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Can love really transform a community and change lives? Tune in to this deeply insightful episode with Pastor Chris May of Real Life Community Church, as we dissect the true essence of Christian love and its critical importance in our faith. Drawing from the often-misunderstood 1 Corinthians 13, Pastor Chris reveals how Paul's stern message to the Corinthians serves as a wake-up call for us all—without genuine love, our spiritual gifts and charitable acts hold no real value.

Journey with us as we explore the attributes of authentic Christian love, extending beyond mere words to actions rooted in kindness, humility, and selflessness. Pastor Chris tackles the issues of envy, boasting, and arrogance that once plagued the Corinthian church, urging us to reflect on our own attitudes towards others, especially the less fortunate. By embodying virtues like patience and faithfulness, we challenge ourselves to align more closely with the example set by Christ.

In a heartwarming conclusion, Pastor Chris shares a touching story of a young boy in Chicago who walked miles through the snow to attend a church where he felt truly loved. This compelling narrative underscores the transformative power of genuine love within a church community. Inspired by the teachings of Kerry Newhoff, we explore how embodying Christ's love can draw people to the church and foster a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. Join us for this thought-provoking episode and discover practical steps to grow in authentic love, making a real impact in your community.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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What if the essence of Christian transformation is more profound than just changing behavior? In this message, Pastor Chris May uncovers the true nature of becoming a new creation in Christ; he provides deep insights into Galatians 5:16-25, delineating the stark contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. Through a heartfelt discussion, he reveals the internal, inevitable, incremental, and inseparable aspects of true Christian change, emphasizing that our outward actions should mirror the internal transformation guided by the Holy Spirit.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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Why was it better for the disciples that Jesus "go away?" Join Pastor Chris May as he unpacks the transformative power of the Holy Spirit from John 16:5-15. Discover how the Holy Spirit equips us today in ways the disciples could only dream of, allowing believers to experience faith and joy beyond physical sight, as affirmed in 1 Peter 1:8. Understand how this divine guidance isn't just supplementary but essential for a deep, abiding relationship with Christ.

Are you tired of the empty promises of health and wealth offered by the prosperity gospel? Pastor Chris offers a candid comparison, highlighting the true essence of Christianity which calls for sacrifice, obedience, and the carrying of one's cross. Dive into the essential role of the Holy Spirit in convicting individuals of their sins and leading them to genuine acceptance of the gospel. This discussion challenges listeners to seek a transformative journey rather than superficial gains, emphasizing the necessity of the Holy Spirit's intervention.

Lastly, hear the inspiring testimony of Corey, a former atheist whose life was transformed by faith. Witness how his newfound belief and public proclamation of Jesus Christ illustrate the profound impact of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Chris underscores that, with the Holy Spirit's guidance, we are more equipped to live the Christian life today than the original disciples. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to deepen your relationship with Jesus and explore how the Holy Spirit can lead you in truth and conviction. Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your spiritual life and join our community at Real Life Community Church.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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What if Christians are called not just to reach heaven but to bring heaven to earth? Join Pastor Chris May as he unravels this transformative idea, drawing from Jesus’ profound teachings in John 15. We explore the mission of believers to abide in Christ, bear spiritual fruit, and navigate the inevitable challenges that come with following Him. Pastor Chris passionately discusses the Christian mission to turn the world upside down by God's spirit, urging us to avoid the 'escapist mentality' and embrace our role in transforming the culture around us.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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Can you imagine navigating a world where your faith is increasingly met with hostility? Join us as we explore the challenges Christians face today, guided by Pastor Chris May, who unpacks John 15 to illustrate how societal attitudes have shifted from acceptance to antagonism. We'll discuss how this change impacts various aspects of life such as employment and social standing, all while emphasizing the importance of remaining connected to Jesus, the true vine, and bearing spiritual fruit despite these hurdles.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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July 29, 2024 Sermon by Chris May

Ever wondered what it means to be a friend of Jesus? In this journey through John 15, Chris May contrasts the depth and intimacy Jesus offers with the often superficial nature of modern friendships. By examining the terms "servant" and "slave," we illuminate the balance between reverence and closeness in our relationship with Him. Jesus' friendship is marked by candor and an unwavering commitment, much like the trusted "friends of the king" in ancient courts.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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What if your life's greatest achievements still left you feeling empty? Join us as Pastor Chris May reflects on John 15:1-11, revealing profound insights on living a purpose-driven life. Through personal anecdotes from his ten years in ministry and the inspiring story of former atheist Jim Tickner, Pastor Chris explores the universal quest for meaning and how true fulfillment is only found by abiding in Jesus.

We continue by tracing the grand biblical narrative, starting from the world's descent into chaos to God's covenant with Abraham, and how Jesus Christ fulfilled what Israel could not as the True Vine. Pastor Chris explains how, empowered by the Holy Spirit, Jesus' disciples are called to bear spiritual fruit and continue His work, even doing greater deeds in His physical absence. This chapter serves as a powerful reminder that our spiritual transformation begins and ends with Christ's life flowing through us.

At the close of the message, Pastor Chris calls the church to daily evaluate their "fruit-bearing." Below are some helpful questions for reflection.

1. 📣 Proclamation: Did people learn more about Jesus today because of my presence?

2. 🏥 Healing: Did my presence bring peace and healing to those around me today, or did my presence leave people feeling wounded and torn down?

3. 👥 Friend of Sinners: Did I invite sinners into a better life by showing them the love of God, or did I avoid them, ignore them, or judge them?

4. ⛪ Sacrifice: Did I use my time, talent, and treasure to meet the needs of others today, or did I only attend to my own needs and desires?

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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Can you truly distinguish between true and false prophets? Discover how spiritual discernment can transform your faith journey in this enlightening episode of "Spiritual Discernment and God's Spirit." We start from 1 John 3:24 and delve deeply into 1 John 4, emphasizing the crucial importance of abiding in God. You'll learn how the Spirit given to us confirms this divine relationship and the profound message of 1 John 4:4: "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." Understand how this transformative power makes true believers stand apart from worldly standards.

Explore the Greek concept of "homologio," which means "to have the same words," and its implications for confessing Jesus. We shed light on the stark contrast between those filled with God's Spirit and those influenced by the spirit of the Antichrist. Our discussion references 1 John and 1 Timothy 6, offering practical guidance on spotting genuine followers of Christ through their actions and unwavering adherence to truth. We provide warnings against the deceptive influences of false teachers within the church, urging vigilance and discernment.

Finally, we address the paramount importance of following God's commandments for spiritual growth. We tackle the controversial practices in certain denominations and emphasize the necessity of maintaining biblical integrity, especially among church leaders. Drawing from 1 John, John 13:34-35, and the parable of the Good Samaritan, we highlight the essence of true Christian love—patience, kindness, and endurance. Concluding with an invitation to embrace Jesus' saving grace, we urge listeners to reflect on their capacity for genuine love and forgiveness while following leaders who remain steadfast in God's Word. Join us for this transformative exploration and renew your commitment to living in truth and love.

We are currently recording season four of the Real Friends Podcast. To listen to previous episodes, go to myrealchurch.org or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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