Fellowship in Chairs
Principles of a Healthy Church • Sermon • Submitted
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· 4 viewsOne of the essential principles in fostering healthy churches is developing and encouraging friendship within the believers' community. Our relationships of today will mold us into the person of tomorrow. That's why the church must pursuit godly fellowship, which in result will bring us closer together and connect us to God. When we rearrange our camaraderie and friendships, the church grows, and God receives honor.
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Transcript
I. Predetermined and undetermined circumstances in life
Life of Austin
predetermined factors- genealogy, language, family.
undetermined factors - physical/ emotional development, hobbies, selection of friends.
We are born with predetermined and undetermined circumstances.
We’re dealt the hand we’re given and we must make the best out of it.
However we are given free-will by God to make our own choices.
Beliefs
Values
Effort
Lifestyle - friends/fellowship
Those who we let into our lives influence us the most.
Christians need Christian friends/fellowship to stay on the straight and narrow. Acts 2:42 (Living in unity/harmony) All things in common
But we often live contrary to the will of God because of our free-will. So how to we rearrange our lives so we live?
II. What chair we sit in matters
Who’s our friends determines our destiny
Who are our friends?
Quality time, common interest, similar personalities
Romantic, business/work, church, college, neighbor
My greatest friend dedicates who I befriend and love.
My friend Jesus John 15:12-17 (Friend equates to same mission/vision)
My friend the world James 4:4
My lesser friendships reflect who’s my greatest friend.
Bad friends - 1 Cor 15:33, 2 Cor 6:14
Living hypocrite 1 John 1:5-10
Godly friends Psalm 55:14
III. You need to stack up with the great friends
Make the choice of whom you befriend/fellowship
Setting one - Large fellowship (Sunday gatherings, rallies, revivals)
Setting two - Small groups (Youth groups, bible studies, group actives)
Setting three - Personal companions (phone calls, house visits, hangouts)
These decisions will impact the church
Change our view on our friendships. Are they temporary or eternal.
Pour ourselves into godly people and continue to love everyone.
IV. We can grow stronger together
Healthier church
Be witness
Leave a legacy