Against the Grain
Most of us like to think that following Jesus means becoming better versions of ourselves. Yet again and again in the Gospels, Jesus challenges not only our actions but also our instincts. He calls us to live in ways that often run against the grain of our natural inclinations, our culture, and even our sense of fairness.
In this three-part series, Against The Grain, we explore three teachings of Jesus that continue to challenge disciples today. We will discover that when relationships break down, Jesus calls us towards reconciliation rather than avoidance. When we have been hurt, Jesus calls us towards forgiveness rather than resentment. And when we compare ourselves with others, Jesus invites us to celebrate grace rather than compete for reward.
These teachings are not easy. They stretch us, unsettle us, and sometimes even offend our sense of what is reasonable. Yet they also reveal a different way of living - the way of God’s kingdom, where grace is stronger than grievance, mercy is greater than revenge, and generosity triumphs over comparison.
Join us as we explore what it means to follow Jesus when his way goes against the grain.
6 September - Reconciliation not Avoidance
(Matthew 18: 15-20)
20 September - Grace Beyond Fairness
(Matthew 20: 1-16)
13 September - Forgiveness Without Limits
(Matthew 18: 21-35)
