The Church: A People With A Place & Purpose

 

Title: The Church: A People With A Place & Purpose

1 Peter 2: 4-10

I found this: You may not agree with all of it: I thought it was a good way to introduce the message this morning:

This is my church. It is composed of people just like me. It will be friendly if I am. It will do a great work if I work. It will make generous gifts to many causes if I am generous. It will bring others into its fellowship if I bring them. Its seats will be filled if I fill them. It will be a church of loyalty and love, of faith and service. If I who make it what it is, am filled with these, Therefore, with God’s help, I dedicate myself to the task of being all these things I want my church to be.

Theme: If you were to describe the church, how would it be?

I believe Peter has the best description in his first letter to his readers in Asia Minor: To him the church was….

 

A PEOPLE – 1 Peter 2:9 (Read) 

 

The church is more than just a building, or a place of religious identify, we are a people.

1. And more than that we are a chosen people.

(The ekklesia – The called out ones – to be His children/servants. 

2. We are a priesthood – a bridge for the cause of Christ to the world. We are a holy – or set apart people to perform the purposes of God. We are not to play with the world.

3. And the one thing we need to always remember is that we are a people who belong to God. We are not our own, but we are His people.

 

There is a famous story of a Spartan King who boasted to a visiting monarch about the walls of Sparta.

1.      The visiting monarch looked around and could see no walls.

2.      He said to the Spartan king: “Where are these walls about which you boast so much?”

3.      His host pointed to his bodyguard of magnificent troops.

4.      “These, he said, “are the walls of Sparta!”

5.      “Every man a brick.”

 

Peter brings out in this passage that we as Christians are “living stones” who are put in place to make a spiritual house.

1.      We have a place with God, with His people.

2.      Satan wants to destroy this spiritual house. When things go wrong, or get slow, he wants us to quit. And crumble.

 

Ts. Peter also describes the church as having….

 

A PURPOSE – 1 Peter 2:9b (Read)

 

I like how Peter describes the church here…(We are) “His own special people..” How does it feel to be thought of as “special”

1. In this world, people make other people feel small.

2. Growing up, have you ever been chosen last a number of times.

3. How did that make you feel? Not very good, I’m sure.

4. God chose us to be with Him (before the foundation of the world. (Eph. 1:4) That should make us feel very good.

 

But God chose us to fulfill a purpose for our lives. What is that?

1. “To proclaim the praises of Him (God) who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”
2. God rescued us through Jesus Christ from the darkness and destruction of sin, to share in His grace and glory.
3. People need to hear about this. So they will turn to God.

 

A Pastor was making a wooden trellis to support a climbing vine.

As he was pounding away, he noticed that a little boy was watching him. The youngster didn’t say a word, so the preacher kept on working, thinking the lad would leave. But he didn’t.

Please at the thought that his work was being admired, the pastor said: “Well son, trying to pick up some pointers or gardening.”

No replied the boy, “I’m just waiting to hear what a preacher says when he hits his thumb with a hammer.”

The world is watching & listening to see what kind of people we are. Are we praising God for what He has done for us in our lives, not only by what we say, but how we live?

 

Ts. Finally Peter describes the church has having…

 

A PROVISION – 1 Peter 2:10

Like the nation of Israel we were people who needed God’s provision of mercy.

1.      We needed to be saved from the chains of sin, and the penalty of selfish disobedience.

2.      God provided that through His Son Jesus Christ.

3.      Now we are a people with a precious provision.

4.      The mercies of God, and the gift of eternal life.

 

In a courtroom, when a person is found guilty, he or she faces punishment.

1.      But the wonderful thing about God’s courtroom is that when we admit our guilt, we are offered mercy!

2.      We are all guilty and face an eternal life-sentence of death.

3.      Yet the penalty for sin is meted out only to those who refuse to acknowledge their sin, and who reject God’s forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

 

Conclusion: Peter wanted his readers (and us) to know for a fact that through the Lord Jesus Christ, we are the people of God, with a purpose, and a provision. Have you claimed your right to be apart of God’s family. Have you made Jesus Savior, and Lord of your life? You can today!

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Pastor Gary Patterson 

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MOMENTS FOR MARRIAGE

 

MOMENTS FOR MARRIAGE 

 Here is a collection of post-articles from The Christian Journeyman Blog-site that has some encouragement for married couples today. 

