Welcome Seekers!

For Sunday, December 28, 2025:

Hebrews 12:22 NLT: “You have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to countless thousands of angels in a joyful gathering.”

Seekers are those who have heard about Father, Son and Holy Spirit, but haven’t yet made their decision. But they’re curious. They’re interested. And it’s up to those of us already convinced to “make disciples of all nations.” That’s our assignment from Jesus.

If a church is working right, it should paint an attractive picture for seekers. They should see believers living in harmony with one another. If we’re following God’s plan, he has done away with flaming fire, darkness and gloom. Picture thousands of angels, all with smiles on their faces. God sits at the head-table, accompanied by a flock of believers, all with their names written in the Book of Life! Good times!

We may not have physical angels in our churches, but those present should look like they’re part of the heavenly throng – happy, smiling and conflict free, interested and welcoming, eager to share the Good News, the Gospel.

As believers, we should make it a point to welcome seekers into our midst. Shake their hand, refill their beverage, and invite them back. Do your best to answer their questions, and if you’re not sure, introduce them to someone who does know the answers. Introduce them to your pastor. Say, “See you next Sunday!”

Or say, “See you next time!” Wednesdays work just as well!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

The Father’s House

Jesus In the City Fellowship

Truth & Freedom Church

The Original Rock!

For Thursday, April 13, 2023:

Matthew 16:18 NLT, Jesus speaking to Simon: “Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.”

Peter is a unique character, insatiably curious and wildly impulsive. Remember the night Jesus was arrested and Peter denied knowing Jesus – three times! He could instantly lie to save his own skin! As Jesus was being taken into custody, Peter cut an ear off one of the soldiers, impulsively defending his mentor. Jesus, on his way to the cross, immediately healed that soldier.

Peter’s character traits caused him to constantly seek knowledge, and his impulsive nature spurred him to rapidly put that knowledge to work. He had the spiritual gift of leadership, and he probably would have risen to lead the twelve even if Jesus hadn’t assigned him that position. His get-it-done attitude was perfect for establishing Jesus’ new churches.

Each of us needs to ask ourselves, what are we called to do for Jesus and his church? What are our spiritual gifts? Have we been given the spiritual gift of leadership?

Jesus was fully man and fully God, and when God opens a new church, the powers of hell cannot prevail against it! Peter was guaranteed success!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship