Here's another quote from Everyday Church by Chester and Timmis: We often talk of a “good church.” When people move to a new area, we may commend a local church as a “good church,” but what criteria do we use to make such an assessment? Preaching? Youth work? Music? For Peter a good church is … Continue reading Good Church
Not Small Group
Life Teams ought to be gospel communities. Here's a great passage from Everyday Church by Chester and Timmis which contrasts gospel communities with traditional small groups. Gospel communities are not like house groups, Bible study groups, pastoral groups, or ministry teams. House groups obviously vary hugely, and yours may function very much like a gospel … Continue reading Not Small Group
All Have Fallen
Paul called the church, "the pillar and foundation of the truth." As the pillar, the church holds the truth of God's word up for the world to see. As the foundation, the church gives substance to the truth of that message as we live together in loving community. So, to fulfill our function as the … Continue reading All Have Fallen
In a Foxhole
When we say that we're "sharing life," we're being intentionally ambiguous kind of like this picture. Like the faces pointing in, we're sharing our lives. According to St. James, the kingdom of God operates under one law, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (James 2:8). Of course we can't do that from a distance and so … Continue reading In a Foxhole
Let There Be Light!
It's more than sad that Christians have a reputation for being hypocritical. As the light of the world, Christ came to reveal and to expose. All who come into his light must simultaneously become more authentic and more pure. We can only do this when we believe enough in the potency of his blood to … Continue reading Let There Be Light!
Stand Up, Church
Christ said, "On this rock, I will build my church." (Matt. 16:18) Paul wrote that, "His (God's) intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to His eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." … Continue reading Stand Up, Church
Love Hurts
Consumerism in church is more dangerous than most of us know. Not only does it siphon off the missional focus which Christ gave us and which legitimizes our existence, it strips the church of its ability to produce Christlike disciples. According to Paul, the church grows as all of the members speak the truth in love. … Continue reading Love Hurts
Pleasant Street is Gone 