Many of us encounter people who are hard to love, and we often doubt whether we have enough love within us. But the comforting truth shared today is that God's love is inexhaustible, and as it pours into our hearts, it enriches us with the capacity to love others, even those we find challenging.Through the lens of 1 John, Pastor Colin reassures us that understanding and accepting God's love equips us to express genuine love towards others. This divine love, when embraced, has the power to heal and transform. By participating in this journey, listeners will discover how the love of Christ, incrementally and profoundly, increases our own ability to love.We invite you to explore this transformative message and find encouragement in knowing that by loving each other, we fulfil God's purpose and shine as His light in the world. Remember, God’s love is not just a command, but a promise that we are deeply loved. Let this truth assure you of His presence and His infinite love for you.
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Assurance Grows as You Love God's People, Part 1
In today's discussion, drawn from 1 John 2:7-11, Colin highlights that assurance grows as we adhere to three key pursuits: obeying God's commands, loving God's people, and believing in His Son. This episode emphasises the importance of developing love for others, even when it's challenging, as part of our journey to assured faith. John's letter is an encouraging reminder that genuine assurance isn't just about faith—it involves active, love-filled relationships with others.Whether you're struggling to love a difficult person in your life or simply looking to deepen your faith, this message offers biblical insights and practical guidance. Dive in with us to explore how these practices not only reinforce our assurance but also enrich our spiritual journey.
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Assurance Grows as You Obey God's Commands, Part 2
This week, we delve deep into the transformative journey of becoming a "new creation" in Christ. Even if you find yourself wrestling with old sins, take comfort in knowing this struggle is a testament to your new life. Just like a fish swims against the current, so do we strive against sin, demonstrating our spiritual vitality.In this broadcast, Pastor Colin guides us through 1 John, Chapter 2, exploring how assurance grows as we obey God’s commands. We uncover the profound truth that while no Christian perfectly keeps God's laws, every believer is on a path of growing obedience. It’s a life journey supported by God’s love which drives us to align our desires with His divine will.Join us as Pastor Colin brings clarity to these spiritual principles, emphasising that our love for God leads to a beautiful freedom where our true desires align with His commands, bringing us peace, joy, and the assurance of salvation.
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Assurance Grows as You Obey God's Commands, Part 1
Have you ever questioned your faith or wondered if your connection with God is genuine? You are not alone. Today, we're thinking about assurance, inspired by 1 John 2:3-6. Our discussion will explore how to find confidence in knowing God and how obeying His commands can bring peace, joy, and a deeper assurance of salvation.Pastor Colin takes us through the journey of understanding that assurance in our faith can grow as we walk in obedience to God, just as Jesus did. We'll explore the significance of knowing God personally, beyond secondhand experiences, and finding joy in the assurance of being in Christ. This episode is a gentle reminder that our faith journey is a path to walk with clarity, purpose, and hope.
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Assurance Grows as You Trust in Jesus, Part 2
How is Jesus as our advocate? Pastor Colin explains how Jesus speaks in our defence, akin to a lawyer in a courtroom, not pleading our innocence but presenting himself as our marvellous Saviour through what He accomplished on the cross. The discussion sheds light on our very nature of sinfulness and how Jesus offers assurance through His sacrificial love, which is at the heart of the Christian faith.Join us as Pastor Colin unravels the concept of propitiation, a term used to describe Jesus’ role in paying the price for our sins, offering a deep understanding of God's love for us. Through engaging illustrations, including a poignant courtroom depiction by C.H. Spurgeon, Colin paints a picture of how Jesus defends us before God, emphasising His love and grace.
Open the Bible UK presents engaging and accessible Bible teaching from Pastor Colin Smith.
This programme is the radio broadcast also available on our website (www.openthebible.org.uk) and at 7:30pm each weekday evening on Premier Christian Radio.
UK