The sermon discusses five principles for being effective witnesses based on the book of Acts:
1. Pray constantly for opportunities and God's guidance in witnessing.
2. Show love and fellowship within the church community.
3. Serve and meet the needs of those outside the church to build relationships.
4. Live a transformed life that shows the impact of your faith.
5. Tell others the truth about God's salvation through Christ in a straightforward manner.
The goal is to witness within our own circles of influence and "fish our own ponds" to help others find eternal life through Jesus.
1) The sermon discusses the need for Christians to have total commitment to sharing their faith, using examples like a boy who swam to raise money for charity and a missionary who spent decades in difficult conditions spreading the gospel.
2) It notes that many Christians are not committed to witnessing for Christ, for reasons like fear, lack of power, or not caring about the lost.
3) The pastor urges Christians to pray for boldness from the Holy Spirit to overcome these obstacles and have courageous conversations about their faith.
Pastor Paul McCart goes into great detail the importance of attending church beyond just showing up. Through humor and pastoral experience, you'll find this extremely helpful in your walk of faith.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for March 2015David Eversole
This document is the March 2015 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church in Lexington, KY. It includes articles from various ministers at the church discussing the theme of "Jesus is the Life". It provides information about worship services, staff, events and activities at the church. It also includes a calendar of upcoming events and announcements about small groups.
The sermon discusses five principles for being effective witnesses based on the book of Acts:
1. Pray constantly for opportunities and God's guidance in witnessing.
2. Show love and fellowship within the church community.
3. Serve and meet the needs of those outside the church to build relationships.
4. Live a transformed life that shows the impact of your faith.
5. Tell others the truth about God's salvation through Christ in a straightforward manner.
The goal is to witness within our own circles of influence and "fish our own ponds" to help others find eternal life through Jesus.
1) The sermon discusses the need for Christians to have total commitment to sharing their faith, using examples like a boy who swam to raise money for charity and a missionary who spent decades in difficult conditions spreading the gospel.
2) It notes that many Christians are not committed to witnessing for Christ, for reasons like fear, lack of power, or not caring about the lost.
3) The pastor urges Christians to pray for boldness from the Holy Spirit to overcome these obstacles and have courageous conversations about their faith.
Pastor Paul McCart goes into great detail the importance of attending church beyond just showing up. Through humor and pastoral experience, you'll find this extremely helpful in your walk of faith.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for March 2015David Eversole
This document is the March 2015 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church in Lexington, KY. It includes articles from various ministers at the church discussing the theme of "Jesus is the Life". It provides information about worship services, staff, events and activities at the church. It also includes a calendar of upcoming events and announcements about small groups.
Adapted from a David Baeder sermon https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/1-the-meaning-of-discipleship-david-baeder-sermon-on-discipleship-156854?ref=SermonSeriesDetails
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for April 2016David Eversole
This document is the April 2016 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church in Lexington, KY. It includes articles from various ministers at the church about connecting people to Jesus, which is identified as the church's clear vision. The articles discuss topics like reaching out to people with the gospel message, overcoming prejudices, and having a vision that provides purpose. The newsletter also provides information about upcoming events at the church in April and registration details for summer youth events.
This document describes elements that contributed to the survival and growth of the early Christian church in Jerusalem following Pentecost. It highlights how the early Christians devoted themselves to fellowship with one another through sharing meals, prayer, teaching, and meeting regularly. They supported each other financially and spiritually. The document encourages modern Christians to similarly prioritize fellowship, mentoring others, meeting together, and pursuing knowledge of Christ through studying scripture. Healthy communities are formed when Christians bond with one another in love.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for September 2016tatescreek
This document is the September 2016 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church in Lexington, KY. It includes articles from various church ministers on the theme of how Jesus changes everything. It promotes upcoming church events in September, including a new sermon series on what it means to be a church member. It also advertises the start of the fall session of the church's Oasis Bible study and community outreach classes. In addition, it provides updates on senior adult ministry activities and encourages involvement in the church's various opportunities for fellowship.
This document is a transcript of a sermon about how believers can glorify God through faith alone rather than works. It discusses how the law reveals human sinfulness but does not justify. The sermon says true faith in God pleases Him and brings glory to Him, as exemplified by Abraham, who believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness. In contrast, trying to add works to faith undermines God's grace and tries to steal His glory. The conclusion is that we glorify God by accepting salvation as a free gift of grace through faith in Christ alone.
This is a study of the fruit of the Spirit called goodness, and it is one of the best, for it illustrates Christlikeness. He was the best of all good people who have ever lived.
