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Sermon notes The UCC, Morgan Park — March 1, 2026 Topic: The Character of Faith Texts: Genesis 12:1–4; Romans 4:1–5, 13–17 ⸻ Introduction I believe that the Bible is the Word of God and contains the eternal principles that govern and sustain life. It stands above every other spiritual resource. Jesus Christ is the Head of the church, and the church is His body—not a human invention, but a divine calling with a clear mission: to work with God in fulfilling His purposes on earth. We are not perfect people, and we are not yet a perfect church. Our confidence rests in the Father’s love for us despite our flaws. Following the example of Jesus, we seek to love and serve with humility, speaking the truth in love. We do not judge or condemn, but invite everyone to repentance and to the transforming love of God. As I share today, these convictions shape everything I will say. ⸻ Preamble My family and I are deeply grateful for your invitation to fellowship and share God’s Word. Serving here has helped me see the unique beauty of the church in this community. It is different from what we know in Nigeria—but different does not mean better or worse, just different. Here, I have noticed that within one congregation there can be many theological perspectives. Because of this, whenever I minister in a new setting, I try to give clarity about how I approach and interpret the gospel. The Lenten season invites us to examine our lives. Today we do so through the lens of the character of faith. There are many opinions about faith. Sometimes we treat faith as a denominational label—as though God responds differently based on whether we are Pentecostal, evangelical, or reformed. Yet Scripture reminds us that though we live in this world, our battles are not merely physical. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). The Christian life is a call to spiritual warfare. This reality should move us to ask: When was the last time you prayed seriously for your family? How often do you stand in faith for your children’s future, your health, your community? The Bible says, “Take up the whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13). Faith is central in this battle. 1 John 5:4 tells us that faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith is not a spare tire—it is the engine of the Christian life. The question is: what is the essential character of your faith? ⸻ The Character of Faith 1. Faith is built on relationship In Acts 19, the sons of Sceva tried to cast out demons using a formula. The evil spirit responded, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know—but who are you?” They failed because they lacked a real relationship with God. Faith is not empty talk or positive thinking. It flows from knowing God. Abraham believed God because he had a relationship with Him. He trusted God’s voice and direction. So we must ask: Do you truly know God? Is Christ Lord over your daily life, your decisions, your family, your work? Faith begins with relationship. ⸻ 2. Faith shields us in life, not from life Jesus told us we would face trouble (John 16:33). Faith does not remove hardship; it sustains us through it. Abraham faced challenges but did not waver. Faith guarded his heart, preserved his hope, and kept him from despair. Psalm 23 says, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not fear.” That is faith—confidence in God’s presence even in pain. Faith does not promise a storm-free life; it promises God’s presence in the storm. ⸻ 3. Faith must be embodied Faith is not only spoken—it is lived. Abraham obeyed and went (Genesis 12:4). David faced Goliath because of the word in his heart. Paul and Silas sang in prison because their faith was real in suffering. Faith becomes powerful when it shapes our daily actions. It must move from our lips into our lives. ⸻ 4. Faith is rooted in obedience Abraham was not perfect. He had weaknesses and struggles. Yet he obeyed God. Scripture calls him a friend of God because he trusted and followed. Faith is practical. It is walking in the direction of God’s voice, even when the future is uncertain. It is trusting God beyond our fears and mistakes. ⸻ Conclusion Without faith, the Christian journey becomes confusing and frustrating. Some lose heart when they suffer, thinking God has abandoned them. But Scripture shows that even great servants of God—John the Baptist, Elijah—had moments of doubt. Faith does not eliminate struggle; it gives meaning and strength within it. It is the grace that helps us make sense of our journey and draw near to the Father. Faith opens the door to God’s promises and sustains us along the way. Let me tell you a love story… Let us pray.
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