In the movie “War Room” there is a scene where Miss Clara, who is planning to sell her house, meets the lady who will be her real estate agent. When Miss Clara asks Elizabeth Jordan if she goes to church, she replied “occasionally.” Miss Clara’s “comeback” – “Is that because your pastor only preaches occasionally?” – is not only humorous, but it is also convicting. I remember Karen’s father saying that there might be as many Christians in Montreal who stay at home on Sunday as those who attend church. In many cases, this isn’t because they no longer believe, but rather because they were disappointed or hurt by people in church.
The Bible clearly addresses the question “Should we attend church regularly?” The writer to the Hebrews exhorts the believers in the first century to not forsake meeting together (10:25). The second part of this verse refers to encouraging one another. When I think of encouragers in the Bible, two people come to mind: Caleb and Barnabas. Karen and I are blessed to have several encouragers in ministry and elsewhere, for whom we thank the Lord.
I find it helpful when a sermon or commentary includes several points that start with the same letter. For example, in his book “Be Right,” Warren W. Wiersbe writes that the apostle Paul presented his credentials, expressed his concern and affirmed his confidence in the first chapter of his epistle to the believers in Rome.
Thought for the weekend: “God does not save people on the basis of birth or behavior. He saves them “by grace, through faith (Eph. 2:8-9).” – Warren W. Wiersbe (from his book “Be Right”)
In His grace,
Steve