In my last post I began discussion on the importance of the local church. I mentioned that many Christians simply don’t see the need to be heavily involved in a local church. Honestly, I grieve over this, and I want to show how the local church is central to God’s plan and purpose for biblical ministry. I want to show from Scripture how the Christian life should be a “life in the local church.” Well, before I get to those things, I want to consider the influences that make it difficult for Christians to prioritize the local church and commit themselves to it as God intends…

I want to blog for a while on the subject of the local church. Today, I just want to introduce the subject.

There are a lot of Christians today who seem to think little of the local church. It isn’t so much that they “have a problem with the church” - it’s just that they don’t like the church, if you know what I mean. They don’t love the church. They don’t build their lives around the church.

I continue with a study of Christian virtues which I have called “dressing appropriately.” Remember, I am not talking about modesty or cleanliness. I am speaking metaphorically. Consider again what the Apostle Paul says in Colossians 3:12-14.

Colossians 3:12-14
So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.

Today, I would like to offer some help in putting on the garment of humility. Perhaps you haven’t worn this garment in a while. Maybe it seems like you have long outgrown this garment. Can you get into those old clothes? Yes! Read on.

SoulFest is an annual Christian music festival in New England. SoulFest 2007 took place in Gilford, NH August 1-4.

I didn’t go. I couldn’t…it would have been too painful. Why?

My problem is not so much with the styles or volume of the music. Also, I have no problem worshiping with people even though they “aren’t just like me.” The source of my grief is much deeper than that…

A few weeks ago I brought up the idea of dressing appropriately as Christians. I am not talking about modesty or cleanliness though. I am speaking metaphorically. Look at what the Apostle Paul says in Colossians 3:12-14.

Colossians 3:12-14
So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.

Today, I would like to offer some help in putting on the garment of kindness. Perhaps you haven’t worn this garment in a while. Perhaps its dusty and hard to even find in your closet. Let me offer some help.