This Week – May 19, 2013

This week marks the first anniversary of our departure from our historic property. During this time:

1.     People continue to come to new life in Christ and join our church.

2.     Even though we have had to be flexible about meeting in different locations for worship and classes and conferences, etc., still our life together continues in joy and godly fervor.

3.     Our ministries have continued and with stronger links with other churches than ever before.

4.     Our staff has fine offices in two locations.

5.     Our two newest daughter churches have become established.

6.     We are being given the fresh opportunity to consider WHO we are, WHY we are, HOW we are doing, and WHERE we are headed – this is exciting.

7.     Some ministries have suffered setbacks and particular hardship. However, they are not discouraged – simply seeking new avenues and means to carry on and grow.

8.     We have received further confirmation that the courts are not likely to reverse last year’s ruling.

9.     We have vigorously pursued new properties where we might eventually locate, and there is, in fact, some encouragement about this.

If you want to know why we have been willing to lose our property and move ahead into an uncertain, unclear future, there are three core reasons:

1.     The uniqueness of Jesus. He is the only incarnate, risen Son of God, reigning over all.

“Jesus . . . [is] the cornerstone, there is salvation in no one else for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:11 & 12

2.     The scriptures are true. We must trust and obey what God has said to us.

“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16

3.     We could no longer comfortably remain in a denomination that has departed from fundamental Christian teaching.

“If you wander beyond the teaching of Christ you will not have fellowship with God.” 2 John 9

Let us thank God for his goodness and faithfulness to meet our needs. He will guide us in the days ahead.