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Pastor Erika Santiago explores Jesus’ teachings as documented in the books of Matthew and Luke in the Bible. The lesson’s main objective is to delve into three key themes: authority, fruitfulness, and false teachers. Pastor Erika emphasizes Jesus’ unique authority in his teachings, exploring the idea that Jesus didn’t intend to abolish the Law and the Prophets, but rather to fulfill them by setting high standards for inner qualities such as love, humility, and peace.
In the theme of fruitfulness, Pastor Erika illustrates how Jesus instructed his followers to bear good fruit, intending to become more like him and show love and the fruit of the spirit in their lives. This incorporates the “five aspects of being human” model, which includes physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual dimensions. She also raises cautionary advice about false teachers, who might seem innocuous but have the potential to lead people away from the truth. She underscores the necessity of critical discernment in interpreting teachings and points to evaluating their actions and the fruit they bear as a method. The sermon further highlights the adoption of a Jesus-focused lens, aligning actions with the fruit of the Spirit and Jesus’ love.
Concluding the teaching, Pastor Erika invites listeners to follow Jesus’ teachings and view them as an opportunity for Christian discipleship and spiritual growth. She acknowledges shortcomings within the Christian community and encourages followers to strive for alignment with Jesus’ teachings, thereby glorifying God. She suggests future dialogues exploring how to discern truth in current times, assessing one’s spiritual fruits, and considering the implications of basing life on Jesus’ teachings.