Change the World - Together!

Nov. 25, 2013 Monday Message:

“Go and make disciples of all nations…” (from Matt. 28:19)

Last week we talked about denominational distinctiveness. While each of us may be justifiably proud of our own church, I believe Jesus’ commission would be better served if we put more of our energy and resources into working together with other Christians, concentrating on the many things we have in common, rather than focusing on our differences.                       

So what do we have in common with other believers?

Christians are mono-theistic; that is, we believe there is one God. This God has expressed himself to us as Father-in-heaven, Jesus-on-earth and Holy Spirit advocate, who stands alongside us nowadays.

We believe that the Bible is God-breathed, His inspired Word.

We acknowledge that the world is a sinful place, and we’re part of it. We believe that Jesus died as the sacrifice for our sins, was buried and then bodily resurrected. Our salvation comes from our relationship with the one born of a virgin, Jesus, the one who was without sin. We are saved by grace through faith, and the price Jesus paid to redeem us is once-and-for-all sufficient. Our eternal destiny, heaven, can’t be earned or purchased. Jesus has done the work, the price is paid in full, and we get to spend eternity in the presence of God because we’re with Jesus, the one who ascended into heaven. He will come again.

While not an exhaustive list, these are some things on which all believers can agree. Perhaps, as we carry the Good News to all nations, we should do as Paul suggested: “Be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.” 1 Cor. 1:10b NLT

Now go change the world - together!

Norton Lawellin

Each Sunday Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) meets at 10:30am in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This Sunday, Dec. 01, I’ll open up our Christmas series by returning to Luke Ch. 1. Bring your Bibles!

NL