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Jul 12, 2026 | Tim Moore
Preaching | Rev. Dr. Tim Moore
Sermon | "Bold Declarations"
Scripture | Matthew 16:13-20
What happens when faith encounters new understanding?
Peter's declaration about Jesus was bold, but it was also incomplete. He saw something true before he fully understood it. This Sunday, Rev. Dr. Tim Moore explores how progressive Christians continue to seek new light, ask new questions, and remain open to the ways God is still at work in an ever-changing world.
Part 1 of our series, "Being a Liberal, 21st Century Church," considers why lifelong learning and spiritual curiosity remain essential to faith.
Preacher's Note:
Peter’s declaration is bold and daring and an example of embracing new light, a new truth. Liberal Christians are open to God’s new light, God’s inspirational innovations of living this faith in our everchanging world. Liberalism ceases to be liberal when it clutches onto innovations of previous generations. Liberal Christianity has always been evolving. Like Peter, however, sometimes we may not fully comprehend the truth we’ve glimpsed, and initially our declarations are not completely formed. Nonetheless, we cannot fail to speak a truth we do not fully understand. The liberal church must continue to wrestle with the idea of who Jesus is. It means we have to always be committed to lifelong learning. What do we mean by God? What does it mean to believe in God, and where should we look for wisdom? George Peck, the president of Andover Newton Theological School when I graduated, once said, “Because I am committed to Christ, I am free to explore the wisdom of other faith traditions.” [Spirituality]
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