by Pastor Ray Viola | Jul 7, 2023 | Contemporary Christianity
One of the prominent messages of the Protestant Reformation was that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, apart from any works, ritual or merit on the part of sinners. As we read in the Bible: “But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Jun 30, 2023 | Contemporary Christianity
If you have been a Christian for any length of time, you have more than likely been drawn into the Calvinism vs. Arminianism conversation regarding the method or process of man’s salvation. Both systems of interpretation contain 5 points that contain biblical...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Jun 25, 2023 | Contemporary Christianity
We have learned in our journey through Paul’s letter to the believers in Philippi that there was an undercurrent of selfishness which manifested itself in attitudes of vainglory and strife. To address that problem, Paul reminded them of the humility of Jesus Christ...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Jun 23, 2023 | Contemporary Christianity
In our study this morning we are made aware that self-centeredness was a problem that existed in the congregation in Philippi. (See also Philippians 4:2,3.) The Holy Spirit mentions words like strife and vainglory to describe the attitudes that existed within this...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Jun 17, 2023 | Contemporary Christianity
In completing our study in Colossians, we are once again going to see the value of every part of the body of Christ. Even though Paul was called and ordained by Christ Himself (Acts 9:1-16), and given spectacular revelations pertaining to the kingdom of God (2...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Jun 13, 2023 | Contemporary Christianity
In this next section of Paul’s letter to the Colossian and Laodicean believers, we find the marching orders to continue to pray and proclaim the gospel. Praying, walking in wisdom, and proclaiming the truth about Jesus are vital parts of continuing to follow Jesus. We...