Law vs. Grace

Session 1: Beatiful People-- Our society's focus on beauty is usually pretty blatant. Sometimes, however, it's sort of sly—even sly enough to slip into the church. God's Word takes us back to God's intent for our lives and gives us a filter through which to see what really matters—and what's really beautiful.

Session 2: Against the Odds-- Life in Christ is not a life without trouble. Throughout history, God's people have struggled to understand why God's people experience pain and heartache in this life. This tension is clearly expressed in the Old Testament, especially in the Psalms. The Apostle Paul knew that we could expect problems—he had plenty of those himself. But Paul taught that God can bring something good—and that we can conquer—in even the most trying situations.

Session 3: Mistaken Identity-- In our society, inviting people to church events has become the dominant way of showing God to others. Church invitations are fine, but they are only the tip of the iceberg. Jesus knew that the depth of God's love is lived out in the day-to-day events of our lives—at school, at work, and in the home. An unconditional and radical God-love, shown at all times and in all situations, will distinguish us as followers of God's Son, Jesus Christ.

Session 4: Grace Under Pressure-- Enjoying tangible and obvious blessings from God might be positive evidence of God's grace. People throughout history have felt this way, and some still teach this concept today. But many of God's choicest blessings lie just under the surface; they are poured out during some of the toughest times of our lives. In Christ, it is actually possible to rejoice in our troubles—they are temporary, and they can purify and strengthen our faith. Topics: Beauty, Blessing, Church, God's Love, Identity, Pain, Problems, Society, Struggles, Trials, Troubles, Trouble