First Baptist Church Oakwood Family,
It's time! Time to turn "Inside out." That is a phrase I have heard in various contexts over several weeks. It represents an idea that God is birthing in my heart about where our church is heading. As we have begun doing ministry outside our walls in apartments, nursing homes, and neighborhoods God has confirmed His mission for our church: Make disciples of Jesus in Oakwood and beyond. And here is the question where the rubber meets the road if we are going to take this mission seriously and aggressively: Will we be the church that lost people and even our grand kids want to be at? Will we do church in such a way the guests cannot wait to tell others and come back week after week where grace and love abounds? Sometimes this might mean that our wants and preferences aren't always met. But church is not just for those of us who are here. Can we be a church that our unchurched friends and family find irresistible? Church in such a way that people in Oakwood who are living without Jesus love to be around us and Jesus as He draws them into a saving relationship.
Inside out. Thinking about all we do from the guest's perspective. From the website, parking lot, signage, sanctuary, kids ministry, student ministry, songs, message, slides, announcements, and bulletins. If we invite guests and expect them to come, then let's do what we do with them in mind. We worship Jesus and bring guests to Him. Inside out. Flip the focus. It's not about me or you. It's about Jesus and His heart to reach those who are not here.
It's not what is in it for us but rather how can we help one another and those who do not know Jesus's love and grace. Let's flip it. Inside out.
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