March 31, 2006

 

Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers…who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

 

--Acts 13:1-3

 

My friend, we have come to a critical time for the church of Jesus Christ. It’s important that we grasp our purpose, which is to go outside the walls of our churches to bring in those who are so desperately searching for forgiveness, acceptance, and love.

 

In your church, beware of being driven by tradition, personalities, finances, stale faith, programs, and buildings. I’ve said it before and it still remains truer than ever…the church is not the buildings, it’s the people.

 

As a member of God’s family, you and I must determine that we are going to advance His kingdom by obeying His command to go into the world and preach, teach, and baptize in His name.

 

Jesus tells us in Matthew 28:19 to “Go…and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit….”

 

I challenge you to pray and fast with a burden for people who don’t know Christ, and to use your spiritual gifts to reach out to others each day.

 

WE MUST GO BEYOND THE WALLS OF OUR CHURCHES TO BRING IN THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW THE LORD.