The document outlines the beliefs of SonRise Church regarding church membership, unity, serving the church, supporting the church testimony, tithing, the Bible, and communion. It discusses committing to protecting church unity through love, refusing gossip, and following leaders. It also discusses sharing responsibility by praying for growth, inviting others, and welcoming visitors. Members can serve using their gifts, be equipped by pastors, and develop a servant's heart. Supporting the testimony involves faithful attendance, godly living, and regular giving. The Bible is entirely true and the sole authority, and communion is symbolic and for believers only.
1) Father Lucian was a priest from Syria who was imprisoned for refusing to renounce his Christian faith.
2) While imprisoned, he continued to minister to other prisoners and celebrate Mass, despite difficult conditions.
3) During his final Mass, while chained to the prison floor, Father Lucian used his own body as an altar, and died soon after, remaining faithful to God.
This newsletter from First Baptist Church of Franklinton provides information about upcoming events and programs for the month of September. It includes details about Sunday school and worship service times, a message from the pastor about renewed growth in the church, information from various church ministers about activities in their areas, and birthday announcements for children. The newsletter aims to keep church members informed and encourage participation in the life of the church community.
Three passages help us understand that there is more to being a part of a specific group of Christians than just sitting in the pew once in a while. Paul reminds us that we are joining together, like a marriage. He teaches us to receive one another since Christ has received us. And he makes it clear that keeping company with someone named a brother involves serious responsibilities.
This newsletter provides updates on several people the ministry has been working with and praying for. It discusses a woman named Christy they met in the ICU who did not know the Lord. It also gives health updates on Joe, who is now cancer free, Lori who is recovering from brain surgery, and Billy whose cancer has spread. It introduces two new people - Jessica who is fighting a rare cancer, and Millie, a friend who had breast cancer and ministers to others. It encourages visiting their online pages for more information and continued prayer.
This document discusses messages on prayer based on passages from the Bible. It summarizes that Jesus made prayer a priority in his life by getting up early to pray privately. The document states that making prayer a regular habit through private communication with God is important for developing intimacy in one's relationship with God, just as regular communication is important for intimacy in human relationships. Prioritizing regular private prayer can help Christians maintain a close relationship with God.
After the disciples have spent so much time with Jesus watching him heal and teach and forgive it seems that Jesus feels it is time to give his disciples a ‘midterm test.’ He wants to see what they have learned after spending so much time watching him minister to others. But before he asks them the one and only question on the test, he has them hike 25 miles to the region of Caesarea Philippi.
Why the long hike? What is the one question he asks them….and asks us? And how would you answer?
This document provides an overview of the story of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes and explains its connection to the Eucharist. It describes how Jesus fed a large crowd with just five loaves of bread and two fish, with leftovers remaining. It then explains that at the Last Supper, Jesus established the Eucharist by taking bread and wine and saying they were his body and blood, commanding Christians to repeat this in remembrance of him. The document explores how the gifts of bread and wine in Mass become the body and blood of Christ through consecration, and how receiving communion unites Christians in the body of Christ.
The document discusses a speech given at a Unification Church service in Seoul, Korea. It begins by mentioning a recent earthquake in Haiti where church members there survived unharmed despite a building collapsing on them. The speaker then discusses the challenges of fulfilling the will of a living messiah, as the Unification Church aims to do. He shares how the Korean church underwent restructuring in 2009, letting go of over 100 ministers, merging 200 churches, and becoming financially self-sufficient rather than relying on subsidies from other churches. It was a difficult process but important for the church's growth.
The document contains biographies of six candidates for the vestry of Restoration Anglican Church. Each biography summarizes the candidate's spiritual journey and background, and expresses their vision and priorities if elected to the vestry. Key details include Cameron Doolittle growing up in an Oregon church plant and now having four children with his wife Carolyn. Elizabeth Boesen describes her conversion through Alpha and leading small groups. Christine Jones shares moving from a non-Christian home to loving teaching Sunday school. Cindy Darnell's faith growth through Bible study and mission teams. Anne Cregger Patterson's search for God until age 31. Ramsey Wilson remaining nominally Christian until age 32 when God grabbed hold of him.
The document provides updates on several individuals that a ministry has been assisting. It discusses a woman named Christy who they met in the ICU and were able to share the gospel with. It also provides health updates on Lori, who had brain surgery, Billy whose cancer has spread, and Jessica who is battling a rare cancer. Additionally, it introduces two women, Millie who is a friend and supporter of the ministry despite her own battle with breast cancer, and Darby who was recently hospitalized with blood clots in his lungs. The ministry looks forward to implementing a new outreach program in the local church to provide spiritual care for those with illnesses, especially those who are unsaved.
