What’s Next?

What’s Next?

We live in an awesome season of opportunity as Christians. I say this often, and I believe it with all my heart.

The division that has taken place over the last 100 years is shrinking because of the story of Jesus. This is happening because of two very important principles.

First, ministries are moving back to the teaching of the Gospel. The story of Jesus. His birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension.

This, and only this, is what the Apostles used to win the early converts, and build the church across the known world. Confirming who He was from the Old Testament, and confirming His Kingdom authority with signs and wonders.

Secondly, people are being encouraged to pray. I recently addressed that issue at Amazing Life Church. We have focused on prayer for years, but I felt prompted to encourage folks to set a daily appointment to pray.

I am in my third year of setting an appointment to pray each morning, and it has changed my life.

Some of us old guys from the 70’s are having a hard time dealing with the culture of the day we live in.

We went to church twice on Sunday, and often 3 or 4 times during the week. Yes we worked, raised kids, and did all this as well.

Today we minister to people who watch church on the computer. On television and You Tube.

Some congregations may be small, but if they work within the culture of today, they can reach hundreds and yes, even thousands.

It is not compromising. It is ministry. The message is still the same. Our ministry, our churches, are all about Jesus.

With all that said, there is nothing like the local church, and the family relationship that occurs when you gather together with a unified purpose.

Every Christian should be a part of a local church in their community. Making friends, meeting needs. Developing relationships that will last forever. Bonding with someone in prayer. Becoming prayer partners to call upon the Father to meet a need. Open a door, and reveal Him to those who do not know Him.

Pastors are there to teach and reveal Jesus. Helping their congregations to grow in Kingdom authority. Learn to walk in His presence, and tell your story to help someone else.

Pastors are there to visit in hospitals, nursing homes, and yes, even bring comfort when someone dies.

Pastors and their teams work together to reach their communities, strengthen their congregations, and make disciples of followers of Christ.

I love the new stuff. At Amazing Life Church we use every opportunity to reach people for Christ. Sermons on line. Welcome videos and gifts for first time guests.

Visit our website for more info.

I write blogs. Especially when I read something that attempts to diminish the value of the local church. I will address it with a very passionate response.

I love the local church.

It is the heart and soul of every community. Breathing life, and light to advance the Kingdom of God.

The most important thing to remember is that God has not changed.

In our attempt to be relevant, we sometimes make these subtle changes in the message to satisfy a changing culture.

Let me offer some advice, for whatever it is worth to you.

Keep the message pure. Tell the story of Jesus. His birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension.

It is as powerful today as it was over 2000 years ago.

And don’t forget. If you are not already a part of a local church in your community, find one. It will enrich your Christian life.

#inHisname