The Abiding Word

Sunday Morning at Calvary Chapel Faith Fellowship with Pastor Jim Sweigart.The Baptism of Jesus marked the beginning of His public ministry. John the Baptist, recognizing Jesus’ divinity, hesitated to baptize Him, but Jesus insisted to fulfill righteousness. The Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus, signifying His anointing and the Father’s approval, establishing the Holy Trinity and affirming Jesus as the Son of God.

Sunday Morning at Calvary Chapel Faith Fellowship with Pastor Jim Sweigart.John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, preached a message of repentance, urging people to change their minds and prepare for the coming Kingdom of Heaven. He criticized the religious leaders for their hypocrisy and reliance on heritage for righteousness, warning them of impending judgment. John’s baptism symbolized repentance, while Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire, bringing purification and judgment.

Sunday Morning at Calvary Chapel Faith Fellowship with Pastor Jim Sweigart.The genealogy of Jesus, presented in Matthew 1:16-25, establishes His legal claim to the throne of David. The supernatural conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit is a fundamental doctrine of Christianity, emphasizing His sinless humanity and divine nature. This doctrine is supported by prophecy, including Isaiah 7:14, and underscores the necessity of Jesus’ virgin birth for salvation.

Sunday Morning at Calvary Chapel Faith Fellowship with Pastor Jim Sweigart.The genealogy of Jesus Christ, presented in Matthew 1:1-16, establishes Jesus as the promised Messiah and King of Israel. This genealogy traces Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham and David, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. It also highlights the grace of God, as Jesus’ ancestors were imperfect individuals, emphasizing Jesus’ mission to save sinners.

Sunday Morning at Calvary Chapel Faith Fellowship with Pastor Jim Sweigart.The Bema Seat of Christ is a future judgment for believers, not about salvation but about rewarding faithful service. Works will be evaluated for their eternal value, with rewards given based on faithfulness and the quality of service. Five crowns are mentioned as rewards for believers: the Victor’s Crown, Crown of Rejoicing, Crown of Righteousness, Crown of Life, and Crown of Glory.