January 12, 2025
Hello, Beloved.
At the start of the year, we began a new teaching series rooted in 2 Peter 1:1–5, exploring what it means to BECOME, not through self-funded commitment, but through grace-fueled participation in what God has already given. As we step into a new year, this passage invites us to anchor our growth not in aspiration alone, but in divine provision.
Peter writes to believers who are already “established in the truth.” He intentionally reminds them of what they have received. This is essential because formation happens through remembering. Before Peter ever commands us to “make every effort,” he establishes our effort in the five gifts God has already supplied in Christ. Therefore, “make every effort” growth is not self-funded. Its origin is God’s faithfulness, promises, grace, and power, met by our responsive, loving obedience.
At the heart of the series is this Kingdom Big Idea: The Father has already given us everything we need through Christ to become who He is calling us to be. Now, let’s make every effort to live like it’s true. We live the Christian life in the tension between promise and fulfillment, between what is already ours and what we are still growing into. We are not called to settle into comfort or strive in our own strength, but to sojourn faithfully.
Peter begins with the gift of a faith that counts, a faith that is “precious,” meaning equal in value and worth. This dismantles spiritual hierarchy. Faith is received, not achieved. When the precious faith we receive is equal in worth, then the call to grow, steward, and be transformed is equal for all of us. This faith is not merely belief, but trust, relational dependence, and loyal allegiance to Christ.
From there, Peter reminds us that grace and peace are meant to multiply as we grow in the knowledge of God. Saving grace is complete, but formational grace is ongoing. Peter then declares that God’s divine power has already supplied everything we need for life and godliness. We do not lack God’s supply, but we might lack trust. God invites us not merely to follow the rules; He calls us to participate in His very life, freeing us from the corruption that once controlled us and forming new desires within us.
This truth became tangible in a decisive moment during our gathering yesterday. As we sensed a surprising measure of God’s holiness, the Spirit stirred trust around financial provision. Many responded generously, not under pressure but as an act of faith and worship, aligning their resources with what the Father was doing among us.
We are not striving to earn God’s favor. We are responding to grace. Gateway, this is who we’re becoming together.
The Lord Jesus and His peace be upon you and your family!
GATEWAY EVENTS: Click here.
WHERE TO ENGAGE:
Gateway Groups (a community where you can experience, be family, and share the love of Jesus with others)
SUNDAY SERVICE:
BECOMING: Make Every Effort - Part 1 — Entire Service or Teaching Only
BECOMING: Make Every Effort - Part 2 — Entire Service or Teaching Only
CHURCH FINANCIAL REPORT:
Giving Report: (*weekly income needed $21,500)
January 4: $9,921.00
January 11: $25,938.05
January 18:
January 25:
Greater Things YTD 2026: $2,155.83
Greater Things 2025 Total: $71,206.49
Current Mortgage Balance: $373,670.43
Click here to learn more about Greater Things (our accelerated mortgage elimination commitment) and participate.
Stay hopeful and healthy. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Transforming Lives Together,
Lance and Darlene Bane
Lead Pastor
Phone: 203-934-0880
Email: office@yourgateway.com