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

Psalms 129 - God's Holy Family

Feb. 19, 2018 Monday Message:

“May all who hate Zion be turned back in shame.” Psalms 129:5 NIV

3,000 years ago, other countries were constantly attacking Israel. Fortunately, God has always given help to Israel, and they persevered.

For a time, the Jews were scattered and Israel ceased to exist. Then, following WWII, Israel was re-established, and the Hebrew people once again had a homeland. This was the land God first gave the Jews when He moved them from Egypt to the land of milk and honey, the Promised Land.

Whose side are you on? There are those who are for Zion, and those who are against Zion. “Zion” refers to Israel the country, Jerusalem the city, the Jewish people, and in general, all things “God.” God sent all knowledge of Godly things to us through the Hebrew people, and they are to share this knowledge with the world.

The bottom line is that God wants to include you in his Holy family. All who repent and call Jesus “Lord” have a place in God’s house. All who repent and return are beneficiaries of God’s love, forgiveness, care and protection. You can be a part of God’s kingdom both here on earth, and also when you enter the next reality. It’s the right side to be on!

Norton Lawellin

Let’s worship together! Jesus in the City Fellowship meets next Sunday, Feb. 25, 2018, 3249 30^th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406, 10:30 AM. I’ll conclude our journey through Psalms with  #150, the praise & worship psalm. See you at church!

Psalm 48 - Forever and Ever

June 13, 2016 Monday Message:

“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise.” Psalms 48:1a NIV

3000 years ago, many people believed that their god visited earth on the highest mountain. In Psalm 48, the Sons of Korah are declaring Zion the highest mountain, and therefore Yahweh the ultimate God. If you love the Lord, you need no other gods. There is no one higher.

Mankind thinks of mountains as beautiful and majestic – awesome creations. God’s people felt that way about Mount Zion. Interestingly, the city of Jerusalem was built on a hill, so that it would be seen as a beautiful city. A high mountain and an all-powerful God repeatedly struck terror in the hearts of Israel’s enemies. God’s unfailing love protected his faithful followers. We are admonished to convey these truths to the next generation.

“God will be our guide until the end.” The Lord will lead us all the days of our lives. But God’s care, protection and love also extend into the next reality. “For this God is our God forever and ever.” Psalms 48:14 Forever and ever means “always,” and if we believe, love and obey God and his Son Jesus, we will be together for all time.

Norton Lawellin

This Sunday, June 19, 2016, Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) welcomes our New Hope guests to the Akina Church, 3249 30^th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406, 10:30am. Pastor Michael Pilla shares a special word – Isaiah and the Prodigal Son.