Mission Statement:
Romans 8:29 (ESV) For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
The goal of discipleship is for our whole life to look like Jesus.
Colossians 1:28-29 (ESV) Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.
Ecosystem of Maturity / Transformation
Transformation happens in relationship with Jesus (discipleship).
What is the church’s role in this growth, maturity, and transformation?
“We create environments that cultivate relationship with Jesus”
Environments: Worship— Community—Serving
Transformation is Relational
John 15:1-8 (ESV) “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.”
Galatians 5:22-23a (ESV) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…
You cannot have the life God promises without God’s presence.
The goal of discipleship is to “root” / “build” our life entirely around Jesus’ presence and Word. This is the life that abides in Him and His Word and bears much fruit. If you truly live this discipleship, you will be transformed, and there will be evidence (fruit).
- Worship
The purpose of cultivating our worship environment is direct our attention and affection directly toward the Lord Jesus, practicing what it means to experience His presence and hear His voice, nurtured in practices of Spirit, Scripture, and Sacraments, in order that we live our everyday lives attentive to His presence and voice, affectionate in love and worship throughout the week. The goal of our worship gatherings is not just the gathering itself, but training us how to recognize God’s presence, mature our intimate connection with Him, and remain attentive to His voice shepherding our lives. This is how our lives continue to be transformed beyond the gathering of the church for worship.
We create worship environments for people to encounter God and be moved to respond.
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV) And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV) And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Our habit of gathering on the first day of the week makes a statement about your priorities. When we prioritize our worship by gathering on the first day of the week, overcoming the obstacles and inconveniences, directing our feelings and emotions toward the Lord, we make a statement about what is most important to us: our relationship with God.
Church is not an event you go to, it is a family to belong to.
Romans 8:29 (NLT) For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.