“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God…it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart…God knows how much I love you…” (Philippians 1: 3, 7, 8)
What do you think of when you think of church?
What do your unchurched friends think of when someone mentions church?
1. Buildings? There are many different kinds of church buildings all over the world. Some worship facilities are nicer than others. Many people would never go into a traditional church building. Wherever a church meets, though, it is important that the members create an atmosphere that welcomes the unchurched.
2. Music? Too often people equate church with bad music. Music influences culture and society like nothing else. In some Christian circles people are singing songs that are hundreds of years old. There is nothing wrong with old music. At the same time, we must never forget that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. The hymnal is not. Music changes and if we want to reach this generation, we need to take advantage of the power of music to help us. Spirit-anointed worship has the power to touch people’s spirits and emotions in a deep way.
3. Preaching? Sadly, in many places, it is our message that keeps people away. No one wants to have a finger pointed at them, be judged, or told how bad they are. The Holy Spirit is the One who will convict people. When we study the Gospels, we never find Jesus preaching angry sermons against sinners. The only people Jesus really got angry with were the religious leaders! Thankfully, one of the things that we hear a lot from visitors at C3 Church is how our presentation of the Gospel is creative, refreshing, and positive. It is not judgmental but it is challenging.
What comes to mind when you think of church?
For the Apostle Paul, it was people. He thought of his many friends in all of the congregations that he had planted. Paul did not think of buildings, music or preaching. He thought of all the relationships that he had made.
Every church is made up of people. Every person has a story. We all have stories of hurt, stories of courage, stories of healing, and stories of looking for something that is real.
What is your story? How has being a part of a great local church had an impact on your life?
Annie and I are serving the Lord in the United States, Africa, South America, and India. We are training leaders and helping plant churches. Your gift will make a difference in the lives of so many people. Just click here to get involved. Thanks so much!
