose Faith Over Fear
I believe we are living in a divine moment right now—a moment where we are invited to take stock of what really matters. Just like Hezekiah, we are faced with choices that will either lead us toward God’s Kingdom or away from it.
The question is, how will you respond?
Are you gripped by fear, feeling overwhelmed by impossible situations in your life?
Is pride standing in the way of you giving God the glory He deserves?
Do you need to lay something before God today and ask for His help?
There’s no better time than now to surrender. Let’s turn our moments into momentum—not for our own glory, but for His.
Today, we are offering a moment of healing prayer. Whether it’s for a financial crisis, a broken relationship, or an impossible situation you’re facing—come, lay it before God. Just like Hezekiah did, spread your burdens out before the Lord and trust that He will fight your battles.
Because at the end of the day, Jesus is still the King of Kings, and He’s inviting you to be part of His Kingdom that will never fail.
So take this moment. Let it be the beginning of new momentum in your life—momentum that leads not just to temporary victories, but to eternal life in Him.
Blog adapted from November 10, 2024, message by Minister Alex Ehly
God Speaks Through Cicumstances
There are times when life’s circumstances make us feel like we’re crying out into a void, with no response from the heavens. Even King David, the giant-slayer and future ruler of Israel, found himself in such a place. In Psalm 22, David's lament resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt abandoned by God:
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
"Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?"
"My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest."
There are times when life’s circumstances make us feel like we’re crying out into a void, with no response from the heavens. Even King David, the giant-slayer and future ruler of Israel, found himself in such a place. In Psalm 22, David's lament resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt abandoned by God:
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
"Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?"
"My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest."
These words don’t sound like they belong to a mighty king, but to a man who is utterly broken, desperate for God’s presence in the middle of what seems like insurmountable circumstances. David was no stranger to pain and despair. Though we don’t know exactly where David was when he penned these words, he was likely hiding in a cave, running for his life from King Saul, who sought to kill him.
Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you're in a situation right now that feels impossible. Perhaps you’re beginning to wonder if God is even listening to your cries, let alone responding. But here’s a truth I want to hold on to, and one I hope you’ll grasp as well:
In the midst of our circumstances, God isn't silent; he's shaping us.
I can speak from experience. Recently, my wife and I made a critical decision about where to send our youngest daughter to school. Our daughter is Deaf, and we felt confident that God had provided a plan and a team of experts to support her as she started Kindergarten. Yet, just two days before school began, we received a call that changed everything—the plans we had made fell through. We were left in a situation far from ideal, crying out to God, desperately reminding him of how crucial this year is for our daughter’s development. Yet, even as we wrestled with God’s silence, we were reminded of his faithfulness in shaping and holding us through past challenges.
As I read Psalm 22 this week, I was encouraged to see that I’m in good company. David, despite feeling abandoned, continued to declare God’s faithfulness, even as he cried out in pain. This shows us that God often does his deepest work and speaks the clearest in our most challenging circumstances.
Prayer, then, is not about convincing God to align with our plans; it's about placing ourselves in a position to hear from him, especially when we feel most vulnerable. David’s honesty in his lament reveals a profound truth: even when it feels like God is distant, in the midst of our circumstances, God isn't silent; he's shaping us.
This idea might seem strange, but David’s raw and real cries to God show us the beauty of being vulnerable in the depths of despair. He understood that God was shaping him, even when he felt abandoned. And this shaping isn’t just about making us stronger or more independent—it’s about deepening our dependence on God.
Paul echoes this in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where he writes, "But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
If dependence is the goal, weakness is not a liability, but an advantage.
David understood this, even in the midst of his crazy circumstances. He knew that even when God felt distant, God was working to shape him into a person who could declare with confidence in Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing."
The journey from Psalm 22 to Psalm 23 wasn’t an easy one for David. It was filled with trials, pain, and desperate cries to God. Yet through it all, God was shaping David into a man of deep faith and resilience.
This truth is illustrated powerfully by the story of Biosphere 2, an experiment in the Arizona desert in the late 1980s and early 90s. In this controlled environment, trees grew rapidly but would eventually fall over. Scientists discovered that the trees lacked one crucial element: wind. Without the resistance and stress that wind provides, the trees grew quickly but were weak and unable to stand on their own.
Similarly, in our lives, the "wind" of difficult circumstances is often what God uses to build our resilience and faith. It’s in the storms that our faith grows strong, not in the comfort of an easy life. In our circumstances, God isn't silent; he's shaping us for greater resilience.