Touching lives Part 3 - Making a Difference 19Jan2014SSMC
This document discusses how to touch lives for Jesus Christ. It emphasizes that we must first be touched by Christ's love and sacrifice before we can touch others. It encourages living for Christ rather than oneself. It also promotes being "MAD for Jesus" by being open, available, and ready to serve Him through fostering others, volunteering for church activities, and using the opportunities God provides no matter how small our abilities. The overall message is a call to use what resources we do have to touch lives for Christ.
Vocation campaign 2017 Archdiocese of CapizSlater Morilla
The document discusses vocations and seminary life. It begins with an opening prayer asking God for guidance in discerning one's path. It then summarizes a Gospel passage about sending laborers into the harvest. The rest of the document provides information about vocations, the different states of life one can choose, and what life is like in a seminary. It describes the various types of formation seminarians undergo to grow holistically as future priests, including spiritual, community, academic, pastoral, and human formation. The seminary provides opportunities for prayer, study, ministry experience, and living in community to discern and prepare for the priestly vocation.
19 The Significance of the Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:1-58 Rick Peterson
The Significance of the Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:1-58 Adapted from a David Owens sermon http://www.sermoncentral.com/print_friendly.asp?SermonID=126633
Adapted from a David Baeder sermon https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/1-the-meaning-of-discipleship-david-baeder-sermon-on-discipleship-156854?ref=SermonSeriesDetails
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for April 2016David Eversole
This document is the April 2016 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church in Lexington, KY. It includes articles from various ministers at the church about connecting people to Jesus, which is identified as the church's clear vision. The articles discuss topics like reaching out to people with the gospel message, overcoming prejudices, and having a vision that provides purpose. The newsletter also provides information about upcoming events at the church in April and registration details for summer youth events.
This document describes elements that contributed to the survival and growth of the early Christian church in Jerusalem following Pentecost. It highlights how the early Christians devoted themselves to fellowship with one another through sharing meals, prayer, teaching, and meeting regularly. They supported each other financially and spiritually. The document encourages modern Christians to similarly prioritize fellowship, mentoring others, meeting together, and pursuing knowledge of Christ through studying scripture. Healthy communities are formed when Christians bond with one another in love.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for September 2016tatescreek
This document is the September 2016 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church in Lexington, KY. It includes articles from various church ministers on the theme of how Jesus changes everything. It promotes upcoming church events in September, including a new sermon series on what it means to be a church member. It also advertises the start of the fall session of the church's Oasis Bible study and community outreach classes. In addition, it provides updates on senior adult ministry activities and encourages involvement in the church's various opportunities for fellowship.
This document is a transcript of a sermon about how believers can glorify God through faith alone rather than works. It discusses how the law reveals human sinfulness but does not justify. The sermon says true faith in God pleases Him and brings glory to Him, as exemplified by Abraham, who believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness. In contrast, trying to add works to faith undermines God's grace and tries to steal His glory. The conclusion is that we glorify God by accepting salvation as a free gift of grace through faith in Christ alone.
This is a study of the fruit of the Spirit called goodness, and it is one of the best, for it illustrates Christlikeness. He was the best of all good people who have ever lived.
The document outlines the beliefs of SonRise Church regarding church membership, unity, serving the church, supporting the church testimony, tithing, the Bible, and communion. It discusses committing to protecting church unity through love, refusing gossip, and following leaders. It also discusses sharing responsibility by praying for growth, inviting others, and welcoming visitors. Members can serve using their gifts, be equipped by pastors, and develop a servant's heart. Supporting the testimony involves faithful attendance, godly living, and regular giving. The Bible is entirely true and the sole authority, and communion is symbolic and for believers only.
1) Father Lucian was a priest from Syria who was imprisoned for refusing to renounce his Christian faith.
2) While imprisoned, he continued to minister to other prisoners and celebrate Mass, despite difficult conditions.
3) During his final Mass, while chained to the prison floor, Father Lucian used his own body as an altar, and died soon after, remaining faithful to God.
This newsletter from First Baptist Church of Franklinton provides information about upcoming events and programs for the month of September. It includes details about Sunday school and worship service times, a message from the pastor about renewed growth in the church, information from various church ministers about activities in their areas, and birthday announcements for children. The newsletter aims to keep church members informed and encourage participation in the life of the church community.
Three passages help us understand that there is more to being a part of a specific group of Christians than just sitting in the pew once in a while. Paul reminds us that we are joining together, like a marriage. He teaches us to receive one another since Christ has received us. And he makes it clear that keeping company with someone named a brother involves serious responsibilities.
