In today's gathering, we took a moment to reflect on the life and legacy of Pastor Eric Coates, a foundational figure in the history of Hopelands Church. Pastor Eric, who passed away at the age of 98, was instrumental in the spiritual revival of 1978 that led to the establishment of our church. His dedication to the Word and his leadership style, though assertive, laid a strong foundation for a community of Spirit-filled, Bible-centered believers. We honor not only Pastor Eric and his wife Olga but also their family, who opened their homes and hearts to the church community, serving tirelessly and selflessly. Their legacy is deeply embedded in the spirit and mission of Hopelands Church, and we continue to build on the solid foundation they laid.
As we transition into a new sermon series titled "My Christian Life," we focus on the theme "I am a person of faith." Faith is not just a belief but an active, living trust in God that permeates every aspect of our lives. It is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, as described in Hebrews 11. Faith empowers us to see the invisible and trust in God's promises despite the unseen. It is essential for pleasing God and is the foundation of our salvation, which is a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Our journey of faith is personal and unique, filled with moments when God has touched our lives, provided for us, and guided us through challenges. These moments fortify our identity as people of faith and encourage us to trust God more deeply in every area of our lives. Whether it's in our relationships, health, finances, or callings, faith is interwoven into our everyday actions and decisions. We are reminded that it is not by our might or power but by God's Spirit that we can overcome challenges and fulfill the purposes He has for us.
As we move forward, let us reflect on where we need to trust God more and take bold steps of faith in our daily lives. Let us be encouraged by the legacy of faith left by those who have gone before us and strive to live out our Christian life with confidence and boldness, proclaiming, "I am a person of faith."
Key Takeaways
- 1. Legacy of Faith: Pastor Eric Coates' life and leadership laid a strong foundation for Hopelands Church, emphasizing Spirit-filled, Bible-centered faith. His legacy reminds us of the importance of sacrificial service and unwavering commitment to God. [53:47]
- 2. Faith as a Living Trust: Faith is not just a belief but an active trust in God that influences every aspect of our lives. It is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, empowering us to see the invisible and trust in God's promises. [67:02]
- 3. Personal Journey of Faith: Each of us has a unique journey filled with moments when God has touched our lives. These moments fortify our identity as people of faith and encourage us to trust God more deeply in every area of our lives. [77:11]
- 4. Faith in Action: True faith is interwoven into our everyday actions and decisions, not just exercised in sacred moments. It involves trusting God in our relationships, health, finances, and callings, and taking bold steps of faith in our daily lives. [84:20]
- 5. Empowered by the Spirit: It is not by our might or power but by God's Spirit that we can overcome challenges and fulfill the purposes He has for us. Let us be encouraged to live out our Christian life with confidence and boldness, proclaiming, "I am a person of faith." [01:32:14]
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