On occasions, I get a little concerned about certain statements I hear in messages or read in articles about the Scriptures. I agree that the Trinity is not God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Bible. We know the Trinity is God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, and they all honour the written scriptures in the Bible

The same Holy Spirit that lives and abides in us is the same Holy Spirit that inspired the Scriptures. It is a living book to those who are God-breathed and it is a significant place of encountering Jesus for many millions across the earth.

We have all been taught as Christians the importance of loving our neighbour regardless of their differences from us. In an increasingly cynical world this becomes hard to do in our strength indeed we were never supposed to fulfil this command of our Lord in our own strength.

We tend to focus on actions in human relationships as words have become so cheap and promises easily broken. However, it is true to say that words are very powerful. The old saying 'sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me' is only partially true.

Peace is only found when we are reconciled to Father God. Every thought of distance, of separation, of sin, of unworthiness just makes us dull to the reality of our reconciliation. Every thought of "God will get you for that" and "Don"t mess with God or He will smite you" does not produce in people the fear of the Lord but simply fear of approaching God full stop. Greatness of character is shown in how merciful we are not how judgemental we can be. God makes sure His mercy is triumphant over judgement.

God wants us free from labels and opinions that others try to place on us.

God names us not according to our challenge or weakness or sin but according to His Grace and kindness towards us, and according to His purpose for us.

Empowering Grace speaks of God’s ability to help us say no to stuff that destroys us and it also reminds us to focus on our face to face relationship with Christ that defines our life and decisions,

In September and October we are looking at grace and identity in our gatherings so the blog posts under that topic will be posted to as a small addition to this topic.