This newsletter provides updates on several people the ministry has been working with and praying for. It discusses a woman named Christy they met in the ICU who did not know the Lord. It also gives health updates on Joe, who is now cancer free, Lori who is recovering from brain surgery, and Billy whose cancer has spread. It introduces two new people - Jessica who is fighting a rare cancer, and Millie, a friend who had breast cancer and ministers to others. It encourages visiting their online pages for more information and continued prayer.
This document discusses messages on prayer based on passages from the Bible. It summarizes that Jesus made prayer a priority in his life by getting up early to pray privately. The document states that making prayer a regular habit through private communication with God is important for developing intimacy in one's relationship with God, just as regular communication is important for intimacy in human relationships. Prioritizing regular private prayer can help Christians maintain a close relationship with God.
After the disciples have spent so much time with Jesus watching him heal and teach and forgive it seems that Jesus feels it is time to give his disciples a ‘midterm test.’ He wants to see what they have learned after spending so much time watching him minister to others. But before he asks them the one and only question on the test, he has them hike 25 miles to the region of Caesarea Philippi.
Why the long hike? What is the one question he asks them….and asks us? And how would you answer?
This document provides an overview of the story of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes and explains its connection to the Eucharist. It describes how Jesus fed a large crowd with just five loaves of bread and two fish, with leftovers remaining. It then explains that at the Last Supper, Jesus established the Eucharist by taking bread and wine and saying they were his body and blood, commanding Christians to repeat this in remembrance of him. The document explores how the gifts of bread and wine in Mass become the body and blood of Christ through consecration, and how receiving communion unites Christians in the body of Christ.
The document discusses a speech given at a Unification Church service in Seoul, Korea. It begins by mentioning a recent earthquake in Haiti where church members there survived unharmed despite a building collapsing on them. The speaker then discusses the challenges of fulfilling the will of a living messiah, as the Unification Church aims to do. He shares how the Korean church underwent restructuring in 2009, letting go of over 100 ministers, merging 200 churches, and becoming financially self-sufficient rather than relying on subsidies from other churches. It was a difficult process but important for the church's growth.
The document contains biographies of six candidates for the vestry of Restoration Anglican Church. Each biography summarizes the candidate's spiritual journey and background, and expresses their vision and priorities if elected to the vestry. Key details include Cameron Doolittle growing up in an Oregon church plant and now having four children with his wife Carolyn. Elizabeth Boesen describes her conversion through Alpha and leading small groups. Christine Jones shares moving from a non-Christian home to loving teaching Sunday school. Cindy Darnell's faith growth through Bible study and mission teams. Anne Cregger Patterson's search for God until age 31. Ramsey Wilson remaining nominally Christian until age 32 when God grabbed hold of him.
The document provides updates on several individuals that a ministry has been assisting. It discusses a woman named Christy who they met in the ICU and were able to share the gospel with. It also provides health updates on Lori, who had brain surgery, Billy whose cancer has spread, and Jessica who is battling a rare cancer. Additionally, it introduces two women, Millie who is a friend and supporter of the ministry despite her own battle with breast cancer, and Darby who was recently hospitalized with blood clots in his lungs. The ministry looks forward to implementing a new outreach program in the local church to provide spiritual care for those with illnesses, especially those who are unsaved.
Touching lives Part 3 - Making a Difference 19Jan2014SSMC
This document discusses how to touch lives for Jesus Christ. It emphasizes that we must first be touched by Christ's love and sacrifice before we can touch others. It encourages living for Christ rather than oneself. It also promotes being "MAD for Jesus" by being open, available, and ready to serve Him through fostering others, volunteering for church activities, and using the opportunities God provides no matter how small our abilities. The overall message is a call to use what resources we do have to touch lives for Christ.
Vocation campaign 2017 Archdiocese of CapizSlater Morilla
The document discusses vocations and seminary life. It begins with an opening prayer asking God for guidance in discerning one's path. It then summarizes a Gospel passage about sending laborers into the harvest. The rest of the document provides information about vocations, the different states of life one can choose, and what life is like in a seminary. It describes the various types of formation seminarians undergo to grow holistically as future priests, including spiritual, community, academic, pastoral, and human formation. The seminary provides opportunities for prayer, study, ministry experience, and living in community to discern and prepare for the priestly vocation.
19 The Significance of the Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:1-58 Rick Peterson
The Significance of the Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:1-58 Adapted from a David Owens sermon http://www.sermoncentral.com/print_friendly.asp?SermonID=126633
2 Freedom From The Law To Receive The Promised Spirit Through Faith Galatians...Rick Peterson
Freedom From The Law To Receive The Promised Spirit Through Faith Galatians 3:1-14 Adapted from a David Owens sermon http://www.sermoncentral.com/print_friendly.asp?SermonID=175347
The document discusses how larger rocks will sink to the bottom of a jar, while smaller pebbles and sand will rise to the top. It uses this concept as an analogy for how challenging large problems can sink to the bottom of our awareness if we don't address them, while smaller issues rise to the surface and demand our attention. We are advised to occasionally empty our mental jar to clear away the insignificant issues and refocus on tackling important challenges.
