Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ DeathMarch 6, 2026Written by Dave MerrillLet It RipScripture:Perfect love drives out fear. (1 John 4:18)Reflection:The Moral Influence perspective reminds us that transformation is drawn out by love, not fear. When we trust that God’s love is steadfast and unconditional, we are freed from trying to prove ourselves, hiding our imperfections, or performing to earn app...  Read More

Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ DeathMarch 5, 2026Written by Dave MerrillNothing Between UsScripture:But in all these things we win a sweeping victory through the one who loved us. I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that i...  Read More

Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ DeathMarch 4, 2026Written by Dave MerrillWho are you…really?Scripture:There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear expects punishment. The person who is afraid has not been made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)Reflection:The Moral Influence view speaks especially to shame, fear, and estrangement. It names how easily we come to believe we ar...  Read More

Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ DeathMarch 3, 2026Written by Dave MerrillLike Ads for LoveScripture:Look! I’m standing at the door and knocking. If any hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to be with them, and will have dinner with them, and they will be with me. (Revelation 3:20)Reflection:The Moral Influence view of atonement reveals a God who is unendingly invitational. God does not ...  Read More

Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ DeathMarch 2, 2026Written by Dave MerrillLove That Leads to ChangeScripture:Or do you have contempt for the riches of God’s generosity, tolerance, and patience? Don’t you realize that God’s kindness is supposed to lead you to change your heart and life? (Romans 2:4)Reflection:The Moral Influence view of atonement matters because it shows that God’s love is not only ...  Read More

CoreGroup Guide | Why Did Jesus Have to Die? – Part 1Written by Denee Bowers and Jenny HuffmanFrom Pastor CharityThis week we begin our new Lenten series, which invites us to wrestle with one of the most important questions of the Christian faith: Why Did Jesus Have to Die? The series creates space to explore that question honestly, faithfully, and with hope as we prepare for Easter.Our shared pra...  Read More