Series: The Reformation and the Remnant
Message: Why Listen to the Reformers?
Preacher: Nicholas Miller
Daily Walk: Elia King

Refresh: Open with prayer. Read or listen to Psalm 73:24-28.

Read: Hebrews 12:1-2 (Message). Note 1-3 insights or questions that arise from the paraphrase.

Reflect:   "Tolerance" has become one of the buzzwords of our generation. While some would have us legislate every conceivable aspect of morality, others seem to want to throw all principles out the window in a total act of rebellious freedom. Both sides seem to be calling for a revolution! But Miller contends that, ““Before we discard a system of principled, pluralistic tolerance, we should consider carefully what beasts and dragons might lie around the next corner, waiting to exercise their own intolerance.” Underscoring this entire section is the idea that while “liberals and fundamentalists play tug-of-war,” faithful Christians are called to a more thoughtful, nuanced approach to the way we interact with our world—including avenues that extend into public policy.

Recalibrate: ​ 

1. Why did John the Baptist go to prison? Why would he jeopardize his ability to prepare the way for Christ? What business did he have dealing with public morality?
2. How can we promote life, family relationships, and positive sexual morality without being seen as judgmental and negative?
3. How can we help our communities support marriage in the face of the rising divorce rate and the growth of single-parent families?

Respond: Pray for the ability to love people like Jesus does. Pray for the wisdom to avoid either of the “ditches” that prevent us from spreading the Gospel of Jesus.

Research: Read chapters 5 and 6 of The Reformation and the Remnant.