Displaying items by tag: grace

Pastor Greg Laurie recently shared the Gospel with Jordan Peterson on the psychologist's podcast, addressing life, eternity, and hope in Christ. Laurie emphasised that heaven is not for 'good people' but for 'forgiven people’. Reflecting on Genesis 22, he paralleled Isaac’s willing sacrifice with Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for humanity, stating, 'There was no other way we could reach God.' Laurie shared his personal story of loss, recounting the tragic death of his son Christopher in 2008. Despite the pain, he expressed hope in God’s promises and confidence in seeing his son again, explaining that faith in Christ, not familial ties, secures eternity. Peterson admitted struggling with reconciling Christian teachings about perfecting the world with the eternal focus of the faith. Laurie responded with Scripture, highlighting how trials have drawn him closer to God’s promises. He affirmed God’s faithfulness, saying, 'I’ve put His promises to the test, and He’s come through for me’.

Following a theft at St Matthew's Church, Burnley, Fr Alex Frost has appealed to those in financial distress to seek help rather than resorting to crime. On 15 March, during a choir rehearsal, a thief entered the unlocked church and stole around £1,000-worth of items, including a watch and charity donations. The incident prompted the church to issue a statement urging visitors to protect their belongings and warning that criminal acts will lead to prosecution. Fr Frost emphasised the church's willingness to assist those in need and discouraged speculation about the thief's identity. Saddened by the event, especially as the suspect might have been a previous aid recipient of the church, Fr Frost spoke of the desperation behind such actions and encouraged anyone struggling to reach out for support, promising guidance and assistance. In a compassionate note to the thief, he also expressed hope for their rehabilitation.