In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, finding peace can seem like an impossible task. But as believers, we are called to seek and pursue Shalom, the Hebrew word for peace. Shalom is not just the absence of conflict, but a state of harmony, wholeness, and fellowship with God. In this thought-provoking sermon, we explore the theological significance of Shalom and how it can transform our lives. Through the lens of the Old Testament book of Judges, we discover the cycle of blessing and mess that plagues humanity and the path to finding true peace in the midst of it all.

The Cycle of Blessing and Mess
The book of Judges chronicles a 450-year period of Israel's history, marked by cycles of blessing and mess. During this time, the people of Israel would experience seasons of peace and prosperity when they followed God's ways, only to fall into rebellion and chaos when they did what was right in their own eyes. This repetitive cycle reflects the human tendency to prioritize personal desires over God's will. As the author of Judges states, "Everyone did what was right in his own eyes."

The Cry for Help
In the midst of their rebellion, the people of Israel would eventually find themselves in a state of desperation, crying out to God for help. This cry for help is a crucial step towards finding peace. As the psalmist says, "Seek Shalom and pursue it." It is in our moments of brokenness and humility that we are most open to receiving God's peace. The people of Israel, brought low by their disobedience, cried out to the Lord, and He heard their cry.

Encountering Jehovah Shalom
In response to their cry, God revealed Himself as Jehovah Shalom, the God of peace. This revelation came in the form of the angel of the Lord, who scholars believe to be the pre-incarnate form of Jesus. The encounter between Gideon, one of the judges of Israel, and the angel of the Lord is a powerful example of how God meets us in the midst of our mess and offers us His peace.

The Journey to Peace
Gideon's initial response to the angel of the Lord reflects the frustration and doubt many of us feel when faced with the chaos of life. He questions why all the hardships have befallen them if God is truly with them. But as Gideon encounters the holiness of God, he realizes his own imperfections and repents. It is in this moment of surrender and honesty that Gideon experiences true peace.

Worship as a Response to Peace
Gideon's response to encountering Jehovah Shalom is worship. He tears down the false altars and idols and builds an altar to the Lord, calling it "The Lord is peace." True worship is a natural response to experiencing peace with God. It is in worship that we find a deeper connection with God and a sense of His presence. As the apostle Paul says, "We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Implications and Impact
The concept of Shalom has profound implications for our lives. When we seek and pursue peace with God, we are transformed from the inside out. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guards our hearts and minds. It enables us to navigate the storms of life with grace and resilience. Shalom brings harmony to our relationships, healing to our brokenness, and a sense of purpose and direction.

Conclusion
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the pursuit of Shalom is more important than ever. As believers, we are called to seek peace and pursue it. We must examine our lives and identify areas where we have prioritized our own desires over God's will. Through confession and repentance, we can experience the peace that comes from a restored relationship with God. Let us tear down the false altars and idols in our lives and worship the God of peace. As we do, we will find that true Shalom is not just a fleeting feeling, but a deep and abiding peace that sustains us in every season of life.

As we continue our journey towards Shalom, let us remember the words of Jesus, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." May we embrace the peace that only God can give and share it with a world in desperate need of Shalom.

The Gospel, Sexuality, and the Complexity of Scripture
As Christians, we believe that the Bible is the ultimate authority on all matters, including sexuality. In recent years, there has been a growing conversation about sexuality and gender identity, and it can be challenging to navigate this topic as a Christian. However, we must approach this conversation with a theological and relational posture that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
In this article, we will explore the main themes of the Gospel and sexuality series at NewsStory Church, as discussed by Pastor Tom and guest speaker Dr. Greg Coles. We will delve deeper into each theme, using verbatim quotes from the transcript, and analyze the implications and potential impact of these themes.

Three Grounding Principles
Before we dive into the main themes, it's essential to review the three grounding principles that Pastor Tom outlined in the first service. The first principle is that this series is PG-13, and some of the topics discussed are mature. Parents should exercise discretion when deciding whether to engage their children in these conversations. The second principle is that the church holds a traditional, historic, orthodox, and classical view of sexuality, which is grounded in a literal, historical, and biblical hermeneutic. Finally, the church's relational posture is one of reckless love and scandalous grace, reflecting the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

The Main Themes

Theme 1: The Goodness of Sexuality
The first theme of the series is the goodness of sexuality. Dr. Greg Coles emphasized that sexuality is a gift from God and that it reflects God's character. He said, "Sexuality is a good thing because it's a reflection of God's goodness and creativity." However, he also acknowledged that sexuality can be challenging to navigate because of sin and brokenness.