TOGETHER FOREVER 

Matthew 19:5-6  

What do Canadian geese and Swans have to say to married couples today? Jesus said: "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."(Matthew 19:6) Here in this post-article, we look at what Jesus has to say to married couples today! 

(Please Click Link Below)

Together Forever

DWELLING TOGETHER 

I Peter 3:7

If there is one thing that is missing in our society today, it is mutual respect and consideration. Selfishness has become too saturated and dominant in our society today. If we see it strongly displayed in marriage, it's no wonder we see it standing out, in society. 

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Dwelling Together

THE APOSTLE PAUL'S RELATIONSHIP TRIANGLE

1 Corinthians 13:13 

There are different illustrations of what is called: "The Relationship Triangle" The one the Apostle Paul describes, in our text, is one that not only speaks to the priority elements of a successful relationship, but to the marks of spiritual maturity. 

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The Apostle Paul's Relationship Triangle

DUMPING DIVORCE

1 Corinthians 7:10-11

Marriage, by the command of our Lord Jesus Christ, is for life. "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate." (Matthew 19:6b) 

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Dumping Divorce

LOVE IS SOMETHING WE DO

Deuteronomy 6:5 

I remember a song that was recorded by Clint Black entitled:"Something That We Do" The most important relationship of our lives, is our relationship with God, our Heavenly Father. And with every relationship, the words of this song recorded by Clint Black apply. 

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Love Is Something We Do

MOMENTS FOR MARRIAGE

A Collection of Post-Articles Dealing With The Subject Of Marriage.

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The Christian Approach - TCJ Post-Article 3/13/2023

 The Christian Approach  - By Pastor Gary Patterson 

  

"You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust." (Matthew 5:43-45) 

  I have seen it too often that Christians deal with difficult people a lot like those of the world. There seems to be no love demonstrated when there is conflict. We fight for the rights that are ours, and refuse to come to a healthy resolution of the problems at hand. Following a heated confrontation there is only bitter feelings, and a sad, sickening standoff between the parties involved. Many have taken their bitter feelings toward others, to their graves. Is this the approach Jesus wants us to take, in dealing with difficult people, and difficult circumstances? 

According to our text, it certainly isn't. You say, "It's hard to love difficult people. It's hard to love those who want to take advantage of you, or take it out on you because of the negative situation they are in." Or a disagreement in regards to how a situation should be handled. 

I don't care, whether it is in a relationship with someone, a family, a community, and yes a church. There is going to be disagreements and conflict. 

 But what is missing in our handling of such matters? According to Jesus, it is love! Look at what He says: "love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who spitefully use you." Someone would say: "Are you kidding me, I can't do those things!" I can't treat people better than they have treated me!" "If I am hurt, than I am going to hurt back, I am going get revenge and retribution. 

But then the question comes: 'Who are we as Christians to please? The Lord, Or ourselves? 

 But another question that we should look at is: "Why should we do the things that Jesus instructs us to do, in dealing with difficult people?"  

I believe that love is a virtue that has the power to resolve things quicker, and produces positive results. If a person knows, that even in the conflict they are loved, and cared about, they will make an effort to meet someone at least half-way. Love will in time, provide a way for resolution, healing, and a building of future respect and support. 

If there is ever a time where this is needed, it is now. 

  With all of the controversy and conflict going on in our Country, love for one another is what is needed so desperately today. So why not try Jesus' approach? With love, we cannot lose. And even if things do not get better, at least we know that we did the best we could. 

 As the apostle Paul wrote to Christians at Rome: "If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men." (Romans 12:18) And in so doing, we can have peace. GP 

The Look Of Leadership TCJ Five Part Series

 

THE LOOK OF LEADERSHIP 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones. Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the first fruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine." (Proverbs 3:5-10) 

Introduction: What does a Christian leader look like? Maybe a better question is: What are the characteristics of a true Christian leader? In what Solomon writes in our text, we find what could be the best criteria for what Christian leadership looks like. Of course when we speak of 'Christian leadership" we are looking at those who show forth the characteristics of our Lord Jesus Christ, as they lead others in the path of the Christian journey, and Christian service. At the top of this post-article, we find from Solomon's writing some very good characteristics of a Christian leader. 

So in answering the question: What does a Christian leader look like? 

Let's look at the first characteristic. 

