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NASB | Ephesians 4:12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 4:12 [and He did this] to fully equip and perfect the saints (God's people) for works of service, to build up the body of Christ [the church]; |
Subject: How important is growth? |
Bible Note: Shalom y'all, I'd just like to Amen! Brad's observation. And I would like to add something my own pastor said once, and I've never forgotten the analogy: He said that he's our earthly shepherd and shepherds don't give birth to lambs. Lambs beget lambs. He's there to feed and nourish us that we may have strength to go through the birthing processes. So many times you see someone right on the verge of giving "birth" to a new believer, and what do they do? They haul that almost birthed lamb to their church expecting their "shepherd" to finish the process!! As Brad stated, car-washes, bake or garage sales are not bible studies but things like those are very good places to bring "almost persuaded" folks. I know of a few churches that even have a day set aside 2-4 times a month for stay-at-home moms (and Mr. Moms!!) to get together for fellowship at their local mall while their kids are looked after at the church - another great place to take "almost believers." The church service should not be for entertainment but for equipping the saints to go out and do what the Lord told us to do! Mt. 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations..." Just my 2cents worth :-) Cheri |