Members or Disciples?

Typically, the size of a church is determined by the number of members it has. A “member” describes a person who has made a confession of faith in Christ and has also committed themself to be a part of that congregation. While membership in a local church is very important in our spiritual lives, it is good for us to remember that when Jesus walked the earth his primary call was to discipleship. While being a member of a church and a disciple of Jesus Christ share many of the same characteristics, it is good for us to remind ourselves of the radical nature of Christ’s invitation to be his disciple.

The word disciple means “follower”. In Jesus’ day a teacher would gather disciples who would live with him. The purpose of this close and ongoing contact was that the life of the disciple would become like that of the teacher.

As we continue to study the Gospel of Mark, this Sunday we are going to delve into what Jesus meant when he invited people to follow him. We’ll find it is so much more than being a member of an organization. Rather, it is an invitation to a lifestyle which touches every area of our lives. Being a disciple of Jesus challenges, corrects and molds those who follow him. Above all, it is an invitation to go on a never-ending adventure with him. Join us for one of our weekend services and start on your adventure with Jesus!

Saturday evening worship: 6:00 pm
Sunday morning worship: 10:00 am

Measured Miracles

Jesus did some eye-popping miracles causing a variety of reactions. Some people claimed he was a witch doctor. Others said he was a snake oil salesman. Still others totally misunderstood why he performed the miracles and got mad at him for not doing more. It is no wonder Jesus spoke about miracles in a very measured way.

While he claimed the power to do any and every kind of supernatural feat, typically Jesus reserved his miracles for private situations, and even then did everything to keep people from broadcasting what he had done in order to avoid gawkers and others looking for entertainment.

The reaction to miracles among Christians today is as mixed as it was then. Some question if miracles still happen. Others wonder if there is a need for them. And a whole lot of believers would like to know what’s keeping them from experiencing a miracle!

This Sunday we are going to be studying two events in the ministry of Christ which give us a glimpse of how he saw and used his miraculous powers. If you’ve been wondering about the role of miracles in the 21st century, join us for one of our weekend services.

Saturday evening worship: 6:00 pm
Sunday morning worship: 10:00 am