David’s journey from despair in Psalm 22 to the peace and trust of Psalm 23 reminds us that God’s shaping process is ongoing. He’s not just interested in making us stronger for our own sake, but in shaping us to look more like him.
So, when you find yourself in the midst of painful circumstances, remember that God is working. He may seem silent, but he's shaping you. And in those moments when you feel weakest, remember that dependence on God is not a sign of failure—it's the goal.
The cross itself, the ultimate symbol of suffering, reminds us that God’s greatest work often happens in the darkest moments. It’s a powerful declaration that even when it seems like God is silent, he’s not. He’s shaping a story of resurrection, both in Jesus’ life and in ours.
So, whatever valley you’re walking through today, take heart. The Shepherd never leaves his sheep. He’s not just guiding you—he’s fighting for you, and he’s already won the battle.
Blog adapted from August 25, 2024, message by Minister Alex Ehly
Camp Rivercrest Update
This past week, from June 23-28, I had the incredible privilege of serving as the camp speaker at Camp Rivercrest’s Junior High camp. It was an unforgettable week filled with laughter, adventure, and deep spiritual growth as we welcomed 7th and 8th graders into a space where God was tangibly present and moving in powerful ways.
This past week, from June 23-28, I had the incredible privilege of serving as the camp speaker at Camp Rivercrest’s Junior High camp. It was an unforgettable week filled with laughter, adventure, and deep spiritual growth as we welcomed 7th and 8th graders into a space where God was tangibly present and moving in powerful ways.
Throughout the week, 21 students made first-time commitments to follow Jesus, and 79 chose to renew their dedication to their faith. These aren’t just numbers—they represent lives forever changed and hearts opened to the love and grace of God. Witnessing these students step forward, often with tears in their eyes and hope in their hearts, was a profound reminder of why spaces like this matter.
As we stand at the halfway point of our summer camp season, it’s incredible to reflect on the broader impact. So far, 120 kids and youth have chosen to embrace Jesus for the first time, and 220 have renewed their dedication to walking in faith. These numbers are more than just statistics—they represent individual journeys toward a deeper relationship with God.
There’s something truly special about the camp environment. In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, Camp Rivercrest offers a rare and precious opportunity for students to unplug from their devices and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the richness of community.
Celebrating The Amazing Camp Staff
None of this would be possible without the incredible dedication of the camp staff. These young adults have chosen to spend their summer not pursuing personal ambitions but serving Jesus by serving others. They work long hours, enduring the heat, rain, and everything in between, to create a space where campers can encounter God’s love.
In a culture that often values individual achievement and leisure, their commitment is truly countercultural and deeply inspiring. Their sacrificial service is a living testament to the power of selfless love and the impact it can have on the lives of others.
As I look back on this week and ahead to the rest of the summer, I am filled with hope and excitement for the future of the church. The passion and openness of these young students are clear signs that Jesus is raising up a new generation ready to carry His message into the world.
To our Christ Community Church family, your prayers and financial support are making a significant difference. Your investment is changing lives and enabling us to reach one more soul for Jesus. Thank you for being a vital part of this ministry.
As we celebrate the incredible work God has done so far, let’s continue to thank Him and pray for even more life-changing encounters in the weeks to come. Your ongoing support and prayers are essential as we journey through the remaining weeks of camp.
Together, we are witnessing God’s transformative power in action, and I am profoundly grateful to be part of this amazing story.
With joy and gratitude,
- Alex Ehly
Marriage, Divorce & Intimacy
In today's fast-paced world, where online shopping and digital connections dominate, it's easy to forget a time when the window displays of a mall were our window to the world of consumerism. Yet, amidst the mannequins and storefronts, there was a subtle message being conveyed - a message of desire, of aspiration. These mannequins, though often unsettling in their headless forms, served a purpose: to showcase the glory of the designer's creations.
In today's fast-paced world, where online shopping and digital connections dominate, it's easy to forget a time when the window displays of a mall were our window to the world of consumerism. Yet, amidst the mannequins and storefronts, there was a subtle message being conveyed - a message of desire, of aspiration. These mannequins, though often unsettling in their headless forms, served a purpose: to showcase the glory of the designer's creations.
