What's in a Name?

Our churches in the greater Rockford area are named Amazing Grace, Peace, New Life, and Hope. These names are very appropriate because it is by the amazing grace (free, undeserved gift) of our Lord Jesus that we are forgiven. Through this gift of Jesus, we have peace with God. We are no longer His enemies, but friends of God. God has adopted us as members of His family and given us new life, now and eternally. As we come to fully understand this blessing, our definition of hope changes. It is no longer a vague wish for the future, but an absolute certainty, made sure in Jesus' blood. Heaven is our home. We invite you to learn more of these truth with us!



Why is Our Reformation Heritage so Important?

It is all about the word "grace." This word is often misunderstood and misused, even by religious leaders.

Ephesians 2:1-9 clarifys grace. To understand it, we need to realize our natural condition. v. 1 says,  "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins". Dead people cannot help themselves. They cannot choose God or even choose a life that pleases God.

But God solved our problem. Verses 8-9: "it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast."

Grace is not something we do, not something we earn, not something we deserve. Grace is God's free gift which He gives purely and simply because He is loving and merciful.

This means that your sins are forgiven. This gift is freely given. It becomes ours because of the faith God himself planted in our hearts.

There is no penance God requires. There is no "if you . . ." and no "when you . . ." but simply what God has done for us. His gifts are free. They are given in love. They are yours.

Come and learn more about God's gifts!  Or call Pastor at 815-227-0855. He would be happy to share with you more of God's forgiveness and peace.