Almost Christian

Almost Christian - Pastor Travis Johnson

In his recent sermon, Pastor Travis Johnson of Pathway Church delved into an often-overlooked topic: being "almost" a Christian. This powerful message unpacked the difference between loving the church and truly following Jesus. Here are some key takeaways from his sermon.

Embracing the Church

Pastor Johnson began by expressing his deep love for the church. He encouraged congregants to reflect on their own love for the church and emphasized the sense of community it fosters. He recounted how Pathway Church students were deeply engaged in worship, illustrating the vitality and youthfulness within the church community.

"Do you love the church?"

The True Nature of the Church

Pastor Johnson clarified that the church is not just a building or an address; it is a community of believers called out from the world. He reminded the congregation that many people within the church might not yet be true Christians, but they are exactly where they should be.

"The church is made up of those who are called by God, called out from the world."

The Journey of Faith

Throughout his sermon, Pastor Johnson acknowledged that every believer is a work in progress. He emphasized that growth in faith is an ongoing journey and encouraged believers not to become complacent.

"I am also not who I'm going to be because God is continuing a work in me."

Personal Reflections and Testimonies

Pastor Johnson shared personal stories and reflections, including memories of his great-grandfather's preaching and the impactful relationships he had with older, faithful men during his college years. These anecdotes added a personal touch, making the sermon relatable and heartfelt.

The Call to Genuine Faith

One of the critical points Pastor Johnson made was the distinction between cultural Christianity and genuine faith. He warned against the dangers of being a nominal Christian—a person who loves the benefits of church but does not fully commit to following Jesus.

"Every single one of us who makes up the body of Christ ought to fully give ourselves to Jesus."

Overcoming Challenges and Persisting in Faith

Pastor Johnson encouraged those facing struggles and difficulties, reassuring them that perseverance is key. He drew parallels to the Apostle Paul's hardships and urged congregants to remain steadfast in their faith journey.

"Don't quit. Don't let up for a second."

Final Challenge

As a closing challenge, Pastor Johnson implored everyone to give their entire lives to Jesus, holding nothing back. He emphasized that following Jesus is worth more than any earthly possession or accolade.

"If you belong to Jesus, you're a part of the church."

Conclusion

Pastor Travis Johnson's sermon was a heartfelt and impassioned call for genuine, wholehearted devotion to Jesus. His message served as a reminder that while loving the church is important, it is crucial to love and follow Jesus even more fully.

"Let's love Jesus. Let's give him everything it is that we have."

For anyone seeking to strengthen their faith and deepen their commitment to Jesus,this message is a powerful and inspiring guide. Leave a comment below and let us know how this has helped.