SERMON QUOTE
“We give because we believe that the local church is the hope of the world – uniquely equipped to help people face their forever, and uniquely equipped to help the world work today.”
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
Key questions need to be asked of any investment, such as, what is the return? What is the past performance? What are the risks associated with it? Basically, is it a wise or prudent investment?
The same questions can be asked as we think about investing in the church. Is God’s church still positioned to make an impact in our changing world?
Do churches have problems, yes. Do people have bad experiences, yes. There is no question that sinful behaviors plague the church and always will until Christ returns. Still, the church is not a new idea, and ultimately, God tells us He will build the church and the gates of hell will not overcome it (Matthew 16:18). The church wins.
In God’s wisdom, He set up outposts for the gospel, or churches, where people can walk with one another in faith, hope and love. People are known and cared for. People are invited into the community and experience grace and forgiveness. People are challenged to pursue God’s will. People powerfully experience the gospel.
We get to be involved in God’s plan for the world, that is, to see the church take the beautiful, loving and powerful gospel to a hurting and broken world. It is both prudent and joyful to bank on the church.
AUTHOR BIO
Ben Dockery is the Campus Pastor at Christ Church Lake Forest. He has been attending the Church for over 2 years and recently joined the staff. He and his wife, Julie have three daughters, Abigail, Emma and Annie.
PRAYER
Lord, forgive me when I forget that investments in your priorities here on earth are sound, reward-bearing investments for eternal life later. Thank you for all the tangible ways you make available for me to make investments in the lives and souls of people, revealing that Love is present in your Church here, now, and, forever.