THE LOOK OF LEADERSHIP - PART ONE

Introduction/Table Of Contents

The Look Of Faith - Proverbs 3:5

(Please Click Link Below) 

The Look Of Faith (5)

THE LOOK OF LEADERSHIP - PART TWO

The Look Of Submission - Proverbs 3:6

(Please Click Link Below) 

The Look Of Submission (6)

THE LOOK OF LEADERSHIP - PART THREE

The Look Of Humility - Proverbs 3:7

(Please Click Link Below) 

The Look Of Humility (7)

THE LOOK OF LEADERSHIP - PART FOUR

The Look Of Purity - Proverbs 3:7b

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The Look Of Purity (7b)

THE LOOK OF LEADERSHIP - PART FIVE

The Look Of Responsibility - Proverbs 3:8-10

Conclusion 

(Please Click Link Below) 

The Look of Responsibility (8-10)

Conclusion. The Look of Leadership from Proverbs 3:5-10 involves: 

The Look Of Faith (5) 

The Look Of Submission(6) 

The Look Of Humility (7) 

The Look Of Purity (7b) 

The Look Of Responsibility (8-10) 

I hope this series "The Look Of Leadership" has been a blessing to you.

Being A Blessing (By Gary Patterson)

 Being A Blessing (1 Peter 4:8-11) 

It's an old story, but its truth transcends time. 

 A little four-year-old boy became frightened late one night during a thunderstorm. After one particularly loud clap of thunder, he jumped up from his bed, ran down the hall, and burst into her parent's room. Jumping right in the middle of the bed, he sought out her parent's arms for comfort and reassurance. "Don't worry, son" his father said, trying to calm his fears. "The Lord will protect you. "The little boy snuggled closer to his father and said, 

"I know that, Daddy, but right now I need someone with some skin on!" 

Theme: Everyone wants to be cared about. They want someone with skin on, to be there for them. It is a comfort to know that there are people that will be there for you, when life takes a turn for the worse. In this season when we are encouraged to “Count our blessings” What about “Being A Blessing?”  In 1 Peter 4:8-11, Peter shows us three ways that we can be a blessing to others: 

BY OUR MUTUAL LOVE (1 Peter 4:8) 

Main Thought: This word “fervent” is like an athlete straining to reach his/her goal. It speaks of the eagerness and intensity. The strong desire to be a blessing to others. Love is the circulatory system of the church. Without hindrance, its builds unity & stability. This fervent love covers sin. This type of love, motivates Christian people to forgive & forget offences against themselves. To cover those offenses, is to let go of them. To release them, instead of making them of source of gossip and community criticism. 

When we think of all the wonders of God’s magnificent creation, We can be especially awed by the giant sequoia tree. These amazing trees of the forest can grow to around 300 feet tall with a diameter that exceeds 20 feet. They can live over 3,000 years and are even fire resistant. In fact, forest fires pop the sequoia cones open, distributing their seeds on the forest floor that has been fertilized by the ashes. Perhaps the most amazing fact is that these trees can grow in just 3 feet of soil and withstand high winds. Their strength lies in the fact that their roots intertwine with other sequoias, providing mutual strength and shared resources. What gives the church the stability it needs to endure, and to be a mighty witness in this world today? It is our mutual love: Together-we love Jesus Christ. Together- we love each other. We forgive, and we forget, and we keep on ministering to one another.  

OUR MUTUAL HOSPITALITY (1 Peter 4:9) 

Main Thought: When we think of hospitality, we think of people opening up their homes to others. But it is more than this: It is: Opening up our hearts and lives to benefit others. 2. in our busy lives, its easy to (NOT) be aware of the needs of others. To give a listening ear, a helping hand, an encouraging word, means more to people, than we realize at times. 

Bill Crowder writes: In 1987, our family moved to California to take up the pastorate of a church in the Long Beach area. The day we flew into town, my secretary picked us up at the airport to take us to our house.  As we pulled into traffic, the very first thing I saw was a bumper sticker that read: “Welcome To California . . . Now Go Home!” It was not exactly a warm and cheery welcome to sunny southern California! I wonder if there might be occasions in our lives when we send similar signals to people around us. Whether we are at church, in the neighborhood, or at social gatherings, are there times when we fail to make others feel welcome in our world? 

