Church

Some people visit the Grand Canyon and all they see is a big hole in the ground. In the same way – some people think of the church and what comes to mind is brick and mortar, worship songs, and programs for kids. They see a building. They see a particular worship style or version of the Bible or labels such as liberal, conservative, or progressive. What did the apostle Paul see when he thought of the church? Jesus. Jesus is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. - Colossians 1:28-29 Professor at Warner University masters in business administration (mba) presenter at the WFX National Conference former president, Church Planters of the Rockies helped start 2 for-profit tech companies…

I’m thankful for church that raised me. I’m also thankful for churches like Mountainview. Neither one is better than other – just different. Every generation of Christ-followers has a responsibility to build, equip, and extend the church in their own time and context.Watch more videos at the Mountainview YouTube channel. Looking for a Speaking Coach? The most successful people are not always the smartest people. But they have one thing in common: they communicate well. I'd love to help you become a better communicator. Click here. Professor at Warner University church planter with Stadia former former president, Church Planters of the Rockies masters in business administration (mba) helped start 2 for-profit tech companies Need a Speaker or Presenter? Interested in having me speak for your church, conference, or organization? Follow this link to learn more.

30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance! - Acts 28:30-31 How could Luke say that Paul taught about Jesus with all boldness and without hindrance? I can understand describing Paul as bold - that's obvious. But how can he say he did so without hindrance? He’s under house arrest. He's not free to travel. In fact, it sounds like he’s in … quarantine! I can think of a few small things that could have hindered Paul and early church. Persecution Opposition Luke is not unaware of the challenges, so what does he mean by this? For one thing, Paul used his time under house arrest wisely. Could you imagine if Paul had Netflix in prison? He might…

30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. - Acts 28:30 While under house arrest in Rome, Paul welcomed all who came to see him. How do you understand this statement? We'd be wrong to simply see it as a matter of hospitality. We'd also be wrong if we quickly reduced it to a church growth strategy. Luke's description of Paul is much deeper than simple hospitality or church growth tactics. What does it mean to welcome all? This is what you do if you follow Jesus. Jesus welcomed saints and sinners, young children and elderly folks. He welcomed religious leaders and prostitutes. Jesus touched lepers and was known as a friend of “tax collectors and sinners.” In the final paragraph in the book of Acts, Luke is reminding us that the early church was simply following…

God’s intent for the church is for it to be a place for all people. Although it began among Jewish believers in Jerusalem, God designed the church to be for all people. Jesus tells his disciples that they will be his witnesses at home and around the world. This also includes places (and people) they would normally avoid – like Samaritans. Revelation 7:9-10 captures the heart of God when it describes “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” The modern, 21st century church must continue to pursue God’s desire to bring together all people.Watch more videos at the Mountainview YouTube channel. Looking for a Speaking Coach? The most successful people are not always the smartest people. But they have one thing in common: they communicate well. I'd love to help you become a better…