Exploring Paul's Wisdom: Insights from 1 Corinthians 7
As we journey back in time, let's shift our focus from mannequins to matters of the heart - marriage, singleness, intimacy, and even divorce. In the midst of a cultural minefield, the apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church's inquiries about navigating these intricate facets of life in a society filled with conflicting values and norms. Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 7 provide timeless insights into the essence of marriage. In a world where relationships were often transactional and patriarchal, Paul challenges the status quo by emphasizing mutual respect and sacrificial love within the marital covenant. He draws upon the original design of marriage, echoing the union of Adam and Eve as a reflection of the glory of their Designer. Moreover, Paul extends his counsel to those who find themselves in situations of singleness or contemplating marriage. He affirms both states as gifts from God, each offering opportunities to glorify the Designer through faithful stewardship of one's life and relationships.
Navigating Divorce: Hope Amidst Brokenness
Understanding Paul's language in this section is crucial. When he refers to "no I, but the Lord," he's directing our attention to Jesus' teachings. This context is like entering a conversation in progress. Let's rewind to a story in Matthew 19, where some religious leaders question Jesus about divorce, reflecting the patriarchal norms of their time. Jesus, rather than giving a direct answer, responds with another question, redirecting them to the teachings of Moses. The leaders refer to Deuteronomy 24:1, where they argues that divorce is permitted for various reasons, often trivial ones, leading to abuse of the law and leaving women vulnerable.
However, Jesus pivots the conversation, emphasizing God's original design for marriage as depicted in Genesis. He underscores the permanence of marriage while acknowledging the reality of brokenness in a fallen world. Jesus clarifies that divorce is permissible in cases of sexual immorality, restoring the sanctity of marriage. Paul will delve further into the topic of divorce in the following session, acknowledging its complexity and the pain it entails. He recognizes that divorce contradicts God's intended plan for marriage, yet acknowledges the brokenness of humanity and the need for grace in navigating these challenges.
For those experiencing the aftermath of divorce, Paul offers empathy and encouragement. While divorce is not part of anyone's marital aspirations, in a broken world, it unfortunately occurs. However, there are biblical grounds for divorce, including adultery, abandonment, and abuse, though each situation requires careful consideration. IIf you find yourself in such circumstances, know that your pain is not overlooked. Seek support from trusted individuals or resources, recognizing that healing and restoration are possible through God's grace and intervention. If you're seeking guidance in your marriage or navigating the aftermath of divorce, consider exploring available resources and support networks, such as those offered at cccomaha.org/marriage. There are compassionate individuals ready to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing and restoration.
Married to Unbelievers: Radiating Christ's Love in Relationships
Furthermore, Paul extends compassion to believers married to unbelieving spouses, urging them to embody the transformative power of Christ's love within their marriages. Through their witness and steadfastness, they have the opportunity to sanctify their households and demonstrate the redemptive work of God in their lives.
Ultimately, Paul's teachings on marriage and relationships point us towards a deeper reality - that our earthly unions are but a reflection of a greater covenantal bond between Christ and His Church. As recipients of God's boundless love and grace, we are called to embody that same love in our relationships, displaying the glory of our Designer to a world in need of hope and reconciliation. May we heed Paul's exhortation to live lives that magnify the beauty and goodness of our Creator in every relationship we cultivate. Whether married or single, may our interactions bear witness to the transformative power of God's love, drawing others into the embrace of His unfailing grace.
Blog adapted from February 25, 2024, message by Minister Alex Ehly
Faithful Fools for Christ
In a world seemingly riddled with skepticism and a dwindling trust in institutions, it's clear that society is facing a crisis of confidence. A 2022 Gallup poll reflects this stark reality: only 31% of people hold a "great deal" of trust in the church or organized religion, while trust in other institutions like public schools, banks, and television news hovers at equally low percentages. In seeking answers, we turn to the ancient wisdom of the Bible, specifically the book of 1 Corinthians, where the Apostle Paul addresses similar challenges within the early Church.
In a world seemingly riddled with skepticism and a dwindling trust in institutions, it's clear that society is facing a crisis of confidence. A 2022 Gallup poll reflects this stark reality: only 31% of people hold a “great deal” of trust in the church or organized religion, while trust in other institutions like public schools, banks, and television news hovers at equally low percentages. From historical scandals like Watergate and the Enron bankruptcy to the recurring issues of impeachments and environmental crises, it’s evident that institutional trust is faltering.
Data from 2022 Gallup poll
In seeking answers, we turn to the ancient wisdom of the Bible, specifically the book of 1 Corinthians, where the Apostle Paul addresses similar challenges within the early Church. Paul's letter to the Corinthians is not just a communication; it’s a corrective surgery intended to heal and guide a fragmented community. His teachings provide timeless insights into the nature of true leadership and the path to rebuilding trust.
Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 4:1–13 is profound in its simplicity and depth. He introduces the concept of Christian leadership as being servants and stewards of Christ's teachings. The imagery he uses is striking—leaders are likened to “under-rowers” of a ship, working in harmony with others and following the master's command, and stewards managing a household, entrusted with great responsibilities. This perspective shifts the focus from authority and power to service and stewardship. Leadership, according to Paul, is not about self-promotion or personal kingdoms; it’s about faithfulness to a higher calling and service to others.
But Paul doesn't stop there. He challenges the Corinthians—and us—to reevaluate our understanding of success and influence. Paul presents a counter-narrative in a society that often equates leadership with wealth, power, and status. True leadership involves suffering, humility, and being “fools for Christ.” This is not a message of defeat but a radical redefinition of victory—one that values faithfulness over fame and service over supremacy.
As we reflect on these teachings, we confront our own perceptions of leadership and trust. Are we seeking to serve or to be served? Are we striving for personal gain or aiming to faithfully steward the responsibilities entrusted to us? Paul’s letter encourages a leadership that echoes Christ's own—marked by humility, service, and a steadfast commitment to a higher purpose.
In a world desperate for trustworthy leaders, the message of 1 Corinthians resonates with clarity and urgency. It’s a call to embrace a leadership that is not swayed by the changing tides of public opinion but is anchored in faithfulness and service. As we navigate the trust crisis within our institutions and communities, may we find inspiration in Paul’s words to be faithful servants, wise stewards, and, when necessary, joyful fools for Christ. Only then can we begin to rebuild the trust so essential to our collective well-being and hope.
Your faithful service, your faithful stewardship, and your faithful sufferings through trials are reflections of Jesus himself—the One who showed unwavering loyalty to you first. He is the One who cherished you before anyone else, who loved you unconditionally, and who bore suffering and death for your sake, even when you were distant from him. Your commitment is a powerful witness to the enduring faithfulness of Christ. You are called to join an extraordinary and unyielding movement!
Blog adapted from February 4, 2024 message by Minister Alex Ehly
Hope, Not Hype, This Christmas
The prophetic book of Malachi, the last chapter in the Old Testament, echoes with promises and prophecies of hope for a people who had just emerged from seventy years of exile. This period of anticipation, marked by cycles of political upheaval and societal unrest, forms the backdrop of the Advent season—the expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
The prophetic book of Malachi, the last chapter in the Old Testament, echoes with promises and prophecies of hope for a people who had just emerged from seventy years of exile. This period of anticipation, marked by cycles of political upheaval and societal unrest, forms the backdrop of the Advent season—the expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Malachi 4: A Promise of Hope
Malachi 4 opens with a proclamation of a coming day, burning like a furnace, where the wicked will be judged and the righteous will find healing and prosperity. The chapter speaks of a figure resembling Elijah, who will prepare the hearts of the people for the Lord's return. In the midst of a tumultuous historical landscape, these promises provided a glimmer of hope for a nation yearning for redemption.
However, between the promises of Malachi and the fulfillment of those promises in the Gospel of Luke, lies 400 years of history. Political regimes rise and fall, and the people of Israel find themselves living under various authorities, their hope for a better future dwindling.
Luke 1: The Dawn of Fulfillment
Yet, within this period of silence, a faithful remnant, exemplified by the righteous couple Zechariah and Elizabeth, clings to hope despite their own challenges. In the time of Herod, Zechariah, and Elizabeth, descendants of Aaron, embody the continuation of faithful obedience despite years of barrenness. The angel Gabriel delivers the astonishing news that Elizabeth will bear a son named John, who will prepare the way for the Lord. The parallel with Malachi's prophecy is striking—God remembers his people and fulfills his promises, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
Misplaced Hope
As we journey through Luke 1, the narrative unveils John's purpose in redirecting misplaced hopes. John's message challenges misplaced hope in religious ritual, lineage, power, and politics. In preparing the hearts of the people for Jesus, John emphasizes the need for genuine repentance and turning toward the true source of hope—Jesus Christ.
Hope in the Midst of Brokenness
Zechariah and Elizabeth's story serves as a poignant reminder that hope is often found in the midst of brokenness. Despite societal expectations and personal challenges, their faithfulness is rewarded with the fulfillment of God's promise. Elizabeth's proclamation, “The Lord has done this for me,” echoes with gratitude and triumph over years of disgrace and disappointment.
