Worship Assembly Begins In The Parking Lot
I recently read an interview with Andy Stanley, a minister in North Atlanta, Georgia, who preaches to about 5,000 people each Sunday. At one point the interviewer asked him, “Is your sermon the pivotal event in the service?” Stanley’s response was very perceptive. He...
Knowing God’s Approval
What is the foundation for pleasing God? What must we have for God’s approval? Paul writes “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor un-circumcision means anything, but faith working through love” (Galatians 5:6). God’s approval is not based upon our: Keeping the...
Scriptural Tolerance
T olerance, especially in the academic realm, though not limited to academia is a welcome virtue. Tolerance means being broad-minded, permissive and accepting many different points of view. At best tolerance is being considerate of even contradictory opinions. Thus...
MAINTAING A SPIRITUAL FOCUS
When life throws you off track what should you do? Often our belief in God and our experiences in life don’t always connect. Stated another way, sometimes our response to experiences at home, at school and on the job appear to be the opposite of our faith. When that...
Some Indications Of A Growing Congregation
GROWING CONGREGATIONS have many people who bring their Bibles, and use them. GROWING CONGREGATIONS are filled with praises, and sounds of joy and Thanksgiving. GROWING CONGREGATIONS usually have parking problems. GROWING CONGREGATIONS are moving out by “faith”....
Having A Better Day With God
E very day carries some significant occurance for us. But God should be significant to everyday. James believes that we should focus on God’s will for us everyday. (James 4:13-15). Thus, all time should be viewed as valuable because each day brings its particular...
GOD’S PERFECT LOVE
Most of us have been disappointed by someone we love. The disappointment may have been occasioned by harsh words, a failure to keep a promise, indifference toward our needs, even betrayal or abandonment. The residual effects of those experiences may cause us to have...
God’s Design For Fathers and For All Men
Leo Buscagila reminds us that for many children, this Father’s Day may be a painful reminder that not every family reflects the ideal. In a short, informal activity to prepare second graders for the celebration of Father’s Day, a group of children were asked to...
Christian Living Requires Inward Power
There is a driving force inside of God’s child. Like the cells of a battery, there is an inner strength that motivates the Christian. Our inward power is delivered by our belief that “Christ lives in me…” (Galatians 2:20). If the Spirit of Jesus is within (Romans...
The Blessing of Being Friendly
A warm, friendly “Hello, how are you” “Glad to see you” or any similar greeting, will make people comfortable anywhere. 61st and Division has enjoyed the reputation of being a friendly congregation. We want to strengthen that reputation and to do even more to cause...