Accepted

The “local church” offers wonderful benefits:

1.   A sense of belonging

2.   An opportunity to use spiritual gifts

3.   Built-in accountability

4.   Organization or structure for ministry

5.   Fellowship for your entire family

6.   A precedent that is set for your children

7.   An opportunity to give for the work of the Lord

The Church at Ephesus was one of many early churches during the first century.  These needs were essential for the new believer, especially knowing what persecution they experienced.

God calls us NOT to solitary sainthood but to the “fellowship of the saints.”  As Paul said, “Many members, but one body!”

Remember, the Church isn’t so much a place where we go, but it is more so “who we are!”

Also, the local church is only viable if it is the outgrowth of a tremendous “purpose.”  What is our purpose or reason for existence?

1.   To evangelize

2.   To worship our God together

3.   To provide loving care for its members and non members

4.   To train our people for ministry

5.   To provide healthy fellowship

6.   To support the family structure.

7.   To be the light of the lord in a dark world

This “purpose” can be summed-up in our new mission statement:  “Loving God, Loving others and serving Him in our community.”