20 Closing Words, Important Truths 1 Corinthians 16:1-24 Rick Peterson
Closing Words, Important Truths 1 Corinthians 16:1-24 Adapted from a David Owens sermon http://www.sermoncentral.com/print_friendly.asp?SermonID=127100
This document summarizes a sermon about the importance of submitting to God. It discusses how submission to God brings life and victory. It provides examples from the Bible of people who failed to submit to God and faced negative consequences, as well as examples of people who submitted fully to God and experienced success. The key message is that we must obey God and do his will in order to experience abundant life and victory over sin and Satan.
This slideshow is a brief overview of Mt. Pleasant Christian Church and what we believe, as well as an introduction to membership. Please email for more info!
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for April 2017Jenni Gregg
This document is a newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church providing information about upcoming events, worship services, staff, and articles from the ministers.
The articles discuss reflecting the person of Jesus through spending time with Him, loving wives as Christ loved the church, and understanding one's calling to multiply Christ. They encourage readers to yield to God's will, lead spiritually in their homes, and flee from environments that could compromise one's faith. The newsletter also provides a calendar of church activities for the month.
3 The Purpose of The Church- DiscipleshipRick Peterson
The document discusses the importance of discipleship in the church. It begins by using a baseball analogy - that getting a person saved is like getting them to first base, but the goal is to help them progress all the way around to scoring, or spiritual maturity. However, many churches fail to support new believers in this growth process. The document then defines a disciple as a learner and follower of Jesus who actively applies teachings, and discusses that spiritual growth requires intentional effort, not leaving it to chance. It provides examples of practices that can help believers mature, and emphasizes the importance of God's word and accountability in growing closer to Christ.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for January 2017tatescreek
Tates Creek Christian Church provides a summary of upcoming events and teachings for their Winter Oasis session from January to March. Discipleship classes will focus on spiritual disciplines to help Christians deepen their relationship with God. John Davis will teach a class on implementing spiritual habits. The women's study led by Phyllis Eversole will cover the biblical books from Hebrews to Revelation. Additionally, Vick will teach a class called "Hands and Feet Ministry" based on Matthew 25:35-40.
The document discusses spiritual disciplines and provides a workbook for personal reflection. It introduces six spiritual disciplines: 1) Worship and pray regularly, 2) Care for others through Christian friendships and small groups, 3) Study the Bible and engage in devotional practices, 4) Give generously toward tithing, 5) Witness to what God is doing through word and invitation, and 6) Serve others through acts of love, compassion and justice. The workbook provides exercises for each discipline to help the reader grow deeper in their faith and commitment to God.
16 My Part In The Body 1 Corinthians 12:1-31Rick Peterson
The document discusses how the church should function as a unified body, with each member playing an important role and supporting one another. It provides several metaphors and examples from the Bible to illustrate how unity within the church is essential, such as comparing the church to a human body with many interdependent parts or a barn that was moved only through group effort. The key points are that every member has value and a contribution to make, and that unity requires recognizing our shared purpose and interdependence.
This document provides information about St. Luke's Church located in Federal Way, WA. It includes details about their worship services, pastors, mission, ministries for children, youth, families, and more. Visitors are welcomed to join the congregation for worship or get to know the pastors over coffee. The church strives to serve its community and spread the gospel through various outreach and volunteer opportunities.
Summer Splash Developing a devotional life part 1 of 2Albert Soto
This document provides an overview and summaries of a 2013 summer series on developing a devotional life. It includes:
- An introduction and schedule for the summer series focusing on having a devotional life, reading the Bible, and living in community.
- Summaries of three talks from the series addressing fuel for the devotional journey, foundations for reading the Bible, and friends for the journey of living in community.
- Additional summaries of methods for daily devotion, why to read the Bible, and an example of using the S.O.A.P. Bible study method in a journal entry. The document offers guidance and perspectives on spiritual growth through regular Bible reading and prayer.
The document is a newsletter from St Peter's, St Mark's, and St Swithun's churches in Belper, England. It provides updates on various church activities, including:
- The vision team has been meeting to discuss how to introduce more people to church and grow discipleship. Their new vision statement is "Jesus at the centre - transforming our community."
- St Mark's is hosting a fun weekend event on July 22-24 that all three churches are invited to, including camping, activities, and a joint Sunday service.
