When was the last time you saw a rainbow? It’s impossible to resist! Whatever you’re doing, you have to stop and take a good look. It’s one of the most beautiful things on earth—or over the earth. Most modern observers see only a natural phenomenon caused by raindrops refracting light. But the Bible offers a more spectacular explanation: The Creator God set it in the clouds as a sign of His covenant—His promise—to never destroy the earth by water again. This Sunday, Pastor LePage will revisit this promise—called the “Noahic Covenant” by theologians. You just might enjoy rainbows even more than ever.

Click here to listen to previous messages from the Genesis series.

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God by Francis Chan.

I love Chan’s style and passion. I agree with him in a lot of ways. His challenge for Christians to have a “crazy love” for Christ that shows itself in radical commitment inspires and challenges me.

But, Chan’s version of the gospel is muddy at best and just plain wrong at worst. Think I’m exaggerating? Chan wrote in Crazy Love, “To put it plainly, churchgoers who are ‘lukewarm’ are not Christians. We will not see them in heaven” (pgs. 83-84). Really? Does “lukewarm” equal “unbeliever” or “unsaved”? A careful study of Revelation 3 (where the idea of “lukewarm” comes from) reveals that Christ was speaking to complacent, apathetic Christians, not unbelievers. According to Chan, if you ever experience times when you’re “lukewarm” in your faith, you lose your salvation or prove you were never saved in the first place. But, the call of Revelation 3 is to return to a passion for Christ and fellowship with God—not to salvation. 

Consider also this quote from Chan: “My conclusion? Jesus’ call to commitment is clear: He wants all or nothing. The thought of a person calling himself a ‘Christian’ without being a devoted follower of Christ is absurd” (p. 85). Again, this is an unclear statement that reveals the main problem with Crazy Love (and all of Chan’s work). Is he saying that if I don’t give “all to Jesus” I’m not truly saved? Are you prepared to say that you have given ”all” to Jesus? That’s the process of discipleship; the life-long struggle called sanctification; the “pressing on” Paul spoke of; the quest for maturity in Christ; the Christian walk. That’s not the Gospel! The Gospel is about what Jesus gives to me, not what I give to Jesus. The Gospel is about the work of Christ, not the work of sinners.

The problem with most of what Chan writes is that he confuses justification with sanctification—which is true of anyone who teaches “Lordship Salvation“. In other words, he doesn’t seem to understand that the Gospel is free (John 1:12-13; 3:16; 4:10; Romans 6:23, 8:32; Ephesians 2:8-9; Revelation 22:17), but discipleship—following Jesus—costs everything (Luke 14:26-27, 33; John 14:15, 21, 23; 15:10). 

Think of it this way: Why should I have “crazy love” for Christ and the people He died for? To get into heaven? That’s a works-based salvation. No, I should have a “crazy love” for Christ because He has already given me heaven! That which He has done for me is so awesome that I want to show radical gratefulness and appreciation! That’s the “crazy love” Jesus asks for.

For more:

• Dangerous Words: A Review of Crazy Love by Francis Chan. This review by Bruce Bauer is a much longer and thorough review of Crazy Love.
• Constable’s Notes on The Book of Revelation.  This is a free, on-line study of the entire book of Revelation by Dr. Thomas Constable, long-time and greatly-respected professor at Dallas Theological Seminary.
• The Message to Laodicea: Lukewarmness in the Church. Here is another free, on-line and in-depth study of Revelation 3:14-22—the Church of Laodicea.

What can we learn from dirt? From what we find in the ground? Actually, a great deal can be learned. Scientific fields such as geology and paleontology are devoted to learning all we can from what is under our feet. Many things have been dug up—fossils, bones and rocks. These testify of the past, but what do they tell us? Do they refute or support the testimony of the Bible, that long ago God destroyed the world with a flood? This Sunday, Pastor LePage will show that what we find in the dirt confirms what we find in the Bible.

For over a year, Noah and his family drifted on the surface of a flooded world. The ark had saved their lives, but they couldn’t live on it forever. Imagine not seeing land for all that time. How long would it be before land peaked out from that much water? How much longer would it be after that before the land could support Noah, his family and all those animals? How different would the world be after such a catastrophe? Genesis 8 tells us, “God remembered Noah.” Of course, God never forgot him in the first place, but the words are filled with hope and comfort. Join us this Sunday when Pastor LePage will share a message from Genesis 8 that explains how the same God who was powerful enough to bring a world-wide flood in the first place, followed through. He was still in control. He provided for Noah yet again and showed Noah’s children and grandchildren and great grandchildren—you and me—how truly great and powerful and trustworthy He is.

