What I learned from my pastor... 2-14-10

Kevin preached from Acts 1:1-9 about the fourth component of the church's purpose - to go into all the world to share the Gospel. He shared some interesting facts about the dramatic shift that has happened in the world in the past 10 years. While the western world used to be the center of world Christianity, in the past ten years, of 300 million new Christians, only 10 million live in the United States and Europe. 290 million live in developing countries, especially Africa and China.

Acts 1 makes it clear that all believers are called and empowered by the Holy Spirit to be disciple-makers and missionaries. We are called to live in such a way that we gain a hearing for the Gospel, be ready to share with those He brings into our life, and show the power of Jesus be servign one another and through genuine acts of love and service to those in need. Although the "go" part of our mission is often the most out of our comfort zone, it is also one of the most life-changing. Kevin and I have experienced that personally, both on our short-term trips to Africa, Europe, and elsewhere - even where we live!