BY OUR MUTUAL MINISTRY (1 Peter 4:10-11) 

Main Thought: Please never forget: The spiritual gifts God gives to us, are to be used for ministry to others. If we are looking for opportunities to shine in the lime light, that is the wrong motive & purpose. As we are all standing in the grace of God, we must take advantage of every opportunity to minister the manifold grace of God to others. In v. 11 Peter tells us of two ways to do this. By our speech – Encouragement from the Word of God. By our service – In God’s care & strength/not fear. And in all we say, and do, may God get the glory/not us! 

An anthropologist, while in a small village made up a game for the children. His idea was to create a race for a basket of fruit and candy that he placed near a tree. When he gave the signal to run, no one made a dash for the finish line. Instead the children joined hands and ran together. (Why?) “How could one of us be happy, when all the others would be sad?” 

(How can we be a blessing to help others to be happy?) 

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How To Live And Work Together (By Gary Patterson)

 How To Live & Work Together (Romans 15:1-7) 

 How Can you talk about snow in August – To make a point. 1. Snowflakes are beautiful – yet a force to be reckoned with. 2. They can shut down major cities – beautiful landscapes. 3. Provide pleasure on ski-slope, snowmen, snowballs. 4. All because: “They Stick together” 

Theme: How can we live and work together in the body of Christ? 

In Romans 15:1-7 the Apostle Paul gives us some insight. 

Verse 1=”We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” Right away there are two things Paul shares with his readers. 1. Those who are strong spiritually are to help the weak. 2. We are not on the same level spiritually, so instead of losing our patience, and becoming severely critical and judgmental, we need to show long-suffering toward those who are not as mature. Ill. Have you as a parent ever lost patience with your child and asked him or her “When are you going to grow up?” And then they do, and we wish that we had the time back. (Spiritual maturity takes time) 

Verse 2= “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.” 

1. Why are we involved in power struggles: Competition? 2. Why be like the world and climb the ladder of success? 3. Paul says there is to be none of that. Than what? 4. Edification is to be the focus of the members Ill. Why do we like sugar or salt in our diet? Because they compliment our food. They make it taste better. Encouragement compliments the body of Christ, and helps the members to want to progress in their spiritual development. 

Verse 3= “For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, 

“The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on Me.” 1. Paul here quotes Psalm 69:9 – the attitude of Messiah. 2. Jesus did not come to earth for His benefit, but for ours. “Out of the ivory palaces, into a world of woe, only His great eternal love, made my Savior go.” We have and example to follow. 

Verse 4=”For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” 

1. It is a comfort to have the teachings & example of Christ. 2. We can imitate His humility, love, & servant-hood. 3. We are operate by principle, not by passion=peace Ill. Have you ever tried to put some together without the instructions? That’s what the world is doing without the Bible. There is comfort & hope in knowing we have a guide to help us have direction. Especially in our relationships. 

Verse 5=”Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus. 1. The goal of our Christian Fellowship – to be like-minded. 2. We are all different – Personalities & abilities. 

3. Even though we differ, we are to strive to be like Christ. 4. To answer Q. How am I like Christ to you? You to me? 5. The more low-minded we are like Christ, the more like-minded we will be in Christ. (Apply the Scriptures) 

Verse 6= “that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1. The key to having one mouth, is to have one heart. 

2. Together we life the Lord up for the world to see. 3. When the world of sin and immorality looks at our fellowship, they will say: “Wow, they really mean it when they say they love, God, and value Him over everything in this whole world.” 

(The love of God is seen in fellowship) 4. It’s not just said with our lips, but with our lives. 

Verse 7= “Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God.” It can go either way, and it does. Prejudices from both the weak, and the strong Christian. Weak- inferiority, Strong- pride, ego. 1. No matter where we are in our Spiritual development, we are to accept each other in Christ. We must remember where we were, when Jesus found us, and delivered us. Jesus was kind to us. 2. The only way we can have, what God has to offer, is that Jesus says we can have it. If Christ receives us, how can we be un-kind, and not accept each other with the same grace? 

From 200 miles above Earth, Chris Hadfield, Canadian astronaut and commander of the International Space Station, joined in song with a group of students in a studio on Earth. Together they performed 

“Is Somebody Singing,” co-written by Hadfield and Ed Robertson. One phrase of the song caught my attention: “You can’t make out borders from up here.” Although we humans draw many lines to separate ourselves from one another—national, ethnic, ideological—the song reminded me that God doesn’t see such distinctions. The important thing to God is that we love Him and each other 

(Mark 12:30-31).

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