2019 Men's Weekend - Session 1

What is the fundamental difference between living under a burden of religious performance and walking in the freedom of the Gospel?In this men's retreat sermon on Mark 1:13–15, Guest Speaker Matt Carter explores the original military meaning of the Greek word euangelion (gospel) as a grand proclamation that a victory has already been won on our behalf. Speaker Matt contrasts a works-based "religion"—which relies on human effort, good-versus-bad lists, and constant cycles of guilt or self-righteousness—with the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. By examining Jesus's first sermon in Galilee, this message illustrates how Christ stepped in to take the Father's just wrath upon Himself, freeing believers to obey out of genuine gratitude, rest, and acceptance rather than fear.In this episode, we cover:The Military Origin of Gospel: Understanding euangelion as good news reporting an accomplished battle victory.Breaking the "Good List / Bad List" Cycle: Overcoming performance-based faith, self-loathing, and spiritual exhaustion.The Meaning of "The Time Is Fulfilled": Discovering how Jesus's proclamation transformed expectations of judgment into an offer of grace.Religion vs. The Gospel: Examining why religion says "I obey so I might be accepted," while the Gospel says "I am accepted, therefore I obey."Living as Gospel-Centered Men: Experiencing restful faith, sincere sorrow over sin, and joyful worship rooted in Christ's finished work.Be sure to follow us:InstagramFacebookYoutube