Dear Church... Part 8

David Uth

10/5/08

There are lots of voices out there.  But Jesus says, "listen to me."

Revelation 3:18... refine by fire so you can become rich...

We pull back during the unknown.  When is a good time to disobey God? Trust Him.  We only have so much time and resources in this world. Tithe money goes further than any human investment.  God's counsels us to buy from Him.  Congress will never have to bail out God!  Don't listen to the voices, listen to God.

Revelation 3:8... I have set before you a door...

In 1871, 18 people formed First Baptist Church of Orlando. God has opened doors and bless this church.  Before the John Young Parkway site opened, everyone prayed and God was here.  Times were tough but we obeyed and by faith we were blessed.  In the 4x100 relay race in the Olympics, they dropped the baton.  We need to faithfully carry God's baton.

Revelation 3:2 ... I have not found your works complete...

You have something going on but you need to strengthen it.  There are things we do well but we can do more.  Church wants to help you be a better worshipper.  We will have a verse each week to memorize.  It will be our benediction.  This week: Revelation 2:19.

Passion for people.  We have 3500 involved in small groups.  People are getting connected and and developing spiritual friendships.  Our church has had the same number involved in Life groups for 10 years.  People are coming but not getting connected.  50% of unchurched world are just waiting for an invitation.

Passion to Serve. In our church survey, the results showed that we were above average in all areas but one--serving.  We need a proper outlet to help you serve.  There are t-shirts that say, "the church has left the building.."  Goals for church:  2 serving events each year, Life groups will have 4 projects a year, families to do 1 event a year and consider adopting another family during the holidays.  Our community needs to understand that we are not just a big church on the corner but a church that cares.

Revelation 2:19 ... your latter works exceed the first

You are growing in works and faith but there are still greater things to be done.  tiger Woods changed his swing, why?  Because he thought he could do better.  We can freshen up the building but more important is to adopt an attitude that we can do better.  The best is yet!  

This is not about programs.  It is about lives being changed and the greater things God wants us to do.

To see how God changes lives at our church watch this powerful video.