Chandler First Church of the Nazarene

a Christian family sharing the love of Jesus

Notes Between Neighbors: Faith, Hope, & Love

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But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God [faith], hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.

Go after a life of love as if your life depended on it—because it does.

1 Corinthians 13:13 & 14:1 (MSG)

The following conversation took place after discussion of the N.T. Wright book, Surprised By Scripture in a Sunday morning study.  Out of that book sprung the conversation about 1 Corinthians 13, and what it means to have faith, hold onto hope, and display love.

This a continuation of the “Notes Between Neighbors” series where I was able to share my faith as I answered questions from my neighbor, Daniel.  If you missed the 2 previous blogs in this series, you can find them here.

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Notes Between Neighbors: Micro or Macro?

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[…] Concentrate on doing your best for God, work you won’t be ashamed of, laying out the truth plain and simple. Stay clear of pious talk that is only talk. Words are not mere words, you know. If they’re not backed by a godly life, they accumulate as poison in the soul. […] — 2 Timothy 2:15-18 (MSG)

This is a continuation of Notes Between Neighbors: What do you believe?  In his response, Daniel poses an interesting perspective about taking a “micro” view of religion and taking a “macro” view of religion. He also talks about how his past experiences within the Christian community has influenced his current perspective.

After you read his response, share your thoughts about these topics. What has been your experience?

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Notes Between Neighbors: What do you believe?

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Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. – 1 Peter 3:15-16

For several years, I’ve been sharing my perspective about my Christian faith with a friend/neighbor. He has asked many questions and I have responded to the best of my ability. He gave me permission to share some of these conversations with you.

Our discussion began during a tea and origami visit. Daniel asked me, “What do you believe?” Here is dialog that took place after having some face to face discussion.

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Question: What is Pentecost?

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Our kids had a fun party to celebrate the birthday of the church yesterday and they asked some great questions about Pentecost. We thought we’d share them (and the answers) with you!

What is Pentecost?

Pentecost is an English translation of a Greek work, which means “fifty.” It is celebrated 50 days (seven weeks) after Easter. Acts 1 tells us that after Jesus that after Jesus was resurrected, he remained on Earth for 40 days.

After his suffering and death, he appeared to them. In many ways he proved that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of 40 days. During that time he spoke about God’s kingdom. (Acts 1:3)

Jesus told his disciples that he was going to heaven and that they should wait for the gift that God would send.

4 One day Jesus was eating with them. He gave them a command. “Do not leave Jerusalem,” he said. “Wait for the gift my Father promised. You have heard me talk about it. 5 John baptized with water. But in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 1:4-5)

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