New Church Struggles

<p>Recap from last week</p><p>Focus on the challenge to become more like Jesus – determination and how? Growing, stretching, and being challenged: </p><ol><li>Listening to Jesus and doing what he says John 10: 17 – not just our good ideas</li><li>Being kind to others, especially those who are not of the faith – Hebrews 10:23-25</li><li>Not forsaking the gathering together – how do you interpret that?</li></ol><p>The focus on how the church started in Corinth</p><ol><li>Meets refugees</li><li>Disciples them by working together – real Bible School!</li><li>When his support team arrives, he dedicates himself to full time ministry (who do we support?)</li><li> Intercultural church and division</li><li>Not seeking separation but unity in the Gospel</li><li>Continued investment in others, reaching out into the community.</li></ol><p>The challenge of a growing church.</p><ol><li>The word of God grows – life begins at conception and continues for the Christian without end</li><li>The body of Christ will never die</li><li>Healing and life flow from the Father who loves all</li><li>The challenge is to be able to incorporate differences: Gentile and Jew</li><li>God doesn’t back down from challenges</li><li>The author of the church is Jesus and it is his responsibility: “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.” Matthew 16:18</li><li>Growth happens through relationships</li><li>The goal is encountering Jesus face to face: looking for his coming. This is our hope.</li></ol><p>How will you grow in Jesus this year? Tune your ears and listen to his words. Trust him and obey him!</p>