Sunday, January 5, 2014

Visiting a Local Congregation

Regular readers are aware that i was involved in the house church movement for many years, but became disillusioned with our lack of spiritual fruit. This wrenching reappraisal has led to a willingness to explore a more traditional approach again if the primary focus is on the Kingdom of God and personal discipleship.
     Today i visited a local church about twenty minutes away. I was actually greeted by a number of people including a elderly lady who inquired how i had become so tall, and a gentleman with whom i conversed at some length. Attended a small group that focused on 1 Peter 1:22 as part of a series on the many "one another" verses that had considerable interaction.
   Then went into the more formal service with a young worship team doing contemporary music. Then the pastor, a man in his mid sixties spoke, first on the finishing touches of a two year eldership process. He invited congregational input specifically any Biblically based character issue of any of the three prospective elders. Throughout there was a blend of humility and fidelity to the Scripture.
   The message focused on the primacy and characteristics of discipleship.He also raised four questions that he is pondering and that we should also examine.
Are we seeking God personally?
Making time for spiritual renewal?
Uniting in prayer for revival and redemption?
Formulating action plan to complete the Great Commission?
     I found the experience refreshing and hope inducing. Over the years i have attended a number of different churches both regular and home types. Seldom have i had something as Word oriented as today.

No comments:

Post a Comment