- Kate Gough thanks those who buy greeting cards, as the money supports St Crispin's Home in India to improve dormitories and classrooms.
This document provides a weekly Lenten programme for Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Westville. It includes daily Scripture passages and reflections on repentance, seeing Jesus in others, forgiveness, and living a perfect life through faith. Practical suggestions exhort attending Mass, giving to the poor, reconciliation, and quiet prayer. The overall message is that Lent is an opportunity for change, renewal and transformation as believers accept Jesus' invitation to repent and believe in the Gospel.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current September 2015tatescreek
This document provides information about upcoming events and ministries at Tates Creek Christian Church. It includes articles from several of the church ministers discussing the importance of standing on the truth and authority of the Bible. The articles emphasize that the Bible contains absolute truth, even if society says otherwise, and encourage reading and studying the Bible to understand its messages. The document also lists upcoming speakers, classes, and events at the church throughout the month.
BEAUTIFUL CHURCH ___________________ SIX STEPS TO.docxJASS44
BEAUTIFUL
CHURCH
___________________
SIX STEPS
TO VIBRANT CHURCH GROWTH
“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, Your God reigns!”
Isaiah 52:7 (NIV)
RON DOTZLER
STEP 1
GOD’S HEART FOR THE
UNCHURCHED
AND HOW THE CHURCH MUST RESPOND
STEP 1
CHAPTER ONE
UNLEASHING THE POWER OF CHURCH
HIS BEAUTIFUL CHURCH TRANSFORMING A BROKEN WORLD
“The local church is the hope of the world.”1
Wow.
This truth resonated in my heart from the moment I first heard it stated at a leadership conference.
I wanted to believe in the incredible power and potential of the local church to reach a lost and
broken world, but I knew the hard facts—the church in the USA was experiencing significant
decline. I knew we could do better, but the answers eluded me.
“There’s nothing like the local church when the local church is working right.”2
Again, my spirit soared. The church could change the world if it was working right.
Bill Hybels, the speaker, gave language to what I was feeling for years as a pastor in my church. The
local church, in its imperfect earthly form, is still the hope of the world. While all of eternity hangs
in the balance, God still sees his beautiful bride as carriers of his salvation message to a broken, lost
and hurting world.
I love the local church, and I’m convinced that church vibrancy and conversion growth matters. In
my 28 years of ministry, my prayer has been for God to unleash the power of the local church to
fulfill the kingdom mission to impact those far from Christ. God’s heart is pleased when he sees his
beautiful church transforming a broken world.
A FAULTY CHURCH MODEL
Several years ago, I attended a conference hosted by a prominent church. The helpful workshops
left me excited to implement all I’d learned when I returned home. Without warning, one of the
speakers from Europe shocked me when he predicted a sharp decline in attendance of the North
American church. His announcement left me reeling.
I leaned back in my chair, trying to process his statement. Why did this pastor have such a grim view
of the church? How could he be so bold as to make such a negative futuristic claim?
Constance
Highlight
Without missing a beat, the pastor asked a very intriguing question: why had the church in
Europe died, no longer exerting influence in society? With no real answers, he explained how
the church in Europe had a faulty church model which the States inherited. This faulty model
was incomplete in its ability to reach and receive lost people. If the church in North America
didn’t make changes, he claimed, it would soon mirror the European church—empty, lifeless
and no longer relevant.
My heart sank. I didn’t want to believe his disheartening view. Yet his projection stuck with me, pressing me to work
against the tide when I saw evidence over the years that his prediction was comi ...
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for June 2016David Eversole
This document is the June 2016 newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church. It includes articles from various ministers about faith, God's redemption, and enjoying the journey. It also provides information about upcoming events like summer camps and vacation bible school. The newsletter aims to encourage believers and help those in need through various ministries and community outreach.
This document provides information about events and activities at the First Baptist Church of Franklinton located in Louisiana. It includes contact information for the church, a schedule of Sunday services and activities, and information about upcoming events. The pastor discusses his focus on discipleship and accountability. He describes a successful small group study for young men and invites others to join discipleship groups. Information is also provided about a senior adult revival week and the new youth Sunday school curriculum starting in May about defining purity through the gospel.