Click here to listen to other messages from Pastor LePage’s Genesis 1-11 series.

When the subject of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ is discussed, it sparks a lot of questions. The big question most people ask is, “When will He return?” Some have decided they knew when and even set dates, but they’ve ignored the clear teaching of the New Testament to do it. No one knows when except God Himself. Others ask, “How will He come?” or “Where will He return?” The Bible is clear that the Second Coming of Christ is just as literal and physical as the First Coming. It’s not just a spiritual metaphor for coming into our hearts. And the “where” of the Second Coming is not too far from where He arrived the first time.

Often, a very important question is lost in this mix: “Why is Jesus coming again?” To answer this question is to explain why the Second Coming of Jesus Christ matters to every person on planet Earth. Be with us this Sunday, Pastor Shaun LePage will explore the Bible’s answers to this very important question.

Click on these links to listen to the first two messages in this three-part series:

• Christ Has Died! Does it Matter?
• Christ Has Risen! Does it Matter?

Isn’t that the question to ask? Think about it: An obscure Jewish man died 2,000 years ago. His followers claim He rose from the dead. And, He claimed He would return as the King of the entire Earth. Is this nothing more than ancient history? Is there compelling evidence to support these claims? What if it’s true? Does it matter to us—residents of the United States in the year 2012? In a 3-part series—Palm Sunday, Easter Sunday and the Sunday following Easter (April 1, 8 and 15)—CBC Pastor Shaun LePage will make the case that it does matter. It matters to you and every person who ever lived. And it matters forever. We’ll also have a special Good Friday service at 7 p.m., April 6. Come and be reintroduced to Jesus and the heart-and-soul of the Christian faith.

Join us this Saturday, March 24, for a FREE showing of the hit movie “Courageous”. Click on the links below to learn more about “Courageous.” Married or single, young or old, this exciting and suspenseful PG-13 movie will challenge you to be more resolved in living out your purpose for God. Contact Pastor LePage (shaun@community-bible.org) for more information. Admission, childcare and popcorn are provided free of charge!

Links:

• Courageous, The Movie - Watch the Trailer
• Plugged In Review of Courageous 

When most people discuss the world-wide flood described in Genesis 6-9, they usually debate over the scientific issues: Is there enough water to flood the earth above the highest mountain peaks? Does the geological record support such an idea? Could Noah have possibly built a boat big enough to carry two of every kind of animal?

These are obviously important issues related to the trustworthiness of the Bible. But, when we focus only on the science, we tend to miss the point. The real question isn’t “Could God flood the earth?” Genesis 1:1 answers that. A better question is, “Would God flood the earth?” And if so, “Why?”

This Sunday, Pastor LePage will begin taking a close look at one of the most fascinating men in the Bible: Noah. In the process, we’ll learn more about the most awesome Person in the Bible: Noah’s God.

Click here to listen to previous messages from Genesis.

Flood Study Resources:

• Worldwide Flood. Worldwide Evidence (Several questions about the flood answered by Answers in Genesis)
• Is Noah’s Ark a Myth? (Several questions about Noah’s Ark answered by Answers in Genesis)
• The Global Flood is the Key to the Past (Institute for Creation Research)
• Noah’s Flood Questions and Answers (Creation Ministries International)
• Noah’s Ark: A Feasibility Study (Creation Science)
• Answers to Questions about Noah and the Flood (GotQuestions.org)

It’s hard, but it’s simple. From the opening chapters of Genesis, through Proverbs, the Gospels, even into The Revelation, the Bible teaches there are really only two paths a person can take in life: Toward God or away from God. The way of the wise or the way of the fool. The way of the righteous and the way of the unrighteous. Every human being who has ever lived has made a choice whether they realize it or not. This Sunday, Pastor LePage will explore these two paths as displayed in Genesis 4 and challenge us to choose wisely.

Click here to listen to previous messages in the Genesis series.

Genesis is the beginning of everything—including sin and murder. This Sunday, Pastor LePage will be showing us the timeless principles of Genesis 4—the story of Cain and Abel. From start to finish the Bible tells us we each have a choice: The way of Cain or the way of Abel. It’s the way of sin or the way of faith; the way of hatred or the way of love; the way of the fool or the way of wisdom. Which will it be for you? How do we overcome our own sinful desires and choose the right way? Be with us this Sunday.