Theme 2: The Brokenness of Sexuality
The second theme of the series is the brokenness of sexuality. Pastor Tom highlighted that we live in a fallen world, and as a result, our sexuality is also broken. He said, "We are all broken sexually, and we need healing and redemption." Dr. Greg Coles added that brokenness is not just about sexual sin but also about the harm that has been done to individuals and communities because of their sexuality.

Theme 3: The Gospel and Sexuality
The third theme of the series is the Gospel and sexuality. Pastor Tom emphasized that the Gospel is the ultimate solution to our brokenness. He said, "The Gospel is not just about forgiveness of sin, but it's also about healing and transformation." Dr. Greg Coles added that the Gospel is not just for heterosexuals but also for those who identify as LGBTQ+. He said, "The Gospel is for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity."

Theme 4: The Church and Sexuality
The fourth theme of the series is the Church and sexuality. Dr. Greg Coles emphasized that the Church should be a safe and welcoming place for everyone. He said, "The Church should be a place where people can come and be honest about their struggles and find healing and hope." Pastor Tom added that the Church should also be a place where people can find community and support.

Theme 5: The Intersection of Faith, Sexuality, and Vocation
The fifth and final theme of the series is the intersection of faith, sexuality, and vocation. Dr. Greg Coles highlighted that there is often a tension between faith and sexuality, especially for those who identify as LGBTQ+. He said, "For many people, their faith and sexuality seem to be at odds with each other." However, he also emphasized that it is possible to reconcile faith, sexuality, and vocation and that the Church should be a place where this reconciliation can happen.

The Complexity of Scripture
As Dr. Greg Coles journeyed through Scripture and explored the question of same-sex sexual ethics, he found that the conversation was much more complicated than many well-meaning people in his life made it seem. He acknowledged that the conversation about same-sex sexuality was complicated, and that it seemed to him that there was still a best answer in the text, that there was still a truth that deserved to be pursued. However, he also recognized the complexity of the conversation and the need to honor it.
Dr. Greg Coles shared his own story and emphasized that his experience cannot be neatly mapped onto the experience of every other person who is gay or same-sex attracted and seeking to follow Jesus. He said, "The single story creates stereotypes. And the problem with stereotypes is not that they're untrue, but that they're incomplete because they take one story and make it the only story." He encouraged listeners to consider their own obedience to Jesus and how the Gospel turns out to be remarkably the same good news for all of us.
Dr. Greg Coles also spoke about the complexity of celibacy for gay Christians. He said, "The road of celibacy for the gay Christian remains a distinctly complex calling to not only resist sexual urges, but to try to banish the thought of ever fulfilling them. To have no daydreams of a future romance, no wistful marriage plans, to feel like the very core of your sexual desire and the faith you hold most dear are at odds with one another. There are sufferings far worse than this, but there is none quite the same."
He acknowledged that the call to celibacy for gay Christians is not an easy one, but it can serve as a reminder of the sacrifice that Christ made for us. He said, "Maybe the calling to gay Christian celibacy stands in 21st century America as a precious reminder of just how desperately, helplessly devoted we were meant to be to the cross of Christ, a reminder that every sacrifice we make will pale in comparison to the sacrifice made on our behalf. Maybe the problem isn't that faith costs some of us too much, but that it costs all of us too little."

Implications and Potential Impact
The implications and potential impact of these themes are significant. First, by acknowledging the goodness of sexuality, we can celebrate and honor God's gift while also recognizing the challenges that come with it. Second, by acknowledging the brokenness of sexuality, we can come to terms with our own brokenness and seek healing and redemption. Third, by embracing the Gospel, we can find ultimate healing and transformation. Fourth, by creating a safe and welcoming Church, we can provide a space for people to find community, support, and healing. Finally, by reconciling faith, sexuality, and vocation, we can create a more inclusive and loving Church that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
It is important to note that the verbatim quotes from the transcript reveal the complexity of Scripture and the need to honor the conversation about same-sex sexuality. Dr. Greg Coles' story highlights the importance of listening to and valuing the experiences of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Dr. Greg Coles also spoke about the need for Christians to recognize the cost of following Jesus. He said, "If following Jesus doesn't cost you something, you might want to reconsider whether it's actually Jesus that you're following." He encouraged listeners to make room in their hearts for Jesus and to be willing to make sacrifices for their faith.

As society continues to evolve and embrace new norms and expectations, the topic of sexuality remains a loaded and nuanced issue. From the debate about transgender athletes to the use of preferred pronouns, it's clear that we could all benefit from a word from the Lord in this area. In this series, we will focus on what the Bible has to say about the topic of all things LGBTQ+ and establish a theological position and relational posture as Christ followers.

Sexuality is More Than Acts of Sex
When we talk about sexuality, it's important to understand that it's more than just the action of sex. As Tom, one of the pastors at NewStory Church, explains, "sexual attractions, feelings, thoughts, and identity are all part of sexuality. These are all part of sexuality, and all of the above, it seems, is taking center stage."

