THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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In my early years as a pastor, I would print the bulletin, and then we would proof-read them as we folded at home. However, one Christmas season, we were in a hurry and didn't do a good job of proof-reading.
Sunday morning, one of the songs in the order of worship was listed as:
"Good Christian Fiends Rejoice!"
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Philemon 1-2
1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,
2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:
KJV
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Is there a church in YOUR house? Most of us are not like Philemon, we don't have a literal church in our house. Most of us consider home where we can just be ourselves. Now, being Christians, being ourselves, should reflect continuing the responsibilities of being a church.
Keep in mind here the five functions of church: Evangelism, Education, Ministry, Mission and Fellowship.
EVANGELISM
Are all the members of your family saved? Do your neighbors know that your heart's desire is for them to be saved?
DISCIPLESHIP
Are you teaching/living the Bible so that all the members know what is expected of a Christian according to God's Word?
MINISTRY
Are you tending to the spiritual needs of the family?
MISSION
Do you have a "home-plan" to visit and bring others to know Christ as Lord and Savior?
FELLOWSHIP
Is the atmosphere Christ-centered and love-oriented?
Be careful that you do not leave being the church when you leave the church house! Continue in day-to-day life with holiness, diligence, kindness and integrity.
1 Peter 3:15
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
KJV
Love ya,
Bruce