Advent: Refusing Hype, Embracing Hope
Often, during this season, we can be convinced to buy into the hype that is wrapped to look like hope. As we navigate the Advent season, the narrative calls us to refuse the hype that distracts from the true source of hope. In a world where hope is often hijacked for empty optimism, the message of Advent beckons us to fix our eyes on the eternal promises of a promise-making and promise-keeping God. It invites us to redirect our hope from the finite to the infinite, from external circumstances to eternal promises.
The Advent season invites us to reflect on the historical journey from divine silence to the fulfillment of hope in the birth of Jesus Christ. The stories of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and John serve as beacons of hope in the face of adversity. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of the Messiah, may we, like them, anchor our hope in the person of Jesus, our eternal hope and promise fulfilled.
Blog adapted from November 27, 2023 message by Minister Alex Ehly
Living an Unoffendable Life Through Love
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s astounding how many opportunities we encounter to be offended. Whether it’s the news that stirs our anger, disagreements with neighbors, frustrating traffic, or even seemingly trivial matters like self-checkouts, the potential for offense is ever-present. Making a small change to be unoffendable can drastically improve our lives and transform our relationships.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s astounding how many opportunities we encounter to be offended. Whether it’s the news that stirs our anger, disagreements with neighbors, frustrating traffic, or even seemingly trivial matters like self-checkouts, the potential for offense is ever-present. Making a small change to be unoffendable can drastically improve our lives and transform our relationships.
Defining Offense
Before delving deeper into this transformative journey, it's essential to define what we mean by “offense.” In this context, “offense” refers to the annoyance or resentment triggered by a perceived insult to oneself or a disregard for one's standards or principles. It’s important to note that some experiences, like abuse, go beyond mere offense, and we should never condone or remain in abusive situations.
Unconditional Love & an Unoffendable Life
The core message of this journey is that experiencing unconditional love leads to living an unoffendable life, and conversely, a lack of love results in a life marked by constant offense.
Unconditional love, as exemplified by 1 Corinthians 13, is a challenging concept to grasp fully. This chapter is often cited at weddings and seems like a simple, feel-good message about love. However, its depth and counter-cultural nature become apparent upon closer examination.
Paul's Message to the Corinthians
Paul's letter to the Corinthians addresses various issues within their church community. He emphasizes the importance of using spiritual gifts for service rather than personal glorification. In 1 Corinthians 12:31b, he hints at a more excellent way, setting the stage for his profound message on love.
1 Corinthians 13:1–3 underscore that even possessing extraordinary gifts or performing admirable acts means nothing without love. This aligns with Jesus' teachings about the greatest commandments: loving God and loving one's neighbor.
The Characteristics of Love
Paul's description of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4–8a provides a comprehensive guide on what love does and does not entail.
A Litmus Test for Offense
To gauge whether we are trending towards offering love or living in offense, we can ask ourselves three essential questions:
Am I walking in humility?
Patience and kindness are at the core of love. Offended people tend to be impatient and unkind, often judging others by their actions and themselves by their intentions.
Am I making this about me?
Love does not dishonor others, is not self-seeking, and does not keep records of wrongs. Offended individuals often commodify people, nitpicking and seeking offense.
Am I trusting that God is in control?
Love rejoices in truth, always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. Offended people tend to focus on external battles and may avoid confronting evil personally.
Experiencing Unconditional Love
To live an unoffendable life, we must first experience unconditional love. As 1 John 4:19 reminds us, “We love because he first loved us.” The love described in 1 Corinthians 13 is embodied in Jesus, and it’s a love for us to experience.
Recognizing our flaws and selfishness and yet being loved unconditionally by God is a transformative experience. It enables us to extend that love to others, even those who may offend us.
Living in Proximity & Changing Your Posture
In closing, we are challenged to get in proximity to those we find offensive and ask God to change our posture toward them. This challenge isn’t about becoming passive or ignoring justice and morality; it's about being radical in love. Living in a constant state of offense is easy but harmful. Radical, unoffendable love, on the other hand, is transformative and risky.
Let's remember that as followers of Christ, our mission is to bring hope to the world, not through programs or preaching but by our love. As Jesus said in John 13:34–35, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
In a world filled with offense and division, let us be known for our radical and unoffendable love.
Blog adapted from September 24, 2023 message by Minister Alex Ehly