Click here for a list of resources for studying and understanding Genesis.

Occupation: Machine Supervisor

Favorite Bible Verses:

• Proverbs 3: 5-6
• Philippians 4:8

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Occupation: Bus Driver

Favorite Bible Verses:

• Matthew 11:28
• Romans 8:1
• Galatians 5:22-23

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If God knew the sin of Adam would lead to a world ravaged by the effects of sin—sorrow, suffering, evil, war, destruction, disease, death—why did He allow it? Why not stop it before it got out of hand? And why let the entire human race suffer the consequences of the sin of one man? These are fair questions. This Sunday, Pastor LePage will address these tough questions. The Bible’s answers are not simplistic, but they are real and strike at the center of the meaning of life itself.

Brothers and sisters throughout church history have walked with Christ, struggled with the Scriptures and engaged every kind of culture imaginable.

I’m not the only Christian alive today.

Brothers and sisters around the world are walking with Christ, struggling with the Scriptures and engaging every kind of culture imaginable.

The wonderful thing is, those brothers and sisters of the past wrote about what they learned. They shared their experiences in books. When we open the pages of those books and read, amazing things happen. We can benefit and learn and grow from those lessons they learned and those experiences they lived. Isn’t that wonderful?!

This is also true of those brothers and sisters who are alive today. Their words aren’t the word of God. Their books should never be mentioned in the same breath as Scripture. But, like a good sermon, books can help us know God more deeply. Like the words of a wise teacher who has studied the Scriptures for decades, books can help us grow in our understanding of the Bible.

I know this, because I have experienced it. I was not a “reader” when I became a Christian. But I desired to grow and I found that books helped me. Challenged me. Encouraged me.

I’m going to start compiling a list of books I think every Christian should read. In fact, I’m really hoping every member of CBC will read this first, short list as soon as you can:

• Free and Clear. So many important questions swirl around the issue of salvation—how exactly a person is saved from sin and given the promise of eternal life in heaven with God. This book by R. Larry Moyer is not a difficult read, but is one of the best for explaining the Gospel itself as well as several related issues such as, “What about repentance?” “Where does the Lordship of Christ fit in?” and “Is baptism essential for salvation?” This book is in the CBC Library.
• The Pursuit of God. This classic by A. W. Tozer has inspired many Christians to not settle for a mediocre spiritual life.
• Decision-Making and the Will of God. Gary Friesen challenges the traditional Christian approach to decision making and gives us practical principles for making everyday decisions. 
• Heaven. By Randy Alcorn. Another author named Stu Webber has said about this book, “Other than the Bible itself, this may well be the single most life-changing book you’ll ever read.”
• I’m Glad You Asked. Ken Boa and Larry Moody wrote this book to address the most common objections to Christianity and religion.
• Christianity in Crisis. Hank Hanegraaff’s classic has been revised and updated. Well worth your time.
• Can Man Live Without God? Ravi Zacharias exposes the emptiness of life without God. 
• The Grace Awakening. Chuck Swindoll squares off against legalism. This book might just set you free!
• Disappointment With God. Philip Yancey asks three questions no one asks aloud. If you’re disappointed with God, take this journey with Yancey. I’m confident it will help.
• The Measure of a Man. Gene Getz walks through the Bible’s explanation of what a mature, Christian man looks like. Every man should read this book…twice.
• He That Is Spiritual. This classic by Lewis Sperry Chafer breaks down the Bible’s teaching about true spirituality.

Join us for two great Equipping Hour studies every Sunday from 9-10 a.m. The studies are based on The Resolution for Men and The Resolution for Women—two great books that came out in conjunction with the movie “Courageous”. But, don’t think this isn’t a Bible study! The books cover a wide range of issues related to being godly men and women. Married or single, young or old, these studies will not only help you to be better informed about what a real man or woman of God looks like, but will challenge you to be more resolved in living out your purpose for God. Contact Pastor LePage (shaun@community-bible.org) for more information.

The Modesty Survey is an exciting, anonymous discussion between Christian guys and girls who care about modesty. Hundreds of Christian girls contributed to the 148-question survey and over 1,600 Christian guys submitted 150,000+ answers, including 25,000 text responses, over a 20-day period in January 2007. Look over the various results. Consider signing the petition—your opportunity to affirm and commend the biblical truths surrounding feminine modesty by adding your name to hundreds of other signatures. To go to The Modesty Survey site, click here.

