Enjoy this message from Pastor Tyler Schoenberger called "What Are you going to do?..." on Sunday,

November 16, 2025 at Reach Church in Bear, Delaware!

Christianity often begins as wonderful news of grace and acceptance, but many believers find themselves gradually sliding into a performance-based faith that feels more like climbing a ladder than resting in God's love. This shift from grace to pressure creates anxiety and exhaustion as people try to measure up to spiritual expectations and earn God's approval through good works, moral living, and religious activities.

The core message of Christianity is captured in Romans 8:1: there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. This isn't just a nice sentiment but the thesis statement of the entire Bible. Paul acknowledges the reality that believers continue to struggle with sin - not just obvious sins, but everyday struggles like pride, impatience, judgmentalism, and selfishness. Rather than offering a solution of trying harder or being more disciplined, Paul points to something completely external: our acceptance and security in Christ.

Our identity has nothing to do with our performance, past mistakes, or future struggles. We are wholly defined by what Jesus has done for us. His righteousness has been credited to our account, and the righteous requirements of the law have been fully met on our behalf. When we truly grasp this truth - that we already have an A with God - transformation happens naturally. We're freed from the pressure to perform and can approach God as our loving Father rather than a demanding boss. This security enables us to love and serve others genuinely, not to earn points with God, but because we're already completely accepted and secure in His love.