Can a ladder help you get over ‘a fence’?
Jesus said that “offenses” come (Luke 17:1). In fact, He said that it is impossible that they not come. That is quite a statement from Jesus.
On this BACK TO CHURCH Sunday, we are going to talk about offenses. As we are trying to reach people who do not actively participate in church, we have to deal with the number one reason why people do not attend church. They claim that they were “offended”.
It is true, you will get offended in church. Why? Because a church has people. People who are trying to serve Jesus but are still a work in process. So, these people who are not perfect yet will offend you. We have to learn how to get over offenses because Jesus said it is impossible for offenses not come.
I am going to show you what to do when you get offended. I am going to give you step by step (like a ladder) instructions on how to get over the ‘a fence’ (offense). We are going to find out what our number one goal should be when we are offended. I believe the Holy Spirit is going to do some amazing things this Sunday.
Why B-Groups?
Life change happens in the context of relationships
We are designed for relationships. Relationships define us, grow us, challenge us, strengthen us, and bless us. While our culture devalues personal relationships, Scripture requires them.
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
—Acts 2:42–47 NIV84
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
—Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 NIV84
“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
—Hebrews 10:25 NIV84
At ENC, we believe our church must grow both larger and smaller at the same time.
ENC is committed to the original mission to go and make disciples of all nations. We desire to reach the unchurched, the lost, and the prodigals. However, as we grow larger, we will continue to grow smaller by connecting people in B-Groups. B-Groups are the most effective way to connect people to relationships, provide ministry, and facilitate spiritual growth.
“And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: ‘Jesus is the Messiah’.”
—Acts 5:42 NLT
Join a B-Group this Sunday. Most of them will last for 3 months (September, October, and November). There will be lists in the foyer and they ARE NOW available on the website and app.
We are believing to connect 1000 people to Jesus Christ and His Church.
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