Join us as we kick off two great studies by watching “Courageous”. This hit movie inspired two great books—The Resolution for Men and The Resolution for Women. Click on the links below to learn more about these excellent books as well as the movie “Courageous.” The books cover a wide range of issues related to being godly men and women. Married or single, young or old, these studies will not only help you to be better informed about what a real man or woman of God looks like, but will challenge you to be more resolved in living out your purpose for God. We’ll have the books available at the movie night as well as Sunday morning, February 5. Contact Pastor LePage (shaun@community-bible.org) to sign up or for more information. Admission, childcare and popcorn are provided free of charge!

Links:

• The Resolution for Men
• The Resolution for Women
• Courageous, The Movie
• Plugged In Review of Courageous

Michael MacDonald asked… “I pray the Lord our souls to keep | Does he see us here? | Are we precious in his sight? | Or are we merely dust on this tiny ball | He hurled out into the night | Somewhere east of Eden?”

Do you ask those questions? “How did the world get so messed up? Does God see us here in the midst of our messed up world? Is the old children’s song true…“red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight, Jesus loves the little children of the world”?”

The Bible has the answers. Explains how we got here—east of Eden. Outside the paradise God wanted us to have. Only if we understand our past can we know how to live in the present. And only if we understand God’s explanation for how this world got so messed up can we know real hope for the future.

Be with us this Sunday—our service begins at 10:30 a.m.

Click here for an interactive map to CBC.

Click here to learn more about CBC or to contact us.

Click here for previous messages from the Genesis series on the CBC Podcast.

Genesis means “beginning,” which is perfect—the book describes the beginning of the physical universe, light, sky, land, animals, people, etc. Genesis 3 tells us about the beginning of something we could have lived without: sin. This Sunday, Pastor LePage will continue the Genesis series by looking at the first recorded conversation about God—which included the first temptation and the first lie. The end result—knowing good and evil—is not all it’s cracked up to be.

Join us for this important message—our service begins at 10:30 a.m.

Click here for an interactive map to CBC. 

Click here to learn more about CBC. 

Click here for previous messages from the Genesis series on the CBC Podcast.

“Genesis” means “beginning”. It’s an appropriate word for the first book of the Bible because Genesis describes the beginning of everything—except God, of course.

Knowing where we started makes all the difference in the world. According to Genesis we were created in the image of God with meaning and purpose and we have a future rooted in our God-given value and purpose.

In this series of messages Pastor Shaun LePage will lead us in a clear, worshipful, verse by verse look at the first eleven chapters of Genesis. Join us as we rediscover our history as human beings as well as our meaning, value and purpose. 

Genesis Resources:

(Note: Though we cannot endorse every detail of every view you will hear and read through the following resources, these generally reflect our views regarding the interpretation of Genesis and the scientific issues related.)

• Listen to Pastor LePage’s overview of the Book of Genesis available for free on the CBC Podcast.
• Messages already preached in this series available for free on the CBC Podcast.
• Questions about Creation from gotquestions.org. Hundreds of questions related to Genesis and Science are addressed here. The answers are brief, yet excellent. 
• Soniclight. Dr. Tom Constable—Bible Exposition Professor at Dallas Theological Seminary—provides a free, on-line extensive verse-by-verse study of the Book of Genesis.
• The NET Bible Study Environment provides extensive notes—along with the New English Translation—that explain the issues involved in translating Genesis from the original Hebrew.
• Bible.org provides several articles covering everything from the overall message of Genesis to verse-by-verse commentary.
• Answers in Genesis. Providing answers to questions surrounding science and the book of Genesis. Their “Genesis” page is particularly helpful.
• The Case for a Creator by Lee Strobel. About Lee Strobel’s journey from spiritual skepticism to a profound faith in the God who has etched his indelible signature upon every galaxy and living cell. This DVD is available in the CBC Library. Watch the introduction on YouTube.
• The Privileged Planet by Illustra Media. An amazing look at the incredible uniqueness of Earth. Watch the introduction on YouTube.
• Unlocking the Mysteries of Life by Illustra Media. Tells the story of contemporary scientists who are advancing the theory of intelligent design. Watch the introduction on YouTube.