In the Christian journey, there are moments when our theology collides with reality, leading to confusion and doubt. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us” through “Just 3” – Study, Share, Serve. This mission helps us navigate these challenging moments and grow in faith.
Understanding the Collision of Theology and Reality
Even the greatest spiritual leaders, like John the Baptist, experienced moments of doubt and confusion. While imprisoned, John questioned whether Jesus was truly the Messiah, as he expected the Messiah to bring immediate judgment and liberation. Matthew 11:2-3 captures John’s inquiry, reflecting his struggle to reconcile his expectations with reality. This collision of theology and reality is a common experience for many believers.
Study: Deepening Faith Through Scripture
Studying Scripture is essential in understanding God’s promises and character, especially when our theology collides with reality. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. By engaging with Scripture, we can strengthen our faith and gain a clearer understanding of God’s plan. Daily devotionals, Bible reading plans, and group studies are valuable tools for deepening our faith.
Share: Encouraging One Another in Faith
Sharing our experiences and encouraging one another is vital in navigating the collision of theology and reality. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 urges us to encourage and build each other up. By participating in small groups, church gatherings, or informal conversations, we can share our faith journey and support one another. These interactions provide opportunities to gain new insights and strengthen our faith community.
Serve: Trusting God Through Acts of Service
Serving others is an expression of trust in God’s plan, even when our theology collides with reality. Matthew 25:40 reminds us that serving others is akin to serving Christ Himself. By participating in mission trips, local service projects, or church ministries, we demonstrate our faith and trust in God’s purpose. Serving others not only blesses those we help but also reinforces our faith and trust in God’s plan.
Conclusion
The collision of theology and reality is a natural part of the faith journey. By studying Scripture, sharing our experiences, and serving others, we can navigate these challenging moments and grow in faith. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to supporting one another in this journey, trusting that God is with us every step of the way.