Friday First - Methods of the Messiah

If you were planning on creating a world changing religious/spiritual movement, how would you go about it? You would seek out the wisest people and have the largest planning session you could. You would look to begin in the nation’s capital or in a large influential city filled with cultural diversity and resources. You would look for ways to win over influential people … people who are movers and shakers. You would spend time involving the religious elite. You would probably work to address the culture in a relevant and popular way … and address felt needs at the broadest level. In today’s tech savvy world, you would look for cutting edge experts who know what it takes to impact people through the media, news outlets, using the most wide-ranging appeal possible. It would have to be cool, hip, and resonate with people… and presented as the popular thing. Everyone is doing this.

And yet, Jesus did the exact opposite during His earthly ministry. He came to Israel … the small, weak, embattled, and hated nation located far away from the primary cultural and influential population centers of Athens, Alexandria, or Rome. Not only that, but Jesus spent the first 30 years of his life in the tiny village of Nazareth … in the cultural backwaters of Galilee. He regularly challenged the religious establishment … so much that they quickly became His enemies and eventually wind up killing him. Instead of courting those of influence within the local community, he spent time with the poor and the outcast. His success defies human logic and planning. To say it goes against the grain would be an understatement. And yet, the results of what Jesus accomplished cannot be argued. He is the most influential historical figure who ever lived.

What is the methodology behind Jesus’ ministry?

In Sunday’s  lesson we will examine Luke 8.1-3 to find the answer. Jesus:

• Had a clearly defined mission.
• Embraced the work around him.
• Had a highly focused message.
• Intentionally developed new leaders.
• Included people from all backgrounds into his fellowship.

As you prepare for worship on Sunday, please give consideration to these questions:

1. What should be the focus of our mission here at Cornerstone?
2. What mission field should be our first concern as we work together?
3. What is the good news of the kingdom?
4. Who are leaders we should be focusing on to mentor as future leaders?
5. What can we learn from Jesus’ example on inclusiveness?

OPENING / WELCOME
Cain Atkinson

SONG LEADER
Jason Schofield

PRAYER OF PRAISE
Boyd Hastings

LORD'S SUPPER
Eric Renegar

SCRIPTURE READING
David Williams
Luke 8.1-3

PREACHING
Matthew Allen

CLOSING COMMENTS & PRAYER
Rich Walker

WELCOME CENTER
Pat Reeder / Trish Spargo / Emily McDonald

USHERS (arrive @ 9)
Randy Mullins / Jim Rutter

Closing the Building
Dan Spargo