Rooted in God's PresenceSample

There should be a discernible difference between the people of God and a community organization that does good deeds. We are not a civic club with a theological background. We are not a theological debate society with a community service component. We are children of the King, and together we comprise His church. Yes, I believe that there is a social component to the gospel. But if all we focus on is the social component and we don’t focus on the power of God to change lives, we forfeit the unique role of the church.

The people of God, the church, are united under the headship of Jesus of Nazareth to be an expression of the power of God and the love of God in our world—a physical, human demonstration of His boundless concern and care for people. Through our fragile earthen vessels, His power is made evident, and we become the invitation system for anyone else who would like to know that story. Out of that will come good deeds, but it all begins with and is based on the transformation of a personal life.

I believe that the contemporary church needs greater clarity of thought and purpose on this. God is not content to allow us to wander in half-hearted, lukewarm ambivalence. He does not want churches that look like just another nonprofit organization. We—as individual believers, local congregations, and the global church—need a new determination to be identified with our Savior. We need a new boldness to stand for the truth of the gospel in ways we haven’t had to stand in our lifetime.

Prayer

Father, please help me to be bold as I stand for the truth of the gospel. I want to be Your light so that others can see Your love and power. Amen.