Is Saul Among the Prophets-This is The OneRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise from death. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
298 Christ our Ark 299 Great Things He has Done for YouRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
296 I am a Guardian-Redeemer 297 Samuel Was Attested as a Prophet of the LordRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
294 No King — No Deliverer 295 Naomi’s DecisionRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise from death. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
292 The LORD Did an Amazing Thing 293 Let Me Die With the Philistines.pptxRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
290-Exhausted Yet Pursuing 291-I Have Made a Vow to The LORD That I Cannot BreakRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
388-Then the Lord Raised Up Judges 389-The Lord Sent A ProphetRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
286 Shiloh Which is The Land of Canaan-287 Buried in ShechemRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise from death. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
284-Could Not Drive Them Out 285-Your RefugeRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise from death. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
282-283 The Day the Son Stood Still-He Left Nothing UndoneRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
280-281 The Waters of Jordan-Joshua Saved Rahab the HarlotRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing our sins to the cross when he died, and solved our mortality problem by rising from the dead, proving we can also overcome death. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
278-279 As An Eagle-Pisgah's Sight and Mose's DeathRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise from the dead. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
56 Unlimited Power In A Limited Space revisitedRick Peterson
This sermon is a slightly modified version of the one preached 12/23/18.
Adapted from a Scott Chambers sermon https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/2-jesus-unlimited-power-in-a-limited-space-scott-chambers-sermon-on-jesus-christ-135274?ref=SermonSeriesDetails
276-277 I Profess this Day-Revere the LORD your GodRick Peterson
The document discusses how Jesus solved humanity's sin problem by nailing sins to the cross when he died, and solved the problem of death by rising from the grave, proving that believers can also rise from death. It encourages the reader to be born again and follow Jesus.
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/presentations
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/documents
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
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The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
Why is this So? ~ Do Seek to KNOW (English & Chinese).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma teaching of Kamma-Vipaka (Intentional Actions-Ripening Effects).
A Presentation for developing morality, concentration and wisdom and to spur us to practice the Dhamma diligently.
The texts are in English and Chinese.
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
2. There was a church in a small town in
Tennessee that had a most interesting name.
The sign in front of it said, "Left Foot Baptist
Church.“
There was a young man who passed by the
building several times, and he always got a
good chuckle from the name.
Finally, one day when he was waiting on his
bus, he asked someone about the church
with the unusual name.
3. I don’t believe that he was counting on the
answer that he got.
He found out that several years before a
great conflict arose in the church.
You see, it was a foot-washing Baptist
church–they washed one another’s feet as
an act of worship.
But the conflict broke out over which foot
should be washed first.
4. Half of the congregation thought they should
start with the right foot.
The other half thought that they should
always start with the left foot.
The conflict simmered and brewed until
finally the left-foot proponents split off and
organized their own church.
Of course, they called it "Left Foot Baptist
Church."
5. While that story is unusual by itself, we know
that it is not unusual for churches to allow
small and insignificant matters to tear them
apart.
When these small things become the focus
of the church, then they keep the church
from fulfilling God’s purpose.
6. I am very thankful for the positive spirit of
unity that exists in the church family here.
It is something that we need to continually
work at as we strive to live out God’s
purpose for our lives and for this church.
7. As we talk about our purpose as God’s
Church perhaps we should adopted a
purpose or mission statement for the church.
It should begin with what we talked about
last week--our number one purpose is to
evangelize the lost.
8. Today we want to take a look at the second
part of our mission statement.
Not only are we to reach out to the lost and
bring them to Christ, be we are to help those
new believers grow in their relationship with
Christ.
9. ESV
The word Therefore means: Consequently,
As a result, For that reason, Hence, &
demands we look back to see what was
previously said.
12. The word used in the KJV for "
" is the word " .“
So, the second part of our purpose is to edify
the saints, building up other Christians.
"The Lindley Christian Church exists to
evangelize the lost and to edify the saints..."
13. The idea is of a church full of active
participants, not passive spectators. (Guzik)
In Paul gives us some
guidelines as to how we might edify one
another and build each other up.
This is Paul’s vegetarian sermon because
this short passage is full of
" ."
16. First of all, Paul says that we need to Focus
on God
17. This seems to be elementary, but may be the
hardest step if you been walking the wrong
direction and have found yourself running
away from God.
It may be that you need to sit down and have
a serious discussion with God about where
your life is headed.
You need to be open and frank with a desire
to change and let God cleanse your guilty
conscience.
18. Follow the straight and narrow
New drivers have a tendency to swerve back
forth.
The trick is to make small adjustments to
keep the vehicle moving in a straight path.
That’s the way you should drive.
21. Help Others Grow
The word " " Thayer Definition: 1) an
inciting, incitement 2) irritation
incite: 1. To move the mind to action by
persuasion or motives presented; to stir up;
to rouse; to spur on. (Websters)
A Kick in the Seat of the Pants
22. Have you ever been walking along and get a
stone in your shoe?
You don’t want to stop to take the time to get
it out so you keep walking, but eventually
you feel like you’ve got to remove this
boulder.
