TITLE: My Church
TEXT: II Cor. 9:2-4; II Cor. 7:4; II Cor. 8:24
PROPOSITION: Each member should feel a vital part of the local congregation.
QUESTION: How?
KEY WORD: Criteria
READING: II Cor. 9:2-4

INTRODUCTION:

1. My church is wrong - belongs to Christ

A. Loved it B. Died for it

C. Purchased it D. His by right

2. My church is right -

A. I am a part of this church.

B. It is a part of me.

C. "Mine" like, bank, school, house is mine

3. Three criteria for this to become "My church."

I. Pride

A. Bad kind = arrogant, boastful, puffed up

B. Good kind = satisfaction, accomplishments

admit worth and value

accepting "us" for who we are

C. Learn to talk in "we" not "they" terms

D. Pride of my church is in:

1. The Past accomplishments, preachers, elders

2. The Present - What we are doing now

3. The Future - Where we are headed

II. Presence

A. Develop a desire to be here.

1. Sometimes you have to be gone.

2. Don't WANT to be elsewhere.

B. Out of town = hurts -

1. Me 2. The church 3. Class

C. Think what you will miss:

1. Class 2. Singing 3. My sermon

III. Promotion – Cheerleader

A. VBS song - Be a BOOSTER!

B. Remember your school spirit?

1. Do that for the Lord.

2. Speak only GOOD things. (Philippians 4:8)

C. Be a cheerleader. 1. Make others wish they attended here.

2. Express your loyalty to this church.

Conclusion:

1. This is YOUR church. Give to support, sing, pray, work for its growth.

2. Have Pride, be Present, be a Promoter.