Establishing a Position and Posture
As we navigate this challenging topic, it's crucial to establish a theological position and relational posture as Christ followers. Tom explains that we need to focus on what the Bible has to say and not say about the topic of LGBTQ+. He acknowledges that this is a volatile and moving target with ever-changing definitions and cultural demands, but encourages us all to grow in wisdom as we explore this issue. Tom emphasizes that grace and truth must go hand in hand as we navigate this issue. He quotes John 1:14, which says, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." He explains that we must find our position in truth and our posture in grace, just as Jesus did.

What Does the Bible Say About Sexuality?
The Bible has a lot to say about sexuality, but it's important to understand the context in which it was written. Tom explains that the Bible was written in a time when cultural norms were very different from today. However, he also emphasizes that the Bible's teachings on sexuality are still relevant today. One of the most significant teachings on sexuality in the Bible is that sex is reserved for marriage between a man and a woman. Tom explains that this is not just a suggestion, but a commandment from God. He quotes Genesis 2:24, which says, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."
Tom also acknowledges that there are many other teachings in the Bible about sexuality, including the importance of purity, the dangers of sexual immorality, and the value of celibacy. He encourages us all to explore these teachings and to seek wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit as we navigate this challenging topic.

Implications and Potential Impact
The implications and potential impact of the Bible's teachings on sexuality are vast and far-reaching. As Tom explains, these teachings have significant implications for issues like transgenderism, same-sex marriage, and abortion. He acknowledges that these are controversial and challenging topics, but encourages us all to seek wisdom and guidance from the Lord as we navigate them. Tom emphasizes the importance of showing love and compassion to all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. He quotes 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which says, "Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

Definitions and Understanding
As Tom explains, it's important to establish a common vocabulary when discussing such a complex topic. He provides definitions for terms such as LGBTQ+, heterosexual, cisgender, transgender, gender dysphoria, non-binary, and intersex. He emphasizes that these terms are not black and white, but rather a spectrum of experiences and identities.

The Importance of Love and Compassion
Throughout the series, Tom emphasizes the importance of showing love and compassion to all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. He acknowledges that this can be challenging, but quotes 1 John 4:7-8, which says, "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love." Tom reminds us that every person is an image bearer of God. He quotes Genesis 1:27, which says, "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of Himself, in the image of God. He created them, male and female. He again created them." Therefore, every single person, whether heterocyst or not, whether having experienced or experiencing some form of gender dysphoria or not, whether black, white, yellow, brown, or whatever in between, bears God's image. Tom emphasizes that it is important to have a posture of love and compassion towards all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. He explains that this is not just a matter of theological position, but of relational posture. He quotes Jesus' command to love one another as he has loved us, and emphasizes the importance of sacrificial, patient, and generous love.

The Bible's Teachings on Eunuchs
Tom draws attention to the story of the eunuchs in Matthew 19. He explains that eunuchs were an umbrella term used to describe a person in the sexual and or gender minority. More specifically, a eunuch was usually a person whose sexual organs and many believed, especially in that day, whose even sexual desires were somehow altered, manipulated. Often it was a man who was castrated. Eunuchs were on the fringe and were not part of the social norm of the majority. Jesus acknowledges this sexual and gender minority and elaborates on three important insights. First, there are eunuchs who were born this way. Second, there are eunuchs who have been made so by others. Third, there are those who choose they voluntarily choose to live like eunuchs, code word for celibacy. They choose to live this celibate life for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Tom emphasizes that Jesus sees them and doesn't ignore or sweep them under the rug. He leverages this moment to teach a bigger lesson about the importance of showing love and compassion to all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity.

The Importance of Community
Aaron, a member of New Story Church, shares his personal experience of feeling isolated and alone due to his same-sex attraction and identity as bisexual. He shares how he feared rejection from God and the church, but eventually found a sense of belonging and safety within the community of believers. Tom emphasizes the importance of community in navigating the challenging topic of sexuality. He encourages us all to create a safe space within our churches and to show love and compassion to all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. He quotes James 4:8, which says, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you."

Conclusion and Future Outlook
As we continue to navigate the challenging topic of sexuality, it's important to remember that every person is an image bearer of God and deserves to be treated with love and compassion. We must establish a theological position and relational posture as Christ followers, seeking wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit as we explore this issue. We must also create a safe space within our churches for all people. As Tom emphasizes, our posture must be one of humility, meekness, and Christlikeness. We must lead with grace and come with truth, just as Jesus did. And we must show love and compassion to all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. In the end, our hope is that we can all grow in wisdom and understanding as we navigate this challenging topic. And as we do so, may we be a people who reflect the love and compassion of Christ to all people, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation.