The Diversity of Unity: Is Holiness Really Legalistic? – w/ Rev. Dr. Carla Sunberg

February 22, 2024

Rev. Dr. Carla Sunberg, General Superintendent, Church of the Nazarene, discusses common misconceptions around the Wesleyan view of holiness, tracing the roots of the holiness movement to the transformational work of the Holy Spirit in followers’ lives. Over time, later generations focused too much on outward actions rather than the Spirit’s inner sanctifying work. She points out that discipleship helps avoid legalism. This episode unpacks the biblical basis for living a life that is both deeply rooted in personal holiness and actively engaged in promoting social justice. Listen as we explore practical ways to embody these dual commitments in our communities and beyond.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding the biblical call to holiness and social justice.Strategies for integrating faith into action within one’s community.Understanding other traditions gives richer insight into holiness.Helpful Bible ReferencesMicah 6:8 – Emphasizing the requirement to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.James 2:14-26 – Highlighting the inseparable nature of faith and deeds.Galatians 5:22-23 – The fruit of the SpiritHebrews 12:14 – Pursuing holinessKeywordsHoliness, Wesleyan theology, Sanctification, Discipleship, Holy Spirit, Social Justice, Faith in Action, Biblical WisdomLinks and ResourcesKevin Mannoia’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com/Holiness Today Magazine: https://holinesstoday.org/index.php/Holiness Today Podcast: https://holinesstoday.podbean.com/Way, Truth, Life: Discipleship as a Journey of Grace, by Dr. David Busic: ​​https://www.amazon.com/Way-Truth-Life-Discipleship-Journey/dp/0834139693 Reflecting the Image, by Dr. Carla Sunberg: https://www.amazon.com/Reflecting-Image-Mirror-Christ-World/dp/0834135272/Teach Us to Pray, by Dr. Carla Sunberg: https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Us-Pray-Learn-Scripture/dp/0834141787/Dr. Carla Sunberg’s blog: https://reflectingtheimage.blogspot.com/ About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

Annual Conference 2024 – Highlights
Annual Conference 2024 – Highlights

Experience the best moments from the 2024 Annual Conference of the Free Methodist Church in Southern California! This highlight video features inspiring interviews with attendees, showcasing their insights and experiences. Enjoy exciting footage from the event, capturing the essence of our theme, “Wholeness: Fostering Community & Creative Engagement.” See how our leaders and participants are embracing shared leadership, creative collaboration, and spiritual growth. Visit our website for more details: https://ac24.pacificcoastnetwork.org.

#FMCSC #AnnualConference2024 #Highlights #CommunityEngagement #FaithInAction

Annual Conference 2024 – Morning Devotional with Ann Hansen
Annual Conference 2024 – Morning Devotional with Ann Hansen

Ann Hansen from Centerpoint Church leads a morning devotional on wholeness, sharing her journey and reflections on finding joy in trials. She emphasizes embracing God’s Spirit for transformation and encourages hope and trust in God’s relentless pursuit of our growth and healing.

About Annual Conference 2024
Annual Conference is a collaborative one-day gathering for Free Methodist leaders from the Free Methodist Church in Southern California (FMCSC) and the Pacific Coast Japanese Conference (PCJC). This year, we will focus on the theme of “Wholeness: Fostering Community & Creative Engagement” as we nurture a thriving ecosystem for growth, shared leadership, and creative collaboration between our conferences and churches.

To find out more, visit us at:
https://ac24.pacificcoastnetwork.org

Hashtags
#FMCSC #AnnualConference2024 #Wholeness #MorningDevotional #SpiritualGrowth #FaithJourney #FreeMethodist #PCJC #CommunityEngagement #HopeInChrist

Annual Conference 2024 – Business Session Highlights
Annual Conference 2024 – Business Session Highlights

The Business Session highlights key moments from the 2024 Annual Conference, including reports, recommendations, and ordinations. Personal testimonies emphasize the importance of faith, social justice, and community service. The session concludes with the ordination of new elders, each expressing their commitment to serve within the Free Methodist Church.

About Annual Conference 2024
Annual Conference is a collaborative one-day gathering for Free Methodist leaders from the Free Methodist Church in Southern California (FMCSC) and the Pacific Coast Japanese Conference (PCJC). This year, we will focus on the theme of “Wholeness: Fostering Community & Creative Engagement” as we nurture a thriving ecosystem for growth, shared leadership, and creative collaboration between our conferences and churches.

To find out more, visit us at:
https://ac24.pacificcoastnetwork.org

Hashtags
#FMCSC #AnnualConference2024 #Wholeness #CommunityEngagement #CreativeCollaboration #ChurchLeadership #FreeMethodist #PCJC #FaithInAction