Pastor Erwin McManus discusses his journey of finding faith, the search for the true path to God, and the purpose and impact of our choices. He explores the role of love in a deterministic universe, the reflection of our inner chaos in nature, and the power of spirituality and personal storytelling. Finally, he highlights Jesus as the bridge between humanity and God, offering love and fulfillment to those who surrender to him.
Jesus is the only God that actively searches for us, rather than us searching for God.
Our choices make a powerful impact on the future and Jesus' life exemplifies the wonder of life.
Deep dives
The Search for Meaning
In this podcast, Erwin McManus shares his personal journey of searching for meaning and purpose in life. He reflects on his experiences with various religions and philosophies, including Roman Catholicism, atheism, Buddhism, and Judaism. Despite grappling with doubts and questions, McManus ultimately finds his answer in Jesus. He believes that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life that the soul is searching for.
The Existence of God
McManus discusses the existence of God and the choice between a world with or without God. He argues that intelligence and creativity in the universe point to the existence of an intelligent creator. He contrasts the concept of a deterministic universe with a universe created by God, emphasizing the role of love and relationships in human existence. McManus highlights the innate human desire for progress and meaning, which can only be fulfilled through a life connected to God.
Religion and the Search for Life
McManus explores the role of religion in the search for life's meaning. He acknowledges that religions, including Islam, Buddhism, and Catholicism, offer paths to enlightenment or salvation. However, he argues that Jesus sets himself apart by not providing a construct or a path to follow. Instead, Jesus comes to show that God is actively pursuing humanity, offering love and life, and that true life is found in a relationship with him.
The Importance of Crossing the Line of Faith
McManus encourages listeners to cross the line of faith and surrender their lives to Jesus. He invites those who are ready to make this commitment to say a simple prayer, acknowledging Jesus as their savior and giving their lives to him. McManus reassures them that this decision marks the beginning of a transformed existence, experiencing God's love, forgiveness, hope, and joy.
For some of us, having faith in God comes more naturally. For others, it isn’t that simple. In this message from August of 2018, Pastor Erwin McManus walks us through his journey of finding faith. He explains that to him, the journey to Jesus was just that: a journey! Growing up he experienced a wide array of religions and was exposed to many world views. He did not imagine being a pastor when he grew up.
As we navigate our way through life, we are informed about different religions and ways to God. But how do we know which path really is the way? Pastor Erwin references John 14:6 when Jesus says “No one comes to the Father except through me.” He explains that Jesus came to us and did not force us to believe. Rather, our own souls call us to believe in something more, and that Jesus is the only God that is searching for us, rather than us searching for God.
When we have only a mathematical view of the world, we simply become a part of the falling domino effect. Our lives are a passive happening that we do not have freedom of choice inside of. But we know there must be more intention and meaning to our lives than this. We know deep down there is purpose and that our choices make a powerful impact on the future. Jesus’ life is the perfect example of a God who meets us right where we are and opens us up to the wonder of life all around us.
“Jesus came to show us what God would do to get to us.”
-Erwin McManus
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