Friday First - Why We Love the Church

During March we are taking a look at how we regard the church. One of the greatest challenges of our day is the belief that one can have Jesus without the church. The reality is that we cannot have one without the other. When we receive Jesus for salvation, we also receive His people … imperfect as they are. Last week, Jason spoke on the mission of the church, which is to bring glory to Christ and honor to the Father. We are the Father’s gift to the Son, redeemed people who are being transformed into something of great value as an expression of the Father’s immeasurable love.

How should we regard the church of our Lord? Why should we hold it in high regard? For some, it has become popular to engage in criticism of the church. And by the way, every generation in the church criticizes the other. And while there are perspectives and attitudes that need to change, we need to be very careful. Impressions are being made on young hearts. Let’s hold each other accountable in making the needed changes in a positive and encouraging way.

We know that the Lord loves His church, so we love who the Lord loves. When we think of the church, it is truly amazing. It is the assembly of the redeemed. The eternally blessed. It is the very reason for which the universe was created. We are God’s gathered people for eternal purposes.

Why do we love the church?

• Because God loves it.
• Because it was purchased by Christ’s blood.
• Because it is the steward of God’s truth.

As you prepare for worship, please think about these questions.

1. Who does the church belong to?
2. What did God promise Christ Jesus before time began?
3. Why is the church so precious?
4. What does it mean that the church is the foundation of truth?
5. Why should we relentlessly preach the word of God at all times?

OPENING / WELCOME
Kody Pritt

SONG LEADER
Chris Terrian

PRAYER OF PRAISE
Dan Dekoski

LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Eric Renegar
 
SCRIPTURE READING
Jordan Lewis
Ephesians 2.19-22

PREACHING
Matthew Allen

CLOSING PRAYER
Wes Grushon

CLOSING COMMENTS
George Wacks

WELCOME CENTER
Pam Grushon / Sadonna Schofield

USHERS
Bob Hoopes / Jim Rutter

CLOSING THE BUILDING
Dan Spargo