When it comes to virtue, roots before fruits.

When it comes to virtue, roots before fruits.

Alasdair MacIntyre thinks we may be entering a new dark ages when it comes to virtue. That may be so, but not for the people of God. Even when were feeling morally bankrupt and tempted to throw up our hands in defeat, God leads us forward in Christlikenesseven despite ourselves. This sermon explores 2 Peter 1:1-21. It includes a word of encouragement to people who feel like theyre not as far along the path as they want to be, and also some specific help moving forward along the ladder of faith, seven qualities Peter highlights for Christians who are growing in the knowledge of Jesus. Christlikeness through you is overflow from Christ in you. Lets learn together.

Is 2 Peter a forgery, or was it written by the apostle?

This episode (also made available as a blog post) is about the authenticity of 2 Peter in the New Testament. Is is from the apostle himself as the letter claims, or is it a clever forgery? That's what this episode by Pastor Ruttan is about.

An Antidote to the Devil.

Can the Devil use pride and focusing too exclusively on yourself to inflate worry in your life? Yes. He can, he does, he will. Worry loves to make you question the past, fear the future, and doubt God in the present, so that you are forever frantic and mentally somewhere else. However, by focusing on Jesus, and by clothing yourself with humility, you can successfully resist the ways he is prowling around you and trying to sow destruction in your life. This sermon unpacks 1 Peter 5:1-14 and addresses worry and anxiety, humility, and an antidote to the Devil. Instead of giving him an open door, lets be alert, informed, and proactive. A deep heart-rest in the sovereign care of our Good Shepherd is possible.

Why do we say The Apostles' Creed in Church?

It goes back to the early days of the church. Some say it, some don't. What is it, and why? This post and podcast by Pastor Ruttan explains. These statements are hills worthy dying on. And many have.

A hope that will soar unhindered - a prayer

There is a great hunger for prayer. Tim Keller writes: "Prayer is awe, intimacy, struggle--yet the way to reality." Join in with this prayer Pastor Ruttan led at a worship service. "Come, Holy Spirit..."