Don't Miss It- Community
This message challenges us to examine the very heart of what it means to be a community of believers in a rapidly changing world. At its core, we're reminded that the mission of the church remains eternally fixed—to see the unchurched and the next generation become passionate followers of Christ—while the methods we use to fulfill that mission must continually evolve. Drawing from Acts 15 and the pivotal Council of Jerusalem, we see how the early church faced a defining moment: would they cling to their sacred traditions and make it difficult for Gentiles to come to God, or would they embrace the radical inclusivity of the gospel? James' declaration that 'we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God' becomes our marching orders today. This isn't about compromising truth; it's about removing unnecessary barriers that keep people from encountering Jesus. The parable of the prodigal son reminds us of the Father's posture—always watching, always waiting, filled with compassion rather than condemnation. When we make our political preferences, our stylistic traditions, or our comfort zones more important than reaching the lost, we've turned our mission field into a battlefield. The call is clear: we must be outward-facing, willing to sacrifice our preferences for the sake of those who desperately need to experience the love of Christ. This requires both spiritual commitment and practical investment in ministries that reach beyond our walls.
