Ridgell's Originals

 I am convinced that right now in our culture there is a great opportunity to make disciples for Jesus. 

Here are three reasons why.

Many people are disturbed and frightened by the hate in our country.  Hate expressed in politics.  Hate seen in racism.  Hate seen in the abuse of those on the fringes.  God is love.  The gift of Jesus is an act of love.  The greatest commands for disciples are to love God and love our neighbors.  In a world of hate we are going to love.  The nationality does not matter.  Nor does the economic status.  Nor the race.  That sacrificial love draws people.

The pandemic.  Economic difficulty.  Addictions.  Relationship struggles.  Lonliness.  Isolation.  Our world is full of pain from these issues.  Jesus offers forgiveness, healing, reconciliation, support, and community.  Exactly what this world needs.  And wants.  

Who even knows what is right or wrong anymore.  Not our culture.  Morals change every few years.  What was right may be seen as wrong and what was considered wrong is now accepted.  Trying to form a world view when everything you believe may be different tomorrow.  And here comes our conviction to stand on truth.  To stand on the Bible as God's word.  People want and need certain truth.  We have it.

Disclaimer:  I know there are Christians and churches that engage in hateful behaviors and do not see them as wrong.  Nor do they see a need to repent.  I know that some Christians have not done well in living forgiveness and healing.  And I know there are churches that can teach you ways to interpret Scripture so there is not much difference between them and the culture around them.

But this I am convinced of...

Churches that hold up love as the standard will draw people to Jesus.

Churches that really live in community together will draw people to Jesus.

Churches that are clear on what they believe -- and why they believe -- will draw people to Jesus.

I think we have been called for such a time as this.

Let's tell people the good news.

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM