We have been doing a study on Wednesday nights @ NLCC that has blessed my hubby and I richly! Because of the impact it has had on us and numerous church members ... I wanted to be able to share some of the material we have covered :) Hope you enjoy!
How to View the big Picture!
We know god deoesn't want mindless robots or clones who just "do their master's bidding" out of some sort of duty or obligation; He wants sons and daughters who udnerstand their part in his great plan and who are equipped to serve Him from a heart of love and passion! God is not that interested in church monuments; He is interested in overseeing a Church MOVEMENT!
Scripture look up: Matthew 16:18
Jesus isn't coming back for a weak, divided, strife-filled,backslidden,backbiting,confused and chaotic church; He's coming back for a glorious church (Ephesians 5:25-27) We are all pieces of that church!
I love the way the message puts Ephesians 1 , " ...God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, in charge of running the universe, everthing from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from this rule. And not just the time being , but forever. He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. AT THE CENTER OF ALL THIS, CHRIST RULES THE CHURCH. The church , you see is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church! The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence!"
So How do you find a home church that fits you ?
1. Realize there is NO perfect church! Churches are made up of imperfect people- so although you may not be able to find the perfect church, you can find the church that is perfect for you!
2. Make a list of the things that are important to you! Ask yourself practical, spiritual questions when visiting a church.
3.Look at practical considerations - Is the location of the church convenient enough for you to attend and be involved ... i will say this "it's worth the drive to a church that's alive"
4. Look for foundational requirements - A strong Pastor will have a loving and caring heart like Jesus did when he looked upon the multitudes and saw that they like sheep without a shephers. A strong Pastor will be a servant; his attitude will not be that of a dictator, but that of a servant. A strong pastor will teach and preach the bible, not mans ideas, traditions or doctrines.
5. Look for a church that teaches and equips the believers for the work. The church should be teaching and challenging you to grow up spiritually!
