Brothers and sisters,

I am grateful for the partnership that I have with you all in the gospel. God has called us into a new family—may our love for one another continue to grow as we are transformed by God’s word!

Sermon Recap

Last week we had the privilege of hearing Dr. John DelHousaye preach God’s word to us from Habakkuk Chapter 3. Until now, we have listened to the prophet question God’s apparent indifference toward the wickedness of Babylon, a nation that God has raised up to judge Israel. God responds by telling Habakkuk that Babylon will by no means escape judgment. Now, in chapter 3, Habakkuk sees a vision of that terrible judgment. God is not indifferent. He rises from his holy temple to make war: “You marched through the earth in fury; you threshed the nations in anger” (Hab. 3:12).

The church in America today generally does not like to associate God with violence. Isn’t he a God of peace, and didn’t Christ teach us to love our enemies? Certainly! But this same Christ will return one day dressed in “a robe dipped in blood,” wielding “a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations…” (Rev. 19:13, 15). God’s justice demands that evil be dealt with. The good news of the gospel is that this demand is fully met on the cross, in Jesus’ sacrificial death. Take some time to reflect on the question, “How does an understanding of God’s holy wrath enhance our understanding of his sacrificial love?”

Good Friday

Next Friday (April 14th) is Good Friday, the day that Jesus hung on a cross that we might be brought back into a right relationship with God. Join us for a solemn service at 6pm in the church auditorium to remember this sobering and glorious truth. Childcare will be provided. Consider inviting a friend or family member who needs to hear what Christ has done for us.

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God” (Rom 5:8-9).

Your brother in Christ,

Phil Hoshiwara