We have been examining the fundamental reasons for pursuing a path of revitalization and rebuilding over the last 3 weeks.
The first reason we must pursue this path is "for the glory of God"
The second reason we must pursue this path is "for the good of God's people"
The third reason we must pursue this path is "for the Great Commission"
Yesterday (without the AC) we examined this reason by answering 4 questions:
First, what in the world is God doing?
Answer: God is actively seeking, drawing, redeeming, and bringing a people out of all nations to live in fellowship with Himself conforming them to the image of His Son for the purpose of sharing in His glory for all eternity by means of His chosen instruments, the church, through the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ so that He might display His glory to them and through them so that they might worship, serve, and praise Him in all His majesty, splendor, brilliance, power, and supremacy for all eternity.
Second, Where are we headed?
Answer: Revelation 5:9-12
Third, how has God ordained for this reality to come to pass?
Answer: Matthew 28:16-20 and Acts 1:8 - we get to participate in God's plan of redemption for the nations
Fourth, what does that look like in moving forward?
Answer: When we look at our organization & structure (ministries, programs, worship service, Sunday school, committees, outreach, etc.), are we being effective in making disciples?
We want to see:
- people growing in their love for Jesus
- people growing in their love for each other
- people growing in their love for neighbors
- people involved in opportunities of ministry
- people involved in small groups (Sunday school) growing together in Christ by engaging God's Word
- people taking personal responsibility for their spiritual growth
- people seeing themselves as missionaries wherever they are
Question we must consistently ask as we apply this to our church: How does this ("this" referring to any program, committee, decision, etc.) help us make disciples?
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