Last night we had a meaningful family discussion regarding the proposed full-time associate pastor position. Many different opinions were expressed, but I was deeply encouraged by what I witnessed: a body of believers able to express differences in a way that promoted unity and love. After prayerful consideration, we have decided to table this discussion until next month. As we wait to vote on this proposal, let us earnestly seek God’s will for our church.

Today I want to share with you from one of my favorite passages: Revelation 2:1-5. In verses 2-3, God commends the church at Ephesus, saying: “I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.”

The church at Ephesus was full of believers who worked hard for Jesus. They patiently endured for Christ without giving up. They didn’t tolerate sin in their midst, and they were faithful to expose false teachers.

But they had one critical flaw: they lacked love.

God said to them in verses 4-5: “But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.”

Henry Blackaby commented on these verses: “Christ will not tolerate a church that forgets its purpose. A church that forfeits its highest calling is in danger of losing its way and suffering God’s judgment. Despite its fidelity to proper doctrine, the Ephesian church was unacceptable to God.”

God wants His church to be holy. God wants His church to be free from error and impurity. But never at the expense of love. A church without love is not a church of Jesus Christ. So may we as a church continue to fan the flame of our love for Christ and for one another—especially as we navigate important decisions together.

Sunday morning worship is a Saturday night decision! One of the best ways to get the most out of our time together in corporate worship is to come prepared, going to bed early on Saturday night, and by reviewing the sermon text, our song list, and our responsive readings. To help you prepare for Sunday worship, I've provided each element of our worship below for your review prior to Sunday.

 

In Christ,