We have discussed two of the most basic elements of a healthy, thriving church life. One element is openness to both the old and the new, which would be both the historic church and the new breakout movements in our own time. For this to be demonstrated in local church life would mean having a ministry for children, youth, and the elderly, with a healthy interchange between them.

The second element is a healthy interchange and fellowship with the rest of the body of Christ. These two are essential for a healthy, thriving church life that will have...

Last week we discussed the attitude that will keep us moving, growing, and pressing on to maturity in Christ, as the Apostle Paul expressed it in Philippians 3. If Paul, who had one of the most powerful, fruitful ministries of all time had the attitude near the end of his life that he had not yet attained, but needed to press on and not look back, how much more should we have this attitude?

For this reason, one of the greatest gifts that anyone could have is hunger for God that keeps them in pursuit of Him. Only...

As we have discussed, the majority of Christians today are no longer in a vital, living, local church. A primary reason given for this is because they feel that the church is not relevant to their needs; they simply do not feel that much is accomplished by being a part of the local church. Others have been hurt or disappointed by the church and do not want to risk going through that again.

Another primary reason why many do not feel that they have a local church near them that they fit into is because they are not...

As we began to address last week, we know from the clear prophecy of Scripture that the end of this age will be the hardest time the world has ever known. At the same time, we also know that it will be the most glorious for those who serve the Lord. For those who abide in the Lord, who have built their lives on His kingdom, there should be no fear of things to come. In fact, the hard times are birth pangs which will ultimately result in the birth of the kingdom of God on the earth. The...

As we discussed last week, joy and peace will become increasing hallmarks of those who are building their lives on the kingdom of God and living their lives in the kingdom. It will be by their peace and joy that true Christians will begin to be distinguished. As these grow in their lives, so will their love of God, their love for one another, and love for their neighbors. In a world of increasing fear and confusion, Christians will be going about casting out fear with the power of the love of God manifesting itself through them.

True...