Your mind is moved to action so you take
your shoe off & the stone is so small you can
hardly find it.
Small as it was, however, it sure was
irritating.
23. You cannot help others grow unless you are
faithful to the body of Christ
24. Too many times we got the cart before the
horse.
The reason meeting together is so important
is so you can minister to others and so you
can be ministered to.
Preachers like to hit this hard because the
more people they can get in the building the
more job security they have.
25. People come to church for one of two
reasons–they want to be here or they have
to be here.
When you get involved in the lives of others
and understand that you have a purpose to
minister, then you will want to be here.
If the only reason you come is because it is
your duty, it makes it more difficult.
26. Encourage one another.
Everyone needs to be encouraged at times–I
don’t care who you are or how strong of a
Christian you are.
It’s nice to hear someone say, "It’s good to
see you here today" and really mean it.
It’s great when you’re hurting or dealing with
a sickness and people say, "I’ll pray for you"
and mean it.
27. After every sermon one lady always said
“Mighty Powerful.”
She said every sermon is either powerful
good or powerful bad, so "mighty powerful"
kind of covers both sides.
The church is more than people meeting
together and having a worship service on a
Sunday morning.
The more you are involved in other people’s
lives, the more you will feel a part of the
church family.
29. In this passage we see four important areas
in which the church is built up.
1. Apostle’s Teaching
Preaching and teaching
They relied on the apostles to communicate
to them who Jesus was and what He had
done.
These were brand new Christians, just 4
verses away from Peter’s call to be
baptized. They had just trusted in Jesus;
now they want to know more!
30. Devoted uses a Greek verb communicating
"a steadfast and single-minded fidelity to a
certain course of action." (Longenecker)
There was to be no departure from the
apostles' teaching, because it was the truth
of God.
Thankfully, God allows us to sit under the
apostles' teaching - the New Testament
record. (Guzik)
31. 2. Fellowship
Usually when we think about fellowship we
think about such things as pot luck dinners.
However, a better way to understand what
fellowship is, is to think of it as community
building,
Forming relationships.
This requires spending time together with
brothers and sisters in Christ.
32. The Greek word koinonia has the idea of
association, communion, fellowship, and
participation; it means to share in something.
As Christians, we share the same Lord
Jesus, we share the same guide for life, we
share the same love for God, we share the
same desire to worship Him, we share the
same struggles, we share the same victories,
we share the same job of living for Him, we
share the same joy of communicating that
gospel to others. (Guzik)
33. 3. Breaking of Bread - the Lord’s Supper
Remembering the tremendous sacrifice of
our Lord Jesus Christ.
Even living so close to the time when Jesus
was crucified, they still never wanted to
forget it - how much more should we? (Guzik)
34.
35.
36. We are to constantly be in prayer for each
other.
Especially for Emmett our elder as he
oversees the work of the church, the
deacons Jim & Roger as they fulfill their
various duties, Nate & I as we preach.
ESV
37. In Paul’s letter to the church in Colossae are
instructions that will help us edify the saints.
Perhaps Paul is building on the first church
pattern in .
39. Each of us as member of the church are
called in one body be thankful letting the
peace of Christ rule in our hearts.
As individual members of the church, the
body of Christ on earth, there are some
things we need to be doing.
41. How is it possible for the word of Christ to
dwell, live, in you if you don’t spend much
time in it.
There must be reading & studying God’s
Word.
The words " " tell us that we must
study the Bible with other Christians, not just
alone.
We can build each other up when we study
the Bible together.
42. In addition to studying the Bible together we
through
It is not the style of song that matters. What
matters the attitude of your heart. Did you
notice
43. Service
The new man lives his life, all his life, for
Jesus. He will only seek to do the things that
he may do in the name of the Lord Jesus,
and he will persevere in the difficulty of doing
such things, knowing that he is doing them in
the name of the Lord Jesus. (Guzik)
44. Prayer
Again the emphasis on being thankful.
If we spent more time being thankful our
spiritual lives would blossom.
Note that our approach is
‘ ’.
This reminds us that of ourselves we have
no right of access.
45. It is because we genuinely come in His
name, through the redemptive work He
carried out on our behalf, that we have
expectation of a hearing, even for the
expressing of gratitude.
46. Access to God is not the easy thing that it is
portrayed by many to be.
But it is easy for us because of Him.
( )
‘ ’ has special significance in this
letter for it excludes any intermediaries.
(Pett)
47. Giving
God makes it plain in the OT that our giving
is connected with the spiritual blessings we
receive
ESV
Giving also includes providing for the needs
of others.
48.
49.
50. That is our responsibility as God’s Church–to
hold each other up, build up one another, to
edify each other.
ESV