Big Churches or small churches?

Bigger is not always better. In our effort to build God's kingdom (the church) we have made many mistakes. The worst mistake of all is taking place now. Growing churches using a flawed model will lead to flawed churches. God's model always works so why change? We do not need bigger churches. We need smaller churches.........many, many more smaller churches. More on this subject in the days to come.......the Lord willing.


S.O.A.P.

3-10-2015      Romans 10:1-4

S.       1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

O.      Israel’s efforts to be righteous, based on their interpretation of God’s law, has fallen short and so God replaced his first law with Grace.

A.      I will walk in God’s Grace and not dishonor the sacrifice made for me on Calvary. I will obey God’s word and submit to the Holy Spirit in whatever way he will lead.

    P.       Father; teach me the path of righteousness, the words, thoughts and deeds of holiness.                        Amen. 

Give to the poor.

7-19-2014      Acts 20:35

S.       35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

O.      Honest words about meeting the needs of others and the ultimate word on giving.

A.      Supporting the weak is more than money. Weakness comes to us when we are afraid, lonely and hurt. Supporting people in these times is just as important as filling their bellies. I will attempt to be there for the ones that are in these difficult times.

P.       Father; I see hurting people in every direction I look. I see hungry people in every direction I look. Guide me by your Holy Spirit in all my efforts to help and support. I am overwhelmed and inadequate for the task. I need you Father to fill me up and then pour me out. Amen.

Staying Put

7-3-2014         Acts 18:9-11

S.       9 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:10 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

O.      In this time of difficulty Paul received a vision that encouraged him to keep going. He remained in this difficult place for 18 months.

A.      God will encourage us in times of difficulty. We should not run from adversity. We should seek God for a fresh “vision” and courage to stay put and win souls.

P.       Father; give me a fresh vision for Tolar, Texas, Hood County, North Texas, America and the whole world. Let me see “beyond the four walls” of my church. Amen.

Trouble is Trouble

6-27-2014      Acts 17:13-15

S.       13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.14 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timothy abode there still.15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timothy for to come to him with all speed, they departed.

O.      Trouble is following Paul from Thessalonica to Berea. Satan will use people to hinder the gospel message every time he can. Moving from place to place spread the message at a fast pace.

A.      I must be prepared for opposition in my ministry. Trouble and opposition are nothing more than proof that I am stirring up Satan. He does not fight or hinder his own followers. Satan must sure hate me. I hope he always will.

P.       Father; I seek more boldness and courage to fight Satan longer and harder than ever. You are my rock and my salvation. I put my trust in you. I renounce my sin and claim Jesus as my Lord. Amen.